Burden of Proof
True crimeBurden of Proof is a True Crime Podcast run by two paralegals, who happen to be generations apart! Elysia (Gen X) and Savannah (Gen Z) met at their law firm, and discovered a lifelong bond and mutual love for true crime. Come with them as they tell each other a new case each week, and use their paralegal experience to breakdown the legalities of what happens when the criminals get caught!
Siste episoder av Burden of Proof podcast
- #TBT Case Number 66: Paul Stephen Kruse, Financial Advisor Turned Criminal (01:13:49)
Paul Kruse wasn't about the life he grew up in. He dreamed of living a life of luxury and he legitimately did for a little while. When things fell apart and he was forced to work for more modest means, he decided he was willing to lie, cheat and steal his way to the life he wanted. He might have gotten away with his scheme for longer had he not made gross advances toward the underage daughter of his assistant, Amy. She knew something was sketchy about his business and wanted him to pay for trying to take advantage of her child. Little did Amy know that turning him in to the FBI would be just the beginning! Tune in as Elysia gives all the details on this unbelievable case of fraud, pedophilia, and murder for hire and Savannah laughs until she "can't" and tries to end the show. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.cnbc.com/2016/07/27/how-to-blow-the-whistle-on-your-boss-and-live-to-tell-about-it.html https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/crime/2013/07/31/jacksonville-con-man-who-tried-hire-hitman-sentenced-30-years-prison/15820988007/ https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/jacksonville-man-convicted-orchestrating-scheme-defraud-attempting-murder-witness-and https://casetext.com/case/united-states-v-kruse-1 https://archives.fbi.gov/archives/jacksonville/press-releases/2013/florida-man-sentenced-to-30-years-in-prison-for-orchestrating-fraud-scheme-attempting-to-murder-witness-and-murder-for-hire https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca11/13-13787/13-13787-2015-02-10.html https://www.palmbeachfederaldefense.com/2023/06/the-application-of-the-sophisticated-means-enhancement-in-federal-fraud-cases#:~:text=The%20Sophisticated%20Means%20Enhancement%20holds,carry%20out%20the%20fraudulent%20scheme. https://www.justice.gov/action-center/locate-prison-inmate-or-sex-offender American Greed: A Mother's Costly Revenge S10 E3 Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- #TBT Case Number 49: The Gruesome Crimes of Taylor Schabusiness (00:56:47)
This week Savannah ventures way out of her comfort zone to give you all the details of Taylor Schabusiness and her crimes against Shad Thyrion, her former boyfriend. After Shad's mother found his head in a bucket at the bottom of her basement steps, police immediately found Taylor who was presumably the last person to see him alive. Taylor was literally caught red handed! Tune in to hear Savannah deep dive into all the gory details including what drove this woman to commit such atrocities as murders and changing her name to Schabusiness. For fun, you can create a game around how many times Elysia says "Oh my God!" or "Schabusiness!". Join the conversation! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://open.spotify.com/episode/423UisBKCJJWajgMeAEDY3?si=B7IPqIYZSau63QPOt0kgDA https://nypost.com/2023/07/27/taylor-schabusiness-guilty-of-kiling-lover-abusing-corpse/amp/ https://nypost.com/2023/07/26/taylor-schabusiness-describes-allegedly-dismembering-abusing-lovers-body/ https://www.greenbaypressgazette.com/story/news/2022/03/04/what-we-know-green-bay-decapitation-taylor-schabusiness-shad-thyrion/9363885002/ https://heavy.com/news/taylor-schabusiness-husband-warren-family/amp/ https://www.wearegreenbay.com/news/local-news/updates-from-the-courtroom-everything-that-happened-on-day-1-of-taylor-schabusinesss-trial/amp/ https://www.scribd.com/document/646744221/Schabusiness-Motion-to-Suppress https://www.distractify.com/p/why-did-taylor-schabusiness-attack-her-attorney https://www.sportskeeda.com/amp/pop-culture/news-what-happened-taylor-schabusiness-mom-brother-real-last-name-family-wake-father-s-trial-testimony Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- #TBT Case Number 28: Michael Drejka, The Handicap Parking Sheriff (01:23:27)
