Myrtle Beach Sees Justice in Drexel Case with Major Developments

News Summary

Myrtle Beach witnesses significant developments in the Brittanee Drexel case as Angel Vause pleads guilty to making false statements. Her admissions along with Raymond Moody’s conviction bring new insights to the tragic events surrounding Drexel’s kidnapping and murder. The struggle for justice continues, with Brittanee’s mother pursuing accountability through legal means, highlighting the lingering pain in the community.

Myrtle Beach Sees Justice in Drexel Case with Major Developments

Myrtle Beach has been the focal point of a dramatic turn of events in the heart-wrenching case of Brittanee Drexel, a young woman whose life was tragically cut short back in 2009. The recent admissions made by Angel Vause, the girlfriend of Raymond Moody—who has been convicted in connection with Drexel’s kidnapping and murder—have opened new chapters in this case that has haunted many for over a decade.

From Lies to Truth: Vause’s Guilty Plea

Angel Vause, aged 56, recently pleaded guilty to three counts of making false statements to the FBI. Her fibs weren’t just minor misunderstandings; they played a significant role in the investigation of Drexel’s case. Vause confessed to a shocking truth: she had taken Drexel’s cellphone and disposed of it somewhere between Georgetown and Charleston, contradicting her earlier claims that she had no involvement.

Initially, she misled investigators by suggesting that Drexel was with her and Moody of her own free will, implying that drug use was involved. The reality, however, is much darker. Drexel was abducted, a fact that came to light during the subsequent investigations. This 17-year-old from Rochester, New York, had vanished during a spring break trip in April 2009, and it wasn’t until May 2022 that her remains were found.

A Timeline of Tragedy

The events began unfolding on April 25, 2009. Surveillance footage captured the vibrant teen leaving her hotel, intending to meet a friend at the nearby Blue Water Resort. Little did anyone know this would be the last time Brittanee was seen alive. In October 2022, Moody, who is now 62, pleaded guilty to multiple charges including kidnapping and murder. He confessed to the heinous acts of torturing and killing Drexel after taking her from the Sunset Motor Lodge, where he was living at the time.

A Mother’s Determined Pursuit of Justice

In her unwavering fight for justice, Brittanee’s mother, Dawn Pleckan Conley, took significant steps to hold Moody accountable. She filed a civil lawsuit against him, and a Georgetown County jury awarded her a staggering $700 million. This ruling included $200 million in actual damages and an eye-watering $500 million in punitive damages for the emotional distress caused by Moody’s actions.

The trial not only underscored the pain that Brittanee’s family has endured but also highlighted the extensive efforts Conley made over the years. She dedicated her time to searching for her daughter and raising awareness through billboards and media efforts. Even with the verdict, Conley emphasized her quest for answers and accountability, reflecting her brave commitment to navigating a tragic path filled with heartache.

Consequences and Continuing Legal Battles

As for Vause, her guilty plea could land her a maximum of 15 years in prison, with five years per charge—though one can only wonder how that punishment measures against the sorrow caused by the case. Meanwhile, Moody did express remorse in court, but it’s hard to imagine that any words could ever alleviate the pain family’s feel.

In an ongoing fight for justice, Conley has initiated another lawsuit against Moody, the Bar Harbor Resort, and Smith Family Partners, further related to Drexel’s disappearance. This second trial is set to kick off on March 10, 2025, ensuring that the memory of Brittanee continues to provoke conversations about accountability and justice.

A Community Remembering and Moving Forward

The Drexel case continues to ripple through Myrtle Beach and beyond as community members grapple with the realities of such a tragic crime. As more details surface and legal battles progress, the hope for closure grows, reminding everyone of the profound impact one young life can have on countless others.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• WBTW News
• Live 5 News
• People
• ABC News 4
• Wikipedia: Brittanee Drexel