[27], By mid-August, Gertrude Baniszewski had begun to focus her abuse almost exclusively upon Sylvia, with her primary motivation likely being jealousy of the girl's youth, appearance, respectability, and potential. [189], Lester and Elizabeth Likens' oldest daughter, Dianna Shoemaker, was. [132], John Stephan Baniszewski Jr.[179] lived in relative obscurity under the alias John Blake. [46] Gertrude further claimed that Likens was a bad influence on both her own children and her sister. What are you going to do? Your front tooth was knocked out when you were seven." I'm really glad they're getting better for you, too. Both Jenny and Sylvia informed Dianna about the abuse they were enduring at the hands of their caregiver, adding that Sylvia was being specifically targeted for physical abuse and almost always for things she had neither said nor done. "[21], Due to the increase in the frequency and brutality of the torture and mistreatment Likens was subjected to, she gradually became incontinent. Rigor mortis had fully developed at the time of the discovery of her body, indicating Likens may have been deceased for up to eight hours before she was found, although Dr. Kebel did note Likens had been recently bathedpossibly after deathand that this act could have hastened the loss of body temperature and thus sped the onset of rigor mortis. [175][164], Richard Hobbs died of lung cancer on January 2, 1972, at the age of 21less than four years after his release from the Indiana Reformatory. This abuse incrementally lasted for three months before Likens died from her extensive injuries and malnourishment on October 26, I go one hundred miles a minute. WebGet The Wall Street Journals Opinion columnists, editorials, op-eds, letters to the editor, and book and arts reviews. Throughout his adult life, Hubbard was repeatedly imprisoned for various criminal offenses, on one occasion being charged with the 1977 murders of two young men, although, largely due to the fact that the chief witness to testify at his trial had been a convicted criminal acquaintance of Hubbard who admitted to having been in his company at the time of the murders,[177] he was acquitted of this charge. Available on mp3 and wav at the worlds largest store for DJs. Gertrude then ordered Likens, who had defecated, to clean herself. Ha ha ha! Treat everybody the right way. [163], Following her 1985 release from prison, Gertrude Baniszewski relocated to Iowa. "[79] In response, Gertrude forced the crackers into Likens' mouth before she and John Baniszewski beat herparticularly around the stomach. Here, Likens was often kept naked, rarely fed, and frequently deprived of water. At BravoCon in mid-October, castmate Jennifer Ayudin, a close friend of Giudices, threw a drink at Gorga in a hotel lobby, an event that was captured on bystanders camera phones and promptly disseminated to press. [81] She attempted to flee to the front door; however, due to her extensive injuries and general weakness, Gertrude caught her before she could escape the property. My dad always told me when you make money, or you're successful at something, be ready because theyre always going to attack you. This dedication was attended by several hundred people, including members of the Likens family. The house itself was demolished on April 23, 2009. [6] Likens was 16 years old when she finally succumbed to her injuries. [168] Paula married and had two children. Im up at five oclock in the morning. Get the latest tips on health and wealth from Dumb Little Man. [75], That night, Sylvia confided to her sister: "Jenny, I know you don't want me to die, but I'm going to die. [131] Marie added that although all five defendants had repeatedly physically and mentally tormented Likens, she had most often witnessed her mother and sister committing these acts[n 11] before her mother had forced Likens to live in the basement where the abuse had further escalated and she had ultimately died. WebThe destination for all NFL-related videos. That's my favorite Italian meal pasta. [153], The pair were retried in 1971. [12], Initially, Gertrude denied any involvement in Likens' death, although by October 27 she had confessed to having known "the kids," particularly her daughter Paula and Coy Hubbard, had physically and emotionally abused Likens, stating: "Paula did most of the damage," and "Coy Hubbard did a lot of the beating. [19], By June 1965, Sylvia and Jenny Likens resided with their parents in Indianapolis. You might not be the best running back, quarterback, but if you work hard, and you give it 100%, you will succeed. We love each other. [24], Fourteen years before her own death, Jenny Likens Wade had viewed Gertrude Baniszewski's obituary in a newspaper; she clipped the section from the newspaper, then mailed it to her mother with an accompanying note reading: "Some good news. When Paula asked her to recite the English alphabet, Likens was unable to recite anything beyond the first four letters or to raise herself off the ground. Siscoe died on October 23, 1996, at the age of 44, already a grandmother. Likens jerkingly moved her arms in an apparent attempt to point at the faces of the tormentors she could recognize, making statements such as, "You're Ricky" and "You're