The Disappearance of Laci Peterson in Netflix’s American Murder

In Netflix’s latest true crime saga, American Murder: Laci Peterson, both detectives and loved ones are featured, but there’s a notable absence of one key individual.

Despite being one of the most significant true crime cases in US history, the killings of Laci Peterson and her unborn son Conner continue to spark inquiries even today. Scott Peterson, Laci’s husband, was found guilty of the murders, yet he maintains his innocence and is currently seeking a new trial.

The abundance of interviews with individuals involved in the case, including Modesto PD detectives Al Brocchini and John Buehler and Laci’s mother Sharon Rocha, who shares the ongoing impact of her daughter’s disappearance in 2002, contributes to the captivating nature of the new docu-series.

Despite the numerous troubling elements that contributed to Scott’s conviction, his family members are featured in American Murder: Laci Peterson, where they make a case for his innocence.

Scott’s sister-in-law Janey Peterson appears in American Murder

One of the most notable individuals involved in Scott’s case is his sister-in-law, Janey Peterson. She has gone to the extent of acquiring a law degree in an effort to advocate for his release. However, this has brought about the inquiry: where is Scott’s brother and Janey’s spouse, Joe Peterson?

Recent news from the Daily Mail showed that Scott is still actively involved with his sibling, as evidenced by a video call he made from prison to his family, including his brother Joe and sister Janey. This call was discussed by viewers in a Reddit thread about Scott’s sister Susan Caudillo’s description of Amber Frey, during which his absence was noted.

To provide context, Amber was Scott’s girlfriend before Laci’s passing, and neither of them were aware of each other’s presence. When Amber discovered the news, she immediately contacted the authorities and assisted with their inquiry.

The Redditor found it cringeworthy when Scott’s sister stated, “I don’t even like to use the word affair. I think he wanted a sexual relationship with someone who was willing, and I never felt it had anything to do with Laci’s disappearance.”

Scott Peterson when he was arrested — Netflix

Scott dyed his hair blonde before police arrested him

“Some of her remarks struck me as peculiar, causing me to reflect on how certain family members struggle to acknowledge the harsh realities about their loved ones.”

“In reply, someone pointed out, “Janey is actually Scott’s sister-in-law – which raises the question, why do we only hear from her and not from Scott’s brother, who is her husband?”

One person proposed, “In the end, Laci’s mother mentions that this has destroyed Scott’s family. I thought to myself, well, they were featured in the documentary showing their support for him… So it’s not surprising that his immediate family may not have a relationship with him.”

Despite his wife’s appearance in American Murder, the reason for Joe Peterson’s absence is currently unknown. However, there is speculation that he may make an appearance in Peacock’s upcoming docu-series Face to Face with Scott Peterson, which plans to delve into alternative theories surrounding Laci’s disappearance and feature interviews with Scott from prison.

One Redditor pointed out a revelation in Episode 3 of the Netflix documentary. It was revealed that when detectives obtained a warrant for Scott’s arrest, they were able to intercept him while he was visiting his family in San Diego, which is approximately an hour away from the Mexico border.

Upon discovering him in a car with $15,000 in cash, weapons, and survival gear, authorities also came across his brother’s ID card. Additionally, upon apprehension, it was revealed that he had altered his appearance by dyeing his hair a blonde-ish color, resembling that of his brother’s.

Police found Scott’s brother’s ID in his car

During the discussion, the audience member posed the question, “Do you believe that Janey’s spouse provided Scott with one of his IDs, which was discovered in his possession in San Diego? I was curious about that. It seems like she may have sacrificed herself by speaking out publicly.”

Despite the driver’s license being presented as evidence, it was not in fact Joe’s but rather belonged to John Peterson, Scott’s half-brother. Although John’s current whereabouts are unknown, he did testify in support of Scott during his sentencing in 2004.

John expressed his deep connection with Scott by sharing their childhood memories and how a death sentence would bring immense pain to both of them and their family. “I cannot fathom the thought… Scott is my younger brother and I have so much love for him,”he stated.

Despite initially being sentenced to death, Scott’s punishment was ultimately changed in 2021 to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Starting August 20, viewers can stream Face to Face with Scott Peterson on Peacock. Meanwhile, American Murder: Laci Peterson is currently available on Netflix. For those interested in more true crime stories, you can also read about the cases of Lou Pearlman, Melissa Witt, and Phil Spector.