True Crimecast

On August 26, 2015, a routine morning news broadcast turned into a national tragedy when reporter Alison Parker and photojournalist Adam Ward were gunned down live on air. As they interviewed a local community leader in Virginia, the world watched in horror as the unimaginable unfolded on screen.

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

Ronald Gene Simmons may be the most evil person who has ever walked this earth. He impregnated his daughter when she was a child. He then went on to murder nearly his entire family. How could one man be so evil? Tune into today's episode to hear about this massacre.

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

For years, Londoners lived in fear of a shadowy predator known as the Croydon Cat Killer. More than 400 cats were found dead—mutilated, decapitated, or dismembered in what appeared to be calculated and sinister ways. Pet owners were terrified. The media ran wild. Scotland Yard launched a full-scale manhunt. But after four years of panic and a $170,000 investigation, authorities came to a shocking conclusion.

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

Charles Manson—cult leader, murderer, madman… or government pawn? In this explosive episode of True Crimecast, Jamie and John dive into a theory that flips the infamous Manson murders on their head. Drawing from journalist Tom O’Neill’s shocking book CHAOS, they explore the chilling possibility that Manson wasn’t acting alone—or even acting on his own volition. Could he have been manipulated by the CIA through mind control programs like MK-Ultra and Operation CHAOS?

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

In 1981, a 19 year old named Arne Johnson killed his landlord in a brutal stabbing. When police arrived to the scene, Arne was still there and said he had no memory of the attack. He claimed the devil made him do it. Would a judge allow such a defense? Can this even happen? This one is wild!

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Entertainment/pop culture expert Lauren Conlin joins True Crimecast again in today's bonus episode! Lauren is the host of "The Outlier" Podcast & the “Primetime Crime” Podcast, in addition to her PopCrime.tv YouTube channel. Today, we discuss the details of the very controversial and sometimes confusing case of Karen Read being charged with the murder of Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe. With the second trial beginning soon, get cause up to date on all of the wild happenings in this case. To find out all of the breaking news about Read and your favorite celebrities/crime cases, follow Lauren here: Twitter/X: https://x.com/conlin_lauren Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenemilyconlin/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laurenconlin4

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

In 1989 Judge Robert Vance and Attorney Robert Robinson each received a package in the mail. Each package contained a bomb which would explode and kill both men inside their homes. How would the FBI and ATF track down the responsible party?

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

In 2007, Adrianna Hutto drowned in the pool near her home. Once ruled an accident, her death was later classified as a homicide thanks to a key witness: her six year old brother. And he spoke out recently about his controversial testimony almost two decades ago. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2025

Heather Bogle disappeared after clocking out of her job. Her body was found the next day in the trunk of her own car. However, it would take 1 year, 3 innocent suspects, and 2 detectives to solve her case. Tragedy turned to anger when Heather's loved ones would learn that the led detective intentionally covered up the truth to pursue his own personal vendetta. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

A copy machine, some dynamite, and a grudge. That's all it took to create one of the biggest extortion scams in casino history.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 4 April 2025

In this episode of True Crimecast, we discuss a groundbreaking cyberattack that changed the digital world forever. On November 2, 1988, a 23-year-old graduate student named Robert Tappan Morris unleashed the first major computer worm onto the early Internet. What started as a supposed experiment quickly spiraled out of control, infecting thousands of machines and causing massive disruptions across prestigious universities, government facilities, and research institutions. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 2 April 2025

In this chilling episode, we delve into the brutal home invasion that shook the quiet town of Mount Vernon, New Hampshire. When 11-year-old Jaimie Cates awoke to the sound of her mother's screams, she faced unimaginable horror at the hands of two ruthless attackers. Her survival and courage in the face of unspeakable violence stunned investigators and the community alike. As the case unfolds, we explore the twisted motivations of Steven Spader and Christopher Gribble, the self-proclaimed "Disciples of Destruction," whose heinous crimes left lasting scars. Join us as we uncover the shocking details of that night, the investigation that brought the killers to justice, and the resilience of a young girl determined to survive. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 1 April 2025

Tesla has become the target of a shocking crime wave. From bomb threats and arson to vandalism across the country, the electric car giant is at the center of a federal investigation. Is it politically motivated, corporate sabotage, or something even darker? Join John and Jamie as they break down the attacks, the suspects, and the possible motives behind this unprecedented wave of violence on True Crimecast. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 28 March 2025

When the pursuit of trophy deer crosses legal lines, the consequences can be severe. In this episode, John and Jamie uncover the story of James and Marlin Butler, two Texas brothers who ran an illegal hunting operation in southern Kansas. Promising guided hunts for thousands of dollars, they led clients into a web of poaching, fraud, and federal crimes. Join us as we explore how their disregard for wildlife laws resulted in hefty prison sentences and lasting impacts on the hunting community. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 26 March 2025

