A Grandmother's Unwavering Quest for Justice

A Life Transformed

Josephine Wentzel, a 67-year-old grandmother, found her life irrevocably altered after the murder of her daughter, Krystal Mitchell. Initially planning to travel in an RV, Wentzel instead dedicated herself to a singular mission: finding her daughter's killer, Raymond McLeod.

McLeod, a former U.S. Marine, was accused of strangling Mitchell in 2016 and subsequently fled the country.

The Pursuit

Wentzel's journey was fraught with challenges. She received countless tips, some genuine and others scams. She posted wanted ads on social media, focusing her efforts on countries like Belize and Guatemala.

Her persistence paid off when a tip led authorities to McLeod in El Salvador in 2022. He was teaching English there.

A Mother's Tenacity

Wentzel's determination was nothing short of remarkable. She used her platform to write books and help other grieving parents. She even urged the White House to address the backlog of unsolved murders. Her husband admires her tenacity, saying she never gives up.

The Complexities of Justice

The case highlights the challenges of international manhunts. U.S. embassies and law enforcement agencies faced hurdles in pursuing leads abroad. Wentzel's experience underscores the power of a mother's love and the complexities of the justice system.

A Testament to Resilience

Wentzel's story is one of resilience. She turned her grief into action, helping others while seeking justice for her daughter. Her journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.