The Dark Reality of 'Unknown Number' on Netflix
Netflix's latest true crime documentary, 'Unknown Number: The High School Catfish,' has captivated viewers with its disturbing narrative of cyberbullying and betrayal. The documentary centers around Lauryn Licari and her boyfriend, Owen McKenny, who were subjected to relentless harassment via anonymous text messages.
The ordeal began in October 2020 when Owen and Lauryn, both just 13 years old, started receiving cruel and sexually explicit texts from an unknown number. The messages would cease for a time, only to resume with even greater intensity in September 2021. The constant barrage of abuse took a heavy toll on the young couple.
A Mother's Betrayal
As the cyberstalking escalated, Lauryn's mother, Kendra Licari, and Owen's parents, Jill and Dave McKenny, joined forces to uncover the identity of the perpetrator. Jill and Kendra became close friends as they worked together to solve the mystery. However, the families' investigation eventually led them to a shocking and devastating truth: Kendra Licari was the one sending the abusive texts.
The FBI was brought in to investigate. Agents were able to link an IP address to a phone number belonging to Kendra Licari. She was subsequently arrested in December 2022 and pleaded guilty to two counts of stalking, receiving a sentence of 19 months to five years in prison.
Criticism of the Documentary
While 'Unknown Number' has drawn considerable attention, it has also faced criticism. Some argue that the documentary is too sympathetic to Kendra Licari and fails to adequately address the long-term impact of her actions on Lauryn and Owen. Others have criticized the film's exploitation of Lauryn's trauma for entertainment purposes.
Regardless of these criticisms, 'Unknown Number' serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of cyberbullying and the importance of online safety. It also highlights the devastating consequences of betrayal and the complex dynamics within families.
Jill, Dave, and Owen McKenny all shared their experiences in the Netflix documentary. Their lives were forever changed by the cyberstalking ordeal.