In the 1970s, the legend of Cropsey haunted Staten Island — a terrifying tale of a hook-handed boogeyman who preyed on children. But when real girls began disappearing, the community’s urban legend morphed into a horrifying reality. At the center of it all was Andre Rand, a drifter with a dark past and chilling ties to the infamous Willowbrook State School. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 25 March 2025

Paloma Galzi is an experienced forensic artist that works to help law enforcement agencies and families get answers about missing and murdered children. She has a Master's of Science in Forensic Art from the University of Dundee in Scotland, which is the only program of its kind in the world.  Paloma joins True Crimecast today to talk about her training, the types of cases she works with, the techniques involved in forensic art, and advice for anyone interested in the field. Find Paloma Galzi on TikTok or Instagram to see examples of her amazing work and breathtaking images: @galziforensics. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

In the summer of 1933, oil tycoon Charles Urschel was enjoying a quiet evening at home when a sudden intrusion changed everything. Machine Gun Kelly, one of the most infamous gangsters of the era, and his accomplice stormed in, kidnapping Urschel and demanding a massive ransom. But what they didn’t count on was Urschel’s sharp mind and the relentless pursuit of the FBI. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 21 March 2025

As we wait to receive and read all 80,000 pages coming our way, here is the history of the files behind the most notorious assassinations in US history. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

As we wait to receive and read all 80,000 pages coming our way, here is the history of the files behind the most notorious assassinations in US history.

Transcribed - Published: 19 March 2025

Carnell Sledge and Katherine Brown were shot and killed after meeting up at a nearby park. Over 5 years later, their families and authorities have no answers as to who is responsible for their murders. Can this case ever be solved? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 18 March 2025

Ricky McCormick's body was found in a cornfield. His murder remains unsolved to this day. However, a 2 page coded letter was found in his pocket. Could the case be solved if the code is deciphered? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 14 March 2025

Frank Sinatra Sr. was a major success and wildly popular in the 1960's. His fame and fortune made his son, 19 year old Frank Sinatra Jr., a target for a ransom payment. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 12 March 2025

On November 13, 2022, the quiet college town of Moscow, Idaho, was shaken by the brutal murders of four University of Idaho students: Madison Mogen, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Ethan Chapin. As investigators worked to piece together the chilling crime scene, speculation ran rampant—fueled by internet sleuths, conflicting reports, and a community desperate for answers. In this episode, we take you through the victims’ final hours, the investigation that led authorities to suspect Bryan Kohberger, and the legal proceedings that have left the public with more questions than answers. With court records sealed and a gag order in place, what do we really know? And what happens when true crime meets the internet age? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 11 March 2025

What happens when a would-be car thief picks the wrong vehicle for a quick escape? Chaos, comedy, and a whole lot of grinding gears. In this episode of True Crime To-Go, we head to Billerica, Massachusetts, where one man’s big heist was foiled by his own lack of driving skills. A stolen Toyota Corolla, a manual transmission, and a parking lot performance no one asked for—this is the story of the thief who couldn't handle a clutch. Buckle up (or at least try to), and get ready for a wild ride—sort of. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 7 March 2025

A web of corruption, millions in illicit profits, and a gambling mastermind on the run—this is the story of Shane Hennen, the self-proclaimed betting expert at the center of one of the biggest point-shaving scandals in modern sports. From suspicious betting patterns in college and professional basketball to high-profile players caught in the crossfire, this case exposes just how deep the influence of illegal gambling runs. Join us as we uncover the shocking details, from Hennen’s criminal past to the FBI’s relentless pursuit of justice. Is this just the tip of the iceberg? Tune in to find out. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 5 March 2025

In this chilling episode, we dive into the tragic and senseless murder of 16-year-old Skylar Neese, a bright and promising honor student from West Virginia. Skylar was last seen sneaking out of her bedroom window on July 6, 2012—never to return home. As her desperate parents searched for answers, Skylar’s so-called best friends, Sheila Eddy and Rachel Shoaf, played the part of concerned friends, even assisting in the search.Months later, a shocking confession revealed the horrifying truth: Skylar’s disappearance was not a runaway case, but a cold-blooded murder planned by the two girls she trusted most. Their chilling motive? They simply "didn’t want to be friends with her anymore." Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 4 March 2025

Yesenia Torres was gunned down in broad daylight in what appeared to be a robbery gone wrong. However, the investigation into her murder shows us a more sinister plot.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 28 February 2025

Ashley Cross thought she had a clever idea that would allow her to steal from stores and never get caught. However, she is now behind bars and never allowed in any US Walmart. How much do you have to steal to be banned from every Walmart in America? Find out now in today's Episode of True Crimecast. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 26 February 2025