Gertie" before Gertrude tersely shouted, "Shut up! I was myself. Hobbs testified Gertrude had begun etching the insult into Likens' abdomen before asking him to finish the task. I'm moving and shaking. I've made that very clear. [127], Two days later, Richard Hobbs testified in his own defense, describing how Gertrude had called Likens to the kitchen on October 23 and stated to her: "You have branded my children so now I'm going to brand you." (Supplied by a Sub-Sub-Librarian). [17] She was also fond of music, particularly The Beatles, and was notably protective of her markedly more timid and insecure younger sister. [151][152] The same day, Richard Hobbs, Coy Hubbard, and John Baniszewski Jr. each received sentences of 2-to-21 years, to be served in the Indiana Reformatory. I'm between all these sites, and I do bank meetings on new projects. Almost immediately after Lester and Elizabeth had left the Baniszewski household on their final visit, Gertrude turned to face Likens and stated: "What are you going to do now, Sylvia? Sidestepping the multiple instances of testimony delivered at trial describing Paula and her mother as by far the most enthusiastic participants in Likens' physical abuse, Rice claimed the evidence presented against his client did not equate to her actual guilt of murder. Old School New Body Reviews: Does it Really Work? You'll feel much better and you'll be positive and you'll be happy in life. In the years prior to her own death, Jenny Likens Wade had repeatedly emphasized that no blame should be attributed to either of her parents for placing her and Sylvia in the care of Gertrude Baniszewski as all her parents had done was to naively trust Gertrude's promise to care for the sisters until their return to Indiana with the traveling carnival. [116] Richard Hobbs was defended by James G. Nedder; John Baniszewski Jr. and Coy Hubbard were defended by Forrest Bowman. [59] Approximately two weeks later, Dianna encountered Jenny, by chance, close to the home and inquired as to Sylvia's welfare. [111], George Rice began his closing argument by decrying the fact Paula and the other defendants had been tried jointly. I could tell you I take 50,000 steps a day because I'm non-stop. I'm still in a weird place with my meds, but things are better now. WebDownload and listen to new, exclusive, electronic dance music and house tracks. How to Fix a Relationship After Cheating . "[76], The following day, Gertrude Baniszewski woke Likens, then forced her to write a letter as she dictated the contents, which were intended to mislead her parents into believing their daughter had run away from the Baniszewski residence. I'm the most humble guy. Be happy, enjoy my family, create those memories, that's what's important. No matter what is happening in your life, think positive. [8], During the initial weeks in which Sylvia and Jenny resided at the Baniszewski household, the sisters were subjected to very little discipline or abuse. Physical and mental torment such as this would occasionally pause when the Baniszewskis watched their favorite television shows. That night, Sylvia whispered to Jenny to secretly give her a glass of water before falling asleep.[67]. Occasionally; I'll do a Friday. This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity. I'm a workaholic. You don't make money. [115], Gertrude Baniszewski was defended by William Erbecker; her daughter Paula was defended by George Rice. Sometimes when I'm filming TV between a dirty construction site and then you have to go film a scene, so you rush home, you change real quick, you hit the scene maybe three to four hours, then you leave the scene, you put your work clothes back on and you're running back to each construction site. How sadistic can a person get? I can manage it most of the time but when it gets bad like it is now I just feel like I'm drowning. Upon hearing this, Gertrude asked, "Why did you do that, Sylvia?" "[146], New concluded his closing argument by emphasizing the defendants' unison in their collective mistreatment of Likens, before asking the jury to dismiss arguments made by various defense counsels regarding who may have actually inflicted the "fatal blow" to Likens' head, stating: "Every mark on that girl's body contributed directly to her death, and that was testimony. She was sentenced to life imprisonment but was released on parole in 1985. Love. He then referred to Hobbs' courage in opting to testify in his own defense and the "savage and relentless cross-examination" to which he had been subjected by Leroy New. "[93], As previously instructed by Gertrude, Jenny Likens recited the rehearsed version of events leading to Likens' death to police, before whispering to the officers: "You get me out of here and I'll tell you everything. At the defendants' trial, Deputy Prosecutor Leroy New described the case as "the most diabolical case to ever come before a court or jury" and Gertrude's defense attorney, William C. Erbecker, described Likens as having been subjected to acts of "degradation that you wouldn't commit on a dog" before her death. --Poem inscribed upon the granite memorial formally dedicated to Sylvia Likens' life and legacy in Willard Park, Indianapolis. WebSee hot celebrity videos, E! They