Jim Cappello’s murder on American Monster: A complete timeline of events

American Monster is a true crime series that delves into the chilling details of real-life murders. The latest episode, titled Drip, Drip!, aired on November 4, 2025, on Investigation Discovery, and focuses on the murder of James Cappello, a private investigator from Huntsville, Alabama.

James "Jim" Cappello, who was 37 years old, was a recognized private investigator. He was born on May 27, 1981, in Buffalo, New York. After living in New York for a few years, he went to Alabama. In the law world, he worked hard all the time and used his investigative skills to help other people.

Jim had a daughter, Ryleigh, and a wife, Marjorie Nichole “Nikki” Cappello, who worked as a nurse. However, behind their seemingly stable family life, dark secrets were brewing, leading to a shocking and tragic conclusion.

Jim’s murder shocked his family and friends when he was reported missing in September 2018. His remains were found days later in his garage, revealing a sinister story of betrayal. This case, along with its chilling details, was explored in American Monster.

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A complete timeline of events of Jim Cappello’s murder featured on American Monster

September 2018: Jim's disappearance and discovery

Everything to know about Jim Cappello’s murder case aired on American Monster (Image via Unsplash)

In September 2018, Jim Cappello was reported missing after failing to show up for work. Family members and authorities quickly began searching for him. Two days later, on September 22, Jim’s decomposing remains were discovered in the garage of his Huntsville home.

The discovery was made after police obtained a search warrant for the house, finding disturbing clues such as a freshly dug grave in the backyard, a shovel, and women’s shoes. An autopsy revealed that Jim had died from insulin poisoning.

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Nikki's suspicious behavior and the investigation

Following Jim's disappearance, Nikki was suspected by authorities. When authorities arrived, she tried to keep them out. Syringes and insulin needles were located in the home during the inquiry. Jim discreetly monitored Nikki's personal life, fearing she had a substance addiction problem. Jim even GPS-tracked her car.

Jim also revealed his intention to divorce Nikki and take full custody of Ryleigh. As to Nikki's friend Crystal Anderson, the nurse confessed to killing her spouse and requested help disposing of his remains. Nikki poisoned Jim with insulin she took from her hospital to kill him. Crystal informed the police, who arrested Nikki.

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Trial and sentencing of Nikki Cappello

Everything to know about Jim Cappello’s murder case aired on American Monster (Image via Unsplash)

The trial for Nikki's murder started in May 2022. The body's discovery, the syringes, and her friend Crystal's testimony were among the evidence the prosecution offered to support Nikki's guilt. While Nikki's defense team contended that there was not enough evidence to establish the cause of death, a medical examiner also testified on the presence of insulin in Jim's system.

After a brief deliberation, the jury found Nikki guilty of first-degree murder. She was sentenced to life in prison on July 14, 2022. Despite attempts to overturn the conviction, the judge upheld the verdict. Nikki is currently incarcerated at Julia Tutwiler Prison for Women in Wetumpka, Alabama.

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The impact on Jim’s family

Along with the criminal trial, Jim's family sued for civil justice. The malevolent deeds that killed Jim earned the Cappello estate $10 million in damages. Jim's sister Jamie Weast now has full custody of Ryleigh, who is raised by her extended family. Jamie expressed her displeasure at Nikki for depriving Ryleigh of both her parents, reflecting on the emotional toll.

The case has left a deep impact on the community, as it sheds light on the lengths someone can go to in pursuit of their own selfish desires. The tragedy of Jim’s death and the subsequent events are a reminder of how fragile relationships can be and how quickly a life can be destroyed.

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What happened in the end

Everything to know about Jim Cappello’s murder case aired on American Monster (Image via Unsplash)

When Nikki was found guilty and given her sentence, Jim's family finally got to the end of a long and painful legal fight. Nikki's request for a new trial was turned down, but the case showed how important it is to hold people responsible for their acts. Now that Nikki's sentence is over, Jim's family is still dealing with the loss of a beloved father and husband.

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All the released episodes of American Monster season 13 are currently streaming on Investigation Discovery.

Edited by Rajan Bhattacharya