Truer Crime

Early Saturday morning, a man disguised as a police officer went door to door in the Minneapolis suburbs with a hit list. He shot State Senator John Hoffman and his wife. He murdered State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband. He nearly reached my own childhood senator, Ann Rest. This was a political assassination—and it happened in my hometown. In this bonus episode, Olivia and I walk through what we know, what we still don't, and the questions we can't stop asking: Could this have been prevented? Why was it so easy for the killer to impersonate authority? And what does accountability look like when the truth is still unfolding? We also speak with News Nation reporter Ben Entin, who traveled to Minnesota to cover the story as it happened, about what he's learned on the ground and what might come next. If you're looking for a way to support the Hortman family, Melissa and Mark's children have shared this GoFundMe: Support Colin and Sophie after their tragic loss To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the first episode of Nobody Should Believe Me's latest season, host Andrea Dunlop unpacks the origin story of Sophie Hartman — a young woman from Michigan who, by 25, had adopted two Zambian girls and written a memoir titled Crowns of Beauty. Andrea explores Sophie's evangelical roots, the savior narrative she constructed, and what it reveals about identity, motherhood, and power. Andrea is joined by Chad Goller-Sojourner — a performance artist and transracial adoption coach — who helps contextualize the complexities at play. If this episode grabs you, good news: the full season is out now. You can binge all of Nobody Should Believe Me wherever you get your podcasts. Check out the show notes: https://link.chtbl.com/NSBM2025 To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special crossover, Celisia joins Andrea Dunlop — host of Nobody Should Believe Me — for a Casefiles conversation on the Susan Smith case. In 1994, Smith falsely claimed a Black man had kidnapped her two sons. The truth was far more chilling — and her lie launched a national manhunt. Together, Celisia and Andrea unpack the media frenzy, the racial panic Smith weaponized, and what this case reveals about bias, mental health, and motherhood. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Manson murders have been told and retold—but rarely like this. In this special bonus episode, Anthony DiMaria, nephew of victim Jay Sebring, reveals the story behind the headlines. Anthony shares what it's like to grow up under the shadow of a crime that defined a generation, how the media erased Jay's humanity, and why so much of what we “know” about the Manson Family is wrong. From his uncle's groundbreaking influence on men's style to the disturbing truths Anthony uncovered about the parole process, this is a story about family, justice, and fighting to reclaim the truth. Follow Anthony's work: - Instagram: instagram.com/jaysebringfilm - Twitter/X: twitter.com/jaysebringfilm - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Jay-Sebring-Film-100056007829576/ - YouTube: youtube.com/@jaysebringcuttingtothetruth - Jay Sebring: Cutting to the Truth Book: geniusbookpublishing.com/products/jay-sebring-cutting-to-the-truth To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In October 1983, 23-year-old Timothy Coggins was brutally murdered in the small town of Sunny Side, Georgia. As his family grieved, they were met with menacing threats, warning them to back off from the investigation. Today's episode covers a case that had stayed cold for more than three decades, spotlighting a family that never stopped hoping for justice. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/timothy-coggins Truer Crime merch is here! Get your limited-edition shirt before they're gone: https://shop.tenderfoot.tv/products/take-care  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when a journalist discovers a supposed "serial killer" case might actually be a web of police corruption, informant murders, and small-town cover-ups? In this riveting follow-up to our Jeff Davis 8 episode, I go one-on-one with investigative reporter Ethan Brown, who spent years untangling the deaths of eight women in rural Louisiana. Brown reveals shocking new details - from his strange friendship with the prime suspect to death threats he received while investigating. He explains why local law enforcement might have wanted these women silenced, the horrifying connection between all eight victims, and why the case remains unsolved nearly two decades later. This isn't just another cold case - it's a frightening glimpse into what happens when those meant to protect become the ones to fear. The truth behind the Jeff Davis 8 is darker and more disturbing than any serial killer theory. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1983, a 10-year-old boy hunting with his father made a horrifying discovery beneath what locals called the hanging tree. A Black man's body, brutalized—stabbed in an X pattern that echoed the Confederate flag. A hate crime meant to send a message. A murder meant to stay buried. For 34 years, silence and fear kept the truth hidden. But when the past finally caught up to the present, a town was forced to reckon with its darkest secrets. This episode drops Monday, but if you can't wait, you don't have to. Listen to the full story now on Tenderfoot Plus. Subscribers get early access, ad-free listening, and exclusive content from over 30 shows. Head to TenderfootPlus.com to sign up. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Between 2005 and 2009, eight women were murdered in Louisiana's Jefferson Davis Parish. To this day, all eight murders remain unsolved. It's a story that drew the attention of New Orleans private investigator and author Ethan Brown, who uncovered a pattern of police misconduct, scandal, and investigative failures. In today's episode, we explore the mysteries of this small town, where the pursuit of justice has been thwarted at every turn, leaving a trail of frustration and unanswered questions. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/jeff-davis-8 Truer Crime merch is here! Get your limited-edition shirt before they're gone: https://shop.tenderfoot.tv/products/take-care  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After countless requests, Truer Crime's first-ever merchandise has officially launched! In this special announcement, Celisia reveals the limited-edition t-shirt featuring an exclusive inside reference that only dedicated listeners will understand. This isn't just a merch item—it's a conversation starter, community badge, and direct support for the future of Truer Crime. But act fast—this isn't a permanent offer. When they're gone, they're gone for good. Visit https://shop.tenderfoot.tv/products/take-care to claim yours before they sell out. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a small Louisiana town, eight women vanished over five years—their bodies discovered in canals and along desolate roads. As investigators dismissed them as troubled women living high-risk lives, families and witnesses pieced together a far more disturbing pattern of corruption and cover-ups. When private investigator Ethan Brown arrived to research these murders, he found a community paralyzed by fear, crime scenes compromised beyond recognition, and witnesses who kept dying after speaking out. The deeper he dug, the more the official narrative unraveled, revealing a system where those meant to protect the vulnerable might be the very people they needed protection from. What really happened to the Jeff Davis 8? And in a town where everyone has secrets, how far will some go to keep theirs buried? The episode drops Monday, but you can listen to the full story right now on Tenderfoot Plus. Get early access, ad-free listening, and exclusive content from over 30 shows. Head to tenderfootplus.com to sign up. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sonya Ivanoff was a rising star in Alaska's small, tight-knit community. A talented basketball player with dreams of a college career, she had her whole future ahead of her—until she was found murdered at just 19 years old. In the isolated town of Nome, investigators were left with few clues and fewer answers, as the case spiraled into a labyrinth of conflicting leads. In today's episode, we explore the haunting mystery behind Sonya's death and the unsettling questions it raises about power and justice in America. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/sonya-ivanoff To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Manson murders have been covered endlessly, turned into sensational headlines, Hollywood blockbusters, and pop culture mythology. But how do you tell this story differently—without glorifying the killers or repeating the same tired narrative? In this special behind-the-scenes episode, I sit down with my co-producer Olivia Heusinkveld to unpack the making of our two-part series on the Manson murders. We reveal the creative choices we wrestled with, the moments that shocked us most, and the parts of the story that didn't make it into the final episodes—but still haunt us. This conversation pulls back the curtain on what you thought you knew about one of America's most infamous crimes. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nineteen-year-old Sonya Ivanoff vanished on a rainy night in Nome, Alaska—only to be found days later, executed with a single bullet to the head. The search for answers would unravel a betrayal so profound it shook the entire community to its core. As witnesses step forward and the evidence mounts, the investigation reveals a chilling truth about those sworn to protect. This episode drops Monday, but you can listen to the full story right now on Tenderfoot Plus. Get early access, ad-free listening, and exclusive content from over 30 shows. Head to tenderfootplus.com to sign up. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the summer of 1969, California police hunted for the killers behind seven brutal deaths over two vicious nights. As the investigation zeroed in on Charles Manson and his cult followers, a shocking story began to emerge. What followed was a criminal trial like no other, marked by a revolving defense team, dramatic protests, and violent threats to witnesses. In this second installment of a two-part breakdown, we go deeper—and darker—to unravel the grisly murders that have haunted Americans for more than six decades. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/Manson-pt-2 To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles Manson's hold over his followers led to unimaginable violence, but what happened after the murders reveals an even more disturbing story. Part two explores the manhunt, the sensational trial that transfixed the nation, and the uncomfortable questions it raised about influence, accountability, and American culture itself. The episode drops Monday, but if you can't wait, you don't have to. You can listen to the full episode right now on Tenderfoot Plus. Subscribers get early access, ad-free listening, and exclusive content—not just for Truer Crime, but for over 30 shows and 500 episodes. If you're ready to hear the complete story now, head to tenderfootplus.com to sign up. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles Manson is a name synonymous with terror. But after decades of coverage, is there still something we're missing about one of the most notorious figures in American crime? What forces shape the narratives we think we know? In the first chapter of a two-part deep dive, we'll examine the Manson murders through a fresh lens, uncovering details that have long gone unnoticed. Sometimes, the most familiar stories require the closest look. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/Manson-pt-1 To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you heard our last episode, you already know the case against Toforest Johnson is riddled with problems—key witnesses recanted, no physical evidence tied him to the crime, and even the original prosecutor now says he deserves a new trial. But there's even more to this story. In this follow-up conversation, investigative journalist Beth Shelburne peels back the layers of the case and shares what she uncovered while making Earwitness. We go deep into the tangled web of unreliable witnesses, missed leads, and the political forces keeping Toforest behind bars. Beth also reveals disturbing new details—ones that never made it into the courtroom but could change everything. What happens when the truth is clear, but the system refuses to listen? And how close is Toforest to finally seeing justice? Listen in—because this fight is far from over. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles Manson is one of the most infamous figures in true crime history. His name alone conjures terror. But even after decades of coverage, is there still something we're missing? In our latest deep dive, we're peeling back the layers of myth, media spectacle, and misinformation surrounding the Manson murders. Part one drops Monday, but if you can't wait, you don't have to—you can listen to the full episode right now on Tenderfoot Plus. Subscribers get early access, ad-free listening, and exclusive content from over 30 shows. Head to TenderfootPlus.com to sign up. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1995, Jefferson County Sheriff's Deputy William Hardy was shot behind a Birmingham hotel. At that moment, over ten witnesses placed Toforest Johnson at a nightclub across town. Despite this, Toforest has spent more than 26 years on death row for a crime he swears he didn't commit. Today, many—including one of the jurors who originally convicted him— think the courts got it wrong. But how? With the support of investigative reporter Beth Shelburne, we explore the horrifying twists behind Toforest's controversial conviction. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/Toforest-Johnson To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Toforest Johnson was sentenced to die for a crime he says he didn't commit—without physical evidence or forensic proof. But that didn't stop prosecutors from building a case against him. Next week, we dive into a case that has sparked nationwide controversy and left one man fighting for his life. Want to check out next week's episode right now? Subscribe to Tenderfoot+ and get early access, ad-free listening, and other exclusive benefits on over 30 shows and 500 episodes. Visit tenderfootplus.com to learn more. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alan Berg, a prolific talk radio personality, kept Denver listening. At a time when the airwaves still sounded mostly polite and apolitical, Alan was best known for his brash politics and fiery arguments with callers. All of this came to an end in the summer of 1984, when Alan was murdered outside of his home. Today's episode is about the importance of speaking up, even against the forces that will do anything to keep us quiet. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/alan-berg  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alan Berg built his career challenging bigotry, calling out hypocrisy, and refusing to back down. But his boldness made him a target. Next week, we uncover the murder that shocked the nation—and the violent extremism behind it. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You might know Alice Sebold from her bestselling novel “The Lovely Bones.” But before that, she became famous for her memoir “Lucky,” where she recounts the brutal assault she survived in a park near her college campus—and the trial that followed. The man convicted in that trial was Anthony Broadwater, who has maintained his innocence for more than 40 years. Today's episode is about forgiveness, resilience, and the devastating consequences of getting it wrong. Please be aware that today's episode contains references to sexual assault and physical violence. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/andthony-alice  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A student at the University of Utah, Lauren McCluskey began receiving threatening messages from her ex-boyfriend in the fall of 2018. For nearly three weeks, concerned for her safety, she reported this harassment to campus police again and again. Today's episode is about the deadly cost of warnings ignored—and what happens when the people we trust to protect us fail to take action. Please be aware that today's episode contains references to sexual assault and suicide. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/lauren-mccluskey To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On April 4, 1968, a single bullet ended the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The official story pinned the murder on James Earl Ray—a fugitive desperate to evade capture—but for decades, the King family has fought to expose a darker truth. In this episode, we uncover the buried evidence, tangled conspiracies, and a stunning 1999 civil trial that found the U.S. government complicit in King's assassination. What does justice look like for one of history's most celebrated heroes—and why is so much of this story still left untold? Please note that today's episode includes language some listeners might find offensive as well as references to gun violence. Please take care while listening. A full list of action items, sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/mlk-assassination  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This season, Truer Crime goes deeper than ever, unraveling 10 unforgettable stories that challenge everything you think you know about true crime. From high-profile cases to untold injustices, these episodes explore the human stories that lie beneath the surface. Get an exclusive sneak peek at what's ahead and prepare for a season filled with gripping narratives, unexpected twists, and the kind of storytelling only Truer Crime can deliver. Season 2 premieres January 20th, 2025, with new episodes dropping every Monday. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Join us for Podcasting “From Below”, a celebration of storytelling, justice, and connection! This FREE, live event marks the highly anticipated launch of Truer Crime Season 2 and the debut of Good Judy Productions, a new Minneapolis-based podcast studio dedicated to amplifying unheard voices.

