Halloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan NowHalloween DealsAmazon USOctober picks are moving - compare before checkoutAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.See Picks×
Skip to the story
DocumentaryTubeTRUE STORIES, ON SCREEN.
  1. DocumentaryTube
  2. The Screening Room
  3. Blog

Blog

What Happened to Sydney Loofe? A Timeline of the Case Through 2026

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Sydney Loofe, 24, disappeared after a second date with Bailey Boswell in Nebraska on November 15, 2017. She was reported missing the next day, and remains found in Clay County in December were later identified as hers. Boswell and Aubrey Trail were charged in June 2018, tried separately, and convicted: Trail in 2019 and Boswell in 2020. Trail received a death sentence; Boswell received life in prison for murder plus consecutive terms for the other convictions. Nebraska’s highest court upheld both defendants’ convictions and sentences. Trail’s later state postconviction challenge was rejected as untimely, and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear his case on April 20, 2026.

The case at a glance

Date What the record shows
November 14, 2017 Loofe went on a first date with Bailey Boswell after meeting her through a dating app.
November 15, 2017 Boswell picked Loofe up after work for a second date. Loofe’s phone last communicated with a cell tower at 8:32 p.m.
November 16, 2017 Loofe was reported missing after she failed to arrive for work at a Lincoln hardware store.
December 5, 2017 Partial remains were found in garbage bags in Clay County and later identified as Loofe’s.
June 11, 2018 Trail and Boswell were charged with first-degree murder and improper disposal of human skeletal remains.
2019 Trail was tried first and found guilty on all charges. A three-judge panel sentenced him to death.
October 2020 Boswell’s jury found her guilty on all charges.
November 8, 2021 Boswell received a life sentence for first-degree murder and consecutive prison terms for the other convictions.
November 10, 2022 The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed Trail’s convictions and sentences.
May 10, 2024 The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed Boswell’s convictions and sentences.
May 30, 2025 The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed denial of Trail’s postconviction motion as untimely.
April 20, 2026 The U.S. Supreme Court denied Trail’s petition for certiorari.

The chronology below separates evidence described in court opinions from allegations made when prosecutors filed charges, and from findings made by juries or appellate courts.

When did Sydney Loofe go missing?

November 14: the first date

The Nebraska Supreme Court’s 2024 opinion in State v. Boswell recounts that Loofe met Boswell through a dating application and went on a first date on November 14, 2017. The two drove around Lincoln for nearly two hours. Boswell then returned Loofe to her apartment.

November 15: the second date

Loofe and Boswell had arranged to meet again the following day. According to the chronology reviewed by the Nebraska Supreme Court, Boswell picked Loofe up after work and took her to the Wilber apartment she shared with Trail. The court opinion states that Loofe’s phone last communicated with a cell tower at 8:32 p.m. that evening.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter | 4Pack Type C Female to A Male Cable Converter for Apple Duo 17 16 15 14 Plus,iWatch Watch 12 11 10,iPad 9 8 Air,Airpods 5 4
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

The Nebraska Supreme Court’s 2022 opinion in State v. Trail says Loofe died on or about November 15, 2017. That wording reflects the date established in the criminal record, while recognizing that investigators could not assign a more precise time of death.

November 16: a missing-person report

Loofe did not arrive for work at a Lincoln hardware store the next day. She was reported missing on November 16. The missed shift and the last known phone communication became key points in the investigation’s early timeline.

When were Sydney Loofe’s remains found?

On December 5, 2017, investigators found partial human remains in garbage bags in Clay County, according to a contemporaneous Nebraska Public Media report. The Nebraska Supreme Court later stated that the recovered body segments were positively identified as Loofe’s.

The discovery established that the missing-person investigation was a homicide investigation, but it did not by itself resolve who was responsible or what had occurred inside the Wilber apartment. Those questions were addressed through the evidence presented at two separate criminal trials.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter | USB C Dongle with 90W Max Power Delivery, 3×5Gbps USB A Data Ports, for MacBook, Dell, and More (Charger Not Included)
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Charges filed in June 2018

What prosecutors charged

On June 11, 2018, the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office announced first-degree murder and improper disposal of human skeletal remains charges against Trail and Boswell. The charging announcement marked the formal start of the criminal prosecutions.

Why the wording of the early record matters

Statements in charging documents, affidavits and prosecutors’ announcements described the state’s allegations and theory of the case. They were not verdicts. Nebraska Public Media’s contemporaneous account specifically distinguished allegations in court records from facts that had been established at trial.

The later opinions describe evidence about the defendants’ conduct and the events at the apartment, but an appellate opinion’s summary of evidence is not a new jury verdict. The legally operative findings came when each defendant was tried separately and found guilty.

