Sheila LaBarre called herself an “avenging angel,” claiming God sent her to punish pedophiles. But behind the religious fervor was a brutal murderer who lured men into her New Hampshire farmhouse, tortured them, and ultimately killed them.
On June 20, 2008, a jury saw through her divine delusions and convicted her of two first-degree murders. Yet, the full horror of Sheila LaBarre’s crimes may never be completely known.
A Chilling Farm of Death in New Hampshire
Located on a remote 115-acre property in Epping, New Hampshire, LaBarre’s farm became the final resting place for at least two men: Michael Deloge and Kenneth Countie. Both were subjected to horrific torture before being murdered in 2005 and 2006, respectively.
Authorities uncovered bone fragments, bloodstains, and evidence of incineration, revealing the scope of her cruelty.
“The evidence was most consistent with homicide,” said investigators after Countie’s remains were found.
An Abusive Childhood: Seeds of Darkness
LaBarre’s twisted path began early. According to testimony from psychiatrist Dr. Roger Gray, her Alabama upbringing was marred by sexual and emotional abuse, largely at the hands of her father and his friends. This grim account was supported by her older sister.
Born in 1958, LaBarre cycled through failed relationships and mental health crises, including institutionalization in the early 1980s after a suicide attempt. Her erratic behavior and violent mood swings hinted at deeper psychosis.
She later moved to New Hampshire in 1987, adopting the last name of chiropractor Wilfred “Bill” LaBarre, whom she never married but whose estate she claimed after his death—sparking legal battles with his family.
A “Divine Mission” Turned Deadly
LaBarre insisted that a near-death experience gave her a holy purpose: to kill pedophiles. Her victims were young, vulnerable men, lured with love, only to be turned into victims of psychological torment and physical brutality.
One of the most disturbing aspects? She recorded audio of her torture sessions, coercing confessions from her victims—false or not, it didn’t matter to her twisted sense of justice.
Kenneth Countie’s Final Days
Shortly before his murder, Countie was spotted in a New Hampshire Walmart—bruised, burned, and wheeled around by LaBarre in silence. Witnesses were alarmed, but nothing was done.
Days later, she phoned police and played a recording of Countie admitting to being a pedophile. Officers performed a welfare check and noticed a smoldering burn pile, but left to obtain a warrant.
By the time they returned, much of the evidence had been destroyed—but not all. They uncovered more burnt bones, an incinerated mattress, blood splatter, and a trail of terror stretching across her property.
A Legal Defense Built on Insanity
LaBarre’s attorneys argued that she suffered from severe mental illness, including schizoaffective disorder and delusions of grandeur. They claimed she couldn’t tell right from wrong.
But the jury didn’t buy it. Despite her history of hatchet attacks, violent breakdowns, and erratic behavior, the evidence pointed to clear intent and premeditation.
She was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Other Victims? A Serial Killer in Disguise?
While only convicted for two murders, investigators believe LaBarre may have had more victims.
During the property search, detectives discovered three human toes—none of which belonged to Deloge or Countie. The identity of the third victim remains unknown, adding another layer of mystery to the case.
She has also been suspected in the death of Bill LaBarre, though she denies any role.
Where Is Sheila LaBarre Now?
Today, LaBarre resides at the New Hampshire Correctional Facility for Women. Her crimes still haunt investigators and true crime followers alike.
Many wonder if others died at her hands, buried or burned without trace. As of now, the LaBarre farm remains a symbol of unholy horror, and perhaps, secrets yet to be unearthed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Sheila LaBarre?
She was a woman convicted of torturing and killing two men in New Hampshire. She claimed to be sent by God to punish pedophiles.
What mental illness does Sheila LaBarre have?
She was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder but was found legally sane at the time of the murders.
How did Sheila LaBarre kill her victims?
She tortured them physically and psychologically. She burned their remains and recorded forced confessions.
Did Sheila LaBarre have more victims?
Possibly. Authorities discovered body parts that didn’t belong to her known victims, suggesting additional unknown victims.
Where is Sheila LaBarre now?
She is serving life without parole at a women’s correctional facility in New Hampshire.
Was Bill LaBarre one of her victims?
Though never proven, some believe she may have had a role in his death. She denies the allegation.