Betty Broderick is a name forever linked to a tragic and shocking story of betrayal, murder, and emotional turmoil. Betty Broderick’s biography is marked by a dramatic transformation from a loving wife and mother to a convicted murderer.
Her emotional breakdown began with a marriage that turned toxic, leading to her infamous crime. In 1989, Betty was convicted of the murder of Daniel Broderick III and his second wife, Linda Kolkena.
This case has captivated the public for years, sparking debates on mental health issues, domestic violence in marriage, and the psychological effects of betrayal. The media’s fascination with Betty’s life has only grown over time, with documentaries, books, and films dedicated to her story.
At the time of her conviction, Betty was 42 years old. Born on November 7, 1947, in Eastchester, New York, she had four children with her first husband, Daniel Broderick III. The breakdown of her marriage led to a legal battle and, ultimately, her violent response to her husband’s affair. After the murders, Betty’s life was forever changed.
Early Life of Betty Broderick
Betty Broderick grew up in a large Italian-American family in Eastchester, New York. She was the second of six children born to Frank and Marita Bisceglia. Betty attended Maria Regina High School in Bronxville, New York, where she was known for being popular, despite being an average student. After high school, she pursued higher education at the College of Mount Saint Vincent.
It was during these formative years that Betty’s personality began to take shape, eventually influencing her later actions and decisions. She was often seen as a friendly, caring individual, but as her life progressed, the pressures of marriage, motherhood, and betrayal led to her emotional unraveling.
Table: Betty Broderick’s Biography
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Elisabeth Anne Broderick (née Bisceglia) |
| Date of Birth | November 7, 1947 |
| Age | 77 years old (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | Eastchester, New York, USA |
| Spouse | Daniel Broderick III (married 1969-1985) |
| Children | Kim, Lee, Daniel IV, Rhett |
| Criminal Charges | Second-degree murder |
| Conviction | Guilty of second-degree murder |
| Net Worth (2025) | $1.5 million |
| Parole Status | Denied multiple times, next hearing in 2025 |
| Incarceration | California Institution for Women, Chino, CA |
Betty Broderick Net Worth
As of 2025, Betty Broderick’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million. This wealth primarily stems from her divorce settlement with Daniel Broderick III and the media rights associated with her case. However, her legal battles and time spent incarcerated have significantly impacted her financial situation.
Despite the public fascination with her case, Betty’s wealth is a fraction of what she may have once hoped for, having lost much during the years of legal turmoil and personal struggle. Nonetheless, she remains a figure of interest, not just for her crimes, but for the emotional and psychological toll her life has endured.
Betty Broderick Family
Betty’s family dynamics were heavily affected by the crimes she committed. Her children, Kim, Lee, Daniel IV, and Rhett, were deeply impacted by the public fascination with Betty Broderick and the subsequent legal battle. The murder trial, media attention, and public scrutiny tore apart the once-strong family unit. Betty’s relationship with her children, especially after her divorce and betrayal, was strained beyond repair. Her children’s struggle with the public fallout is a poignant element of her case.
Betty Broderick Husband
Betty married Daniel Broderick III in 1969. The couple had four children together. Daniel was a successful lawyer, and their life appeared picture-perfect. However, their marriage began to deteriorate when Daniel started an affair with his secretary, Linda Kolkena. This betrayal devastated Betty, and in 1985, after their divorce, Daniel married Linda.
The pain of betrayal turned to revenge, and Betty’s feelings of emotional distress led to her drastic actions. The murder of Daniel Broderick III and Linda Kolkena shocked the nation, changing Betty’s life forever.
Betty Broderick Legal Case and Trial
Betty was arrested and charged with second-degree murder for the killings of Daniel and Linda. The murder trial of Betty Broderick became a media sensation, with coverage focusing on her emotional state and the backstory of her tumultuous marriage.
The trial’s first phase resulted in a hung jury, leading to a mistrial. However, in the second trial, Betty was convicted and sentenced to 32 years to life in prison. Her defense argued that she was suffering from years of domestic violence and mental illness, but the jury found her guilty.
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Betty Broderick Parole and Incarceration
Currently, Betty is serving her sentence at the California Institution for Women in Chino, California. She has been denied parole several times, with her most recent hearing in 2017 being unsuccessful. She is scheduled for another parole hearing in 2025. Betty Broderick’s imprisonment continues to be a subject of debate, with many questioning whether she should be released, given the psychological toll her crimes had on her.
FAQs
What happened to Betty Broderick after her trial?
Betty Broderick was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 32 years to life. She remains incarcerated at the California Institution for Women.
How old is Betty Broderick now?
Betty Broderick is 77 years old, born on November 7, 1947.
Is Betty Broderick still in prison?
Yes, Betty Broderick is currently serving her sentence at the California Institution for Women.
What is Betty Broderick’s net worth?
Betty Broderick’s estimated net worth in 2025 is around $1.5 million.
Why is Betty Broderick famous?
Betty Broderick is famous for the 1989 murders of her ex-husband Daniel Broderick III and his second wife Linda Kolkena, which garnered significant media attention.
Conclusion
Betty Broderick’s story is a tragic tale of betrayal, revenge, and emotional breakdown. Her divorce from Daniel Broderick, followed by his affair and marriage to Linda Kolkena, pushed Betty to a breaking point.
The result was the shocking 1989 double murder that has been the subject of documentaries, books, and true crime series. Betty’s emotional state, compounded by years of domestic violence and mental health struggles, led her to commit a crime that would haunt her for the rest of her life.
