A chilling tale of digital deception unfolds in the aftermath of the Netflix documentary “Unknown Number: The High School Catfish.” The film exposes the shocking cyberbullying saga of Lauryn Licari and her boyfriend, revealing the perpetrator to be none other than Lauryn’s own mother, Kendra Licari. This revelation has not only devastated the Licari family but has also ignited a national conversation about online safety, parental betrayal, and the long-lasting effects of cyber harassment.
The “Unknown Number” Scandal Unveiled
The nightmare began in October 2020 in Beiel City, Michigan, when Lauryn, then just 13 years old, and her boyfriend started receiving a relentless barrage of anonymous text messages. According to the documentary, these messages, sometimes numbering 40-50 per day, were filled with cruel accusations, graphic threats, and deeply personal insults. This constant harassment created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety, shattering Lauryn’s peace of mind and casting a shadow of suspicion over her relationships.
The intimate nature of the messages suggested that the perpetrator was someone with close access to Lauryn’s life. Initial suspicions fell on classmates and friends, but despite investigations, no clear leads emerged. The situation escalated in September 2021, with the harassment continuing unabated for a harrowing 15 months, leaving Lauryn and her family desperate for answers.
Unmasking the Cyberbully: A Mother’s Betrayal
The case remained unsolved until the FBI, in collaboration with Officer Bradley Peter of Bay City, stepped in to assist. Utilizing advanced cyber-forensic techniques, investigators meticulously traced the origins of the anonymous threats. The investigation culminated in a shocking discovery: the messages were being sent by Kendra Licari, Lauryn’s mother. According to the documentary, Kendra confessed to her actions when confronted in December 2022, bringing the long and torturous ordeal to a close, but opening up a new chapter of pain and confusion.
The Motives Behind the Deception
Kendra Licari’s motives remain a subject of intense scrutiny and debate. In “Unknown Number,” she offers a complex and disturbing explanation for her actions. Kendra revealed that she had been assaulted around the same age as Lauryn was during the cyberstalking. She claimed that seeing her daughter grow up triggered deep fears, and in a twisted attempt to keep Lauryn safe, she believed that sending those texts would keep her daughter closer.
Some psychologists who observed the case have suggested a possible connection to Munchausen syndrome by proxy, a psychological disorder in which a caregiver inflicts harm on a child to gain attention or control. Prosecutor David Barberi, who handled the case, noted that it appeared Kendra wanted her daughter to need her, suggesting a desire for control and dependence that manifested in this extreme and damaging way.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
Following her arrest in December 2022, Kendra Licari faced serious legal consequences. She was charged with stalking a minor and using a computer to commit a crime. In March 2023, she pleaded guilty to two counts of stalking a minor. According to court records, in April 2023, Kendra was sentenced to a prison term of between 19 months and five years. She was released on parole in August 2024, after serving less than two years, and is under supervision until February 2026.
Aftermath: Rebuilding and Recovery
The Impact on Lauryn
The impact of Kendra’s actions on Lauryn has been profound and multifaceted. Lauryn endured not only the relentless cyber harassment but also the suspicion and judgment of her peers. Discovering that her own mother was the source of her torment added another layer of pain and betrayal to the ordeal. While her romantic relationship with Owen ended before the case was resolved, the experience strengthened her bond with her father, Shawn. As depicted in the documentary, Shawn stood by Lauryn throughout the ordeal, providing unwavering support and stability.
As of the documentary’s completion, Kendra expressed a desire to rebuild her relationship with her daughter. However, Lauryn, now 18, is approaching the situation with caution and self-determination. She is taking control of her decisions regarding her mother’s role in her future, prioritizing her own well-being and emotional health.
Broader Implications and Awareness
The Netflix documentary, directed by Skye Borgman, premiered on August 29, 2025, bringing the Licari case to a global audience. The film has sparked renewed discussions about cyberbullying, parental responsibility, and the importance of online safety. It serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of online harassment and the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts.
A Cautionary Tale
The “Unknown Number” scandal serves as a powerful cautionary tale about the hidden dangers of the digital age and the complex dynamics within families. It highlights the importance of open communication, parental awareness, and the need for effective intervention strategies to combat cyberbullying. The Licari family’s story underscores the lasting impact of betrayal and the long road to recovery for victims of online harassment. As Lauryn navigates her future, her strength and resilience offer a glimmer of hope in the face of unimaginable adversity.
