Michaela Rylaarsdam, a 32-year-old California woman who worked as an OnlyFans model and high-end escort, was sentenced Monday to four years in state prison for involuntary manslaughter after a client died during a recorded sexual encounter in San Diego County.
Background
Rylaarsdam had reportedly been working in the escort industry for approximately 10 years before the incident. She operated under the online persona "Ashley SinCal" and maintained a website called Secret Hostess, where she advertised various services and described herself as an "upscale and classy creation." Her husband, Brandon Rylaarsdam, was aware of her work and helped manage the business.
According to prosecutors, Michael Dale, 55, paid Rylaarsdam $11,000 for a particular encounter. During the recorded session, authorities said Rylaarsdam placed duct tape over Dale's mouth along with a plastic bag and Saran Wrap over his head. Because Dale's limbs were bound during the encounter, he was unable to remove the items covering his nose and mouth.
The Investigation
Dale remained inside the bag for approximately eight minutes before losing consciousness. He was declared brain-dead the following day at a local hospital. Rylaarsdam told authorities she immediately called 911 after realizing something had gone wrong.
Rylaarsdam pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter on May 8, approximately one month before her scheduled sentencing hearing. Her attorney, Dan Cohen, argued that while consent is not a legal defense in California, it should be considered as a mitigating factor in the case.
"There is definitely a consensual element — not only something he consented to, something he was actively seeking," Cohen previously stated. "I think there was no intent to kill and no attempt to cover this up. And she acted appropriately when she realized this was a problem."
Key Takeaways
- Rylaarsdam was sentenced to four years in California state prison for involuntary manslaughter
- The victim, Michael Dale, 55, died from asphyxiation during a recorded encounter with Rylaarsdam
- She placed duct tape over his mouth and covered his head with a plastic bag and Saran Wrap while his limbs were bound
- Rylaarsdam pleaded guilty to the charge in early May before her June 8 sentencing hearing
- The incident occurred in San Diego County, though Rylaarsdam resided in Menifee, Riverside County
What's Next
Rylaarsdam will begin serving her four-year sentence at a California state correctional facility. The case drew attention to the legal complexities surrounding consensual sexual activities that result in death, as California does not recognize consent as an affirmative defense to involuntary manslaughter charges.
Her attorney indicated Rylaarsdam is expected to appeal for parole consideration after serving the minimum portion of her sentence.