What happened when the residents of Clearwater, Florida parked in the only handicap parking at the local convenience store? Michael Drejka happened. Tune in as Elysia covers this controversial case that practically has it all including a wannabe law enforcement officer, racial conflict, a justifiable use of force defense, a spicy trial, and audio clips of a police interview that left Savannah speechless. Let us know what you think. Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://law.justia.com/cases/florida/second-district-court-of-appeal/2021/19-4385.html https://www.nationalreview.com/2018/07/mcglockton-shooting-gun-owners-outraged/ https://www.courttv.com/trials/fl-v-drejka-2019/ http://www.leg.state.fl.us/STATUTES/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0700-0799/0790/Sections/0790.06.html https://abcnews.go.com/US/shooter-florida-stand-ground-case-charged-manslaughter/story?id=57151343 Sheriff's Press Conference- July 20, 2018- Shooting Investigation- Unincorporated Clearwater http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0700-0799/0782/Sections/0782.02.html#:~:text=782.02%20Justifiable%20use%20of%20deadly,History. http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0776/Sections/0776.032.html Sheriff's Press Conference- Follow-Up to Markeis McGlockton Shooting Investigation- July 31, 2018 Video shows Michael Drejka shoot Markeis McGlockton | 10News WTSP Michael Drejka Police Interview Part 1 Michael Drejka Police Interview Part 2 Michael Drejka Police Interview Part 3 Full Michael Drejka sentencing Autopsy of Markeis McGlockton released by the Pinellas County medical examiner Search Pinellas County Criminal Records https://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/what-is-permitless-carry-understanding-floridas-gun-laws-in-light-of-new-bill/2962434/ Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- #TBT Case Number 9: The Weepy Voiced Killer: Paul Stephani (00:57:21)
What kind of murderer calls 911 after he brutally kills his victims and how does he get away with for 2 years? Find out when Savannah takes Elysia on this wild journey through the unbelievable actions of Paul Michael Stephani. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook! Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 115: The Covina Christmas Massacre (00:39:15)
On Christmas Eve 2008, the Ortega family held their annual holiday party with all their family and friends. As the party was winding down, Santa paid a visit as he had many years before. Unfortunately, it wasn't the Santa they all knew and loved. Instead of a bag full of goodies, he brought a nightmare that was unleashed on the entire family. Join us for this disturbing holiday tale as Elysia walks through the many twists and turns of the investigation and Savannah shames Santa. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Homicide for the Holidays: A Christmas Massacre, Season 1, Episode 3 https://www.latimes.com/local/la-me-santa-shooting31-2008dec31-story.html https://www.sgvtribune.com/2008/12/25/christmas-eve-massacre-leaves-9-dead-in-covina/ https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=6530779&page=1 Christmas Eve Santa Shootings https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/195422391/bruce_jeffrey-pardo https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/32414952/joseph_santiago-ortega/photo https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/32415013/sylvia-ortega/photo https://abc7.com/la-salle-high-school-katrina-yuzefpolsky-parkland-florida-shooting-national-student-walkout/3217340/ Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 114: The Wasp Woman Murder of Susan Cabot (00:39:04)
Susan Cabot, a rising Hollywood star in the 1950's, was known for her roles in cult classic films like The Wasp Woman. Unfortunately, her life off screen was marked by tragedy, failed romantic relationships and eventually mental health struggles. This in turn created the unhealthiest of dynamics between she and her only son, Timothy. In this episode, Savannah unravels the bizarre and heartbreaking events that led to her untimely death in 1986. Meanwhile, Elysia attempts to crawl straight out of her skin and out of the studio. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 113: The Murder of Yolanda Holmes (00:56:51)
Yolanda Holmes was a beloved pillar of her community in Chicago, Illinois where she owned a small business and raised her son, Qawmane Wilson. After a night of rekindling a romance with her former boyfriend, Yolanda was killed while lying in bed next to him. According to him, there was an intruder that shot her before he could react but the two men fought until the gunman got away. The problem with his story was there was no forced entry into the high rise apartment. Detectives spent over a year following leads on more than 80 pieces of evidence only to find that the person responsible was in front of them the entire time. Tune in as Elysia shares the investigation ups and downs and Savannah suffers from whiplash. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Sleeping With Death: Bad Blood, Season 1, Episode 3 https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/3-arrested-for-murder-of-woman-allegedly-arranged-by-son/ https://www.chicagotribune.com/2013/12/24/police-son-had-mom-killed-to-get-at-bank-account-insurance-policies/ https://chicago.suntimes.com/2019/3/1/18481677/what-s-wrong-with-you-detective-asked-man-on-trial-for-murdering-his-mother https://www.investigationdiscovery.com/crimefeed/murder/aspiring-chicago-rapper-sentenced-to-99-years-in-mother-s-murder https://www.uptownupdate.com/2019/03/guilty-verdicts-for-murderer-and-son.html NICK GIVING BACK TO HIS FANS PART 1 https://www.idoc.state.il.us/subsections/search/inms_print.asp?idoc=Y41192 https://www.idoc.state.il.us/subsections/search/inms_print.asp?idoc=Y41721 https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/122627629/yolanda-holmes https://ilcourtsaudio.blob.core.windows.net/antilles-resources/resources/c840e262-bb89-441e-83c9-35e2aae42130/People%20v.%20Wilson,%202023%20IL%20App%20(1st)%20200702-U.pdf https://ilcourtsaudio.blob.core.windows.net/antilles-resources/resources/52906259-41ff-4f8b-afd6-0364c5aa979e/People%20v.%20Spencer,%202023%20IL%20App%20(1st)%20200646-U.pdf Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 112: The Disappearance of Danielle Locklear (00:34:55)
