In August 2008, Sarah Widmer, a healthy 24 year-old woman is found dead in her bathtub, just four months after marrying Ryan Widmer… the only person at home with Sarah that night.
Suspicion quickly fell on Ryan, leading to his arrest and conviction for Sarah’s murder. But could this have been a tragic accident?
Ryan has adamantly maintained his innocence for the last 16 years, but now, two seasoned criminologists examine the very controversial conviction of Ryan Widmer, for the murder of his wife Sarah.
Is Ryan a murder or did something else happen in that bathroom? Join us to find out.
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Ep10:
We'll learn whats next in Ryan's appeals process, and is there any possible explanation for what happened that night in the bathroom.
Finally, Amy and Meghan give their thoughts on Ryan's guilt ...
Surprise Witness (00:43:22)
Ep09:
A new mystery witness for the prosecution has everyone wondering who it is... and would they have any information that could seal Ryan's fate?
If you have any information regarding this case, y...
The ReTrial (00:37:34)
Ep08:
Ryan has one more chance at fighting for his freedom, but will his new legal team be able to achieve a different outcome this time around?
If you have any information regarding this case, you c...
The Jury's Duty (00:34:08)
Ep07:
In this episode we have a verdict, Ryan is found guilty, but someone comes forward with information that may turn the case upside-down. And Ryan builds a new legal team to take on the challenge ...
The Defense (00:38:58)
Ep06:
The Defense makes their case that Sarah's death was a tragic accident, but will Ryan take the stand and defend himself? Also, we talk to a 3rd party pathologist and get their thoughts on the aut...
The Prosecution Rests (00:39:12)
Ep05:
The Prosecution calls the rest of their experts, including the "star witness". Just before the Prosecution rests their case, a new theory emerges of what might have happened between Ryan and Sar...
The Battle Begins (00:47:10)
Ep04:
Ryan begins to grieve as he plans Sarah's funeral, but he also is planning for the battle of his life both in the courtroom and in the public eye.
The Prosecution will present its case to the co...
Into the Fray (00:34:26)
03: In the days following Sarah's death, the media begins to paint their own picture of what may have happened. Ryan is still trying to cope and realizes that he is now coming under suspicion.
If you...
Underwater (00:44:07)
Ep02:
On this episode, you'll hear Ryan's full account of the night of August 11th, 2008, when he found Sarah dead in their upstairs bathtub, along with the 911 call that will be used in court against...
The Nice Guy (00:36:32)
Ep 01:
On season 2 of Direct Appeal, we examine the murder conviction of Ryan Widmer for the death of his wife, Sarah Whitmer. Looking at the evidence that was presented, that which was not, and the ...
Season 2 Trailer: Ryan Widmer (00:01:00)
In August 2008, Sarah Widmer, a healthy 24 year-old is found dead in her bathtub, just four months after marrying her husband Ryan… the only person at home with Sarah that night.
Suspicion quickly fe...
One Year Update (00:27:38)
After more than one year since the last episode of Direct Appeal, we are back to discuss the recent media attention, to answer audience questions, and address potential tips sent in.
We'll update you ...
Introducing Women & Crime: (Cindy James - episode #32) (00:38:25)
From the creators of Direct Appeal comes our new project, Women & Crime. Each episode we cover a new female focused true crime case. Enjoy this full length sample episode, and if you like it – Subscri...
Deliberation (01:03:02)
17: This season's final episode of Direct Appeal brings you audience tips and alternate theories. Also, Amy and Meghan will reveal their conclusions.
To help and participate in our research project, p...
The Best Friends (01:23:13)
16: Direct Appeal is back after a brief hiatus to follow up on listener tips. We return with three interviews from those who knew Melanie best: a friend from her past, a friend from her present and a ...
Melanie Q&A (part 2) (00:37:19)
15: We ask Melanie the your Questions in the second round of Q&A.
Thank you for staying tuned during our mid-season break! We are busy following up on your leads and theories and will be sharing them ...
Direct Appeal (01:07:53)
14: Melanie is sentenced and transferred to prison. She begins the long process of appeals and holds out hope that her conviction will be overturned. Will the courts grant an appeal or will her life s...
Melanie Q&A (part 1) (00:42:41)
13: Listen to Melanie’s answers to your questions in part 1 of our question & answer episodes.
If you have a question to ask and didn’t hear it in this episode, you have one more chance! Be sure to su...
The Verdict (00:37:28)
12: Both sides make their closing arguments, but an act of God gives one side an advantage. Afterwards, Melanie agonizes while the jury deliberates. The verdict is read and Melanie is sentenced, will ...
A Gamble (01:05:41)
11: Financial documents reveal suspicious transactions in and out of the McGuire’s joint bank account while lab reports reveal untested DNA and hair and police reports raise shocking new accusations. ...
The Best Defense (01:23:08)
10: Now that the State has rested, it’s time for Melanie’s Defense to present their case. Several key witnesses emerge but will Melanie’s lawyers call them to the stand? At least two critical witnesse...
Garbage Science (00:47:29)
09: The State’s witness testifies that there is forensic evidence linking Melanie to trash bags found with the body. However the defense gets lucky and happens across their own expert with a different...
Unfaithfulwife.net (00:59:46)
08: The prosecution says that Melanie drove Bill’s body to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in Virginia, where she disposed of his remains but Melanie says she was in Delaware furniture shopping. Does Melani...
Mickey Finn (00:56:13)
07: The prosecution introduces the sedative, chloral hydrate, found in Bill’s car. To fit their timeline, the Prosecution suggests Melanie kept Bill drugged for days before he was shot, but is there a...
Opening Arguments (01:04:24)
06: The trial against Melanie McGuire begins on March 5, 2007, live on Court TV, and Melanie finds herself in the middle of a media circus. Lead prosecutor, Patricia Prezioso, makes a forceful opening...