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Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell peel back the latest layers of South Carolina's two-tier justice system — where accountability seems to stop at the badge... After a viral video showed fired Beaufort County Deputy Billy Squires holding teenagers at gunpoint in a Hilton Head neighborhood, it took an entire month — and mounting public outrage — before SLED finally charged him and his neighbor. Mandy, Liz, and producer David dissect the weak charges, the troubling omissions in the affidavits, and what this case reveals about how law enforcement protects its own.Then, the team pivots to another jaw-dropping courtroom saga (19:33): JP Miller's latest failed appeal. Liz unpacks the judge's scathing 10-page ruling, JP's manipulative “Faith First Academy” contracts, and the continued fallout surrounding Mica Francis' death.And finally, we're examining a little known financial arrangement for lawyer legislators to pay private attorneys HUGE sums of public tax money for what seems to us like little to no good reason... Looking at YOU, MARK MOORE. Leave A Review for Hulu's Original Series! “Murdaugh: Death in the Family” on IMDB ⭐ “Murdaugh: Death in the Family” on Rotten Tomatoes
When Murdaugh Murders Podcast first released Episode 45 on May 18, 2022, it marked a turning point in exposing South Carolina's deep-rooted legal corruption.In this remastered edition, journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell revisit how Alex Murdaugh's lies and influence weaponized the justice system — from the manipulation of insurance payouts to the silence of the South Carolina Bar Association. We received new information from the attorneys and insurance companies who investigated Gloria Satterfield's death. Not only do these new details raise more questions about what happened at Moselle the day of her alleged “trip and fall,” the new information highlights one of the major problems in this state: lawyers helping lawyers. Through reflection and renewed context, this episode underscores why reform in the Palmetto State remains urgent — and why Gloria Satterfield's story continues to shine a light on truth, accountability, and systemic failure.Lots to cover, so let's dive in...
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell have a long list of questions for South Carolina's 1st Circuit Solicitor David Pascoe and they aren't afraid to ask them. Pascoe, who is running to replace state attorney general Alan Wilson in next year's election has a well-known history of being the only top law enforcement officer in the state who is calling out corruption and seeking accountability for public officials who cross the line. Our Questions: Why is the unhinged (now former) Beaufort County deputy Billy Squires STILL not arrested? Is someone sitting on the case? Why are lawyer-legislators making hundreds of thousands of dollars of taxpayer money under Attorney General Alan Wilson? Wait. What? They are?!? Is there really a separate, better door for wealthy and politically connected defendants when it comes to the justice system? And what's going on with Judge Carmen Mullen? Plus a special Premium-Only conversation about Grand Juries and why some charges are routed there. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️Episode References David Pascoe for SC AG Website
In this newly remastered episode of the Murdaugh Murders Podcast, journalist Mandy Matney revisits the day she realized hidden truths about Gloria Satterfield's mysterious fall—and the paper trail that exposed Alex Murdaugh's financial deception.Looking back when this episode was published on December 1, 2021, Mandy recalls being in court as sunlight finally pierced the Murdaugh family's shadowy network and fiery attorney Eric Bland confronted a system built to protect power and silence.Mandy Matney & Liz Farrell take you through everything they know about Gloria's injuries and the mysterious documents surrounding her death. Plus, the courtroom tension, and reflections on Gloria's stolen humanity—now echoed in Hulu's original series Murdaugh: Death in the Family. This episode reminds us why Mandy, Liz and the Luna Shark team began this journey in the first place: to expose corruption, honor victims, and bring long-overdue accountability to our systems of justice. Lots to cover, so let's dive in...
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell have learned over the years that taking a week off from True Sunlight means only one thing: the Good Ole Boys will go back to Good Ole Boying. And last week we had mostly good things, starting with people's love for “Murdaugh: Death in the Family.” The series is a No. 1 hit on Hulu or Hulu on Disney+, and the Official Companion Podcast, as well as True Sunlight and event the legacy feed of remastered Murdaugh Murders Podcasts, are all burning through the charts. Woo-hoo!!! On today's episode, Mandy and Liz look at South Carolina Alan Wilson's decision to finally hand over the Scott Spivey/Horry County Police Department Corruption case to a special prosecutor. It's an interesting decision from a man whose office told the Spivey family they couldn't ethically or legally charge Weldon Boyd and Bradley Williams for Scott's death. Plus, an update on Charleston County Magistrate Judge James “Skipper” Gosnell's child sexual abuse material case. And it's been almost four weeks since Squires held local teenagers at gunpoint in a terrifying display of police misconduct and, according to sources, the SLED investigation is finished. So what's the hold up? Finally, an update in the (48:16) Jane Doe No. 2 case accusing Wayne Miller of following her home. So much to cover, so let's dive in!