When Danielle Locklear left home on March 11, 2014 saying she was running to a friend's house down the street, her family had no idea their lives were about to change forever. After she failed to return, police were slow to act until her family tracked down the first clues that indicated she did not run away. Several potential suspects were ruled out including Danielle's on again/off again boyfriend, Je'Michael Malloy. However, his alibi turned out to be a clever scheme. Tune in as Savannah walks us through the investigation and elimination of suspects while Elysia becomes enraged at the motive for this tragic crime. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.cbs17.com/news/local-news/cumberland-county-news/ex-boyfriend-has-2042-prison-release-date-a-decade-after-hope-mills-teen-girls-murder/ https://www.oxygen.com/final-moments/crime-news/jemichael-malloy-dominic-lock-behind-danielle-locklears-murder https://myfox8.com/news/north-carolina/monday-marks-10-years-since-north-carolina-teen-danielle-locklear-was-murdered/ https://people.com/teen-didnt-return-home-boyfriend-questioned-inside-case-of-danielle-locklear-10-years-later-8679081 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/murdered-danielle-locklear/id1710293202?i=1000670906922 https://www.oxygen.com/final-moments/season-1/episode-5/videos/what-happened-to-danielle-locklear https://www.peacocktv.com/watch/playback/vod/GMO_00000000428307_01/a4f99df6-8178-3a36-9c55-287da218c6d8?paused=true https://www.fayobserver.com/story/news/crime/2018/05/04/danielle-locklear-case-dateline-examines-hope-mills-murder/12313762007/ https://www.wbtw.com/news/man-involved-in-2014-murder-of-nc-teen-danielle-locklear-to-be-sentenced-monday/ https://www.wral.com/ex-boyfriend-sentenced-to-25-31-years-in-hope-mills-girl-s-death/15687965/ https://www.oxygen.com/final-moments/season-1/episode-5/videos/what-happened-to-danielle-locklear Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 111: The Robertson Family, A Very Ungrateful Thanksgiving (00:42:57)
When Earl and Terry Robertson were found slaughtered in their home just days before Thanksgiving, detectives were stunned at how such horrific murders could take place in their small town of Rock Hill, South Carolina. It did not take them long to determine the Robertson family were not as picture perfect as they seemed, especially Earl and Terry's eldest son, Jimmy Robertson. Tune in as Elysia breaks down how the events unfolded, who was involved and why a family that seemed to have it all fell apart. Meanwhile, Savannah tries to make it make sense. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Family Massacre: The Rogers Family, Season 1, Episode 10 Forensic Files: Water Logged, Season 14, Episode 8 https://projects.tampabay.com/projects/classics/angels-and-demons/ https://law.justia.com/cases/florida/supreme-court/1997/84812-0.html https://library.law.fsu.edu/Digital-Collections/flsupct/dockets/84812/84812ans.pdf https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14143195/joan_mae_rogers https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14143204/michelle_lee_rogers https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14143213/christe-eugenia-rogers https://www.tampabay.com/narratives/2019/06/05/from-2011-i-dont-need-any-closure-hal-rogers-rebuilds-his-life-oba-chandler-is-about-to-lose-his/ Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 110: The Pizza Thrill Kills, A Deadly Slice of Chaos (00:40:11)
In this bizarre and horrifying case, what began as a couple of outcast teenagers breaking the rules escalated into breaking the law and eventually committing the ultimate sin. On a seemingly ordinary night Tony's Pizza and Pasta took one last delivery order. Due to the late hour, owner Giorgio Gallara refused to let his teen driver, Jeremy Giordano go it alone. Unfortunately for them both, this delivery turned into a nightmare of mayhem and cold-blooded murder. Tune in as Savannah shares the unsettling motives and the shocking aftermath. Finally, Elysia asks the question she believes is on everyone's mind but is extremely disappointed with the answer! Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: "The Pizza Killers: Just for the Thrill of it" by David Laiosa https://www.njherald.com/story/news/crime/2017/04/19/1997-thrill-killings-2-pizza/4127116007/ https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/world-news/chilling-case-baby-faced-pizza-31912103 https://www.njherald.com/story/news/crime/2017/04/16/franklin-man-writes-book-on/4127006007/ https://law.justia.com/cases/new-jersey/appellate-division-unpublished/2010/a1697-07-opn.html https://law.justia.com/cases/new-jersey/supreme-court/2001/a-22-99-opn.html https://www.njherald.com/story/news/crime/2017/04/19/1997-thrill-killings-2-pizza/4127116007/ Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 109: The Michael Reese Murder, A Sinister Betrayal (00:52:07)