Truer Crime is back for season 2 with 10 brand-new episodes you won't want to miss. From high-profile stories like the Manson Murders to lesser-known cases about everyday people — the victim of a modern lynching, a talk radio host gunned down in his driveway, a famous author and the man wrongfully convicted of her rape — each episode is a take on true crime you won't hear anywhere else. Be sure to catch the season premiere on January 20th, 2025, and listen to new episodes every Monday. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sometimes, the worst crimes happen when you'd least expect it. From the creators of Culpable comes Culpable: Case Review, an all new anthology of crime stories too shocking to miss. Featuring stories of a custody exchange gone wrong, a camping trip turned manhunt, and a missing persons investigation with an unbelievable twist. Five new cases available now. Listen to Culpable: Case Review lnk.to/culpable Follow @Culpablepodcast on Instagram for more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From 1920 to 1940, no Black people lived in Forsyth County, Georgia. None. But by the time Tamla Horsford moved there with her family, a lot had changed. Or so it seemed, until Tamla was found dead in the Fall of 2018. Suddenly, a century's worth of trauma resurfaced in the once all-white Georgia county. Today's episode reveals what happens when a woman and a county collide. Please be aware that today's episode references lynching and other racial violence. Please take care while listening. Action Items Related to Today's Episode: Learn more about Tamla and follow any developments on her case at @justicefortam on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/justicefortam/). Check out and support The Georgia Newspaper Project at www.libs.uga.edu/gnp and www.libs.uga.edu/development/support. Explore the Atlanta History Center's online collect Forsyth 1912 project, which seeks to collect the histories of descendants of Forsyth County's expelled Black residents: https://www.atlantahistorycenter.com/learning-research/projects-initiatives/originals/forsyth-1912/. You can also donate to support their work here: https://www.atlantahistorycenter.com/support. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/tamla-horsford. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Mandez was just 14 years old when his elderly neighbor, Frida Winter, was found murdered in her home, the same home Sam had painted with his grandfather just a few summers prior. It would be years before they set their eyes on Sam as their main suspect. And while he was just a kid when the crime took place, Sam was tried as an adult and eventually sentenced to life in prison for first-degree murder. Despite maintaining his innocence, he now faced a future behind bars. But what would that future *actually* look like? Today, we're starting where a lot of other true crime stories end – in prison.  Please be aware that today's episode discusses incarceration, solitary confinement, severe mental illness, suicide, and self-harm. Please take care while listening. Action Items Related to Today's Episode: If you're in the United States and you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or visit their website at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.  To learn more about solitary confinement and the movement to end its practice, I highly recommend checking out Solitary Watch at https://solitarywatch.org/. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/sam-mandez. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you consume a lot of true crime, you might have heard Mindy Dodd's story before. Or at least one like it – the classic story of a housewife who, pushed too far, snaps and murders her husband. The scary music swells and the story ends neatly. The housewife is locked away. But what if that's not the whole picture? Today's episode is about the muddy middle that's so often left out. Please be aware that today's references sexual assault and domestic violence. Please take care while listening. Action Items Related to Today's Episode: If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence and looking for anonymous, confidential help, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.  Access additional resources at the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence at https://ncadv.org/. Support domestic violence survivors by purchasing from Gifted by freefrom at https://giftedbyfreefrom.org/. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/mindy-dodd. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever listen to a true crime podcast and think “that's not quite right…?” Same. Crime stories are hard to ignore and even harder to forget. But the thing is... they're stories. And getting a story right is all about how you tell it. Truer Crime talks about real people — murdered, missing, misled — with more nuance, more context, and more questions. Hosted by Celisia Stanton. Three brand-new episodes coming Friday, December 15th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever listen to a true crime podcast and think “that's not quite right…?” Same. Crime stories are hard to ignore and even harder to forget. But the thing is... they're stories. And getting a story right is all about how you tell it. Truer Crime talks about real people — murdered, missing, misled — with more nuance, more context, and more questions. Hosted by Celisia Stanton. You can see more of Rachel Monroe's work and find links to buy your own copy of "Savage Appetites" at http://www.rachel-monroe.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Belief, belonging, betrayal. In "Dear Alana," Tenderfoot TV explores the life of 24-year-old Alana Chen who disappeared from Boulder, Colorado in 2019, leaving behind dozens of journals chronicling a deep faith, love of fashion, and dream of becoming a nun. But she harbored a secret about her faith and sexuality, one that stood in the way of her dream.  "Dear Alana," is available now. For more info visit www.dearalana.com. Check out this clip. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