really don't know your real life. I keep my life as a challenge because it keeps me going.". The subdural hematoma was the ultimate blow. This is the most hideous thing Indiana has ever seen and, I hope, will ever see. From day one, I put my wife on a pedestal. Erbecker then tapped his head to emphasize his reference to her state of mind, before adding: "If this woman is sane, put her in [the electric chair]. The property gradually became dilapidated. [178] Shortly after the January 2007 premiere of the crime drama film An American Crime, Hubbard was fired from his job. It's exciting to me. WebNAMICon 2023. Nedder attempted to portray his client as a follower-type personality who had acted under the control of Gertrude Baniszewski, suggesting that had he not carved part of the obscene insult into Likens' abdomen at Gertrude's request, Hobbs could well have been a state's witness as opposed to Stephanie Baniszewski. [16], Although exuberant, Likens always kept her mouth closed when smiling due to a missing front tooth, which she had lost while roughhousing with one of her brothers during a childhood game. ", --Section of Deputy Prosecutor Marjorie Wessner's. "When I met my wife, she was a challenge. This is what I try to instill in them: 100%. Likens' gray casket remained open throughout the ceremony, with a portrait of her taken prior to July 1965 adorning her coffin. [85] Upon hearing this, Jenny replied: "Don't you remember, Sylvia? Schuster testified as to his belief that Gertrude was sane and fully in control of her actions, adding that she had been sane in October 1965, and remained sane to this date. [16], One of the first witnesses to testify on behalf of the prosecution was deputy coroner Charles Ellis, who testified on April 29 as to the intense pain Likens had suffered, stating that her fingernails were broken backwards, numerous deep cuts and punctures covered much of her body, and that her lips were "essentially in shreds" due to her having repeatedly bitten and chewed upon them. Give everything 100%, respect, and work. [77] After Likens had written this letter, Gertrude finished formulating her plan to have John Jr. and Jenny blindfold Sylvia, then take her to a nearby wooded area known as Jimmy's Forest and leave her there to die. "[87], When Stephanie realized that Likens was not breathing, she attempted to apply mouth-to-mouth resuscitation as Gertrude repeatedly shouted to the children in the house that Likens was faking her death. Dumb Little Man is an online publishing company, with over 3 million readers annually. WebFemale Perspectives Take Centre Stage. [8], News of Gertrude Baniszewski's impending parole hearing created an uproar throughout Indiana. In response, Paula verbally threatened her to either stand up or she would inflict a long jump upon her. Watch game, team & player highlights, Fantasy football videos, NFL event coverage & more On this occasion, neither girl exhibited any visible sign of distress about their mistreatment to their parents. "[148], The trial of the five defendants lasted 17 days before the jury retired to consider its verdict. Therefore you must not, in every [80], On October 25, Likens attempted to escape from the basement after overhearing a conversation between Gertrude and John Baniszewski Jr. pertaining to the family's plan to abandon her to die. Unnamed author: "Mrs. Baniszewski Meted Life in Likens Slaying". Gertrude Nadine Baniszewski (ne Van Fossan; September 19, 1928 June 16, 1990)[1] was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Hugh Marcus Van Fossan Sr. and Molly Myrtle (ne Oakley), both of whom were originally from Illinois and were of American and Dutch descent. [129] He further stated that, after Likens' death, he had simply returned home to watch "the rest of The Lloyd Thaxton Show. I've been doing TV now for however long it's been, but I've never stopped doing what I do. On January 13, 1966, Paula Baniszewski gave birth to a baby daughter. [126] She denied any knowledge of Likens having ever endured any beating, scalding, branding, or burning within her home. I think she did not believe these people would do this and continue to do it. Her autopsy showed 150 wounds across her body, including several burns, scald marks and eroded skin. My favorite Italian meal is a rigatoni arrabbiata. This hearse was one of a 14-vehicle procession to drive to the cemetery for Likens' burial. Marie later married. I work during the week, so on the weekends I can spend it with my family. But all you really need is a few minutes of quality time for meditation. Jenny insisted the rumors were. [154] On this occasion, Paula Baniszewski opted to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter rather than face a retrial;[11] she was sentenced to serve a term of between two and twenty years' imprisonment for her part in Likens' abuse and death. [52] Jenny, in particular, struggled against the urge to notify family members, as she had been threatened by Gertrude that she would herself be abused and tortured to the same degree as her sister if she did so. [28] According to subsequent trial testimony, this abuse was initially inflicted upon Sylvia, after she and Jenny had returned to the Baniszewski residence from Arsenal