Robert Neulander’s children from his two marriages – Ari, Jenna, Brian and Emily – always stood behind their father in his legal battle when he was accused of murdering his second wife, Leslie Neulander. Leslie died in an apparent accident at her family’s New York home in 2012, but a deeper investigation led to Robert’s arrest and eventual conviction.

His children stood behind him and maintained his innocence while asking for leniency during the sentencing. Today, the siblings lead quieter lives while maintaining strong family bonds—Brian in Maryland, Emily in Colorado, and Jenna and Ari in New York—and strive to maintain some sense of normalcy amid their shared tragedy.

The Neulander family’s turmoil is well documented, including on NBC’s Dateline: The House on Shalimar Way. The episode originally aired on May 20, 2022. The re-broadcast date is now set for The house on Shalimar Way To Dateline NBC is Friday, December 27, 2024 at 9:00 p.m. ET/8:00 p.m. CT.

The death of Leslie Neulander and the consequences

On September 17, 2012, Leslie Neulander was found dead in her family home in DeWitt, New York. According to Robert Neulander, he found her in the bathroom with a head injury. Her son Ari was in his dorm after being sent to Syracuse, New York, and her daughter Jenna was home.

Robert told Jenna to call 911, and during the call she was heard telling her father, “Dad, put her down!” Your neck could be broken!” The entire call turned out to be the main point that was later investigated. The jury then concluded that Leslie died by murder; Robert had staged it to look like an accident.

Robert Neulander was finally convicted of second-degree murder in 2015. However, due to procedural errors, the verdict was overturned in 2019 and a second trial by Robert Neulander took place in 2022. They did not change their minds about their father’s innocence.

The unwavering support of Robert Neulander’s children

During Robert Neulander’s legal battles, his children were his strongest supporters. At the 2015 trial, Jenna’s testimony was crucial. The prosecution argued that her blood observations and her father’s actions raised questions about his involvement in Leslie’s death.

Still, Jenna maintained that her father was innocent and claimed that her reactions were out of concern for her mother. During the retrial in 2022, the Neulander siblings once again stood behind their father. Ari has been particularly vocal about their united front, stating:

“We love my mother as much as my father… Do you think we would be with him if we thought he was guilty?”

Even after the second conviction, the siblings continued to appeal for a lighter sentence. Emily’s request addressed the impact of Robert Neulander’s incarceration on the family. She mentioned how her father’s absence would affect her future. Additionally, Jenna said it was “excruciating” to think about raising her children without their parents’ guidance.

Life after exams: career and quiet life

Since Robert Neulander’s conviction, his children have kept a low profile and focused on their careers and personal lives. Robert had Brian and Emily from his first marriage and Ari and Jenna from his second to Leslie. Here’s what we know about the kids’ current efforts:

Brian Neulander: The oldest, Brian, works as managing counsel for a law firm in Baltimore, Maryland. He has also taught as an adjunct professor, reflecting his commitment to the legal field.

Emily Neulander: Emily is a yoga instructor and nurse based in Boulder, Colorado. Such a career path emphasizes the importance of well-being and caring towards others.

Ari Neulander: Ari still lives in New York and appears to have pursued a similar career to his half-brother Brian in the field of law.

Jenna Neulander: She also lives in New York. As Associate Director of Foundation Engagement for Momentum Unlimited, Jenna demonstrates an important commitment to community and philanthropy. Jenna Neulander’s impressive resume includes an internship at the United Nations and leadership positions at several nonprofit organizations.

Despite different paths in life, the siblings have managed to remain close to each other through shared experiences and the belief in their father’s innocence.

Further details about the case can be found here The house on Shalimar Way To Dateline NBC on Friday, December 27, 2024 at 9:00 p.m. ET/8:00 p.m. CT.