The Other Side of Paradise

Dateline NBC

  • Jun 10, 2025
  • 40:47
  • Full Episode
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Keith Morrison follows a cold case for nearly 10 years, as a father in Hawaii fights to bring his daughter’s killer to justice despite one setback after another.

Keith Morrison and Andrea Canning go behind the scenes of the making of this episode in ‘Talking Dateline’

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Brief Summary

Larry Mendonca fights for justice after his daughter Sandra's murder, leading to the arrest of her husband Darren Gallus after years of investigation.

Key points

  • The Murder of Sandra. Sandra's tragic murder shocked a small community, revealing dark secrets and deep grief.
  • A Father's Quest for Justice. Larry Mendonca's relentless pursuit of justice for his daughter spans over a decade.
  • New Evidence Emerges. Breakthrough DNA evidence reignites hope in the cold case of Sandra's murder.
  • Darren Indicted for Murder. In October 2012, the grand jury indicted Darren for Sandra's murder, marking a pivotal moment in the case.
  • Trial Delays and Political Battles. Larry's quest for justice faced new hurdles as a political battle delayed Darren's trial.
  • Final Sentencing. After 12 years, the judge sentenced Darren to 10 years for assault, concluding the family's long fight for justice.

Tension

85/ 100High tension

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