When this episode first aired in November 2021, it marked a defining moment in the Murdaugh investigation — and in the evolution of The Murdaugh Murders Podcast. For the first time, journalist Liz Farrell joined Mandy Matney, transforming what had begun as a one-woman pursuit of truth into a powerhouse partnership built on trust, tenacity, and shared purpose. On Friday, November 19th, 2021 we learned that prosecutors issued 27 additional felony charges against Alex Murdaugh bringing the total possible jail time to over a hundreds years and our sources believe that could be just the beginning. In this special edition we'll review the 27 new counts and expand on the implications as we introduce our new partner in true crime. Liz was there when Mandy first discovered inconsistencies in the only document recorded in the Satterfield settlement which blew the lid off a saga like no other.You'll also hear a moment between Mandy and Eric Bland in which he explains all the dominos that had to fall in order for Murdaugh's litany of crimes to come to light. Listen now to the episode that changed everything — the moment The Murdaugh Murders Podcast became a movement for truth and justice. Lots to cover, so let's dive in...
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland tackle one of the most absurd phrases creeping into South Carolina's justice system — ‘Murdaugh fatigue.' After years of uncovering corruption, financial crimes, and systemic failures, many in power and some running for office want to move on… leaving victims behind… AGAIN. Mandy, Liz, and Eric break down the latest in Russell Laffitte's super soft sentencing, and the Billy Squires incident on Hilton Head. Both reveal how the system once again protects people that look like those in power while accepting the bare minimum to jail or prosecute anyone else. And we hope everyone listening remembers that Justice does not get tired — people do. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References “Alex Murdaugh family's shocking murders and deep-rooted secrets revealed in new Hulu limited series” - AP News, updated Oct 16, 2025
In this remastered episode of the Murdaugh Murders Podcast, producer David Moses revisits the fall of 2021 — a turning point for the investigation and for the people demanding accountability in South Carolina's Lowcountry. In this episode, listeners rediscover how Gloria Satterfield's case cracked open the Murdaugh empire and set the stage for a national reckoning.Mandy Matney's original reporting and Eric Bland's fiery pursuit of justice unfold alongside reflections on how these moments inspired Hulu's original series Murdaugh: Death in the Family.It's not just a look back — it's a reminder of why persistence, community, and a little bit of “pesky” journalism still matter.Let's dive in...
The chaos was real in the fall of 2021— threats, sleepless nights, and a story too important to stop. In this remastered episode, Mandy Matney and producer David Moses revisit the moment Eric Bland stormed into the Murdaugh universe with a voice loud enough to advocate for his clients while he was knocking on doors to demand accountability. As the Gloria Satterfield case gained national attention, Episode 12 marked a turning point — when facts, fraud, and fear collided. This remastered edition features new commentary from producer David Moses reflecting on how fear turned into defiance, and journalism became personal. Gloria Satterfield died suspiciously in 2018 following an alleged “trip-and-fall” incident while working at one of the Murdaugh family homes. In this episode we explored the new developments brought about by her sons and their righteous pursuit for justice.Attorney Eric Bland explains that a $4.3 million settlement was diverted, with Murdaugh ultimately receiving the funds. Bland and Richter were working to hold all involved accountable, including the Murdaugh law firm known now as PMPED (later the Parker Law Group) and various banks.Through new insights and raw emotion, they revisit the moment justice began to stir — and the human cost of exposing corruption in plain sight.