July 11th marks “Relisha Rudd Remembrance Day'' in Washington DC. The purpose of this event is to spread awareness and let the public know that the search for Relisha is not over. Today we republish Episode 5 covering Relisha's disappearance to bring more attention to her story. --- No one had seen 8-year-old Relisha Rudd for weeks before she was finally reported missing in March of 2014. So where was she? Why did it take so long for anyone to notice? And who was to blame? Today's episode explores what can happen when the systems built to protect families just — *don't*.  Please be aware that today's story contains references to suicide, gun violence, child abuse, and housing insecurity. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/relisha-rudd/  If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod.

In 2001, Sarah Turney's sister, Alissa, went missing. Nearly two decades later and no arrests in the case, the police told her they could no longer help her and she needed to get media coverage for the case. So, in 2019, Sarah started The Voices for Justice Podcast as a way to tell Alissa's story. In August 2020, an arrest was made in the case and Sarah's efforts were recognized by the Maricopa County Attorney. Since the arrest, Sarah has shifted her focus to advocating for other cases in need of justice. In today's bonus interview, Sarah reflects on what she's learned along the way, and answers critical questions from her own experience as both a victim's family member and a true crime media creator herself. Why might a family member tell their story on a podcast with exploitative tendencies? How does Sarah create a safe space for victims and their family members to share their stories on Voices for Justice? What could ethical true crime content look like? And what can true crime media consumers do to push the genre into a more ethical direction? I was so honored to learn from Sarah, and I hope you enjoy this bonus interview while we are on a break from regular season episodes. You can find Sarah Turney on TikTok, Instagram and Twitter (@saraheturney). Make sure to also check out Sarah's podcasts Voices for Justice and Disappearances. If you need a transcript of today's episode, please email hello@truercrimepodcast.com Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find this show! Keep up with us on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

