Episode 303
- Jul 4, 2025
- 1:12:46
- Full Episode
Michelle Rogers thought she had found a stable partner in Matthew Terry, a man who seemed fun and dependable when they met in Lansing, Michigan. But as their relationship went on, his real personality began to show: a violent and controlling side that nearly cost Michelle her life on Saint Patrick’s Day, 2017. Michelle survived, but after serving just three years in prison, Matthew was released, leaving Michelle in fear for her and her children’s lives again. The system had already failed her once. Would it happen again?<br /><br />Get instant access to all episodes, including premium unreleased episodes, commercial-free at swordandscale.com
Brief Summary
Michelle Rogers survived a brutal attack by Matthew Terry, who later murdered Kay Baker after being released from prison.
Key points
- The Assault Begins. Michelle's seemingly normal evening turns into a nightmare as Matthew attacks her violently.
- A Desperate Escape. Michelle fights for her life, rolling under a garage door to escape Matthew's attack.
- Trial and Sentencing. Matthew is found guilty of great bodily harm but not attempted murder, leading to a light sentence.
- Michelle's Isolation. Michelle felt completely isolated as friends sided with her abuser.
- Kay Baker's Tragic End. Kay Baker, a mother and teacher, was brutally attacked and bled out.
- Matthew Terry's Pattern of Violence. Detective Crumback notes eerie similarities between Matthew's assaults in Michigan and Florida.
Episode highlights
- The Assault BeginsMichelle's seemingly normal evening turns into a nightmare as Matthew attacks her violently.“He's just beating her head on the ground.”9:39Jul 4, 2025
- A Desperate EscapeMichelle fights for her life, rolling under a garage door to escape Matthew's attack.“With only a small gap left, Michelle rolled under it, desperate to get out.”16:58Jul 4, 2025
- Trial and SentencingMatthew is found guilty of great bodily harm but not attempted murder, leading to a light sentence.“He should have definitely been found guilty of attempted murder.”24:56Jul 4, 2025
- Michelle's IsolationMichelle felt completely isolated as friends sided with her abuser.“Nobody talks about how lonely it can be to confront your attacker.”26:21Jul 4, 2025
- Kay Baker's Tragic EndKay Baker, a mother and teacher, was brutally attacked and bled out.“She didn't make it.”32:27Jul 4, 2025
- Matthew Terry's Pattern of ViolenceDetective Crumback notes eerie similarities between Matthew's assaults in Michigan and Florida.“Really, the only difference... is that Michelle was much luckier.”36:38Jul 4, 2025
- The Justice System's FailureThe trial revealed the failures of the justice system in protecting victims.“The trial was a dark reminder of how the justice system sometimes gets it wrong.”53:16Jul 4, 2025
- The Tragic End of Kay BakerKay Baker's life was tragically cut short, leaving her family and friends in disbelief.“How could this have happened to someone so full of life?”54:34Jul 4, 2025
