Digest

This episode delves into the perplexing case of Marie Carlson, a woman who was found dead in the backyard of her friend and pastor, James Flanders. The investigation revealed a complex web of relationships, including a polygamist arrangement between Marie, James, and his wife, Tanya. Marie had been struggling with mental health issues and had sought refuge with the Flanders, who initially claimed to be adopting her baby. However, rumors circulated about a surrogacy agreement, and Tanya's close friends revealed a different story, suggesting that Marie was actually a sister-wife to both James and Tanya. The case took a dramatic turn when Marie disappeared, leaving behind a cryptic text message. Detectives investigated the Flanders, uncovering inconsistencies in their accounts and suspicious cell phone records. Ultimately, James was arrested and charged with second-degree murder, but a plea deal was reached in exchange for the location of Marie's body. James confessed to killing Marie during a physical altercation, claiming it was an accident. He was sentenced to 15 years for manslaughter, and Marie's body was found buried in the Flanders' backyard. The episode raises questions about Tanya's involvement and the ongoing custody battle for Marie's daughter, Grace, who remains in the care of the Flanders.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the case of Marie Carlson and the podcast host, Kendall Ray, expresses her shock and sadness over the details of the case.

00:01:21

Marie Carlson's Life

This Chapter provides background information on Marie Carlson's life, including her childhood, her relationship with her sister Esther, her marriage to Jeff Carlson, and her struggles with mental health.

00:08:43

Marie's Involvement with the Flanders

This Chapter details Marie's relationship with James and Tanya Flanders, who were the pastors of Calvary Emerald Coast Church. It describes how Marie became involved in the church, moved into their home, and eventually became pregnant with James's child.

00:14:53

Marie's Disappearance

This Chapter focuses on Marie's disappearance, which began with a cryptic text message sent to her loved ones. Her sister and ex-husband became concerned and reported her missing.

00:22:21

The Flanders' Statements

This Chapter examines the statements given by James and Tanya Flanders to the authorities. James claimed that Marie agreed to be a surrogate for their child and that they conceived the baby through traditional means. Tanya confirmed James's account and revealed that they were in a polygamist relationship with Marie.

00:31:43

The Investigation

This Chapter details the investigation into Marie's disappearance, which included examining cell phone records, conducting interviews, and searching the Flanders' property. The evidence pointed towards James as a suspect, and he eventually fled with Tanya and their baby.

00:38:40

The Breakthrough

This Chapter describes the anonymous tip that led to the discovery of Marie's body. Despite an initial search, her body was not found, and the case stalled for a year. However, advancements in forensic technology allowed detectives to re-examine Marie's laptop, which revealed incriminating evidence.

00:42:12

The Plea Deal and Resolution

This Chapter recounts James's arrest and the plea deal that was offered in exchange for the location of Marie's body. James confessed to killing Marie during a physical altercation and was sentenced to 15 years for manslaughter. Marie's body was finally recovered from the Flanders' backyard.

Keywords

Q&A

• What was the nature of the relationship between Marie Carlson, James Flanders, and Tanya Flanders?

  James and Tanya Flanders were in a polygamist relationship with Marie Carlson. They initially claimed that Marie was their surrogate, but later admitted that she was their sister-wife.

• What was the motive for Marie Carlson's murder?

  James Flanders claimed that Marie attacked him after he told her she needed to be hospitalized for her depression. He said he gave her a bear hug, which resulted in her death. However, the circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, and some believe that Marie may have changed her mind about the surrogacy arrangement and wanted to keep her baby.

• What role did Tanya Flanders play in Marie Carlson's death?

  Tanya Flanders was not charged with any crime related to Marie's death. However, her involvement in the case remains a subject of speculation, particularly given her knowledge of the polygamist relationship and her alleged statement that she could kill Marie.

• What happened to Marie Carlson's daughter, Grace?

  Grace remains in the care of Tanya Flanders. Marie's sister has petitioned for guardianship of Grace, but she remains with the Flanders. Marie's loved ones are allowed to have calls and occasional visitation with Grace.

• What was the outcome of the investigation into Marie Carlson's death?

  James Flanders was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 15 years in prison. He is expected to be released in 2029. Tanya Flanders was not charged with any crime.

Show Notes