By Dennis McCaslin-Editor and Publisher- Today in Fort Smith
In the world of true crime and investigative journalism, credibility is everything. Journalists, podcasters, and media professionals have a responsibility to seek out facts, report the truth, and uphold ethical standard
Unfortunately, not everyone follows these principles, and when someone abuses the trust of their audience--as well as the people they claim to cover—it’s important to set the record straight.
Javier Leiva, the host of the Pretend Podcast, has crossed that line in a way that can no longer be ignored. His so-called “investigative” series on Rick and Tanyan Fernandez, labeled Stalker, is riddled with falsehoods, manipulative storytelling, and a disturbing agenda that goes far beyond journalism.
Rick and Tanya Fernandez, a well-respected couple known for their work and contributions in their community, found themselves in the crosshairs of Leiva’s podcast under false pretenses. According to multiple sources, Leiva approached the Fernandezes under the guise of an unbiased journalist seeking their side of the story. He assured them that his reporting would be fair and factual.\
That, however, was a lie.
Rather than conducting an honest investigation, Leiva twisted their words, selectively edited interviews, and deliberately misrepresented key aspects of the case to fit a narrative that painted the couple as villains. His so-called “reporting” wasn’t about uncovering the truth--it was about creating a sensationalized spectacle at the expense of real people’s lives.
What began as a reckless podcast episode soon turned into a full-scale character assassination. Not only did Leiva smear Rick and Tanyan’s reputations, but he also continued his harassment long after the initial series aired.
He has allegedly made direct efforts to contact their associates, colleagues, and even family members, pressing them for dirt that simply doesn’t exist. In some cases, sources say he used deceptive tactics to manipulate individuals into speaking with him, only to later twist their words to fit his narrative.
The damage done by these actions is immeasurable. The Fernandezes have faced public scrutiny, threats, and emotional distress, all because of one man’s reckless obsession with tearing them down.
This isn’t the first time Leiva has come under fire for questionable reporting tactics. His brand of storytelling often relies on half-truths, misleading narratives, and cherry-picked evidence designed to create controversy rather than uncover facts.
Real journalists uphold standards of integrity. They verify sources. They seek both sides. They don’t mislead interview subjects into participating in hit pieces disguised as fair investigations. Leiva, on the other hand, appears to have built his platform on deception.
True crime and investigative journalism have the power to make a difference when done correctly. But when podcasters like Javier Leiva abuse that power, they erode public trust, exploit their subjects, and harm real people.
The public deserves to know the truth: Leiva’s Stalker series was not an objective investigation—it was a personal vendetta. And until he is held accountable for his reckless and unethical behavior, the damage he has caused will continue to spread.
Rick and Tanya Fernandez did not deserve to be harassed, misrepresented, and publicly vilified by a so-called journalist who operates with no regard for truth or decency. It’s time to expose the deception and call out those who use their platforms to destroy lives rather than report facts.
To those who value real journalism and ethical storytelling, let this serve as a cautionary tale. Sensationalism and lies might generate clicks, but they come at a cost—one that people like Rick and Tanyan Fernandez should never have had to pay.
Javier Leiva owes them, and the public, an apology. More importantly, he needs to be held accountable for his unethical actions. Because in the end, the truth will always matter more than a fabricated story.
