The Final Verdict: Lori Vallow Daybell Sentenced as Chad Daybell Trial Looms

Justice Served in Arizona, but Chad Daybell’s Trial Still Ahead

In a gripping and emotional courtroom scene in Arizona, Lori Vallow Daybell was sentenced to two additional life terms, to be served consecutively with her Idaho sentences. Her crimes span multiple states and involve the deaths of her children, Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow, her former husband, Charles Vallow, and her current husband Chad Daybell’s first wife, Tammy Daybell. While Lori now faces the rest of her life behind bars, all eyes are turning to the upcoming Chad Daybell trial, where many expect more answers — and perhaps closure.

A Chilling Pattern of Death

Five years ago today the remains of Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow were discovered on Chad Daybell’s property. When we were allowed near the property, I took this footage of the first item items going up on the fence. RIP Tylee and JJ. pic.twitter.com/tNqA1zGJEh

— Cathy Russon (@cathyrusson) June 9, 2025

Lori Vallow Daybell’s crimes have shocked the nation. Convicted of conspiring to murder her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, and attempting to have her niece’s ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux, killed, Lori is already serving life sentences in Idaho for the murders of her two children and her involvement in Tammy Daybell’s death.

Her brother, Alex Cox, was believed to be the triggerman in several of these crimes, including the attempt on Brandon’s life and the shooting of Charles Vallow. Cox died in 2019, further complicating the criminal proceedings.

Throughout the trial, the ripple effect of Lori’s actions became tragically clear. Victim impact statements from Kay Woodcock (JJ’s grandmother and Charles’s sister) and Brandon Boudreaux underscored the deep trauma experienced by families, especially in light of Lori’s disturbing courtroom behavior and refusal to show remorse.

Lori’s Words: Defiance and Delusion

Despite the convictions, Lori Vallow Daybell showed no accountability in court. Instead, she delivered a bizarre, religious-laced monologue claiming that she is a “warrior of God” and predicting that “miracles” would free her and others imprisoned. At one point, she asserted that prisoners will walk free when “God’s purpose is complete,” echoing rhetoric she and Chad Daybell allegedly used to justify their crimes.

Her statements drew visible discomfort from the court and Judge Baresi, who interrupted her to clarify that the justice system had, in fact, afforded her the full opportunity to defend herself. Lori, who represented herself during the Arizona trial, seemed oblivious to the impact her words had on the victims’ families.

The Role of Chad Daybell

Bryan Kohberger has finished his intake process, and is now housed in J-Block, at Idaho Maximum Security Institution.

That’s the same unit Chad Daybell now calls home. pic.twitter.com/wtW8xVtSnJ

— Idaho 4 Murders (@IDAHO4Murders) July 31, 2025

While Lori has now received multiple life sentences, Chad Daybell’s trial remains a focal point for many of the families and the public. Chad is accused of conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the deaths of Tylee, JJ, and Tammy Daybell. Prosecutors allege that Chad, a self-proclaimed prophet and author of doomsday novels, played a central role in forming the apocalyptic beliefs that motivated the killings.

Chad and Lori reportedly believed that certain individuals were possessed by evil spirits and needed to be “cast out” — a chilling justification that allegedly led to the deaths of innocent people. His trial is expected to reveal further details about the inner workings of their destructive belief system.

The Impact on Families

Bryan Kohberger has finished his intake process, and is now housed in J-Block, at Idaho Maximum Security Institution.

That’s the same unit Chad Daybell now calls home. pic.twitter.com/wtW8xVtSnJ

— Idaho 4 Murders (@IDAHO4Murders) July 31, 2025

In the Arizona courtroom, Kay Woodcock’s emotional reading of a letter written in the voice of JJ Vallow brought many to tears. She directly confronted Lori, reminding her of the betrayal of trust, especially significant as Lori and Charles had adopted JJ together 13 years prior to his death. Kay’s poignant words, “I trusted you,” echoed throughout the courtroom, capturing the heartbreak shared by many.

JJ’s biological father also spoke publicly for the first time, delivering a powerful victim impact statement that left many deeply moved. His appearance marked a rare and significant moment, emphasizing the lasting impact on those left behind.

Conclusion: Awaiting the Chad Daybell Trial

With Lori Vallow Daybell now facing the rest of her life behind bars, attention turns to the Chad Daybell trial, where many hope for a deeper understanding of how these crimes unfolded. While justice has begun to take form, the journey is not yet over for the families seeking closure.

Chad Daybell still awaits his day in court — and the nation waits with him.