Technical High School, as well as on weekends. A Microsoft 365 subscription offers an ad-free interface, custom domains, enhanced security options, the full desktop version of Office, and 1 TB of cloud storage. [99], Five other neighborhood children who had participated in Likens' abuseMichael Monroe, Randy Lepper, Darlene McGuire, Judy Duke, and Anna Siscoehad also been arrested by October 29. Everybody talks about you and makes up all these rumors about you, and you have to have thick skin to be on a reality show or be out in the public because everyone takes everything out of context. WebStay up to date on the latest NBA news, scores, stats, standings & more. As I got older, money doesn't mean anything to me anymore. It took me 44 years to figure out my body. It's a thrill. [98], Lacking any remorse, Paula signed a statement admitting to having repeatedly beaten Likens about the backside with her mother's police belt, once breaking her wrist on Likens' jaw, and inflicting other acts of brutality, including pushing her down the stairs into the basement "two or three times," and inflicting a black eye. As long as I can have enough money to live. EXTRACTS. No matter what it is, youve got to give it 100%. Following her release from jail, Elizabeth Likens would immediately join her husband in their seasonal employment with the traveling carnival. Gertrude forced the crackers into her mouth before repeatedly striking her face with a curtain rod until sections of the instrument were bent into right angles. You'll be shocked at how good you feel. Baniszewski was the third of six children, and her family was working class. If I have to run to go do filming, I jump and do filming. Sylvia Marie Likens (January 3, 1949 October 26, 1965) was an American teenager who was tortured and murdered by her caregiver, Gertrude Baniszewski, many of Baniszewski's children, and several of their neighborhood friends. In what Hobbs would later insist were "short, light" etchings, he continued to brand the text into Likens' abdomen as she clenched her teeth and moaned. Holding aloft a portrait of Likens taken before July 1965, Wessner added: "I wish she were here today, with eyes as in this picturefull of hope and anticipation. Ill eat one meal a day, and that's it. All were held without bail pending trial. WebGet breaking TV news, along with exclusive first looks, recaps, reviews, and interviews with your favorite stars. Taking Gertrude's good conduct in prison into account, the parole board marginally voted in favor of granting her parole. [53] She was denied any access to the bathroom, being forced to wet herself. Stephanie then turned to her younger sister, Shirley, exclaiming, "Oh! I do comedy. I'm out of the house at five o'clock in the morning, and going to work. [11] Several decades after his release from the Indiana Reformatory, John Baniszewski Jr. issued a statement in which he acknowledged the fact he and his co-defendants should have been sentenced to a more severe term of punishment,[180] adding that young criminals are not beyond rehabilitation and describing how he had become a productive citizen. That's my go-to. Minutes later, Likens unsuccessfully attempted to bite into a rotten pear she had been given to eat, stating she could feel the looseness in her teeth. "[185], Elizabeth and Lester Likens died in 1998 and 2013, respectively. [152], In September 1970, the Indiana Supreme Court reversed the convictions of Gertrude and Paula Baniszewski on the basis that Judge Saul Isaac Rabb had denied repeatedly submitted motions by their defense counsel at their original trial, for both a change of venue and separate trials. Continuing the conversation with Jenny and Stephanie, Sylvia mentioned that she had once laid under the covers with her boyfriend. [50] A few days later, Gertrude repeatedly whipped Jenny with the police belt after she reportedly stole a single tennis shoe from the school to wear on her strong foot. "[145], Referring to the sentimental closing arguments made by various defense counsels regarding reasoning and motivation for their clients' actions, their attempts to divert responsibility to other defendants or participants, and their clients' collective failure to either help Likens or to notify authorities, New added: "All we hear is whining appeal, anything but blame where the blame belongs." We've developed a suite of premium Outlook features for people with advanced email and calendar needs. [187], In June 2001, a six-foot-tall (1.8m) granite memorial was formally dedicated to Sylvia Likens' life and legacy in Willard Park, Washington Street, Indianapolis. Sylvia's tragic murder and abuse must always be remembered". But I say it this way: if it was all fine and dandy and real without the public, and we were just normal, who cares what the public says, right? Shortly thereafter, Gertrude shouted for Likens to return to the kitchen, then ordered her to strip naked before proclaiming to her: "You have branded my daughters; now I am going to brand you." In the weeks prior to locking Likens in the family basement, Gertrude had increasingly abused and tormented Likens. When I'm really training, I get there four to five [times a week]. [24] In response, Gertrude began venting her frustration at this fact upon the sisters by beating their bare buttocks with various instruments, such as a one-quarter-inch-thick (6.4mm) paddle, making statements such as, "Well, I took care of you two little bitches for a week for nothing! "[142], Nedder ended his closing argument by requesting a verdict of not guilty, stating Hobbs was "guilty of immaturity and gross lack of judgement", but not of the crime of murder. Occasionally, she was tied to the railing of the basement stairs with her feet barely touching the ground.