Forensic Files

A verdict in Texas. Inside Sean Combs’ sentencing. Plus, a look at a looming execution.

Dateline NBC

  • Oct 9, 2025
  • 27:16
  • Full Episode
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<p>In Texas, a verdict in the trial of the woman prosecutors say poisoned her fifth husband. In Manhattan, Sean Combs is sentenced to more than four years in prison by a federal judge. Updates in the Karina Cooper, Ghislane Maxwell, and Brian Walshe cases. Plus, Lester Holt joins us to talk about the case of Robert Roberson, a Texas man scheduled to die by lethal injection on October 16th. But a growing chorus of voices is urging the state to take another look.<br /><br />Find out more about the cases covered each week here: <a href="http://www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com/" target="_blank">www.datelinetruecrimeweekly.com</a><br /><br />Listen to The Last Appeal: <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/thelastappeal" target="_blank">www.nbcnews.com/thelastappeal</a></p><br/> <p>Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See <a href="https://pcm.adswizz.com">pcm.adswizz.com</a> for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.</p>

Brief Summary

Sean Combs is sentenced for sex trafficking; Sarah Hartsfield is found guilty of murdering her husband; updates on Ghislaine Maxwell and Brian Walsh's cases.

Key points

  • Sarah Hartsfield Verdict. Sarah Hartsfield found guilty of murdering her fifth husband, Joe Hartsfield.
  • Sean Combs Sentencing. Sean Combs learns his fate after a tumultuous trial, breaking down in court.
  • Ghislaine Maxwell's Appeal Denied. The Supreme Court declines to hear Maxwell's appeal, upholding her conviction.
  • Robert Roberson's Death Sentence. Robert Roberson faces execution for a crime he insists he didn't commit.
  • The Missing Scans. CT scans of Nikki went missing for 15 years, raising questions about the case.
  • Execution Date Approaches. Robert's execution date is fast approaching, raising urgent questions about his defense.

Tension

75/ 100High tension

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