📋 Video Summary

🎯 Overview

This video by Kendall Rae discusses the tragic case of Angelica "AJ" Hadsell, a young woman who disappeared in 2015. The video details the events leading up to her disappearance, the investigation, and the ultimate conviction of her stepfather, Wesley Hadsell, for her murder.

📌 Main Topic

The murder of AJ Hadsell and the subsequent investigation that led to her stepfather's conviction.

🔑 Key Points

• 1. AJ's Background [04:28]

- AJ was born in 1996 and had a loving family, including a stepfather, Zach Hoffer, who was a significant father figure. She was described as kind, adventurous, and excelled in sports and academics.

- Her biological father was not in the picture, and Zach Hoffer was a loving stepfather.

• 2. AJ's Disappearance [09:44]

- AJ went missing on March 2, 2015, during her spring break from Longwood University.

- Her mother received strange, cryptic texts from her, and a note in AJ's handwriting was found at home.

• 3. Initial Investigation & Suspects [12:35]

- The police investigated several suspects, including AJ's ex-boyfriend, Josh, and her close friend, Corey French.

- Corey French found a piece of AJ's credit card and later, her jacket, which led to suspicion.

• 4. The Involvement of Wesley Hadsell [16:50]

- AJ's stepfather, Wesley Hadsell ("Wes"), became a primary suspect.

- He was very active in the search, but also exhibited suspicious behavior, including attempting to frame Corey French and intimidating witnesses.

• 5. Evidence Against Wesley [26:40]

- Wes's criminal history, including past charges of assault, kidnapping, and rape, came to light, as well as his drug use.

- Security footage from a nearby 7-Eleven placed his work van near the house around the time AJ disappeared. - The GPS device in his work van showed he was at an abandoned house where AJ's body was found. - AJ's body was found in an abandoned house, and the cause of death was determined to be acute heroin poisoning.

• 6. The Trial and Conviction [41:10]

- Wesley was eventually charged with first-degree murder, second-degree felony murder, and felony concealment of a dead body.

- He was found guilty of murdering AJ in January 2022 and sentenced to life in prison plus 15 years. - Wesley continues to maintain his innocence.

💡 Important Insights

• • Manipulation: Wesley Hadsell attempted to manipulate the investigation, the media, and those involved to deflect blame and cover up his crime. [26:28]
• • Circumstantial Evidence: The prosecution relied heavily on circumstantial evidence, including the GPS data, his criminal history, and suspicious behavior. [43:47]
• • Lack of Physical Evidence: The prosecution faced challenges due to the lack of direct evidence, such as proof of Wes giving AJ the heroin. [42:40]

📖 Notable Examples & Stories

• • The Car Accident: AJ's mother met her stepfather Zach Hoffer after a car accident where he helped them. [04:54]
• • Intimidation Tactics: Wesley ordering a pizza in AJ’s name with a message to Corey French, and blaring an airhorn outside of his house. [22:00]
• • The Search Party: Wes was vocal about the search and often called the media. [38:01]
• • The Letter: The letter he wrote to his mom revealed he was planning to go away if he was granted bond. [38:59]

🎓 Key Takeaways

• 1. Wesley Hadsell was a manipulative individual who committed a heinous crime against his stepdaughter and attempted to evade justice.
• 2. The case highlights the importance of thorough investigations, even when faced with circumstantial evidence.
• 3. The tragedy underscores the devastating impact of violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.

✅ Action Items (if applicable)

□ Reflect on the importance of trust and discernment in relationships. □ Consider supporting organizations that provide assistance to victims of crime.

🔍 Conclusion

The case of AJ Hadsell is a heartbreaking story of a young woman whose life was tragically cut short. The video serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking justice for victims and the devastating consequences of violence within families.