27-year-old Laura Jean Ackerson had a really tough start in life. The single mother of two worked hard to build her own small support system in Kinston, North Carolina. Her brother and best friend were the only people she really had. After Laura survived a whirlwind relationship with a charismatic but narcissistic musician, she faced a vicious custody battle with him. Grant Hayes was a glorified bar star and lazy husband and father. But by July 2011, Laura was finally slipping out of his controlling and abusive grasp. She was winning. Her abuser had lost control. The most dangerous time for a woman. 

Hosted and produced by Erica Kelley 
Researched and written by Erica Kelley Andrea Marshbank
Original Graphic Art by Coley Horner 
Original Music by Rob Harrison of Gamma Radio 
Edited & Mixed by Brandon Schexnayder & Erica Kelley 
Case suggested by Marcia

Sources: https://www.southernfriedtruecrime.com/laura-ackerson

RESOURCES FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

• US National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: thehotline.org
• Canada: visit this website to find the hotline in your area
• UK Domestic Abuse Hotline: 0808 2000 247
• For resources in other countries, visit this website

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