08/07/2026
🚨 California Woman Pleads Guilty to Killing Wife After Previously Serving Time for Husband’s Death
A California woman who previously served prison time for killing her husband has now pleaded guilty to the 2025 murder of her wife.
Yolanda Olejniczak Marodi admitted guilt in the fatal stabbing of her wife, Rebecca Marodi, on February 17, 2025. Court records state that the couple had been married for two years and were experiencing marital problems before the incident.
According to investigators, home surveillance footage captured Rebecca, covered in blood, pleading for her life as Yolanda chased her outside the home. Rebecca repeatedly asked for help and requested that 911 be called before both women went back inside the residence.
Authorities said Yolanda left the home shortly afterward, loaded items into her vehicle, and drove away. Rebecca was later discovered inside the house by her mother with multiple fatal stab wounds.
Investigators determined that Yolanda crossed into Mexico about 75 minutes after the killing. The following day, she allegedly sent a text message admitting she had harmed Rebecca after an argument over the end of their relationship.
She was arrested in Mexicali, Mexico, in March 2025 and returned to the United States to face prosecution.
As part of a plea agreement, Yolanda pleaded guilty to second-degree murder after prosecutors reduced the original first-degree murder charge. Officials said the agreement was reached in part to provide closure for the victim’s family.
Rebecca Marodi was a respected fire captain who dedicated decades of service to her community and was widely remembered for her courage, compassion, and commitment to helping others.
Yolanda Olejniczak Marodi is scheduled to be sentenced on September 2 and could face a prison sentence of 36 years to life.