This week, we're sharing something new from our friends at Hulu. If you've followed our coverage of the Murdaugh murders, you know how deeply this true crime story has resonated across the world. And now, the story has been adapted for the small screen in the new drama series Murdaugh: Death in the Family, now streaming on Hulu. So today, we're bringing you episode one of their fascinating companion podcast, Murdaugh: Death in the Family Official Podcast. In this episode, Showrunner, Co-Creator and Executive Producer Michael D. Fuller joins journalist Mandy Matney to discuss Murdaugh: Death in the Family. Explore that haunting 911 call, the human complexities and the emotional truths from South Carolina's darkest story. Then, discover more beneath the surface and go behind the scenes with investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell as they highlight the series' portrayal of the Murdaugh family dynamics, power struggles, and the broader implications of generational power. Ready for more? Follow Murdaugh: Death in the Family Official Podcast for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or your favorite podcast app. You can also watch the video version of this interview on Hulu or Hulu on Disney+. And don't forget to stream Hulu's original series Murdaugh: Death in the Family. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Before Murdaugh: Death in the Family became a Hulu Original Series, there was a podcast — and one episode that changed everything.In this remastered edition of Episode 10: “What Happened to Gloria Satterfield — Part One,” investigative journalist Mandy Matney exposes how a decades-long pattern of deception surrounding the Murdaugh family reached a heartbreaking turning point. What began as a mysterious “trip and fall” at the Murdaugh home unraveled into a shocking financial conspiracy — one that stole from a grieving family and revealed the first cracks in a powerful Lowcountry dynasty.With new commentary from producer David Moses and never-before-heard reflections, this remaster revisits the moment when Mandy's relentless reporting shifted from true crime storytelling into a fight for systemic accountability. Featuring the first-ever interview with attorney Eric Bland, this episode marked the beginning of a collaboration that would help bring sunlight to South Carolina's “good old boy” network — and ultimately inspire Hulu's Murdaugh: Death in the Family.As Mandy says, “I don't know…” — the phrase that opened every episode — wasn't just a hook; it was a declaration of truth-seeking in real time. This is the story that made the world see the Murdaughs not as a mystery, but as a mirror reflecting corruption, loyalty, and betrayal.Let's dive in...
Join investigative journalist Mandy Matney, as we look back at how the Murdaugh name was brought up more than 40 times during the course of the investigation of Stephen Smith's death in 2015. No suspects have been named to this day... but Mandy's original deep dive into the investigation file is so important to providing context on where the case stands today. As a result of their investigation into the homicides of Maggie and Paul, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) reopened Smith's 2015 death investigation, and once again publicly linked it to the Murdaugh name. Smith was found dead with severe head trauma, and rumors documented in the police investigation file implicated a connection to Buster Murdaugh and others. In this episode, we'll hear SCHP patrol investigator Todd Proctor interviewing several Hampton Kids about Stephen 's death... and we'll pull at those threads wherever they lead.... Let's dive in...
Follow The Murdaugh: Death in the Family Official Podcast and Rate 5 Stars On Apple: hulumurdaughpod.com. Or watch the Video Podcasts on Hulu: murdaughpodonhulu.com Showrunner, Co-Creator and Executive Producer, Michael D. Fuller joins journalist Mandy Matney to discuss Murdaugh: Death in the Family. Explore that haunting 911 call, the human complexities and the emotional truths from South Carolina's darkest story. From Jason Clarke's radical transformation to the boat crash that ignited a nation's intrigue, listeners dive deeper into the creation and overarching themes of Hulu's original series. Visit murdaughpodonhulu.com to watch the video version of this interview on Hulu or Hulu on Disney+ or discover all the emotional truths from Hulu's original series: Murdaugh Death in the Family. This podcast was produced by LUNASHARK™ and USG Audio. As CEO of LUNASHARK™, Mandy Matney leads a growing team dedicated to independent journalism that produces the acclaimed podcasts Murdaugh Murders, True Sunlight, Cup of Justice. Mandy is also author of Blood on Their Hands, a memoir about her journey of reporting on the Murdaugh family, finding her own voice, and striking out on her own to do meaningful in-depth reporting that gives voice to the victims and gets the story straight. START YOUR FREE TRIAL http://hulu.com/start FOLLOW ON SOCIAL Hulu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/murdaughonhulu/ Hulu on X: https://x.com/hulu Hulu on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hulu Hulu is the leading all-in-one premium streaming service that offers an expansive slate of live and on-demand entertainment, both in and outside the home. Hulu is the only on-demand platform that provides access to a library of both hit TV Series/Films and award-winning Hulu Originals like Only Murders In The Building, The Handmaid's Tale, The Kardashians, and more! Visit https://Hulu.com to subscribe now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Whether you're revisiting the story or discovering it for the first time, prepare for a revealing, uncompromising look at power, justice, and the pursuit of answers. Alex Murdaugh, a prominent South Carolina attorney whose wife and son were murdered in June, claimed he was shot in the head on September 4, 2021.Nearly three months after his wife and son were murdered, Alex Murdaugh called 911 to report that he himself had been shot... however... In this gripping episode of the Murdaugh Murders Podcast, investigative journalist Mandy Matney breaks down the shocking alleged shooting of Alex Murdaugh and questions the headline-grabbing and murder investigation-diverting narrative. His attorney Dick Harpootlian told the press that he Alex was pulled over to repair his vehicle along Salkehatchie Road in Hampton County en route to Charleston when a motorist opened fire toward Murdaugh's 2021 Mercedes SUV. However, the lead investigating agency, SLED, had not confirmed those details. This special episode explored all the available details on the incident. The timing of the shooting coincides with recent unfavorable headlines for Murdaugh, and his family's attorney's statements have us questioning all of these narratives.... Let's dive in...
