‘Making a Murderer': 5 Theories for Steven Avery’s Innocence

Ever since “Making a Murderer” premiered on Netflix, people have been fiercely debating online whether or not Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey are innocent in the death of Teresa Halbach.

Several theories have been advanced which implicate others involved in their trial of Halbach’s murder, as well as suggesting the whole plot was a land grab scheme, among others.

Check out some of the most popular “Making a Murderer” theories below.

See Video: Finished 'Making a Murderer'? 10 More Infuriating Documentaries Streaming on Netflix

Bobby Dassey and Scott Tadych Killed Halbach

Bobby Dassey (Steven Avery’s nephew and Brendan’s brother) and Scott Tadych (Avery’s brother-in-law) provided alibis for each other at the trial, both claiming they saw the other drive off to go hunting the day of the murder.

But questions are now coming up about their testimony, such as Tadych claiming that Halbach was gone by the time he left Avery’s property at 3 p.m. the day of the murder, which contradicts testimony by the bus driver who claims to have seen Halbach on the property around 3:30 that day.

Bobby also had fresh scratches on his back when he was questioned and examined by police, but he told them the scratches came from a puppy.

Also Read: 'Making a Murderer' Prosecutor Defends Verdict, Cites Evidence Ignored by Netflix Series

Avery Was Arrested in Order to Seize His Land

One reddit user advanced the theory that Avery’s arrest after being released from prison was a scheme to acquire his 40-acre property.

This theory hinges on a man mentioned only once in the documentary: Doug Hagg. Hagg is said to be a mentor to Kratz. In addition, redditors discovered that Hagg was also the head of the real estate transfers and registry office in Wisconsin.

Some are then speculating that Avery’s property must have some kind of significance, be it agricultural or geological, as a gravel pit mine is nearby.

Also Read: Inside 'Making a Murderer' and New Wave of True-Crime TV Inspired by 'Serial'

Avery Lacked a Motive

After having been exonerated for a rape he didn’t commit after 18 years, many are wondering what would drive Avery to brutally rape and murder a woman whom he had never met.

In addition, Avery was in the process of pursuing a $36 million civil suit against the police for his wrongful conviction. Many theorize that he would do everything he could to stay on the right side of the law, lest he endanger his chance of winning.

The Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office Framed Avery

Many could not believe that Sgt. Andrew Colborn and Lt. James Lenk, both of whom were named in Avery’s civil suit, were so intimately involved with the case.

Also Read: 6 Times Hollywood Shook Up Criminal Justice Before 'Making a Murderer'

It was Lenk who found Halbach’s keys in Avery’s bedroom, despite them being missed in previous searches. And Colborn knew details about Halbach’s car before he logically should have. While most agree the officers planted evidence, some are going so far as to suggest they were involved in the murder itself.

Halbach’s Ex-Boyfriend or Brother Killed Her

Ryan Hillegas, Halbach’s ex-boyfriend, stated during the trial that he “guessed” her cell phone password in an attempt to find out where she was. Her brother Mike knew the password as well.

Evidence presented during the trial showed that someone had erased several voicemail’s off of Teresa’s phone after she disappeared. However, neither Hillegas nor Mike were ever treated as suspects during the investigation.