The podcast explores the tragic case of a three-year-old child's murder and delves into whether the mother is a victim or perpetrator. It discusses the tumultuous relationship between Crystal Straw and Edwin Urbina, their struggles with housing and financial stability, and the extensive injuries leading to the child's death. The podcast also highlights the impact of a young witness's testimony in the courtroom.
Crystal Straw's unstable upbringing and ongoing behavioral issues contributed to her involvement in a tragic case of child abuse.
Crystal Straw's relationship with Edwin Urbina was tumultuous, and she was left to care for their children while he was arrested and imprisoned.
Crystal Straw's actions, including delaying calling 911 and deleting text messages, raised suspicion and resulted in her being convicted of child endangerment and neglect.
Deep dives
Crystal Straw's Troubled Background and Unstable Home Life
Crystal Straw grew up in an unstable home and experienced ongoing behavioral issues. She returned to her mother's unstable home instead of staying with her aunt, unlike her sister who had a more stable upbringing.
Crystal's Relationship with Edwin Urbina and the Turbulence in Their Lives
Crystal met Edwin Urbina, and they had a tumultuous relationship. Edwin was arrested and imprisoned, leaving Crystal to care for their child. Crystal struggled to support the family financially and took on an overnight job at a local store while Edwin stayed at a hotel with their children.
The Tragic Murder of Liam and Suspicious Circumstances
Crystal returned from work to find her three-year-old son, Liam, not breathing. Instead of immediately calling 911, Crystal ran back inside the hotel before driving to the hospital with Liam's lifeless body. Suspicion arose when hospital personnel discovered Liam's extensive injuries, and Crystal's behavior, including deleting text messages, further raised concerns.
Edwin Urbina's Violent Abuse and Guilty Verdict
During the trial, witnesses, including Liam's sister, testified about Edwin Urbina's abuse towards Liam. The medical examiner's findings revealed that Liam died from internal bleeding caused by severe injuries all over his body. Edwin Urbina was found guilty of first-degree murder and received a life sentence without parole.
Crystal Straw's Sentencing and Complicated Involvement
Crystal Straw pleaded guilty to child endangerment, neglect, hindering prosecution, witness tampering, and more. Her attorney claimed her actions were the result of fear and control by Edwin Urbina, but there was no evidence to support this. Crystal received a sentence of 18 years in prison, while her daughter, who witnessed the tragedy, has been placed in a safe and loving home.
Ep 160: A woman’s three-year-old child is viciously beaten to death – is she also a victim of this crime or is she a perpetrator?
This is the Krystal Straw story
Sources for Today's Episode:
NJ.com
Arrest warrants for Urbina and Straw
Probably Cause Affidavits
Grand Jury Indictments
People
Interview with Tracy
Morris County Focus
Morristowngreen.com
Credits:
Written and Hosted by Amy Shlosberg and Meghan Sacks
Produced & Edited by James Varga
Script Editor, Abagail Belcastro
Music by Dessert Media
Special Thanks to: Tara Wang
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If you or someone you know is in a crisis situation, or a victim of domestic, or other violence, there are many organizations that can offer support or help you in your specific situation.