US doomsday cult mum Lori Vallow Daybell convicted of murdering her two children and romantic rival
- She and her fifth husband Chad Daybell, who called her a ‘sexual goddess’ meant to help him save the world, were both charged in the triple homicide
- The verdict marks the end of a three-year investigation that included bizarre claims of zombie children, apocalyptic prophecies and illicit affairs
An Idaho jury on Friday convicted Lori Vallow Daybell of murder in the deaths of her two youngest children and a romantic rival, a verdict that marks the end of a three-year investigation that included bizarre claims of zombie children, apocalyptic prophecies and illicit affairs.
Vallow Daybell, who wore a simple black dress, showed no expression as the verdict was read. Some in the courtroom gallery wiped tears from their eyes.
Prosecutors in the case described Vallow Daybell as a power-hungry manipulator who would kill her two youngest children for money, while the defence team said she was normally a protective mother who fell under the romantic sway of a wannabe cult leader.
Jurors heard both stories on Thursday during final arguments in the seven-week long trial, and deliberated for about four hours before breaking for the evening. They resumed deliberations on Friday morning and reached a verdict, which was announced soon after noon.
Vallow Daybell and her fifth husband Chad Daybell were both charged with murder, conspiracy and grand theft in the deaths of seven-year-old Joshua “JJ” Vallow, 16-year-old Tylee Ryan, and Daybell’s previous wife Tammy Daybell. Prosecutors say the two worked with Vallow Daybell’s brother, Alex Cox, to carry out the crimes. Cox died in December 2019 and was never charged.
Vallow Daybell faces up to life in prison when she is sentenced in at least three months. Chad Daybell’s trial is still months away.
