Hi Cherry!
I really have no idea, but I've seen the same pattern as repeated here.
Should she have said she is absolutely horrified, but will be open minded as to what the evidence reveals? Perhaps, but it would have been wiser instead of immediately supporting his side only. Imo.
We see this often unfortunately where others supports very evil individuals. Evildoers always seem to find supporters who enable, and make excuses for them. Imo.
That's why it is so refreshing when we occasionally see partners of either gender or even parents report their loved one to LE. It must be a terrible decision to make, yet they do the moral, and just thing...while thinking more about the victims involved instead of taking the easiest path of staying silent.
Imo, do I think she's in denial? No I do not. She may windup knowing many hidden secrets he has, and saw red flags. If so, I hope she fully cooperates with LE to bring justice for the victim..the one who truly matters.
I wouldn't be surprised either if he has done this before.
Now that he has been arrested LE will do a deep dive into all SIM cards he may have had in his possession along with having SWs of all communication devices that may show he did the same to others as he did to this lovely woman.
He may even be a sadist serial killer predatir who gravitates toward the great pain, and suffering he causes to his victims.
Jmhoo