In a shocking case that has captivated the nation, Lori Vallow Daybell, also known as the “Doomsday Cult Mom,” has received her sentence for the brutal murders of her two children and her fifth husband’s first wife. Vallow Daybell’s heinous crimes have left many baffled and outraged, as she showed no remorse throughout the trial.
The Disappearance of Tylee Ryan and J.J. Vallow
The harrowing saga began in September 2019 when Lori Vallow Daybell, along with her daughter Tylee Ryan and adopted son J.J. Vallow, moved to Rexburg, Idaho. They relocated to be closer to Chad Daybell, Vallow Daybell’s current husband and the author of several doomsday books. Just days after their arrival, Tylee was last seen alive during a trip to Yellowstone National Park. Two weeks later, on September 23rd, J.J., who was autistic, was last seen at his school in Idaho. Vallow Daybell then informed the school that he would be homeschooled instead.
The Suspicious Death of Tammy Daybell
Shortly after the disappearance of Tylee and J.J., tragedy struck again when Chad Daybell’s ex-wife, Tammy Daybell, was found dead in her home. Initially ruled as a natural death, law enforcement later initiated an investigation into her passing. The circumstances surrounding Tammy’s death raised suspicions and added to the growing concerns surrounding Lori Vallow Daybell and Chad Daybell.
Lori Vallow Daybell’s Arrest and Charges
As the search for Tylee and J.J. intensified, Lori Vallow Daybell and Chad Daybell abruptly left Idaho and traveled to Hawaii. This sudden departure aroused even more suspicion, prompting law enforcement to take action. On February 20, 2020, Vallow Daybell was arrested in Kauai, Hawaii, on charges of desertion and nonsupport of dependent children. The authorities issued a court order for her to produce the children within five days, but she failed to comply.
The Discovery of Tylee and J.J.’s Bodies
Months of investigation led law enforcement to Chad Daybell’s property in Idaho, where, on June 9, 2020, the bodies of Tylee Ryan and J.J. Vallow were discovered. The heartbreaking revelation confirmed the worst fears of their loved ones and the nation at large. Chad Daybell, who attempted to flee the scene, was apprehended and charged with the destruction, alteration, or concealment of evidence.
The Trial and Sentencing
In May, Lori Vallow Daybell stood trial for the murders of her children. The jury deliberated for a short period before delivering a guilty verdict. On the day of her sentencing, Vallow Daybell showed no remorse and continued to deny her involvement in the crimes. The judge, Steven W. Boyce, condemned her actions and handed down a life sentence for each of the children’s murders and the conspiracy to commit murder of Tammy Daybell. These sentences will be served consecutively.
Impact on the Victims’ Families
The devastating impact of Lori Vallow Daybell’s actions reverberated through the victims’ families. In victim impact statements shared during the sentencing, family members expressed their grief and frustration over the loss of Tylee and J.J. Colby Ryan, Vallow Daybell’s oldest son from a previous marriage, highlighted the potential and bright futures that were stolen from his siblings. He emphasized the need for Tylee and J.J. to be remembered for who they were, rather than being reduced to mere headlines in a tragic tale.