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell are joined by the distinguished attorney Mark Tinsley, a central figure in the pursuit of justice for the Beach family and a pivotal voice in the Murdaugh saga. Join us as we dive deep with Mark into his journey taking on one of the South's most powerful families, his reflections on seeking truth amid chaos, and the personal motivations that fueled his relentless pursuit. We discuss the seismic impact of the Murdaugh case, real-life behind-the-scenes stories from the Hulu series adaptation, and the bravery required to take a stand when the odds are stacked against you. Plus a look at Mark's representation of Jennifer Spivey as they seek justice for Scott Spivey in Horry County. This episode captures the heart of what it means to challenge corruption, seek accountability, and never give up on justice. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Follow Mark Tinsley on X and Instagram ⬅️ Meet Tommy Dewey who plays Mark Tinsley in Hulu's Murdaugh: Death in the Family
Investigative journalist Mandy Matney looks back at the Murdaugh family's involvement in the 2019 boat crash on Archers Creek near Parris Island that killed Mallory Beach and the subsequent investigation. She shares the challenges she faced while investigating the Mallory Beach case, expresses suspicion over missing evidence, and emphasizes the importance of persistence and listening to sources in investigative reporting. On this episode, we dive into dash cam videos and depositions, that suggest a potential cover-up by law enforcement and the Murdaugh family. Paul Murdaugh's blood test revealed he was 3.5 times over the legal limit. Anthony Cook, a passenger, identified Paul as the driver, but this was not reflected in official reports. The Beaufort County Sheriff's Office and SC DNR's initial handling of the case is criticized for bias. Matney also mentions ongoing legal actions and the impact of the Murdaugh family's influence on the criminal justice system.Lots to cover, so let's dive in...
In the month after Maggie and Paul's murders, there was very little information available about the double homicide investigation. Mandy's sources in law enforcement were extremely careful and tightlipped — so it took months to get enough information about the double homicide that would fill up a podcast episode.On June 7, 2021, Alex Murdaugh called 911 at 10:07 PM, reporting his wife and son were shot. The 911 call was released six weeks later. Paul was shot twice, and Maggie was shot multiple times. SLED took over the case due to potential conflicts of interest with the local sheriff's office. At the time this episode published, no arrests had been made, and speculation surrounded Alex Murdaugh as a person of interest. We look at how the Colleton County Sheriff's office quickly recused itself from the investigation and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) took over the case. We also take a deep dive into the 911 call and all available evidence surrounding the double homicide of Maggie & Paul Murdaugh.Join journalist Mandy Matney as we peer down the rabbit hole of how the Murdaugh family faces legal pressure from all sides, adding to the complexity of these tragic cases. Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ On October 15th, LUNASHARK Premium Members are also getting access to a wealth of additional content matched to each Hulu series episode… We're calling it LUNA VISION! Soak up The Sun Members get to explore the case documents, new case videos, ad-free video episodes, invitations to live events and so much more. Visit lunashark.supercast.com to learn more. Premium Members also get bonus episodes like our Premium Dives, Corruption Watchlist, Girl Talk, and Soundbites that help you Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight. lunashark.supercast.com Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn *** ALERT: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** For current & accurate updates: lunashark.supercast.com Instagram.com/mandy_matney | Instagram.com/elizfarrell bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com | bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com TrueSunlight.com facebook.com/TrueSunlightPodcast/ Instagram.com/TrueSunlightPod youtube.com/@LunaSharkMedia tiktok.com/@lunasharkmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
