Shivangi Sinha
Defying a cult and confronting its atrocities demands immense courage, and Cynthia LeBaron exemplified this bravery. Her pivotal role in the unfolding events became instrumental in dismantling the LeBaron regime, putting an end to a period marked by terror, death, and murder. Her tale stands out in ‘Daughters of the Cult’ as she emerges as the embodiment of individuals who, with great courage, dared to look beyond the cult’s influence and took decisive action for their safety.
Cynthia LeBaron Testified to the Police
Following the 4 o’clock murders that claimed the lives of Duane Chynoweth, his 8-year-old daughter Jennifer, Mark Chynoweth, and Eddie Marston, law enforcement faced significant challenges in assembling evidence and identifying the perpetrator. Although authorities identified three individuals involved in the murders, they struggled to determine the specific actions of each suspect. American legal standards require clarity on individual roles for a fair trial. Since all victims were killed simultaneously by individuals dressed similarly and lacked clear eyewitness accounts, prosecutors recognized the weakness in their case.
In Arizona, authorities managed to construct a robust case of auto theft against William Heber LeBaron and Richard LeBaron. However, the potential sentences of 10 years for the former and 3 years for the latter did not adequately address the considerable threat they posed to others. A pivotal moment occurred when the police received a call that dramatically altered the course of their investigation. The call originated from Cynthia LeBaron, Ervil’s daughter and Heber’s half-sister – they were among 50+. Her mother was one of Ervil’s wives and used to live in Ensenada with Cynthia and the rest of her children. In fact, she frequently traveled to the US for work and left her kids with the other wives. Recognizing that they had a key figure in the unfolding narrative, she invited the police to Texas, signaling a significant development in the case.
The police, uncertain if it was a potential ambush, took the risk and arranged a meeting with Cynthia. Crossing the US-Mexico border, she met with US police waiting for her in Texas. Upon their meeting, Cynthia requested assurance that whatever she disclosed would not be used against her. Once given this promise, she began recounting the entire story. Cynthia identified Heber LeBaron, Richard LeBaron, and Douglas Barlow as the three assailants who had executed the simultaneous shootings in 1988. Furthermore, she admitted to playing an informed role and giving the green light to Aaron LeBaron, who orchestrated the killings from Mexico.
Cynthia disclosed to the police that she and her sister were facing significant threats from members of their group, which prompted her to seek help. She provided a detailed account of the killing of Dan Jordan, explaining how Aaron had persuaded Jordan to take in the younger children of the group and subsequently orchestrated the deer hunt where Heber, lying low in the woods, shot Jordan when he ventured alone. Cynthia’s testimony proved crucial in solving the 1988 killings, connecting them to Aaron LeBaron, an unexpected suspect. Following her cooperation, Cynthia was placed under police protection, and the individuals were tried in court.
Where is Cynthia LeBaron Now?
During the trial of Heber LeBaron, Douglas Barlow, and Richard LeBaron for murder, Cynthia LeBaron courageously testified, presenting the facts with the same clarity and straightforwardness she displayed during her initial meeting with the police. Even the prosecutors acknowledged the strength she must have hidden behind her calm demeanor, and her testimony played a crucial role in securing the conviction of all three individuals, with Heber and Douglas receiving life sentences. Since then, Cynthia has maintained a low profile, and information about her life has remained scarce. It is hoped that she is enjoying a more peaceful and secure life than the one she was born into.
Read More: Emily and Lisa Chynoweth: Ervil LeBaron’s Granddaughters Are Now Family Women
