Divorced dad admits to stuffing Colombian DJ girlfriend in suitcase — but can’t recall killing her: ‘I put Valentina into the garbage’

An American man, John Poulos, is on trial in Colombia for allegedly killing his girlfriend, Valentina Trespalacios, a DJ, by strangling her during his visit to Bogotá in January 2023. Poulos confessed during a hearing that he panicked after finding Trespalacios dead beside him in bed. He claimed they were under the influence of drugs when the incident occurred and that he tried to hide her body in a suitcase before fleeing the country.

Poulos, aged 36 and a father of three from Wisconsin, admitted to doing drugs with Trespalacios and choking her accidentally with jewelry during sex. He said he woke up to find her dead, panicked, and tried to conceal her body. Poulos met Trespalacios on a dating site in 2022, went on vacation with her to Cancún, and later visited Bogotá to meet her family.

During the hearing, Poulos expressed confusion about the events leading to Trespalacios' death, stating he couldn't recall how they returned to their apartment after a night out. He described being in a state induced by drugs and alcohol when he found her unresponsive. Poulos expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging it as a terrible decision.

Security footage showed Poulos disposing of Trespalacios' body in a suitcase before leaving for the airport. He explained that he fled to escape the perceived corruption in Colombia's justice system and out of fear for his life. Poulos attempted to board a flight to Montenegro via Panama and Istanbul but was apprehended in Panama.

Poulos' account contradicts previous statements where he claimed innocence and professed love for Trespalacios. Prosecutors accuse him of feminicide and evidence concealment, seeking a 50-year prison sentence.

Poulos maintains his innocence, alleging bias from Trespalacios' family and acquaintances.

In summary, John Poulos stands accused of killing his girlfriend in a drug-induced state of panic and attempting to flee justice. The trial continues as prosecutors seek justice for Valentina Trespalacios' death.