From 2019 to the publication of this episode in July of 2021, journalist Mandy Matney was dedicated to uncovering the truth behind one of South Carolina's most complex and far-reaching cases. In this 5th chapter, Mandy dives back into the tragic events surrounding the death of Mallory Beach, exploring the investigation, the confusion that followed, and the far-reaching influence of the Murdaugh family. Through newly released files, exclusive interviews, and firsthand accounts, Mandy unravels the unanswered questions and alleged cover-ups that have fueled a national conversation. Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ On October 15th, LUNASHARK Premium Members are also getting access to a wealth of additional content matched to each Hulu series episode… We're calling it LUNA VISION! Soak up The Sun Members get to explore the case documents, new case videos, ad-free video episodes, invitations to live events and so much more. Visit lunashark.supercast.com to learn more. Premium Members also get bonus episodes like our Premium Dives, Corruption Watchlist, Girl Talk, and Soundbites that help you Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight. lunashark.supercast.com Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn *** ALERT: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** For current & accurate updates: lunashark.supercast.com Instagram.com/mandy_matney | Instagram.com/elizfarrell bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com | bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com TrueSunlight.com facebook.com/TrueSunlightPodcast/ Instagram.com/TrueSunlightPod youtube.com/@LunaSharkMedia tiktok.com/@lunasharkmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell have a lot to cover before the release of Murdaugh: Death in the Family, which premieres Oct. 15 on Hulu and Disney+. And we're equally excited for the launch of our Official Podcast, also premiering on Hulu and Disney+, with extended audio episodes on all audio platforms! Last week, (4:30) Houston's alleged wife and baby murderer Lee Gilley filed a motion to… go home to South Carolina for Thanksgiving? Excuse me, sir? One year after he was charged with killing Christa Bauer and her unborn baby, Gilley is putting his mama's boy arrogance on full display. Also on the show (8:30) Congresswoman Nancy Mace exposes South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson's horrible record prosecuting child sexual abuse materials cases and demands an explanation. The two are running against each other in the GOP primary for governor and Mace is pulling no punches in the fight to expose the broken justice system Wilson has overseen for 14 years. Plus, (26:50) new video is released in #SquiresgateGate showing more of off-duty Deputy Billy Squires' unhinged behavior in his Hilton Head Island neighborhood as he and his sheriff's posse harassed local teenage boys. How does this case keep getting worse? And who does (33:50) Beaufort County Sheriff PJ Tanner think he's fooling? Not us… So much to cover, so let's dive in!
In February 2019, Mallory Beach was killed in Beaufort County, South Carolina as a result of a horrific boat crash on Archers Creek near Parris Island. Paul Murdaugh was indicted for Boating Under The Influence Resulting In Death among other charges and awaiting trial.Investigative journalist Mandy Matney guides you through details of events leading up to the crash, including Paul Murdaugh's intoxication and erratic behavior. The investigation was chaotic, with delays and alleged confusion over who was driving the boat. The civil lawsuit, filed by Mallory's mother, Renee Beach, and led by Mark 'The Tiger' Tinsley targets Parker's gas station and the Murdaugh family for facilitating Paul's drinking... among a variety of other claims. Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ On October 15th, LUNASHARK Premium Members are also getting access to a wealth of additional content matched to each Hulu series episode… We're calling it LUNA VISION! Soak up The Sun Members get to explore the case documents, new case videos, ad-free video episodes, invitations to live events and so much more. Visit lunashark.supercast.com to learn more. Premium Members also get bonus episodes like our Premium Dives, Corruption Watchlist, Girl Talk, and Soundbites that help you Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight. lunashark.supercast.com Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn *** ALERT: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** For current & accurate updates: lunashark.supercast.com Instagram.com/mandy_matney | Instagram.com/elizfarrell bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com | bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com TrueSunlight.com facebook.com/TrueSunlightPodcast/ Instagram.com/TrueSunlightPod youtube.com/@LunaSharkMedia tiktok.com/@lunasharkmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
As Hulu prepares to premiere its original series “Murdaugh: Death in the Family” on October 15th, investigative journalist Mandy Matney and the LUNASHARK team revisit the pivotal cases that have gripped the Lowcountry and the nation. This special release is part of a curated collection of 40 episodes, remastered and re-released over the next eight weeks, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the reporting and real events that inspired the Hulu series.On this very first episode, released on June 22, 2021, Mandy Matney discusses the Murdaugh family's history and recent tragedies, including the 2019 boat crash involving Paul Murdaugh, the 2015 death of Stephen Smith, and the 2018 death of Gloria Satterfield. We detail the double homicide of Paul and his mother Maggie on June 7th 2021, noting the involvement of SLED due to potential conflicts of interest with local law enforcement. At this point in time, Alex Murdaugh, the family patriarch, is a person of interest but provided an alibi that would later implode due to good police work and some dogged reporting holding those agencies accountable.In order to understand the double homicide investigation of Paul and Maggie Murdaugh, we need to understand the Murdaugh family, their power in South Carolina and the three mysterious deaths tied to them... Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ Learn more about Premium Membership at lunashark.supercast.com to get bonus episodes like our Premium Dives, Corruption Watchlist, Girl Talk, and Soundbites that help you Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight. Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn *** ALERT: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** For current & accurate updates: lunashark.supercast.com Instagram.com/mandy_matney | Instagram.com/elizfarrell bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com | bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com TrueSunlight.com facebook.com/TrueSunlightPodcast/ Instagram.com/TrueSunlightPod youtube.com/@LunaSharkMedia tiktok.com/@lunasharkmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland now have a fuller picture of the #SquiresGate case in Hilton Head Island after it went viral last week. On today's episode, the gang talks about what it took to get the Beaufort County Sheriff's Office to fire off-duty deputy Master Sgt. Billy Squires after video emerged of him pointing his service weapon at four teenagers in his neighborhood on a Sunday evening while allegedly intoxicated and wearing part of his uniform over his regular clothes. A shocking video depicts the kids begging for their lives and one of them calling out his mom had people across the spectrum and all over the world calling for justice. It took five days for the sheriff's office to terminate Squires even though many of his 11 policy violations were immediately apparent. Mandy, Liz and Eric talk about what it took to pressure the good ole boys into holding one of their own accountable. *Since recording this episode, Live 5 News Reported SLED Chief Mark Keel said, “At this time, there is no evidence to indicate the fire was intentionally set. SLED agents have preliminarily found there is no evidence to support a pre-fire explosion.” Referring to Circuit Judge Diane Goodstein's house fire. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References “Deputy fired for ‘multiple' policy violations, Beaufort County sheriff says” - Live5 WCSC, Updated Oct 4, 2025
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell shine a light on the viral incident now known as Squires-Gate where kids were held at gunpoint by a cop on Hilton Head Island When off-duty Beaufort County Sheriff's Deputy Billy Squires pulled a gun on a group of teens and dragged them across the street, uproar led to silence from officials. Sheriff P.J. Tanner has not addressed the misconduct, and the system seemed more interested in protecting its own than protecting children. Mandy and Liz walk listeners through the chilling footage, the sheriff's troubling response, and the tangled web of “good ole boy” networks that have kept the Lowcountry under the grip of unchecked power for decades. But beyond the headlines and hashtags, this episode centers the victims — the terrified teenagers whose trauma has been met with indifference by those sworn to serve and protect. Plus a little update from Horry County on (38:58) Weldon Boyd.... So much to cover, so let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland break down what happened Sunday night on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, when an off-duty Beaufort County Sheriff's Office deputy held at least three teenagers at gunpoint. In a chilling (and very unhinged) video, the teen boys, who were reportedly walking in the deputy's neighborhood, begged for their lives and cried for their mom as the deputy is seen pointing his service weapon at them individually, threatening and even dragging them on the ground. Mandy, Liz and Eric share their reactions to the video and discuss all the ways the case seems to be getting mishandled from the beginning — especially the part where BCSO hasn't arrested the deputy and is refusing to release his name as if this were pre-Internet days. Also on the show, Russell Laffitte has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for using his family's bank to help Alex Murdaugh steal money from Alex's clients. And former South Carolina Rep. RJ May — founding member of the state Freedom Caucus — has pleaded guilty to five federal counts of distributing child sexual abuse material … meaning, he's finally admitting that he's JoeBidennnn69. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Off-duty deputy was caught on camera pointing his weapon at children in his neighborhood - @Mandy_Matney - Sept 28, 2025
