"I Had to Kill Him": The Woman Who Survived Dirty John

True Crime Conversations

"Dirty John" Meehan, a serial con artist and violent criminal, was Terra Newell's stepfather. He had married her mother and spent years manipulating and abusing her until she finally left him. Enraged by her departure, he sought revenge.

One day, after finishing her shift at work, Terra was walking to her car when John suddenly grabbed her from behind, wrapping his arm around her waist and trying to abduct her.

In a desperate attempt to escape, she bit him. But his response was brutal—he began stabbing her repeatedly with a large knife.

With every ounce of strength she had, Terra fought for her life. In a fierce struggle, she managed to knock the knife from his hand. Realising the only way to survive was to stop him for good, she knew she had to act fast.

This is the story of Dirty John’s demise, told by the woman who lived through it.

CREDITS

Guest: Terra Newell

Host: Gemma Bath

Producer: Tahli Blackman

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

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