Judy Church was aware that her long-time partner, Leroy Fowler, was involved with another woman, yet she remained in the relationship hoping he would choose her. Church and Leroy had been a couple for approximately a decade, meeting after Leroy’s divorce when he became a tenant in Church’s Salisbury, Massachusetts home. Church, a former teacher, was the primary provider in the relationship, often showering Leroy with gifts, including a motorcycle.
Despite their long history, Leroy had also been romantically involved with Barbara Randall for about eight years, a relationship that reignited through Facebook. This situation caused Church distress, leading her to contact Barbara in an attempt to end the affair, expressing her dissatisfaction with Leroy’s behavior.
On Leroy’s 55th birthday on November 11, 2022, Church made a frantic 911 call reporting Leroy’s sudden illness. Leroy was found in a state of confusion and pain, later admitting to consuming Percocet the previous night. However, his condition rapidly deteriorated at the hospital, with doctors suspecting antifreeze poisoning as the cause, resulting in irreversible organ damage. Leroy passed away after life support was withdrawn.
Subsequently, Leroy’s family implicated Church, alleging that she was enraged by Leroy’s relationship with Barbara. Suspicion escalated when it was revealed that Leroy had previously expressed concerns about Church poisoning him. An autopsy confirmed the presence of antifreeze in Leroy’s system, leading to Church’s arrest for his murder.
Evidence against Church included a tainted Powerade bottle containing antifreeze, with her DNA present, and disturbing videos of Leroy suffering before his death. Further incriminating findings, such as a voodoo doll and toxic relationship dynamics, contributed to Church’s conviction for first-degree murder. Church received a life sentence without parole for the premeditated and cruel act.
Throughout the trial, details emerged of Church’s threatening remarks towards Leroy and her disturbing actions during his suffering. Leroy’s loved ones expressed the profound impact of his tragic end caused by someone he trusted, emphasizing the enduring pain inflicted by such a betrayal.