When a beloved chef is gunned down in his own kitchen, investigators follow a trail that leads them to an unexpected suspect—his wife, Nancy Crampton-Brophy. A romance novelist with a dark imagination, Nancy once wrote an essay titled How to Murder Your Husband, outlining motives and methods eerily similar to Dan Brophy’s real-life murder. Was it a crime of passion, or a plot straight from her own writing? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 25 February 2025

Rachel Hoffman was not a seasoned criminal. She was a young woman who was put in a dangerous situation by a police department too eager to make a drug arrest. Rachel was asked to be a confidential informant in order to get a minor drug charge reduced. This request would prove to be a deadly one, as she did not make it out alive. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 21 February 2025

15-year-old Nicole van den Hurk disappeared in 1995, and her body was discovered weeks later. Years would pass slowly and each one brought no answers about who had taken her life. In a desperate act of urgency, her stepbrother did the unthinkable. Find out more on today's episode of True Crime to Go.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 19 February 2025

Kaitlyn Braun posed as a vulnerable, pregnant woman in need of support—but it was all a lie. Over the years, she manipulated dozens of compassionate doulas with elaborate stories of sexual assault, stillbirths, cancer, and medical trauma, taking advantage of their kindness and dedication. Her deception left lasting emotional scars on those who tried to help her, causing financial loss, PTSD, and even driving some doulas away from their profession.In this episode, we break down the shocking details of Braun’s web of lies, the psychological factors behind her behavior, and how her actions led to over 50 criminal charges. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 18 February 2025

Subscribe to YOU SHOULD BE HERE wherever you get podcasts and don't miss an episode of Or, NO, out now. 17 cases of victims of domestic violence. 17 loved ones who should be here. 17 loved ones who deserved a safe love. 10 podcasters come together to tell their stories, one case at a time.  Introducing the 100 percent not-for-profit fundraising podcast raising money to give back to organizations helping victims of crimes. Just by listening, you will help raise money. Each play means money is raised for victims. Thank YOU. You are wanted. You are needed. And you deserve a SAFE love. This is a Podcaster’s Give Back collaboration. All podcasters have donated their time and research to help advocate for victims of domestic violence. And we are raising money to give back to non profits which are standing  against domestic violence. If you or someone you love is a victim of violence, please contact the domestic violence hotline at 1800-799-7233. To donate, please visit buymeacoffee.com/youshouldbehere (http://buymeacoffee.com/youshouldbehere) . Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

Patrick Baker was convicted of homicide when he and two other men entered a home and killed a man in front of his pregnant wife and child. However, Patrick was pardoned by Governor Matt Bevin on his way out of office. How is this legal?!? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 14 February 2025

In Part II of Mayor Weddle's interview, he discusses a major corruption issue within the city of London. He shares openly why the city council and influential city members want him out of the office. And if he is correct, he believes his life may be in danger.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

Jamie and John interview London, Kentucky Mayor Randall Weddle regarding the tragic death of Douglas Harless. Douglas Harless was killed by London City Police while they executed a search warrant in Lily, Kentucky. However, they served the warrant at the wrong address.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 12 February 2025

In June 2007, what should have been a fun family trip turned into an unthinkable tragedy. Christopher Vaughn was found limping along a desolate Illinois road, bleeding from minor wounds—but inside the family SUV, his wife, Kimberly, and their three children were dead. What initially appeared to be a murder-suicide quickly unraveled into something far more complex. Was Christopher a grieving husband and father, or had he meticulously planned the murders to start a new life off the grid?  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 11 February 2025

On Monday, February 3, 2025, Highland Heights police responded to a call where they found Laura Hern deceased in her bed. She was dead upon arrival, and unfortunately had been for many days.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 7 February 2025

Jason Lottmann owned an elaborate mansion/wedding venue called Champagne Manner in North Carolina. Couples paid $20,000 - $50,000 for his full-service wedding experience. However, before their big day, they watched their dreams unravel before them.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 5 February 2025

Today's case was pulled from Patreon's archives due to an illness. We swore we would never cover this case. It is disturbing, violent, and downright evil. But we are nothing if not aware, and this is probably the most requested case that we have yet to cover. Here is the case of Fred and Rosemary West.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 4 February 2025

Learn about the controversial case of Pastor Chris Avell, a small-town minister from Bryan, Ohio, who faced legal repercussions for offering shelter to homeless individuals in his church. What began as a compassionate effort to provide refuge during harsh winters turned into a courtroom battle over zoning laws, fire codes, and the limits of humanitarian action. Join the discussion about the tension between public safety regulations and ethical obligations, exploring the broader implications of Pastor Avell’s case and the federal lawsuit that could redefine how cities balance compassion with compliance. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 31 January 2025

