Author: Tia Brisco
Updated: 08/05/2024 with video of the interview.
Hey y’all! I had the chance to chat it up with Crystal Gutierrez and Luis Carlos from Beyond the Case at CrimeCon 2024 in Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The atmosphere was buzzing as attendees explored various booths dedicated to true crime, and their booth was a highlight amongst it all. Let me tell you, this dynamic duo is doing some incredible work. Their web series immerses themselves in specific cold cases, especially those involving underserved communities. Here’s a breakdown of our conversation and some eye-opening insights they shared.
About Beyond the Case
Beyond the Case is more than just a podcast or web series; it’s a lifeline for families who’ve been left in the dark about their missing loved ones. Gutierrez, a retired news anchor, and Carlos, a seasoned detective, bring their vast experience to the table. Together, they reinvestigate cold cases, gather new evidence, and bring renewed hope to families searching for answers.
Gutierrez explained that their podcast is also on YouTube, so viewers act as the third investigator alongside them. They re-interview families, potential suspects, and witnesses while retracing the steps of the missing individuals. This hands-on approach helps bring cases that lack exposure back into the spotlight. Their podcast also differs from others because instead of re-highlighting the known facts of a case, they actively use their investigative expertise, allowing them to discover more while giving the viewer an inside understanding of cold case analysis.
Case Spotlight: Anthonette Cayedito
One of the standout cases Gutierrez and Carlos discussed was that of Anthonette Cayedito, who disappeared in 1986. Her case gained some notoriety due to a 911 call from a girl claiming to be Anthonette, but she was never found. “We truly believe that she’s still alive. We believe it’s likely human trafficking behind her disappearance,” Gutierrez shared. They even managed to get a confession from Anthonette’s mom, who named two potential men connected to the case. The team’s relentless pursuit included traveling to Texas for a DNA test based on a tip, showcasing their commitment to pushing forward for the families involved.
Hearing about Anthonette’s case gave me chills. The dedication and depth of investigation that Gutierrez and Carlos put into their work is nothing short of awe-inspiring. I couldn’t help but feel a mix of admiration and sadness – admiration for their tireless efforts and sadness for the countless families still seeking answers.
Why They Do It
Gutierrez’s commitment to this work goes beyond professional duty; it’s deeply personal. She spoke about the heartbreak of turning away families while she was a news anchor because their cases didn’t meet certain criteria. Fed up with the limitations, she decided to take matters into her own hands, teaming up with Carlos, whom she had known since 2009. “I decided I’m going to be my own boss and I’m going to get these cases the exposure that they do need,” Gutierrez said. Together, they formed a powerhouse team dedicated to uncovering the truth.
“Now that I’m retired, guess what? I can. And I bring all that experience to the table,” Carlos noted.
Carlos added that his retirement allowed him to fully dedicate his time and expertise to these cases. With his extensive background in law enforcement, he knows the lack of resources that often hinder police investigations. Overworked officers, a small amount of boots on the ground, and jurisdictional limitations can prevent the total time needed for a cold case investigation. Now, free from those constraints, he brings his knowledge and skillsets, working tirelessly to breathe new life into these cold cases.
Challenges Faced by People of Color
As a Black clinician who serves the BIPOC community, I needed to know what the two thought regarding the exposure given to minority missing persons. Gutierrez and Carlos acknowledged the disparity in media coverage and resources allocated to cases involving People of Color. Gutierrez added that celebrity status, influential power status, and even family access to financial resources could affect how often a case is highlighted in the news. They emphasized how children of color, like Anthonette, and adults from less prominent families often don’t get the attention they deserve. Gutierrez even highlighted that “I know first and foremost that if an adult goes missing, it’s highly unlikely if they don’t have foul play evidence that media will pick up on that case.”
Carlos discussed a current case involving a Latina mom, Velda Leyba, who disappeared on her way to her daughter’s birthday party. Despite the oddities of an adult mom going missing without a trace on her way to a party, the case didn’t receive the necessary attention until Beyond the Case got involved. Their investigation even uncovered evidence that law enforcement had missed, highlighting the importance of their work. “This is one of the cases where we actually got a hit on a K9, a cadaver K9, at a location that law enforcement missed,” Carlos said. More information about this case and the results of their investigation will be provided in future episodes. Until then, check out part 1!
Interviewing Gutierrez and Carlos from Beyond the Case was truly enlightening. Their dedication to giving a voice to the voiceless and bringing justice to underserved communities is inspiring and essential. If you’re into true crime or care about social justice, you need to check out their series. Let’s support efforts that shine a light on these crucial stories and help bring closure to families in need.
Check out photos from Geek Therapy’s attendance at CrimeCon 2024!