When Michael Reese was found murdered in his Alabama home, it initially appeared as a burglary gone wrong. However, as investigators dug deeper into this very average joe's life, they uncovered a chilling conspiracy involving his wife, Cindy Reese, and their former Pastor, Jeff Brown. Tune in as Elysia unravels the details of this case, examining the motives, the evidence, and the web of lies that ultimately led to Cindy's conviction. Meanwhile, Savannah gets swept away in the small town Baptist Church gossip. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Dateline: Even the Devil Went to Church, Season 29, Episode 9 https://www.al.com/life/2023/03/the-milos-fries-that-broke-a-murder-case-true-crime-legend-gets-chrissy-teigens-attention.html https://www.al.com/news/birmingham/2019/06/woman-who-killed-husband-execution-style-sent-to-work-release-after-less-than-3-years-in-prison.html https://www.the-sun.com/news/7310611/cindy-reese-murder-dateline-alabama/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-henderson-reese-9b6b1640 https://abc3340.com/news/local/woman-who-killed-husband-to-be-with-lover-denied-appeal https://www.the-sun.com/news/7311360/who-cindy-henderson-michael-reese-where-dateline/ Snapped: Bonus Clip - Cindy Reese Talks To Investigators (Season 23, Episode 17) | Oxygen Snapped: Bonus Clip - Jeff Brown Talks To Investigators (Season 23, Episode 17) | Oxygen https://doc.alabama.gov/InmateHistory.aspx https://doc.alabama.gov/docs/PublicFemaleInmateHandbook.pdf Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 108: Patricia Rorrer, Femme Fatale or Faultlessly Framed? Presented by Buried Motives (01:14:32)
Join us for this very special episode where Christie and Melissa from Buried Motives presents their coverage of the Patricia Rorrer case! When Joann Katrinak and her 4 month old baby, Alex, went missing all detectives eyes were on her husband, Andy. That is until their bodies were found and evidence suggested that Andy's claims about his ex-girlfriend, Patty, started making sense. Was Patty spurred on by a jealous rage over the life she had wanted with Andy or did they conspire to set her up? Tune in as Melissa presents the evidence and Christie, Savannah, and Elysia share their thoughts on whether Patty is a dirtbag or not. If you like what you've heard, checkout Buried Motives wherever you listen: https://buriedmotives.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/buried-motives/id1579516226 https://open.spotify.com/show/0EkGXVJtQnMJeFa9gox4TB Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 107: Carly Gregg, The Deadly Daughter (00:46:04)
In the suburb of Brandon, Mississippi, Ashley and Heath Smylie were, by all accounts, doing their best to raise their family in a loving and healthy home. This included Carly Gregg, Ashley's daughter from a previous marriage. From the outside everything appeared pretty normal. Unfortunately, Carly's thoughts were anything but typical. Basically leading a double life, even her friends grew concerned. When one of them informed Ashley of the trouble, conflict arose and Carly made a deadly decision. Tune in as Savannah breaks down the facts for us and shows off her impeccable geography skills. Meanwhile, Elysia is absolutely heartbroken over this entirely preventable case. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/crime/carly-gregg-murder-trial-verdict-b2616303.html https://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2024/09/18/defense-carly-madison-gregg-expects-first-witness-in-murder-trial/75244116007/ https://www.wlbt.com/2024/09/26/first-interview-carly-greggs-biological-father-says-he-hopes-she-finds-jesus/ https://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2024/09/17/carly-madison-gregg-stepfather-heath-smylie-testifies-in-murder-trial/75244108007/ https://www.reddit.com/r/CarlyGregg/comments/1flvad0/how_did_carlys_sister_die/ https://www.wapt.com/article/carly-gregg-mother-murder-trial-day-4/62277234 Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 106: Buried Secrets, The Bonnie Haim Murder (01:01:49)