Trail’s trial, conviction and death sentence

The 2019 jury verdict

Trail was tried first, in 2019. The Nebraska Supreme Court later reported that the jury found him guilty on all charges. That verdict was the jury’s determination, beyond the applicable criminal standard, that the prosecution had proved the charged offenses.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter | 85W Max PD, 2 USB 3.0 & 1 USBC Data Ports, SD/TF Card Reader, for Laptops/Mac and Other Type C Devices (Charger Not Included)
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

The trial record included evidence about the disappearance, the recovery and identification of Loofe’s remains, and the state’s account of Trail’s role. When describing contested events, the Nebraska Supreme Court’s opinions identify the evidence presented rather than treating every pretrial assertion as an independently proven fact.

The death sentence

After the conviction, a three-judge panel sentenced Trail to death. The Nebraska Supreme Court’s 2022 opinion records both the sentence and the convictions that Trail challenged on direct appeal.

Direct appeal in Nebraska

On November 10, 2022, the Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed Trail’s convictions and sentences. The decision left the trial judgment in place. It was not a retrial, but appellate review of the legal issues raised from the original proceedings.

Boswell’s trial, conviction and sentence

The October 2020 verdict

Boswell was tried separately. In October 2020, her jury found her guilty on all charges. The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office issued a response to the verdict on October 14, 2020.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray | Data transfer & Fast charging for MacBook, iPhone 17/16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Apple Watch
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

Boswell’s defense argued that Trail coerced her. That argument was part of the defense presented to her jury; the jury nevertheless returned guilty verdicts on every charge. The verdict established her criminal responsibility under Nebraska law, while the coercion claim remained a contested position advanced by the defense.

Sentencing on November 8, 2021

On November 8, 2021, the Nebraska Attorney General’s Office announced that Boswell had received a life sentence for first-degree murder. The court also imposed consecutive prison terms for the other convictions. “Consecutive” means those additional terms were ordered to be served one after another rather than at the same time, subject to the operation of Nebraska law and prison administration.

Boswell’s direct appeal

Boswell challenged her convictions and sentences in the Nebraska Supreme Court. On May 10, 2024, that court affirmed them. The ruling ended her direct appeal in the state system and left the convictions and sentence intact.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Trail’s postconviction litigation and federal review

The state postconviction motion

After his direct appeal, Trail pursued postconviction relief in Nebraska state court. On May 30, 2025, the Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed the denial of his postconviction motion, holding that it was untimely. A ruling on timeliness addresses whether the claim was filed within the legally permitted period; it does not reopen the original trial simply because a defendant disagrees with the result.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Best Value
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Rehearing and the U.S. Supreme Court petition

The Nebraska Supreme Court denied rehearing on August 7, 2025, as reflected in the later federal docket record. Trail then sought review in the U.S. Supreme Court. On April 20, 2026, the Court denied his petition for certiorari.

A certiorari denial means the U.S. Supreme Court declined to take the case. It does not issue a merits opinion and should not be described as a new finding about the evidence. The Nebraska judgments therefore remained in force after the federal petition was denied.

What is established, and what must be attributed

Established by the record

  • Loofe was 24 when she died on or about November 15, 2017, according to the Nebraska Supreme Court.
  • She was reported missing the following day after failing to appear for work.
  • Remains discovered in Clay County in December 2017 were positively identified as hers.
  • Trail and Boswell were prosecuted in separate trials and convicted in 2019 and 2020.
  • Trail received a death sentence, and Boswell received life imprisonment for murder plus consecutive terms for the other convictions.
  • The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed both defendants’ convictions and sentences on direct appeal.
  • Trail’s later state postconviction motion was rejected as untimely, and the U.S. Supreme Court denied certiorari in April 2026.

Claims that require careful wording

Descriptions of what happened inside the apartment, how the remains were handled, and the defendants’ individual roles should be tied to the evidence summarized in the trial and appellate records. The prosecution’s account at the charging stage was an allegation. Boswell’s claim that Trail coerced her was a defense argument. The juries’ guilty verdicts and the appellate courts’ affirmances are the findings that determine the legal status of the case.

Where the case stands

As of April 2026, the convictions of both defendants remain affirmed. Boswell’s life sentence and consecutive additional terms remain in effect. Trail’s death sentence also remains in effect after the Nebraska Supreme Court rejected his direct appeal and later postconviction challenge and the U.S. Supreme Court denied review. The available decisions describe a completed state direct-appeal process, an unsuccessful state postconviction effort for Trail, and no U.S. Supreme Court merits ruling on his claims.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Aubrey TrailBailey BoswellNebraska criminal casesSydney Loofetrue crime timeline

More in Blog

Say something about this film

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.