The Chris Watts case sent shockwaves through America and beyond, leaving a chilling mark on anyone who heard the story. In 2018, this seemingly ordinary man from Frederick, Colorado, became the center of a horrifying crime when he murdered his pregnant wife, Shanann, and their two young daughters, Bella (4) and Celeste (3).
The Initial Story and the Unraveling
Chris initially played the part of a distressed husband and father, reporting his family missing and pleading for their safe return. However, his facade crumbled under police scrutiny, revealing a web of lies and ultimately leading to his confession.
Watts claimed he had asked Shanann for a separation, leading to an argument during which he strangled her in a fit of rage. He then went on to suffocate their daughters at a remote oil worksite, disposing of all three bodies in a heartless attempt to cover his tracks.
Prison Letters: A New Perspective or More Lies?
Now serving five life sentences without the possibility of parole, Chris has had ample time for reflection. Letters written from his Wisconsin prison cell, published by author Dylan Tallman in his book “The Cell Next Door,” offer a glimpse into Watts’ current mindset.
In these letters, Chris blames his former mistress, Nicole Kessinger, labeling her a “Jezebel” who led him astray. He describes her as a temptress whose words “pierced my heart and soul.” He writes of succumbing to her allure, ultimately leading to his downfall.
Chris Watts stands in court
Shifting Blame: A Common Narrative or Calculated Manipulation?
According to Tallman, who claims to have befriended Watts in prison, Chris even attributes an ultimatum to Kessinger on the night of the murders: “It’s your family or me.”
Justin Paperny, a renowned prison consultant, weighs in on this new narrative. He suggests Watts might be employing a common tactic among convicted criminals: shifting blame to alleviate guilt and garner sympathy.
Paperny argues, “He [Watts] is incapable of introspecting and recognizing that he alone is to blame… It’s easier to feel sorry for himself… and cloak it under the… guise of… Faith.”
The Impact on the Victims and the Search for Meaning
While Chris seeks solace in religion and attempts to rewrite his narrative, the families forever changed by his actions are left grappling with their loss. Shanann’s loved ones have shown immense strength and dignity throughout the ordeal, but the pain remains palpable.
“Regardless of what my Victim does to me, it doesn’t matter,” one victim of a white-collar crime shared with Paperny. This sentiment, while born from unimaginable pain, highlights the lasting trauma inflicted by such heinous acts.
A Chilling Reminder and a Call for Understanding
The Chris Watts case serves as a chilling reminder of the darkness that can reside within seemingly ordinary individuals. While understanding the motivations behind such acts is a natural human response, it is crucial to remember the victims and the ongoing impact of their loss.
As for Chris Watts, his future remains confined within the walls of prison. Whether he will ever truly accept responsibility for his actions and find genuine remorse remains to be seen.