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A Texas stalker transformed an online fascination into a deadly obsession, ending in the brutal murder of a podcast host and her husband in their home. What began as a seemingly harmless digital interaction quickly escalated into relentless harassment, chilling threats, and a growing sense of fear. Despite attempts to seek help and protection, the couple tragically lost their lives. This horrifying case exposes the real and often underestimated dangers of stalking, the early warning signs that are too often ignored, and the urgent need for stronger legal protections. Recognizing how quickly these situations can escalate is vital for empowering potential victims to act before it’s too late.
Every day, another tragic crime appears on the news, reminding us of the dangers people face. One of the most shocking recent cases involved a Texas stalker who killed a Redmond podcast host and her husband in their home.
A Deadly Obsession
Zoreh Sadeghi, 33, hosted a podcast on the Clubhouse app, where she connected with listeners interested in the tech industry. One of those listeners turned into a stalker. He first discovered her through a discussion about getting hired in tech, as she worked as a software engineer.
Her husband, Mohammed Milad Naseri, 35, also worked as a software engineer at Amazon. Before that, he attended Sharif University of Technology and gained recognition in Tehran for his singing talent.
Sadeghi initially interacted with her admirer without concern. Over time, his interest turned into an unhealthy obsession. He began harassing and stalking her, showing up at their home uninvited with flowers. She reported him to the police and filed a no-contact order for stalking and telephone harassment. Despite this, his behavior escalated.
Protection Order Filed
By March 2023, Sadeghi felt her life was in danger. She described her fear in a court petition, stating that a recent major back surgery left her vulnerable. On March 3, a judge signed a temporary protection order, setting a hearing for March 17.
Despite blocking his phone number and social media accounts, the stalker used different numbers and fake profiles to contact her. In one day alone, he sent 82 messages. He also mailed her gifts, including a neck scarf, which police took as evidence.
His threats targeted both Sadeghi and her husband. He warned that he would set their home on fire and left voicemails saying he would not stop unless he died.
Police Struggled to Locate Him
Authorities attempted to serve him the protection order but could not track him down. His job as a truck driver made it difficult to pinpoint his location.
The Night of the Murders
On the night of the attack, Sadeghi’s mother fought with the intruder before escaping to a neighbor’s house to call 911. When police arrived, they found Naseri collapsed in the doorway. Officers pulled him outside and tried to save him, but he died at the scene.
Inside, they found Sadeghi and the stalker dead in the primary bedroom.
Texas Stalking Laws
Texas law defines stalking under Penal Code 42.072. A person commits stalking if they repeatedly engage in behavior that causes someone to fear for their safety. The offense is a third-degree felony, punishable by two to ten years in prison and fines up to $10,000. If the stalker has prior convictions, the charge increases to a second-degree felony, with a sentence of two to twenty years.
Signs of Stalking
Anyone can become a victim of stalking. A stalker might:
- Threaten harm to the victim or their loved ones
- Send explicit or implied threats
- Follow the victim or their family
- Repeatedly call, text, email, or message them
- Leave unwanted gifts
- Show up uninvited at home, work, or other locations
- Use GPS or tracking software to monitor their movements
What Is a Protection Order?
A protection order legally restricts someone from harming, harassing, or contacting a victim. The order can also:
- Require the stalker to stay away from specific places
- Prohibit them from owning a gun
- Separate shared phone plans
- Restrict visitation rights
- Mandate anger management or substance abuse programs
- Remove the stalker from a shared home
Evidence Needed for a Protection Order
To obtain a protection order, victims must provide proof of harassment. This can include:
- Police reports
- Text messages, voicemails, and emails
- Witness statements
- Surveillance footage or photos
How Long Do Protection Orders Last?
The length of a protection order depends on the situation. Temporary protection orders last up to 20 days, while final protection orders can last up to two years.
What to Do If You Are Being Stalked
If someone is following, harassing, or threatening you, take action immediately. Document every incident, save messages, and contact the police. Report the behavior every time it happens to build a record.
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of the Texas podcast host and her husband serve as a chilling reminder of how quickly stalking can escalate into deadly violence. What may seem like harmless attention at first can spiral into obsession, intimidation, and life-threatening danger. This case underscores the importance of taking all stalking behaviors seriously, recognizing early red flags, and using every available legal measure to seek protection. Raising awareness and promoting swift intervention can help prevent similar tragedies and empower victims to take action before obsession turns fatal.
Need Legal Help? Call Us Now
If you or someone you know is dealing with stalking or facing criminal charges, legal assistance is essential. The Law Office of Bryan Fagan offers expert defense strategies to help you navigate the legal system. Contact us for a free consultation via Zoom, phone, or in person. Call 281-810-9760 today.
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