23-year-old Bonnie Haim, a young mother from Jacksonville, Florida, mysteriously disappeared in January of 1993. Initially a missing person's case, detectives' suspicion of foul play arose quickly with Michael Haim, Bonnie's Husband, at the center of the investigation. Bonnie had been preparing to leave her marriage and making plans to start a new life with their young son, Aaron. The case went cold for over two decades, until a shocking discovery in 2014. This episode dives into the years of mystery, the unraveling of the case, and the emotional toll on Aaron, who had always believed his father was guilty. Tune in as Elysia reveals how justice was finally served and sends shivers down Savannah's spine with the words of a child. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Dateline: She Never Left, Season 27, Episode 40 https://www.jacksonville.com/story/news/crime/2019/05/21/judge-sentences-michael-haim-to-life-in-prison-for-wifes-death/986718007/ https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/fl-district-court-of-appeal/2124129.html https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2023/05/02/jacksonville-man-who-killed-wife-in-1993-again-appeals-conviction-now-claiming-ineffective-counsel/ Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 105: Kirsten Costas, The Death of a Cheerleader (00:47:22)
In this episode, we dive into the tragic case of Kirsten Costas, a 15 year old high school student and cheerleader from the quiet suburb of Orinda, California, whose life was cut short by a fatal act of jealousy. Kirsten was lured out under false pretenses by her classmate Bernadette Protti and the evening took a horrifying turn. What drove this deadly encounter between the two girls? We explore the toxic pressures of high school popularity, envy, and the shocking lengths Bernadette went to fit in. We discuss the events leading up to Kirsten's death and discuss the dynamics behind this heartbreaking crime. Join us as Savannah examines how the intense desire to belong can sometimes lead to devastating consequences and Elysia asks all the questions no one can answer. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://murderpedia.org/female.P/p/protti-bernadette.htm https://loriajohnston.medium.com/kirsten-costas-the-real-life-death-of-a-cheerleader-95bc7b3f393 https://www.reddit.com/r/TrueCrime/comments/o6eupy/37_years_ago_today_kirsten_costas_15_was_murdered/ https://clickamericana.com/topics/crime/the-real-death-of-a-cheerleader-1985 https://data.bls.gov/cgi-bin/cpicalc.pl?cost1=500&year1=198407&year2=202408 https://deadlywomen.fandom.com/wiki/Bernadette_Protti#:~:text=She%20had%20several%20older%20sisters,wealthier%20friends%2C%20including%20Kirsten%20Costas. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qrGrV51egc&t=893s https://www.tuko.co.ke/facts-lifehacks/435391-the-story-bernadette-protti-everything-know/#google_vignette Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 104: The Rogers Family Murders (01:34:30)
In this episode, we dive into the haunting case of the Rogers family murders also known as the Tampa Bay murders, a crime that shocked Florida in 1989. While on a dream vacation, Joan Rogers and her two daughters, Michelle and Christe, were lured onto a boat by Oba Chandler. What started as a friendly offer turned into a horrific crime when the family was bound, assaulted, and thrown into Tampa Bay to drown. Tune in as Elysia unravels the chilling details of this tragic case, the investigation that followed, and how Chandler was ultimately caught and brought to justice years later. Meanwhile, Savannah gags at the thought of a dairy farm life. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Family Massacre: The Rogers Family, Season 1, Episode 10 Forensic Files: Water Logged, Season 14, Episode 8 https://projects.tampabay.com/projects/classics/angels-and-demons/ https://law.justia.com/cases/florida/supreme-court/1997/84812-0.html https://library.law.fsu.edu/Digital-Collections/flsupct/dockets/84812/84812ans.pdf https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14143195/joan_mae_rogers https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14143204/michelle_lee_rogers https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14143213/christe-eugenia-rogers https://www.tampabay.com/narratives/2019/06/05/from-2011-i-dont-need-any-closure-hal-rogers-rebuilds-his-life-oba-chandler-is-about-to-lose-his/ Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 103: Beneath the Garden, The Bruce McArthur Murders (00:56:10)
In this episode we unravel the horrifying story of Bruce McArthur, a seemingly harmless landscaper who preyed on Toronto's LGBTQ+ community. From his unsuspecting double life to the slow investigation that uncovered his gruesome crimes, we discuss each layer of the case. We touch on the lives of his victims, the mistakes and breakthroughs that shaped the investigation, and the broader social context surrounding Toronto's marginalized communities. This episode isn't just about the crimes; it's about the resilience of a community, the failures of a system, and the haunting question of how evil can sometimes hide in plain sight. Tune in as Savannah pieces together how McArthur was able to evade capture for so long - and how he was finally brought to justice. Meanwhile, Elysia is completely baffled by how someone with such violent tendencies waited so long to act on them. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://torontosun.com/news/local-news/hunter-what-made-serial-killer-bruce-mcarthur-tick https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/mcarthur-investigation-timeline-1.4697727 https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/a-timeline-of-the-toronto-police-investigation-into-bruce-mcarthur-and-the-gay-village-serial/article_373b4ce0-a463-5f5f-a28b-366a57d112db.html https://www.grunge.com/377322/heres-what-we-know-about-serial-killer-bruce-mcarthurs-childhood/ https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/bruce-mcarthur-documents-released-1.4724392 Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 102: The Deadly Stalking of Kay Weden (00:46:51)
Kay was just your typical single mother who was trying to find companionship, love and perhaps a good role model for her son, Jason. In December of 1993, she thought she may have found just that with Victor Gunnarsson. Right when Kay thought the relationship was moving forward though, Victor disappeared. She didn't have much time to worry about Victor's disappearance because just six days later, Kay's mother, Catherine Miller, was murdered. With little to no evidence at the scene, detectives pressed Kay for any information that could help. It turned out she and Jason had been receiving threatening letters and calls, but they had no proof it was connected to Catherine's murder. When Victor's body was found in January of 1994, all signs began pointing at Kay's ex fiance, LC Underwood. Tune in as Savannah unknowingly opens the episode perfectly with the perils of dating (especially with a large age gap). Elysia then gives her emotional whiplash in this unbelievable but true story about how one bad relationship can ruin so many lives. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: Forensic Files: To the Viktor, Season 10, Episode 39 Dead of Winter: Cold Blue, Season 2, Episode 2 https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/nc-court-of-appeals/1435151.html https://casetext.com/case/underwood-v-harkleroad#:~:text=FACTUAL%20AND%20PROCEDURAL%20BACKGROUND,and%20murder%20of%20Viktor%20Gunnarsson. https://www.wbtv.com/story/11823288/judge-orders-new-trial-for-cop-convicted-of-murder/ https://www.salisburypost.com/2011/01/12/no-new-trial-for-l-c-underwood/ https://www.wataugademocrat.com/news/convicted-felon-former-officer-dies-while-serving-sentence-for-25-year-old-murder/article_122572e8-7598-58ce-b4ee-8d36d0f5f428.html https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/206535233/lamont_claxton-underwood/photo Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 101: The Heavenly Creatures Murder AKA The Parker-Hulme Murder (00:50:13)
Pauline Parker and Juliet Hulme were just your typical teenage girls living in Christchurch, New Zealand in the 1950's, or so everyone thought. The pair became fast friends through their mutual health issues that excluded them from gym class. Then, they just as quickly established their mutual love for all things dark and depraved. The girls' became obsessed with each other and with living out their disturbing fantasies. Pauline's parents in particular became extremely concerned with the relationship. So, when Juliet's parents, Henry and Hilda Hulme, decided to ship her to South Africa, Pauline knew her mother, Honorah Parker, would stop her from going with Juliet. Tune in as Savannah details the unbelievable plan and flawless execution Pauline and Juliet conducted. Meanwhile, Elysia is simply befuddled as to why they would ever think it would work. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://nzhistory.govt.nz/parker-hulme-murder https://www.criminalbroads.com/episodes/2021/8/11/the-parker-hulme-murder-case https://youtu.be/3ZNxBbRb2Co?si=LxA7Jp1lcXiBvyts https://allthatsinteresting.com/pauline-parker-juliet-hulme https://wondery.com/shows/morbid-a-true-crime-podcast/episode/10863-heavenly-creatures-the-parker-hulme-murder/ https://christchurchcitylibraries.com/Heritage/Digitised/ParkerHulme/Page23.asp Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case 100: Belva Gaertner and Beulah Annan, He Had It Comin' (01:21:09)
To celebrate our 100th case, we discuss the women who inspired Maureen Dallas Watkins' play and longest running musical, Chicago. During the height of prohibition the beautiful and classy pair ended up in Cook County's murderess row after being charged with the murders of their lovers. Belva Gaertner, the real life counterpart to Velma Kelly, was accused of shooting her lover after a drunken fight in her own car. After weeks of dominating the newspaper headlines, she had competition when Beulah Annan, counterpart to Roxie Hart, joined the cell block after shooting her lover while her husband was at work. Join in as Savannah and Elysia put on their 100 year old personas and dance to Hula Lou, Beulah's favorite song. We discuss the crimes, trials, and how it was that they were acquitted. Don't forget to let us know if you've seen Chicago for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: "The Girls of Murder City: Fame, Lust, and the Beautiful Killers Who Inspired Chicago" by Douglas Perry https://www.chicagohistory.org/true-crime-beulah-annan/ https://chicagology.com/notorious-chicago/beaulahandbelva/ https://www.chicagotribune.com/2023/03/09/photos-chicagos-murderess-row-in-1924-and-all-that-jazz/ https://blog.history.in.gov/maurine-dallas-watkins-sob-sisters-pretty-demons-and-all-that-jazz/ Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://archive.org/details/78_hula-lou_california-ramblers-milton-charles-and-wayne-king_gbia0430195a