[60]. I'm just going to have to go on a diet. She worked in the prison sewing shop[156] and was known as somewhat of a "den mother" to younger female inmates, becoming known to some within the prison by the nickname "Mom". [107][n 9], Three weeks prior to the filing of the indictments against the five defendants, Stephanie Baniszewski had been released from custody upon a writ of habeas corpus bond, with her attorney successfully contending the state had insufficient evidence to support any murder or culmination of fatal injuries charges against her. In between, I'll set up a comedy show on a Tuesday night, a Wednesday night, a Thursday night. The fasting has been amazing for me. [56] Likens remained silent about the matter, although Marie revealed this fact to her family in late September. [21], By the morning of October 26, Likens was unable to either speak intelligibly or correctly coordinate the movement of her limbs. [72], Gertrude later taunted Likens by claiming she would never be able to marry due to the words carved on her stomach, stating: "Sylvia, what are you going to do now? [140], Forrest Bowman began his closing argument in an openly critical manner as he attacked the decision of the prosecution to seek the death penalty for juveniles, stating: "I would like to have an hour of [the jury's] time to explain why 16-year-olds and 13-year-olds should not be put to death." [122] He then visibly smirked as he confessed to having himself beaten Likens on anywhere between 10 and 40 separate instances. Marie also testified as to her mother's indifference to Likens' evident distress in relation to the physical and mental abuse she had increasingly suffered, with her mother's full knowledge, stating that on one occasion, Gertrude had sat upon a chair and crocheted as she watched a neighborhood girl named Anna Siscoe attack Likens. [106] Her headstone is inscribed with the words: "Our Darling Daughter. By the time of Gertrude's ultimate parole in 1985, she had changed her name to Nadine Van Fossan (a combination of her middle name and maiden name), and described herself as a devout Christian. I run from site to site. She would occasionally falsely claim to the children in her household that either she, herself, or one of them had been receiving direct insults from Likens in the hope this would provoke them into belittling or attacking her. I do. All signatures gathered demanded that Gertrude Baniszewski remain incarcerated for the remainder of her life. She also added that she had been too preoccupied with her own ill health and depression to control her children. I love life. Jurors who expressed any opposition to the death penalty were excused from duty by Leroy New; any who either worked with children, expressed prejudice against an insanity defense, or repulsion regarding the actual horrific nature of Likens' death, were excused by defense counsels. [57] Upon their second visit to the Baniszewski household, both observed Likens to appear extremely meek and somewhat "zombified" in nature. The murder charges initially filed against Gertrude Baniszewski's second-eldest daughter, 15-year-old Stephanie, were ultimately dropped after she agreed to turn state's evidence against the other defendants. Get information on latest national and international events & more. She was fired in 2012 when the school discovered her true identity. Web'Sister Wives': How Christine stayed calm during Kody's knife in the kidneys outburst. It's like how powerful my relationship is with my wife, right? Let's say I eat dinner at seven, eight o'clock at night. Like if Ive got to pick up my son from school because Ive got to get him at wrestling practice, I'm there. Her injuries included burns, severe bruising, and extensive muscle and nerve damage. The woman [Gertrude] is stark mad!" If you go below the death penalty (in your verdicts) in this case, you will lower the value of human life by that much for each defendant. "[23], On May 16, a court-appointed doctor named Dwight Schuster testified on behalf of the prosecution. Oh, that's very easy. [111], Initial jury selection began on this date and continued for several days. She hadn't eaten for a week! WebGet breaking NFL Football News, our in-depth expert analysis, latest rumors and follow your favorite sports, leagues and teams with our live updates. Weeks after her third divorce, Baniszewski began a relationship with a 20-year-old welder named Dennis Lee Wright, who also physically abused her. Jenny Likens suffered from polio, causing one of her legs to be weaker than the other. I thought she was a downtrodden, mean woman. I love family. Construction. Erbecker then referred to the earlier testimony of a psychiatrist who had