The release of Unknown Number on Netflix in August 2025 instantly sparked global conversation. The true-crime documentary, officially titled Unknown Number: The High School Catfish, dives into one of the most disturbing cyberbullying cases to ever reach the headlines. It tells the story of a teenage girl tormented by anonymous text messages—only for investigators to discover that the culprit was her own mother.
The case stunned the small community of Beal City, Michigan, and now, through Netflix, the world. Viewers have been left unsettled, emotional, and questioning how far betrayal within families can truly go.
The Story Behind Unknown Number
At its core, the documentary is about trust and the unimaginable ways it can be broken.
In October 2020, 13-year-old Lauryn Licari and her boyfriend, Owen McKenny, began receiving cruel text messages from an unknown number. The messages were relentless, targeting Lauryn’s self-esteem, mental health, and her relationship. Some messages were sexually explicit and deeply invasive.
The harassment paused briefly, then resumed in September 2021, lasting for well over a year. With no idea who was behind the anonymous number, Lauryn and Owen lived under constant fear and suspicion.
What they didn’t know was that the bully was Lauryn’s mother, Kendra Licari.
How the Truth Came Out
Authorities were brought into the case after the messages escalated. The investigation involved local law enforcement, digital forensics experts, and the FBI. Investigators traced the messages back to devices linked to Kendra Licari.
The revelation shocked everyone who knew her. Kendra was not only Lauryn’s mother but also a trusted community figure, working as a basketball coach. To discover that she was the one sending hundreds of harassing messages was almost impossible to comprehend.
In December 2022, Kendra was arrested. By 2023, she pleaded guilty to two counts of stalking a minor.
The Legal Outcome
The court sentenced Kendra to serve between 19 months and 5 years in prison. She ultimately served just under two years and was released on parole in August 2024.
For Lauryn and her family, however, the emotional sentencing will last much longer. Trust had been shattered, and the damage caused by years of harassment from someone so close remains impossible to measure.
Netflix’s Take on the Case
Unknown Number on Netflix is directed by acclaimed documentarian Skye Borgman, whose work often focuses on unsettling but true human stories. The film runs for about 94 minutes and combines:
- Interviews with Lauryn, her father, and community members.
- Reenactments that reconstruct key moments.
- Court and investigative details that explain how the case unfolded.
The storytelling is sharp and suspenseful, holding back the shocking reveal until the investigation’s climax, even though many viewers may already know the broad outline of the case.
A Timeline of Events
To give audiences clarity, the documentary lays out a clear timeline:
- October 2020 – Anonymous messages begin.
- September 2021 – Harassment resumes after a short pause.
- December 2022 – Authorities identify Kendra Licari as the sender.
- March 2023 – She pleads guilty in court.
- August 2024 – Kendra is released on parole.
- August 2025 – Netflix releases Unknown Number: The High School Catfish.
This timeline shows just how long the abuse continued before justice was served.
Where Are They Now?
- Lauryn Licari – Now a young adult, Lauryn is focusing on her future and has spoken about considering a career path that could help others facing similar trauma. Her relationship with her mother remains strained, and her healing journey continues.
- Kendra Licari – Since her release, Kendra has expressed regret for her actions. The documentary touches on her troubled past, but whether her explanations offer true insight or excuses is left to viewers to decide.
- Shawn Licari – Lauryn’s father gained full custody during the legal process and has continued to support her through recovery and the media spotlight.
Themes Highlighted in the Documentary
Cyberbullying in the Digital Age
The anonymity of phone apps and texting services made it possible for the harassment to last so long. Unknown Number on Netflix emphasizes how technology can amplify cruelty.
Betrayal of Trust
It is one thing to be bullied by peers. It is another to discover that the bully is your own parent. This betrayal is the core emotional shock of the film.
Mental Health
The case also highlights gaps in mental health support. Both Lauryn’s trauma and Kendra’s disturbing actions point to the urgent need for stronger resources in schools and communities.
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Viewer Reactions
Since its release, the documentary has consistently ranked among Netflix’s most-watched true-crime titles. Viewer reactions have been intense:
- Many expressed disbelief that a mother could target her own child.
- Others praised Lauryn’s bravery in speaking out.
- Critics noted the documentary’s sensitive handling of a painful subject, avoiding sensationalism while still delivering powerful storytelling.
On social platforms, the film has generated hashtags, debates, and long threads about parenting, mental health, and the hidden dangers of cyberbullying.
Why Unknown Number on Netflix Feels Different
True-crime content is common on Netflix, but Unknown Number stands out because of its deeply personal nature. Most cyberbullying documentaries focus on peer conflicts, but this one pulls viewers into the shocking reality that abuse can originate from within a family.
The mix of teen vulnerability, parental betrayal, and the digital dimension creates a story that resonates far beyond the Licari family.
Broader Impact of the Film
The ripple effects of Unknown Number on Netflix go beyond entertainment:
- Schools and educators are using the film as a teaching tool to discuss online safety.
- Parents are rethinking how they monitor technology use and support their children emotionally.
- Mental health advocates are pointing to the story as an example of why more accessible care is needed.
The film has become more than a documentary—it’s now part of a larger conversation about protecting teens in the digital age.
Comparing to Other Netflix True-Crime Releases
Netflix has built a strong reputation with titles like American Nightmare, Murdaugh Murders, and The Tinder Swindler. Each of these explored shocking stories, but Unknown Number is unique:
- It focuses on a teenager’s vulnerability.
- The betrayal comes from within the home, not strangers.
- It highlights the complexities of digital harassment rather than physical crimes.
This makes the documentary resonate differently—less about sensational crime and more about emotional survival.
Lessons Viewers Are Taking Away
- Open conversations matter – Teens need to feel safe discussing harassment, even if the source is close to home.
- Technology isn’t neutral – It can be a tool for harm as much as for connection.
- Healing takes time – The documentary makes it clear that justice in court doesn’t erase the emotional wounds left behind.
Final Thoughts
Unknown Number on Netflix is more than just a shocking true story. It is a reminder that trust, safety, and support are vital in every family. The documentary may be painful to watch, but it leaves viewers with a sense of urgency to address cyberbullying and strengthen awareness about mental health and family dynamics.
If you’ve seen the film, what shocked you most—the relentless messages, the mother’s betrayal, or Lauryn’s resilience? Share your perspective and keep the discussion alive.