Georgia Man Serving 25-Year Sentence After Elaborate "Batman" Disguise Attack on Ex-Wife

Rodney Metzer remains in a Georgia prison for the 2021 masked attack on his ex-wife. Learn about his sentence and the movie based on the case.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 24, 2026, 8:30 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from PEOPLE

A Decade of Deception and Escalating Abuse

The relationship between Rodney and Morgan Metzer began in their teenage years, evolving into a decade-long marriage that appeared stable to outside observers. However, internal dynamics shifted significantly following financial instability and Rodney’s subsequent job loss. As Morgan’s interior design career flourished, Rodney reportedly became increasingly abusive, utilizing a pattern of physical violence followed by intense emotional gaslighting. Despite the birth of their twins, the marriage deteriorated, leading Morgan to finalize a divorce in December 2020 a move that investigators believe triggered Rodney’s final, violent plot.

The New Year’s Day "Batman" Intrusion

In the early hours of January 1, 2021, just weeks after the divorce was finalized, Rodney executed a premeditated assault at Morgan’s home in Canton, Georgia. Wearing a mask and utilizing a voice manipulator to mimic the fictional character Batman, Rodney broke into the residence and subjected Morgan to a brutal physical and sexual assault. After tying her up and leaving her on a porch in near-freezing temperatures, Rodney discarded his disguise and reappeared in his natural persona to "discover" and comfort the victim, playing the role of a concerned ex-husband while calling emergency services.

Forensic Evidence Overcomes Criminal Gaslighting

The initial investigation into the "masked intruder" quickly pivoted toward Rodney as detectives uncovered a trail of digital and physical evidence. Search histories revealed queries regarding how to alter one's voice and the mechanics of choking, while surveillance footage captured Rodney purchasing the specific type of zip ties used in the attack. Additionally, authorities debunked Rodney's claims of having pancreatic cancer—a ruse he used to gain entry to Morgan's home in the days leading up to the assault—discovering forged medical documents intended to manipulate his ex-wife’s sympathy.