In today's episode, Jamie and John dive into the heartbreaking story of a 17-year-old North Dakota teenager who fell victim to a devastating online sextortion scheme. After he tragically took his own life, his family and law enforcement embarked on a relentless pursuit of justice. The investigation uncovered a global network of scammers and led to the arrest of Samuel Ebube, a California-based middleman who played a pivotal role in the operation. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 29 January 2025

Step back into 19th-century New York City for a tale of intrigue, heartbreak, and one of America’s earliest murder mysteries—the Manhattan Well Murder. In this episode, we uncover the tragic story of Gulielma "Elma" Sands, a young woman whose body was found in a well in 1799, sparking the nation’s first documented murder trial. Accused of the crime was Levi Weeks, a young carpenter with powerful connections, defended by none other than Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. From the mysterious events leading up to Elma’s disappearance to the courtroom drama that captivated a growing city, we dive into the complexities of the case and the questions that remain unanswered. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 28 January 2025

The Alphabet Murders remain one of America’s most chilling unsolved mysteries. Between 1971 and 1973, three young girls in Rochester, New York—Carmen Colon, Wanda Walkowicz, and Michelle Maenza—were brutally murdered. Each shared a haunting pattern: their first and last initials matched, and their bodies were discovered in locations beginning with the same letter. Was this killer ever caught? Or could he have continued his violent crimes elsewhere? Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 24 January 2025

Ruja Ignatova, the self-proclaimed "Crypto Queen," built an empire on deception, masterminding one of the largest cryptocurrency scams in history with her company, OneCoin. By the time authorities closed in, she had defrauded over three million people of an estimated $4 billion. Then, in 2017, she vanished without a trace. Join us as we explore Ignatova’s rise to infamy, the intricate web of lies behind OneCoin, and the lingering mystery of her disappearance. Where is Ruja Ignatova now, and will she ever face justice?  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 22 January 2025

This episode of True Crimecast unpacks the horrifying events of the Kandahar Massacre, a grim chapter in the history of the Afghanistan War. On March 11, 2012, Staff Sergeant Robert Bales embarked on a violent rampage, killing 16 Afghan civilians, including women and children, and leaving behind devastation in two small villages. Jamie and John examine Bales' troubled past, the psychological toll of war, and the systemic failures that may have contributed to his actions. They also explore the legal proceedings, international law implications, and the lasting impact on US-Afghan relations. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 21 January 2025

Mary Louise Day vanished from her Seaside, California, home in 1981, and for over two decades, her disappearance remained a haunting mystery. Unreported by her parents and investigated only years later, Mary’s case raised troubling questions about her tumultuous upbringing and the family dynamics that shaped her life. In a shocking twist, Mary reappeared in 2003, but her return brought more questions than answers. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 17 January 2025

When Gregory Glenn Biggs was struck by a car on a fateful night in 2001, the aftermath revealed a story that shocked the nation. Left lodged in the windshield of nursing assistant Chante Mallard’s car, Biggs’s life could have been saved—but instead, a series of incomprehensible decisions led to his tragic death.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 15 January 2025

Leslie "Mad Dog" Irvin was a cold-hearted American serial killer in the 1950's. His gruesome murders instilled a sense of panic and fear throughout Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky. His trial would become a hallmark Supreme Court case forever impacting media coverage and future trials.  Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 14 January 2025

Welcome, true-crime lovers, to New Year, New Binge 2025 Edition! What you’ll find included is your guide to an exciting lineup of podcasts that will make 2025 your best year for listening yet. New Years is a time for resolutions, and mine is simple: to share with you the most captivating, chilling, and downright binge-worthy true-crime podcasts. Whether you’re looking to uncover unsolved mysteries or dive into deep investigative storytelling, I’ve got you covered. Be sure to follow all of the podcasts you enjoyed so you never miss a new episode. Podcasts are listed below in the order in which you will be introduced to them: Part 1: Reverie True Crime https://linktr.ee/paigeelmore Fresh Hell Podcast https://freshhellpodcast.com/ Malice https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/malice-a-true-crime-podcast/id1471251398 Women & Crime https://www.womenandcrimepodcast.com True Crimecast https://linktr.ee/truecrimecast The Dark Oak Podcast thedarkoak.com Part 2: Coffee and Cases Podcast https://linktr.ee/coffeeandcases Heart Starts Pounding https://www.heartstartspounding.com/ Mortal Musings Podcast https://linktr.ee/mortalmusingspodcast True Crime Creepers https://linktr.ee/TrueCrimeCreepers Private Dicks Podcast https://linktr.ee/privatedicks Twisted Travel and True Crime https://linktr.ee/twistedtraveltruecrimepodcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-crimecast--4106013/support.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025