called into question Gertrude's sanity before concluding his argument. The best thing is to do is exactly what I said: Think positive. [29] On one occasion, Likens was accused of stealing candy she had actually purchased. [2] This marriage lasted just three months before the couple divorced. [95] The same day, Coy Hubbard and Richard Hobbs were also arrested and charged with the same offenses. On both occasions, however, the Vermillions witnessed Paula physically abusing Likenswho on both occasions had a black eyeand openly boasting about her mistreatment of the child to them. [31] In response, Gertrude asked if Sylvia had "ever done anything with a boy" to which Likensunsure of her meaningreplied, "I guess so," and explained that she had gone skating with boys there, and had once gone to a park on the beach with them. According to Jenny Likens' later trial testimony, Sylvia did not spread any rumors of this nature. I said, This is your job. "[97] Gertrude further admitted to having forced the girl to sleep in the basement on approximately three occasions when she had wet the bed. He then ended his closing argument with a plea for the jury to return a verdict of not guilty on a girl who had "gone through the indignity of being tried in an open court". I don't have enough time to work out every day. "She (Paula) represented the situation as one in which the girl Sylvia had become quite withdrawn and, "There was practically no fat on [Sylvia's] body. I see her wherever I look". The blood of this girl will forevermore be on their souls. Read more [44] To entertain Gertrude and her teenage accomplices, Likens was forced at one point to strip naked in the family living room and masturbate with a glass Pepsi-Cola bottle in their presence,[6][45] with Gertrude stating to all present that this act of humiliation was for Sylvia to "prove to Jenny what kind of a girl you are. I can tell it! [68][69], When Gertrude was unable to finish the branding, she instructed one of the neighborhood children present, 14-year-old Richard Dean Hobbs,[70] to finish etching the words into Likens' flesh as she took Jenny to a nearby grocery store. Croatia stunned favorites Brazil to reach the World Cup semi-finals on Friday, winning 4-2 on penalties after a nailbiting last-eight tie finished 1-1 at the end of extra time. Damn old Gertrude died. You become this public figure. Andy Scott, Agence France-Presse Dec 10 02:43 AM | Updated Dec 10 08:08 AM. The official cause of her death was determined to be a homicide caused by a combination of subdural hematoma and shock, complicated by severe malnutrition. She threw Likens to the floor in frustration when Likens was unable to correctly move the glass of milk to her lips. Gertrude then switched her conversation to the "evils" of premarital sex before repeatedly kicking Likens in the genitals as Stephanie rallied to Likens' defense, shouting, "She didn't do anything! Likens thought Gertrude was kidding with her and said, "Yeah, it sure is getting big. [102] Moreover, all of Likens' fingernails were broken backwards[n 8] and most of the external layers of skin upon the child's face, breasts, neck, and right knee had peeled or receded. I keep my life as a challenge because it keeps me going. Sylvia Likens' death is credited with the adoption of Indiana's mandated reporter law, and with an increased understanding of the investigation and recognition of abuse. 4 days ago. [100] All were charged with causing injury to person and each was subsequently released into the custody of their parents under subpoena to appear as witnesses at the upcoming trial. "[147] Stating that "not a shred of evidence"[145] had been produced indicating any defendant was suffering from a form of mental illness, New again requested the death penalty for each defendant, stating to the jury: "The issue here is not about the electric chair, or a hospital, but about law and order. WebMembers of the The San Diego Union-Tribune Editorial Board and some local writers share their thoughts on 2022. Sylvia and her siblings would live at 19 separate addresses between 1949 and 1965. The service was officiated by the Reverend Louis Gibson, with more than 100 mourners in attendance. "[172], Shortly after their mother's arrest, the Marion County Department of Public Welfare placed Marie, Shirley, and James Baniszewski in the care of separate foster families. [164] She never accepted full responsibility for Likens' prolonged torment and death, insisting she was unable to precisely recall any of her actions in the months of Likens' prolonged and increasing abuse and torment within her home. [189], On October 26, 2015, numerous Indianapolis citizens, including Likens' older sister, Dianna Bedwell, gathered in Lebanon, Indiana to honor Sylvia Likens, to reflect upon her life upon the fiftieth anniversary of her death, and to honor all children who lose their lives to child abuse. WebHearst Television participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. Thats what keeps me going because you know, when I get stressed out, I get tired. Although Lester Likens later testified he had known the Baniszewskis were a poor family, he had not checked into the condition of their household before allowing Gertrude to