What is the episode about?

Jesse Rothe and the murder of Lynn Hernan are the focal point of the latest episode of the Felon: True Crime podcast. Although the podcast typically focuses on Australian criminal cases, this episode takes listeners to the USA to shed light on a cynical case of financial exploitation and murder. The case involves 62-year-old Lynn Hernan, a retired cosmetologist, who was found dead in her home in October 2018. At first glance, it appeared to be a natural death or a suicide, but the investigation revealed a much darker truth about her caregiver and close friend, Jesse Rothe.

The case behind the episode

Jesse Rothe served as a caregiver for Lynn Hernan and had won her complete trust. Beneath the surface, however, Rothe harbored a past marked by fraud and massive gambling debts. The investigation revealed that Jesse Rothe had systematically transferred over $300,000 from Lynn Hernan's accounts to his own. To cover up his fraud, Rothe began poisoning Hernan with eye drops containing the substance tetrahydrozoline. This substance is deadly in large amounts when ingested orally, leading to the victim's slow death. Jesse Rothe had gone so far as to name himself the primary heir in Hernan's will shortly before her death. After an extensive trial, Rothe was found guilty of first-degree murder and particularly aggravated theft in October 2023.

About the podcast

Felon: True Crime is known for its methodical examination of complex cases, often focusing on the psychology of the perpetrator and the financial motives behind the crimes. Although this episode deviates from the series' usual geographical focus on Australia, it maintains its detailed storytelling style. The podcast manages to expose how the vulnerability of the elderly can be exploited by individuals in their closest circle. The case of Lynn Hernan serves as a warning about the dangers of financial elder abuse.

Listen here

The episode can be found on all major streaming services, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Season 2, Episode 1 provides an in-depth analysis of the forensic evidence that ultimately convicted Jesse Rothe, including toxicology reports and digital traces from bank transfers.

Related episodes and media

If you are interested in cases of poisoning and financial crime, we recommend reading about the case against Stacy Castor or listening to previous episodes of Felon: True Crime that address similar themes within Australian legal history.

Sources

• Court Records: State of Wisconsin v. Jessy Kurczewski (Rothe case details)
• ABC News: Caregiver convicted of poisoning woman with eye drops
• Felon: True Crime Official Podcast Page

Reviews

"A shocking review of a case I had never heard of before. Very detailed." — Apple Podcasts (5/5)