Christina Sanoubane
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This episode of True Crime All the Time examines the 2000 murder of Christina Sanoubane, a 20-year-old woman who was stabbed to death in her Cedar Rapids duplex just days after leaving an abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Jacob Crossan. Despite Jacob being the prime suspect due to his history of violence—including a prior assault with a pellet gun—his alibi was verified by two witnesses, prompting investigators to pivot toward other leads. The focus shifted to Carlos Robinson, the neighbor who had helped Christina move in, whose footprints, palm print, and DNA were later matched to evidence at the crime scene, including bloody footprints on the bathroom floor and a hamburger bun with a distinct footprint impression. Robinson claimed he had consensual sex with Christina and returned to investigate noises, but his inconsistent statements, failure to call 911, and the discovery of stained clothing and a broken pan in his home raised serious doubts. The case was built on circumstantial evidence, including the unique footprint in the bun, which prosecutors argued proved he disposed of the murder weapon in the bag. Robinson was convicted of first-degree murder in 2001 and sentenced to life in prison, though he has since appealed, arguing that DNA from a minor contributor in the sexual assault kit could point to another assailant. The hosts express skepticism about his claims, noting the inconsistencies in his story and the overwhelming physical evidence against him.
The presence of a footprint in a hamburger bun is a rare and critical piece of circumstantial evidence that helped convict Carlos Robinson.
Victims of domestic abuse often face increased danger when attempting to leave, making the timing of Christina’s departure a key factor in the investigation.
Robinson’s inconsistent statements—especially his delayed admission of sexual contact and failure to report the body—undermine his credibility.
The case highlights the dangers of relying on a suspect’s self-presentation; Carlos appeared to be a kind, family-oriented neighbor, but the evidence suggests otherwise.
DNA from a minor contributor in the sexual assault kit raises the possibility of another man being involved, though this has not been proven.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome & Patron Shoutouts
The hosts open the episode with their usual banter and acknowledge their loyal patrons, including Andrew Bonham, Jessica Kramer Gregory, Stacey Coral Leyva, Ashley, Tim Moran, Lori Quattro Sciocci, and L Miller. They also highlight a new episode on Rico Harris and tease the upcoming episode on Michelle Hunley-Smith.
Christina Sanoubane’s Background and Abuse
The hosts detail Christina’s early life, her desire to become a journalist, her teenage pregnancy, and her abusive relationship with Jacob Crossan. They emphasize the emotional toll of domestic violence, noting her mother’s concern and her own admission that she stayed because she loved him.
Move to the Duplex and Discovery of the Body
Christina moves into a new duplex with her son, Corbin, shortly after leaving Jacob. Her neighbor, Carlos Robinson, is introduced as a helpful and kind man. Four days later, her friend Todd Hale discovers her body in the bathtub, with her son alone and crying. The gruesome scene includes bloodied footprints, a missing knife, and hamburger buns scattered on the floor.
Investigation and Suspects
Investigators rule out Jacob due to a solid alibi but focus on Todd Hale and Carlos Robinson. Todd’s ability to climb through a window without disturbing items is tested and confirmed. Carlos is brought in for follow-up questioning and exhibits suspicious behavior, including walking over his own footprints and praying while alone.
The Breakthrough: Footprints in the Bun
“Never heard of footprints being found in a hamburger bun. Book them.”
“Never heard of footprints being found in a hamburger bun. Book them.”
“I did not commit this crime. I know it. My family knows it. Part of me knows that the San Ubane family knows I didn't do it.”
“You know, the very idea of leaving is so dangerous. That people are scared because of what they know their partner is capable.”
Hosts
Guest
Mike Ferguson
person
Mike Gibson
person
Christina Sanoubane
person
Carlos Robinson
person
Jacob Crossan
person
Todd Hale
person
Corbin
person
Tamika Sanders
person
Cedar Rapids Gazette
organization
Steve Winchell
person
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