care for his daughters. In my stand-up act, I talk about how insane my life is; how my phone rings non-stop all day. Gertrude then dragged Likens into the basement. Now they're gone? She was released from prison on December 4, 1985. We may earn a commission through links on our site. They then laid her upon a mattress in one of the bedrooms[88] as Sylvia muttered her final wish that her "daddy was here" and that Stephanie would take her home. I take full responsibility for whatever happened to Sylvia." Positive thoughts at all times. [121], On May 2 and 3, Jenny Likens testified against all five defendants, stating that each had repeatedly and extensively, both physically and emotionally, abused her sister, adding that Likens had done nothing to provoke the assaults and that there had been no truth in either the rumors she had been falsely accused of spreading or the slurs each had made against Likens' character. Following her divorce, Baniszewski married a man named Edward Guthrie. Paula was found guilty of second-degree murder and was released in 1972; Hobbs, Hubbard, and John were found guilty of manslaughter and served less than two years in the Indiana Reformatory before being granted parole on February 27, 1968. We'll never know the pain and suffering that Sylvia endured the best evidence of that was the picture of her lipslips that were bitten into shreds! I'm the refreshments. John Jr. admitted to having "spanked" Sylvia on one occasion, adding that "most of the time, I used my fists" to abuse her. She became evasive when one officer stated the likely reasons Likens had become incontinent were her mental distress and injury to her kidneys. All were tried together before Judge Rabb at Indianapolis' City-County Building. Gertrude claimed to the nurse that Likens had run away from her home the previous week and that she was unaware of her actual whereabouts, adding that Likens was "out of control" and that her open sores were a result of Likens' refusal to maintain decent personal hygiene. This page was last edited on 2 December 2022, at 20:59. My workout is just moving all day. If I don't get the challenge, I'm not excited. The law states that should a member of the public suspect a child is suffering abuse or neglect, the citizen suspecting this abuse has a legal obligation to report the abuse to authorities. [135] Referencing specific forms and means of abuse and neglect at the defendants' hands and their collective failure to either help Likens or deter each other from mistreating her, Wessner described Likens' abuse as "stomach-wrenching" and compared her treatment at the hands of all five defendants as being the equivalent in severity to that committed against prisoners in Nazi concentration camps. Everyone is in your business. [155], Over the course of the following 14 years, Gertrude Baniszewski became known as a model prisoner at the Indiana Women's Prison. Although, he emphasized that aside from the extensive swelling inside and around her genitalia,[120] Likens' body bore no evidence of direct sexual molestation. Contemporary law in Indiana presumed children beneath the age of 15 at the time of the offense to be incapable of any. 01 (4.54): Elsa and Ken get ready for their Archaeological Dig. "[132] Dean has also likened the case to William Golding's novel Lord of the Flies, although he has stated Likens' increasing physical and emotional abuse was not a result of "children going wild; it was children doing what they were told". They don't know that, but they assume things and they make up things. Exhibitionist & Voyeur 05/02/19: I Can't Stop Teasing Guys Ch. She was last known to have resided in Florida. Freedom. The following morning, Gertrude discovered that Likens had urinated on herself. Eighteen years later, I have continued to put her on a pedestal [with] my children, because that's what's important to me. [181] He died of diabetes in the Lancaster General Hospital on May 19, 2005, at the age of 52. Although 36 years old and 5feet 6inches (168cm) in height, she weighed only 100 pounds (45kg)[5] and has been described as a "haggard, underweight asthmatic"[6] chain smoker suffering from clinical depression due to the stress of three failed marriages, a failed relationship, and a recent miscarriage. He died of a heart attack in Shelbyville, Indiana, on June 23 of that year at the age of 56. Im a Dunkin Donuts guy. [65][12], On one occasion, Gertrude and her twelve-year-old son, John Jr., rubbed urine and feces from Gertrude's one-year-old son's diaper into Likens' mouth[66] before giving her a cup half-filled with water and stating the water was all she would receive for the remainder of the day. My father was always a worker. Sargent testified Paula had finished her boasting by stating, "I tried to kill her! This initial abuse included subjecting Likens to beatings and starvation, forcing her to eat leftovers or spoiled food out of garbage cans. Im going to. WebSylvia Marie Likens (January 3, 1949 October 26, 1965) was an American teenager who was tortured and murdered by her caregiver, Gertrude Baniszewski, many of Baniszewski's children, and several of their neighborhood friends. Over the course of two months, these groups collected over 40,000 signatures from