15-Year-Old Girl Executed By Ex-Boyfriend Before Middle School Graduation: Cops

Summary

This episode of Sidebar, hosted by Jesse Weber, delves into the tragic case of 15-year-old Aliana Dicki, who was found shot to death on the day of her middle school graduation. Her 21-year-old boyfriend, Trevor Batty, is the prime suspect, with evidence of domestic abuse and threats. Criminal law attorney Melba Pearson discusses the challenges of domestic violence, missed opportunities to protect Aliana, and the legal complexities surrounding the case. The episode also touches on broader issues of domestic abuse and the importance of community intervention and support.

Takeaways

• 😔 A 15-year-old girl named Aliana Dicki was tragically found shot to death before her eighth-grade graduation.
• 🚨 Aliana's 21-year-old boyfriend, Trevor Batty, has been arrested and charged with her murder, along with other serious crimes.
• 🔍 Surveillance footage reportedly shows Batty following Aliana to her home, where eight gunshots were heard before he fled the scene.
• 🛑 Aliana had previously confided in others that she was being abused by Batty, and he had made multiple threats against her life.
• 👮‍♀️ Despite being warned of abuse, there were no apparent legal interventions before the tragic incident occurred.
• 🚗 Batty used an Uber to travel to and from the crime scene, and the Uber driver later expressed concern about Batty's nervous and suspicious behavior.
• ⚖️ The prosecutor presented substantial evidence against Batty, including the Uber driver's testimony, surveillance footage, and Aliana's previous statements about abuse.
• 🛑 Statistics reveal that 1 in 5 high school students experiences physical or sexual violence in their relationships, with stalking and harassment rates even higher.
• 💔 Aliana's family is devastated by her loss, and they have set up a GoFundMe page to support her memorial, raising over $133,000.
• 👥 Legal experts emphasize the need for increased awareness of domestic violence, particularly among teens, and encourage families and communities to be vigilant and take action when signs of abuse are present.

Q & A

What was the main incident discussed in the transcript?

The transcript discusses the tragic case of 15-year-old Aliana Dicki, who was shot and killed by her much older boyfriend, 21-year-old Trevor Batty. The incident occurred just before her middle school graduation.

What key evidence do investigators have against Trevor Batty?

Investigators have several pieces of evidence, including surveillance footage showing Batty following Aliana to her home, where gunshots were heard, and then him leaving alone. They also have witness testimony from an Uber driver who noted Batty's nervous behavior after the crime.

What was the nature of the relationship between Aliana Dicki and Trevor Batty?

Despite Aliana being only 15 years old, she had been dating the 21-year-old Trevor Batty for some time. It was later revealed that Aliana had been a victim of abuse in the relationship, with Batty reportedly threatening and physically harming her.

What were some of the warning signs leading up to the murder?

Aliana had confided in others that Batty had been abusive, threatening her, and she showed signs of physical abuse, including bruises and a bloody lip. She had also been heard screaming, 'Get off me, get away from me,' before the fatal shooting.

How did law enforcement track down Trevor Batty after the murder?

Police tracked Batty down through surveillance footage and witness reports, including an Uber driver who had driven him after the murder. Batty had attempted to escape through a window at a residence, but was apprehended by law enforcement.

What were the charges brought against Trevor Batty?

Trevor Batty was charged with murder, home invasion, and multiple gun crimes. He pleaded not guilty, and his next court appearance is scheduled for a preliminary hearing.

What did the Uber driver notice about Trevor Batty after the murder?

The Uber driver reported that Batty seemed sweaty and nervous, made comments about 'being set up,' and asked the driver to wipe down the car door handle after he left, indicating a consciousness of guilt.

How prevalent is domestic violence among high school students, according to the transcript?

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, about one in five high school students experiences sexual or physical violence in their relationships within a 12-month period. When factoring in stalking and harassment, the rate rises to nearly 50%.

Why is it significant that Aliana was only 15 and Batty was 21?

In most states, a sexual relationship between a 15-year-old and a 21-year-old is illegal due to the age difference, which adds another criminal dimension to the case. The abusive nature of their relationship further compounds the seriousness of the situation.

What are some suggestions for families and communities to address domestic violence among young people?

Families and communities are encouraged to be vigilant and intervene if they see signs of abuse. Seeking resources such as legal protection or counseling, and providing safe spaces for victims, are critical. Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline offer assistance for those in abusive relationships.