- Case Number 99: John List, The Boogeyman of Westfield (01:04:36)
Possibly America's most infamous family annihilator, John Emil List shocked all of the country in 1971 when he killed his mother, wife and three children before fleeing New Jersey. Convinced he was "saving their souls" the devoutly religious Lutheran saw the death as the only way they would be accepted into Heaven. Perhaps more shocking than their murders was the well laid plan that gave John an entire month head start before detectives would be looking for him. He made a clean getaway assuming a new identity as Bob Clark and living a new but very similar life for 18 years. Tune in as Savannah details what drove this seemingly devoted family man to kill his entire family and Elysia really commits to John's theory that a man should just work hard. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.upi.com/Archives/1990/04/12/Chronology-of-John-Emil-List/6707639892800/ https://www.americas-most-haunted.com/2016/06/28/twisted-mind-family-annihilator-john-list/ https://www.historic-newspapers.com/blog/the-list-murders/ https://fatherwantsusdead.com/ https://www.historydefined.net/john-list/ https://allthatsinteresting.com/john-list https://abcnews.go.com/2020/story?id=132646&page=1 Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case Number 98: Ariel Castro, The Monster of Cleveland (01:57:43)
The working class community on the west side of Cleveland, Ohio were shocked when two teenage girls went missing almost exactly one year apart. Little did they know another young woman had been taken before that as well. All three victims had one thing in common. They knew who the perpetrator was. Ariel Castro was fairly well known on the west side. Many people thought they knew the Little Puerto Rico neighborhood resident, but on May 6, 2013 they found out the horrific truth. Michelle Knight, Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus had been abducted by Ariel and spent the better part of a decade being tortured. Tune in as Elysia dives into how Ariel lived a double life for so long without getting caught and Savannah talks a lot about pitchforks. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: The Cleveland Kidnappings "Hope: A Memoir of Survival in Cleveland" by Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus https://abc.com/episode/a6ad4d49-3c5a-42db-bc20-ec60ce22a45c https://www.biography.com/crime/ariel-castro https://www.usnews.com/news/newsgram/articles/2013/06/12/ariel-castro-pleads-not-guilty-to-kidnapping-rape-and-murder-charges https://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/2014/05/ariel_castro_files_documents_o.html https://www.cleveland.com/court-justice/2014/05/ariel_castro_files_kidnapper_a.html https://vladimiraras.blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/plea-agreement-ariel-castro.pdf https://mediaassets.news5cleveland.com/uploads/wews_castro_sentencing.PDF https://transcripts.cnn.com/show/ng/date/2013-08-01/segment/01 Books mentioned in this episode: "Finding Me: A Decade of Darkness, a Life Reclaimed" by Michelle Knight "Life After Darkness" by Michelle Knight now known as Lily Rose Lee Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case Number 97: Heaven's Gate Cult, The End of Times (00:50:14)
We pick up after Ti has died and Do shifts the group's focus with a slightly more religious view and a little less sci fi perspective. Though, they still very much prepare to "graduate" to the alien ship that they believe Ti will now send for them. In order to shed more of their humanity, many of the members make major physical sacrifices. The 1990's gave them a renewed hope that the computer age would both keep the income flowing and assist them in spreading their message to the masses. However, Do's videos met more ridicule than popularity. Still, they held on that their ship would come and believed that it had when reports of a UFO following the 1997 sighting of the comet Hale-Bopp. Unfortunately, their belief led to the largest mass suicide by willing participants in U.S. history. Tune in as Savannah shares the weirdly peaceful ending to the group and Elysia explains why she would likely never get caught up in a cult. Don't forget to leave us your Heaven's Gate name or the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.max.com/shows/heavens-gate-the-cult-of-cults/83f1cb47-bce8-4e60-a9d3-9153e5d4c455 https://academic.oup.com/jcmc/article/3/3/JCMC334/4584381 https://daily.jstor.org/behind-the-curtain-of-the-heavens-gate-cult/ https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/42491283/steven_terry-mccarter https://www.heavensgate.com https://www.amazon.com/Father-Jesus-Heavens-Gate-Witnesses/dp/152465762X https://people.com/crime/heavens-gate-cult-suicide-remembering-lives-lost/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/national/longterm/cult/overview.htm Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case Number 97: Heaven's Gate Cult, The Early Days (00:55:31)
