Digest

This podcast delves into the investigation and trial of Nikki Vanderhiden's murder, a case that captivated the attention of Green Bay, Wisconsin. The story begins with the discovery of Nikki's body in a field, leading detectives to initially suspect her boyfriend, Doug Dietri. Evidence found at Doug's house, including blood stains and a bloody cord, initially pointed towards his involvement. However, DNA tests revealed that the DNA on Nikki's body did not belong to Doug, leading to his release from jail. The investigation took a dramatic turn when a DNA hit from Nikki's sock led detectives to George Birch, a man who had recently moved to Green Bay from Virginia. Further investigation revealed that George had a history of violence, including a previous homicide case in Virginia and a suspected car crash in Green Bay. Crucially, George's Google Dashboard data placed him at the scene of the crime and tracked his movements on the night of the murder. This evidence, coupled with inconsistencies in his testimony, led to his arrest and subsequent trial. During the trial, George Birch claimed that he was with Nikki the night she was killed but was attacked by Doug Dietri, who then forced him to dispose of her body. However, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including the DNA evidence, George's Google Dashboard data, and testimony from his friend Ed Jackson, who corroborated the prosecution's case. The prosecution also presented evidence suggesting that George's encounter with Nikki was not consensual, highlighting inconsistencies in his testimony and emphasizing the violent nature of the attack. The prosecution also had to prove Doug Dietri's innocence, presenting evidence that he was not involved in Nikki's disappearance or death. They highlighted Doug's alibi, supported by his Fitbit data, and the lack of any incriminating evidence found at his home. The jury deliberated for several hours and ultimately found George Birch guilty of first-degree intentional homicide, based on the DNA evidence and inconsistencies in his testimony. George Birch was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The judge acknowledged the impact of the crime on both Nikki's family and Doug Dietri, who was wrongly accused. Nikki's family expressed their grief and the lasting impact of her loss.

Outlines

00:01:23

Nikki Vanderhiden's Murder and the Initial Investigation

This chapter introduces Nikki Vanderhiden, a young mother of three who was found murdered in a field. The investigation begins with the discovery of her body and the search for clues.

00:08:06

The Gruesome Discovery and the Suspicion of Doug Dietri

Two teenagers discover Nikki's body in a field while helping Tommy's grandfather till the land. The detectives arrive at the scene and find evidence of a sexual assault and strangulation. They initially suspect Nikki's boyfriend, Doug Dietri, due to evidence found at his house, including blood stains, a shoe print, and a bloody cord.

00:12:02

Doug Dietri's Alibi and the Shift in Focus

Doug Dietri reports Nikki missing and provides an alibi, but detectives find inconsistencies in his story. DNA tests reveal that the DNA on Nikki's body is not Doug's, leading to his release from jail. The investigation shifts focus to the mystery man.

00:41:57

The DNA Hit and the Identification of George Birch

Detectives receive a DNA hit from Nikki's sock, leading them to George Birch, a man who recently moved to Green Bay from Virginia.

00:45:47

George Birch's Past and the Evidence Against Him

Detectives investigate George's past and discover he was involved in a homicide case in Virginia and was suspected of a car crash in Green Bay. They find his Google Dashboard data, which places him at the scene of the crime and tracks his movements on the night of the murder.

00:52:07

George Birch's Arrest and the Trial Begins

George Birch is arrested for Nikki's murder based on the DNA evidence and his Google Dashboard data. The trial begins, and George Birch claims he was with Nikki the night she was killed but was attacked by Doug Dietri, who then forced him to dispose of her body.

01:07:53

The Prosecution's Case Against George Birch

The prosecution presents their case against George Birch, highlighting the DNA evidence and his Google Dashboard data. They also call Ed Jackson, George's friend, to testify. The prosecution also presents evidence suggesting that George's encounter with Nikki was not consensual, highlighting inconsistencies in his testimony and emphasizing the violent nature of the attack.

01:12:09

Doug Dietri's Alibi and the Prosecution's Case for His Innocence

The prosecution also had to prove Doug Dietri's innocence, presenting evidence that he was not involved in Nikki's disappearance or death. They highlighted Doug's alibi, supported by his Fitbit data, and the lack of any incriminating evidence found at his home.

01:21:37

The Jury's Deliberation and Verdict

The jury deliberated for several hours, carefully considering the evidence presented against both George Birch and Doug Dietri. They ultimately found George Birch guilty of first-degree intentional homicide, based on the DNA evidence and inconsistencies in his testimony.

01:27:10

George Birch's Sentencing and Aftermath

George Birch was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole. The judge acknowledged the impact of the crime on both Nikki's family and Doug Dietri, who was wrongly accused. Nikki's family expressed their grief and the lasting impact of her loss.

Keywords

Q&A

• What evidence was found at Doug Dietri's house that initially led detectives to believe he was responsible for Nikki's murder?

  Detectives found blood stains in the garage, car, and house, a shoe print on Nikki's back, and a bloody cord that matched the markings on her neck.

• How did detectives discover George Birch's involvement in Nikki's murder?

  A DNA hit from Nikki's sock led detectives to George Birch. His Google Dashboard data placed him at the scene of the crime and tracked his movements on the night of the murder.

• What was George Birch's defense in court?

  George Birch claimed he was with Nikki the night she was killed but was attacked by Doug Dietri, who then forced him to dispose of her body.

• What evidence did the prosecution present against George Birch?

  The prosecution presented the DNA evidence, George's Google Dashboard data, and testimony from Ed Jackson, George's friend, who said George never mentioned the incident the day after the murder.

• What evidence did the prosecution present to suggest that George Birch's encounter with Nikki was not consensual?

  The prosecution highlighted inconsistencies in Birch's testimony, such as his claim that Nikki willingly had sex with him despite her breastfeeding infant and the medical examiner's findings suggesting sexual assault. They also emphasized Birch's anger and aggression during the encounter.

• How did Doug Dietri's Fitbit data contribute to his alibi?

  Doug's Fitbit data showed that he took only 12 to 18 steps during the time Nikki was killed, indicating he was likely at home sleeping as he claimed. This evidence strengthened his alibi and helped clear him of any involvement in the murder.

• What was the key factor in the jury's decision to convict George Birch?

  The jury found George Birch guilty based on the DNA evidence found on Nikki's body and the inconsistencies in his testimony. They found his story about being attacked by Doug Dietri to be fabricated and unbelievable.

• What was the impact of the verdict on Doug Dietri and his family?

  Doug Dietri and his family were relieved by the verdict, as it cleared him of any involvement in Nikki's murder. However, they acknowledged the emotional toll of being wrongly accused and the lasting impact of the ordeal.

• What was George Birch's reaction to the verdict and his sentencing?

  George Birch remained defiant, maintaining his innocence and refusing to confess to the murder. He expressed anger towards Doug Dietri and wished him harm. He was sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole.

Show Notes