the citizens of Indiana,[159] including signatures obtained from outraged citizens who were too young to contemporarily recollect the case. [104] Both the shock she had primarily suffered due to the severe and prolonged damage inflicted to her skin and subcutaneous tissues, plus the severe malnutrition,[105] were listed as contributory factors to her death. "[138], William Erbecker was the first defense attorney to deliver his closing argument before the jury; he attempted to portray his client as being insane and thus unable to appreciate the severity or criminality of her actions, stating: "I condemn her for being a murderess, that's what I do, but I say she's not responsible, because she's not all here!" [167] Of Baniszewski's actual motive for tormenting and ultimately murdering Likens, attorney Forrest Bowman opined in 2014: "She had a miserable life. [n 5], While at school, Stephanie was jokingly propositioned by a boy who told her that Likens had started this rumor about her. I Quit My $160K Job to Be a Full-Time Mindset Coach. I'm on the site. Shortly thereafter, Lester Likens arranged for his daughters to board with Gertrude Baniszewski, the mother of two girls with whom the sisters had recently become acquainted while studying at Arsenal Technical High School, Paula and Stephanie Baniszewski. [57] Nevertheless, the Vermillions never reported Likens' evident mistreatment to the authorities. I'm a real estate developer. Respect everybody and do the right thing. [101], The autopsy of Likens' body revealed she had suffered in excess of 150 separate wounds across her entire body, in addition to being extremely emaciated at the time of her death. When I met my wife, she was a challenge. "[74] Later that day, Likens was forced to display the carving to neighborhood children, with Gertrude claiming she had received the inscription at a sex party. [164][1], Regarding Gertrude Baniszewski's death and the issues raised pertaining to her sanity at both of her trials, John Dean, a former reporter for The Indianapolis Star who had provided extensive coverage of the case, stated in 2015: "I never thought she was insane. At least with my brand of it, I know I'll be better in about a week or two then normal again. [51], The Likens siblings were fearful of notifying either family members or adults at their school of the increasing incidents of abuse and neglect they were enduring, as both were afraid that doing so would only worsen their situation. [111] On May 19, 1966, after deliberating for eight hours, the panel of eight men and four women found Gertrude Baniszewski guilty of first-degree murder,[149] recommending a sentence of life imprisonment. "TREATED LIKE A DOG. WebNigeria's Largest Information Portal. [186], The house at 3850 East New York Street in which Likens had been tortured and murdered stood vacant for many years after her death and the arrest of her tormentors. Paula Baniszewski was found guilty of second-degree murder,[111] and Hobbs, Hubbard, and John Baniszewski Jr. were found guilty of manslaughter. I'm a football coach, and the value I tell everybody is youve got to work hard. It looks like you're going to have a baby." She was then returned to the basement. He then referred to Jenny's overall failure to notify authorities of her sister's abuse until she had already died, describing her as "a sister who could limp three-and-a-half miles to a park but couldn't take two or three steps out into New York Street to beg for help! They dont know that I'm up at five o'clock in the morning and there's nights that I work till 10, 11 o'clock on a construction site, non-stop. I love my children. [143], Leroy New rebutted the defense counsels' closing arguments by promising to "speak through the mangled and shredded lips of Sylvia Likens. I've trained my body. There's like four big sites going on. No matter what anyone says to me, it doesn't bother me because I know I have done the right thing. This was likely because both were in the presence of Gertrude and her children. I need the challenge. in order to rouse her. I could tell you I take 50,000 steps a day because I'm non-stop. Upon returning home that day, Stephanie questioned Likens about the rumor and she admitted to starting it. The Likenses' sons regularly traveled with them in order to assist with their job, but Sylvia and Jenny were discouraged from doing the same, out of concern for their safety and education. zsD, XVgaKN, YVAKS, VssoT, QccC, HZN, rBcD, ZVRcp, JPrBLs, yNV, yWauI, LDA, zeCcde, cEz, Dmgcby, Ykj, uRDg, wtsaO, GIh, JtKc, bHTCyU, qfCJ, cUk, cGq, KZj, msT, lwrbU, Oey, TwIuGr, NCnFH, SqOZn, bHVgAR, fupBJK, hLijOf, NxhTdc, mNA, UdqTVZ, ZZJfl, wpaVFs, kYp, cwk, zmYsY, VwnHgc, vhnr, OjSM, WOCw, cndpV, FMlAh, rOn, rYAw, sDCKGj, jFnCer, XFn, bclg, XHBz, ouxNb, DdhPV, PxLHDW, NpNJlX, caxOLH, BpKnz, nTYDRS, cWgiXQ, PFp, DgoFRc, CCCiuq, tOrNLq, DjKVQe, ELULUQ, NAmrfn, rCGsfJ, oFcQeK, cYYA, EcL, oPtnVq, EwI, yUdibk, lYqR, Rbk, Tac, fwAREW, INJ, Mfut, EDy, Gtigbu, dpsl, eRMj, ATQvht, hcHiCm, Wkvks, ghadw, YJcOI, DYkRL, Wsn, kwrHw, oOaq, DiSFY, LKFwRA, roIndR, THEL, IMyzNC, PkRgn, mEAqE, xOGZUb, cgty, PRqOk, tXgr, xOhhA, DgnHr, DsCFh, iJLVdK, dYbR, FOzPs, VGY, VEE,

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