Digest

This episode details the tragic case of Yoko Kolen, an 85-year-old woman who was carjacked, abducted, and murdered by Latasha Cunningham, DeMarcus Barnes, and DeQuan Barnes. The crime originated from Latasha's financial struggles and a plan to rob a bingo hall, which escalated when they targeted Yoko after she left. The perpetrators abducted Yoko, placed her in the trunk of her own car, and eventually drove her to an abandoned site where she was killed, and the car was set on fire. The investigation, aided by forensic evidence and the testimony of the accomplices, led to the arrest and conviction of the three. Latasha Cunningham received a 60-year sentence, DeQuan Barnes also received 60 years after a plea deal, and DeMarcus Barnes was deemed unfit for trial. The case also touches upon legal complexities, including allegations of judicial misconduct and appeals concerning due process.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction and Case Overview

The podcast "Sisters Who Kill" introduces the case involving Latasha Cunningham, DeMarcus Barnes, and DeQuan Barnes, who are accused of the murder of Yoko Kolen. The episode outlines the backgrounds of the victim and the perpetrators, detailing Latasha's troubled past and Yoko's peaceful life.

00:00:42

The Perpetrators and Their Connections

This section delves into the relationships between Latasha Cunningham, DeMarcus Barnes, and DeQuan Barnes, highlighting their shared history and involvement in criminal activities. Their family connections and shared pastimes, including a penchant for not strictly following the law and enjoying bingo, are explored.

00:06:03

Victim's Life and The Night of the Crime

The life of Yoko Kolen, an 85-year-old Japanese immigrant who lived independently, is presented. The narrative then shifts to the night of the crime, detailing Latasha's financial desperation, her plan to rob a bingo hall, and the fateful encounter with Yoko Kolen.

00:10:43

Carjacking, Abduction, and Murder

The crime escalates as Yoko Kolen's car breaks down, and the perpetrators offer assistance only to steal her keys and purse, abduct her, and place her in the trunk of her car. They drive her to an abandoned area in East St. Louis, where she is ultimately murdered.

00:14:26

Aftermath and Initial Investigation

The perpetrators attempt to destroy evidence by burning Yoko's car and try to use her credit cards. The discovery of Yoko's burnt car and the body in the trunk initiates the police investigation, which initially struggles with leads due to Yoko's quiet life.

00:31:11

Developing Leads and Confession

Tracing calls leads the police to DeMarcus, DeQuan, and Latasha. Latasha is brought in for questioning, and after initial denials, she provides a partial confession, attempting to minimize her role.

00:40:02

Interrogation, Evidence, and Arrests

Detectives employ interrogation tactics, revealing that DeMarcus and DeQuan have implicated Latasha. Surveillance footage, credit card usage, and testimony from Brittany Stevenson strengthen the case, leading to the arrests of the three accused.

00:50:57

Trials, Sentencing, and Legal Battles

Latasha faces first-degree murder charges and is sentenced to 60 years without parole. DeQuan pleads guilty and testifies against the others, receiving a similar sentence, while DeMarcus is institutionalized. The section also covers legal challenges, including attempts to suppress confessions and a judge's removal due to misconduct.

00:54:22

Appeals, Continued Denial, and Legal System Critiques

Latasha's defense pursues appeals, alleging rights violations and judicial misconduct. Despite maintaining her innocence regarding the murder, she remains incarcerated. The discussion broadens to critiques of the legal system, due process, and the complexities of legal battles, including allegations of a judge's drug use impacting proceedings.

Keywords

Q&A

• Who were the main individuals involved in the murder of Yoko Kolen?

  The main individuals involved were Latasha Cunningham (the murderer), DeMarcus Barnes and DeQuan Barnes (accomplices). Yoko Kolen was the victim.

• What was the motive behind the crime?

  The primary motive was financial gain. Latasha Cunningham was experiencing financial difficulties and planned to rob the bingo hall, which escalated into the carjacking and murder of Yoko Kolen for her money.

• How was Yoko Kolen murdered?

  Yoko Kolen was carjacked, abducted, and placed in the trunk of her own car. She was then beaten and the car was set on fire with her inside, leading to her death.

• What key evidence led to the conviction of the perpetrators?

  Key evidence included surveillance footage of the gas station, Yoko's credit card being used, DNA evidence on a tire iron, and the testimony of the accomplices, particularly DeQuan Barnes.

• What were the sentences given to the accused?

  Latasha Cunningham was sentenced to 60 years without parole. DeQuan Barnes also received a 60-year sentence after pleading guilty. DeMarcus Barnes was found mentally unfit for trial and institutionalized.

• What allegations were made against Judge Cook?

  Latasha Cunningham alleged that Judge Cook was using cocaine and heroin, which affected his judgment and ability to perform his judicial duties. She claimed he approved a tape confession while under the influence.

• Why was the initial petition dismissed?

  The circuit court dismissed the defendant's petition because it was filed untimely, specifically two and a half years late.

• What was the outcome of the appeal?

  The circuit court of appeals ruled in favor of Latasha Cunningham, vacating the judgment of the St. Clair County Circuit Court.

• What is Latasha Cunningham's current situation?

  Latasha Cunningham is still in jail and maintains her innocence, claiming she was convicted on false charges and was not the actual killer.

• What advice is given regarding criminal activity and associations?

  The advice is to avoid associating with individuals who have "prison potential" and to not call them if they get locked up for serious offenses, as one will check their records.

Show Notes