COUNCIL BLUFFS, IOWA – In the world of true crime documentaries, the story of Cari Farver’s disappearance and the chilling events that followed takes center stage in Netflix’s “Lover, Stalker, Killer.” The documentary tells the story of Farver’s vanishing in 2012 and the torment experienced by her ex-boyfriend Dave Kroupa and his current partner, Shanna “Liz” Golyar.
The case initially gripped the attention of James “Jim” Doty, a sergeant investigator, and Deputy Ryan Avis from the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Their fascination with the mystery stemmed from the strange circumstances – a single mom, Farver, seemingly vanishing without a trace, leaving her son behind.
What began as a disappearance and stalking case took an unexpected turn when it was discovered that Golyar had murdered Farver, assuming her identity and unleashing years of harassment and torment on Kroupa and others. Golyar was eventually convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree arson, receiving a life sentence without the possibility of parole.
The documentary also features insights from investigators and the emotional impact the case had on Farver’s family. Doty revealed that meeting Farver’s mother intensified his commitment to solving the case, stating that seeing her grief made the case deeply personal for him.
The true extent of Golyar’s ruthlessness is revealed in the documentary, as she showed no remorse for her actions, even after being confronted by authorities. The nature of the digital evidence involved in the case posed a significant challenge, but Special Deputy Anthony “Tony” Kava’s dedication and expertise were instrumental in unraveling the truth behind the electronic threats and ultimately securing Golyar’s conviction.
Ultimately, the documentary sheds light on the pain and suffering endured by Farver’s loved ones, particularly her son, and the tremendous effort and dedication shown by law enforcement to bring closure to the case. Farver’s mother expressed gratitude for the investigators, acknowledging the profound impact they had on her and her family.