When Marshall "Herff" Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles met during a stint in the psych ward of their local hospital, the pair hit it off instantly. They decided to go on a spiritual journey together once released and left their lives behind. Influenced by a number of spiritual, religious and cultural practices, they came to the conclusion that they were to lead a group of people to Heaven. However, they viewed Heaven different than most. Traveling the west coast, they made strides in recruiting members to their group until a couple of curious sociologists infiltrated the group and made what they learned public. The group abruptly stopped recruiting and even made cuts to those already following. That's when things grew even stranger. Tune in as Savannah breaks down the beginning of this long running cult and the critical turning point that shaped its future. Meanwhile, Elysia strives to maintain composure though her head wants the implode. Don't forget to leave us your Heaven's Gate name or the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.max.com/shows/heavens-gate-the-cult-of-cults/83f1cb47-bce8-4e60-a9d3-9153e5d4c455 https://academic.oup.com/jcmc/article/3/3/JCMC334/4584381 https://daily.jstor.org/behind-the-curtain-of-the-heavens-gate-cult/ https://www.amazon.com/Father-Jesus-Heavens-Gate-Witnesses/dp/152465762X/ref=asc_df_152465762X/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693413892191&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3777191151684894304&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9052080&hvtargid=pla-944822343526&psc=1&mcid=963616406ae53e10bc8bd071f4f027c7&gad_source=1 Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181
- Case Number 96: Sarah Jo Pender, The Alleged Mastermind (01:05:34)
Within a two month period, Sarah went from being a young woman who created a promising future for herself to housing three unemployed criminals. Her new boyfriend, Richard Hull, had vouched for his friend, Andrew Cataldi and Andrew's girlfriend, Tricia Nordman. Then Sarah met the couple and she thought they were great! Unfortunately, Sarah quickly learned why some people do judge a book by it's cover. Within another two months of living together, life as she knew it was gone and all that was left was a defunct drug business and two bodies. Tune in as Elysia shares the many cringe worthy decisions Sarah made along the way and why a growing number of people (including the man who prosecuted her) believe she is innocent. Meanwhile, Savannah gives her best "babe" impression. Don't forget to leave us the weekly emoji for your Sunday shoutout! Find us on Instagram and Facebook! Sources: https://www.audible.com/podcast/Sarah-Jo-Pender/B08W4KN5JW https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2003/12090302-smb.html https://murderpedia.org/female.P/p/pender-sarah.htm https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/in-court-of-appeals/1219359.html https://www.sj-r.com/story/news/2008/12/21/indiana-prison-escapee-arrested-in/44214832007/ https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-insd-1_14-cv-01287/pdf/USCOURTS-insd-1_14-cv-01287-0.pdf https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-insd-1_14-cv-01287/pdf/USCOURTS-insd-1_14-cv-01287-3.pdf https://casetext.com/case/pender-v-peckham-2 https://progressive.org/magazine/fixing-their-mistakes-law/ https://citybase-cms-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/c7ff0713d8ff4b5da139b6c676f638c7.pdf Women Behind Bars (Full Length Prison Documentary) | Our Life https://fox59.com/news/indycrime/lawyer-asks-for-sara-penders-murder-convictions-to-be-overturned/ https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/09/prosecutor-says-womans-guilty-verdict-not-fair/2404247/ https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/crime/he-once-called-her-the-female-charles-manson-now-this-prosecutor-believes-sarah-jo-pender-deserves-freedom https://www.wrtv.com/news/local-news/crime/georgetown-students-seek-to-exonerate-indiana-prisoner-sarah-jo-pender-who-they-say-was-wrongly-convicted https://prisonsandjustice.georgetown.edu/news/making-an-exoneree-launches-sixth-cohort/?mc_cid=33f9881954&mc_eid=f75261fa09 https://www.in.gov/apps/indcorrection/ofs/ofs?previous_page=1&detail=128967 Graphic Art By: Taylor Poe Music By: https://www.fesliyanstudios.com/royalty-free-music/download/shady-business/2181