"What does it mean to be a survivor, a key witness in a high-profile crime, and then subjected to public scrutiny and judgment?"
 
 On a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski delved into a conversation with retired FBI Special Agent and Chief of the Counterintelligence Behavioral Analysis Program, Robin Dreeke, regarding the tragic case of Dylan Mortensen and her involvement as a key witness.
 
 Dylan Mortensen, a surviving roommate of a heinous crime that transpired in her own residence, has been at the center of public judgment and critique over the past year. While the tragic events have traumatized her, the aftermath of online trolling, criticism, and bullying seems equally harrowing. The crucial question posed was about her role as a witness, specifically regarding the upcoming trial against Bryan Kohberger, the prime suspect in the case. Dreeke underscored her role stating, "She can play a hugely critical role."
 
 However, what is disheartening is the trauma Dylan faces in light of public opinion. As Dreeke empathically points out, the trauma of witnessing a murder is profound, something that has an enduring impact on the psyche. Comparing it to the pain of loss through natural causes or even accidents, he elaborates, "Murder is really the most profound way to lose someone."
 
 Brueski also touched on a disturbing trend - the inclination for people online to attack victims or those tangentially associated with tragic events. Drawing parallels with conspiracy theorists like Alex Jones targeting the Sandy Hook families, the discussion delved into the psychology behind such behaviors. Dreeke's insights were poignant: those who verbally assault and judge others, especially victims of tragedies, are often acting out their own pain and trauma. The need to "be seen" drives these individuals, amplified by the platforms that social media offers.
 
 He said, "When someone's coming at you like that, it's not about you… They're literally just trying to be seen because of their own pain and trauma." He also attributes this behavior to an increasing inability of individuals to cope with personal challenges, leading them to lash out at others as a coping mechanism.
 
 The conversation then shifted to the impending trial and the challenges faced by key witnesses like Dylan. Time, memory degradation, and emotional trauma play significant roles in how witnesses are perceived in court, and how defense attorneys might approach their testimonies. While time can indeed erode certain memories, Dreeke confidently affirmed, "When you experience something so traumatic...your memory of it is extremely vivid."
 
 Looking ahead at the trial, both Brueski and Dreeke pondered on the strategy that the defense might adopt. Given that Dylan's account of the incident was recorded shortly after it transpired, Dreeke believes it holds significant weight. However, he speculates that the defense might focus on attacking the scientific evidence rather than the emotional testimonies to maintain an emotionally neutral angle.
 
 "How will the memories of that traumatic night and the subsequent scrutiny from society shape Dylan Mortensen's testimony, and will the defense's strategies succeed in casting doubt on the credibility of key witnesses like her?"
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