In a surprising turn of events, Chad Daybell, one half of the so-called “Doomsday Cult Duo,” is seeking to separate his case from that of his wife, Lori Vallow Daybell. The couple faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, in connection with the deaths of Lori’s children, Tylee Ryan (16) and JJ Vallow (7), as well as Chad’s former wife, Tammy Daybell.
A Case Marked by Tragedy and Suspicion
The case has been riddled with shocking revelations and unsettling details since the children’s disappearance in September 2019. The discovery of their remains on Chad’s property in 2020, followed by the exhumation and subsequent investigation into Tammy Daybell’s death, only deepened the mystery.
Adding to the complexity is the alleged involvement of Lori’s brother, Alex Cox, who died in 2019. While never charged, he remains a key figure in the case, linked to the deaths of both Charles Vallow, Lori’s former husband, and potentially Tammy Daybell.
Diverging Defense Strategies Emerge
John Pryor, Chad’s defense attorney, recently informed the court that his client’s version of events differs significantly from Lori’s. This declaration marks a significant shift in the case, as Chad and Lori have been seemingly inseparable throughout the investigation and legal proceedings.
Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow Daybell sitting in a courtroom
Pryor stated that their defense will be “diametrically different” from Lori’s and will utilize information from the Arizona case where Lori faces conspiracy charges in Charles Vallow’s death. He plans to introduce text messages between Lori and Alex Cox, arguing that Chad’s involvement was minimal.
A Potential Wedge Between the “Doomsday Duo”?
The defense’s strategy seems to suggest that Chad was unaware of Lori’s actions, a claim that raises eyebrows considering the couple’s close relationship and shared extreme religious beliefs.
Gigi McKelvey, host of the true-crime podcast “Pretty Lies and Alibis,” finds Chad’s claims difficult to believe. She points to the fact that Chad’s own children have stated their father was oblivious to the children’s presence on his property.
Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow Daybell standing in a courtroom
Separate Trials on the Horizon?
While the prosecution has consistently opposed severing the cases, Chad’s insistence on a separate defense strategy might lead to separate trials. Judge Steven Boyce previously denied motions for severance, but Lori’s ongoing competency evaluations and the potential for prejudice against one defendant in a joint trial might force a change in approach.
A Complex Case Continues
The “Doomsday Cult Duo” case is far from over, and the legal battle is expected to be long and arduous. With Chad Daybell seemingly turning on Lori Vallow Daybell, the upcoming trial (or trials) promises to reveal even more startling revelations about this tragic and baffling case.