When Roiann was diagnosed with early onset dementia, her sister Robin had her back, making sure everything was in order so she could live comfortably in an assisted living facility. When her other sister and mom were also diagnosed with dementia, Robin worked harder and reached deeper to support the family she loved. A problem solver, Robin had a plan to both support her family and retire happily with her husband. But then she met Isaiah, and her life and plans were irreparably changed. In this special announcement episode, Celisia has a small story and a big request. Want to help Robin, Roiann, and the rest of the Gonzales family? Donate to their GoFundMe (gofundme.com/gonzales-fam) Want to learn more about the Gonzales family and the fraud which harmed both them and Celisia? Check out Terrible Thanks for Asking's episode, "Behind the Scammer" (https://www.ttfa.org/episode/2021/12/07/behind-the-scammer) Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

In 2017, Olivia Gatwood picked up a new hobby: listening to true crime podcasts. Living in a first floor Boston apartment at the time, Olivia was quickly consumed by a new fear: a man breaking into her apartment and murdering her in her sleep. In order to work through this fear, Olivia wrote about it in what would eventually become her poetry collection “Life of the Party.” A conversation between Olivia and Celisia, today's episode explores how warranted fear can become harmful paranoia, why so many women are obsessed with true crime, and what ‘justice' looks like in a society obsessed with punishment. You can find Olivia on Instagram @oliviagatwood Check out Olivia's books Life of the Party and New American Best Friend. For more audio extras like this one, join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

At just 21 years old, Joan Little finds herself on trial for murder and facing the death penalty. But still, thousands of people around the country insist that Joan's actions were justified. When her case sparks nationwide protests and a wave of financial support, eyes around the world are suddenly all on Joan. Picking up where part 1 left off, today's episode explores what happens when someone suddenly and unwittingly becomes the face of a movement. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/joan-little-pt-2/ Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

Last week I sat in a courtroom, a government building not so different from the ones we often mention on Truer Crime. So this week I decided to do something different: In today's episode, I'm both crime storyteller and crime victim. This is the story of how a man I trusted stole my entire life savings — and what I learned along the way. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/my-story/ Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

In the early hours of August 27th, 1974, the security camera at North Carolina's Beaufort County Jail was inexplicably not working. So when the night jailer, Clarence Alligood is found dead in 20-year-old Joan Little's cell — everyone is left with a slew of unanswered questions. Why was Clarence Alligood in Joan Little's cell? What had led to his murder? And where was Joan Little? Today's episode explores a case that was too big and important to fit into one episode. The story continues with part 2 next Tuesday (July 6th). Today's episode contains references to sexual assault. Please take care while listening. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/joan-little-pt-1/ Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

In the winter of 2013, Dylan King-Lemons went to the doctor with stomach pains. His diagnosis? HIV. A few months later, one of his former sexual partners, Michael Johnson, is arrested. But why? Today's episode explores identity, crime, and our societal obsession with punishment. Please be aware that today's episode contains references to anti-Black racism, homophobia, and incarceration. *Correction: In the episode we mentioned St. Charles, Missouri has a Black population of less than 2%. This was an error. The most recent U.S. Census data shows that St. Charles County, Missouri has Black or African American population of 5.3%. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/michael-johnson/ Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon (patreon.com/truercrimepod) If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod

In 1921, an act of terrorism would turn a once thriving Black community to ash and rubble overnight. It was an event so horrific that many historians now call it the single worst incident of racist violence in U.S. history. But what led up to that fateful day? And why were folks so intent to forget it ever happened? Today's episode explores the importance of history and the ways violence can stretch — touching us all even a century later. Please be aware that today's episode discusses anti-Black racist violence, murder, and sexual assault. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/tulsa-race-massacre/ Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon! If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

No one had seen 8-year-old Relisha Rudd for weeks before she was finally reported missing in March of 2014. So where was she? Why did it take so long for anyone to notice? And who was to blame? Today's episode explores what can happen when the systems built to protect families just — *don't*. Please be aware that today's story contains references to suicide, gun violence, child abuse, and housing insecurity. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/relisha-rudd/ Love Truer Crime and want to support our work? Join us on Patreon! Patreon.com/truercrimepod If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's a great way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod.

At just 16 years old, Josiah Sutton is accused and convicted of a heinous crime he swears he didn't commit. Only problem? Investigators have DNA evidence which links him directly to the crime. Today's episode explores forensic science, the effects of imprisonment, and the bond between a mother and her son. Today's story contains references to sexual assault, incarceration, and very briefly, suicidal ideation. Please take care while listening. A special thank you to Josiah's mom, Carol Batie for talking with us for this episode. You can listen to our full, unedited interview with Ms. Batie on our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truercrimepod A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the show notes of today's episode, https://truercrimepodcast.com/josiah-sutton/. If you like Truer Crime, leave us a review! It's the best way to support our work and helps other people find us! Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @truercrimepod.

In November of 1978, 918 Americans died in the middle of the Guyanese jungle. It would be “the largest single incident of civilian death in American history” until September 11th, 2001. But who were these people? How did they really die? And why were they in South America to begin with? It's a story you may have heard before — but maybe never quite like this. Today's story contains references to suicide and mass death. Please take care while listening. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the episode's show notes, https://truercrimepodcast.com/jonestown/. If you liked today's episode, leave us a review! It's the best way to support our work and helps other people find Truer Crime. Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!

Prior to his death in 2020, Samuel Little confessed to 93 different murders between the years of 1970 and 2005. And over 50 of them have been confirmed by investigators. It makes Little the most prolific serial killer in US history. So why then, have you never heard of him? Today's episode explores who is looked for, who is seen, and who is forgotten. Today's episode contains references to sexual assault, opioid addiction, and physical abuse. Please take care while listening. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the episode's show notes, https://truercrimepodcast.com/samuel-little/. If you liked today's episode, leave us a review! It's the best way to support our work and help other people find Truer Crime. Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!

At 2:30am in June of 1996, Darlie Routier placed a frantic call to 911. A rough story starts to emerge: an intruder broke into the Routier home, attacked Darlie and her two sons Damon and Devon, and then fled into the night.. Almost immediately, cops have only one suspect. But the Routier family? They know that investigators have it all wrong. Today's story is an episode that examines what it really means to be innocent until proven guilty. Today's episode contains references to violence against children, depression, suicidal ideation, and incarceration. Please take care while listening. A full list of sources, resources mentioned, and photos related to the case are available in the episode's show notes, https://truercrimepodcast.com/darlie-routier/. If you liked today's episode, leave us a review! It's the best way to support our work and helps other people find Truer Crime. Keep up with us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook!

Do you ever listen to a true crime podcast and think “that's not quite right…?” Same. Crime stories are hard to ignore and even harder to forget. But the thing is... they're stories. And getting a story right is all about how you tell it. Truer Crime talks about real people — murdered, missing, misled — with more nuance, more context, and more questions. Hosted by Celisia Stanton. Starting Tuesday, May 18th. You can see more of Rachel Monroe's work and find links to buy your own copy of "Savage Appetites" at http://www.rachel-monroe.com/