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell dissect newly uncovered evidence in the Scott Spivey case—a disturbing “celebration call” between Weldon Boyd and his co-shooter Bradley Williams that raises serious questions about the investigation and South Carolina's justice system. Mandy and Liz expose the shocking phone call that reveals just how far Boyd—and the good ol' boys—will go to twist the truth and pervert the justice system to protect one of their own. Mandy also shares horrifying details of SC Senate Bill 323, a dangerous proposal that threatens women's health and safety under the guise of “protection.” This is not just about a highly contentious politically dividing issue—it's truly about how corruption and unchecked power continue to endanger lives in South Carolina. Corruption, coverups, and cruelty—welcome to South Carolina's good ol' boy playbook. But there is hope… This episode is a call to action: for Scott, for women, and for every victim failed by the system. So much to cover, so let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland thought they would never read anything quite as horrible as the descriptions of Child Sexual Assault Material contained in former South Carolina Rep. RJ May's court records. But they were wrong. On Monday, the United States Government filed a brief arguing that Charleston County Judge — and South Carolina's latest elected official accused of being a pedophile — James B. “Skip” Gosnell should be kept behind bars until his trial because he is not only one count of possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material. He is also being accused of admitting to some of the most unthinkable abuse on babies. Naturally, Mandy, Liz and Eric have questions … who are the legislators and lawyers who helped Judge Gosnell behind the scenes to help keep him on the stand for decades despite a long history of racist and ethically corrupt behavior? And is this just the beginning? Will more powerful men in South Carolina be exposed for pedophilia? ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References “Charleston County Magistrate Charged with Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material” - U.S. Attorney's Office, District of South Carolina, Sept 16, 2025
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell have seen some dumb litigators in their day, but the person representing former South Carolina Rep. RJ May is by far the biggest idiot. RJ May — who is representing himself in court after being charged with 10 federal counts of distributing child sexual abuse material this past June — filed his very first motion last week after firing his public defense team, who wouldn't file the motion for him … likely because it's a really bad idea. The 32-page handwritten filing accuses the government of misconduct but not for any reason you could guess at. Mandy and Liz talk about RJ May's attempt at being clever and how they already foresee it blowing up in his face. Also on the show, after 33-year-old (33:50) Scott Spivey was shot and killed on Sept. 9, 2023, by North Myrtle Beach businessman Weldon Boyd and his friend Bradley Williams, Horry County Police Department failed to separate both shooters. Hours later, when questioned by investigators and two prosecutors, Bradley Williams appeared nervous and careful about the details he gave. At that point, though, according to the case file, police had already intervened in the investigation to make sure Weldon and Bradley wouldn't be charged. So why interview them at all? Mandy and Liz share the recording of Bradley's interview with police and the shocking moments that show just how little effort was put into investigating Scott's case. So much to cover, so let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell are joined by Luna Shark Producer (and Mandy's husband) the extraordinary David Moses — who is filling in for Eric Bland this week. First up on the show, Mandy, Liz and David talk about what it was like for them watching the trailer for “Murdaugh: Death In the Family” for the first time and the profound emotional impact it had on them. Mandy, Liz and David talk about the journey of covering the Murdaugh case for the past nearly seven years and how the Hulu series — which is inspired by the Murdaugh Murders Podcast and the real-life events surrounding the case. “Murdaugh: Death in the Family,” starring Patricia Arquette, Jason Clarke, Brittany Snow, and Alicia Kelley premieres Oct. 15 on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+. Also on today's show, Alex Murdaugh's mission to get a new trial now includes evidence that Team Murdaugh still doesn't know how to craft a narrative of Alex's so-called innocence. The state's filing laid out Alex's guilt beat for beat and in a way that essentially created a trap for Dick Harpootlian and Jim Griffin, who were now forced to reply with a rebuttal to the “Alex is the murderer” argument. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References “Disney+ and Hulu are offering fans new companion video podcasts for favorite shows” - ABC7, Sept 6, 2025
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell weren't surprised to learn last week that former South Carolina Rep. RJ May has asked to be his own lawyer. May — who faces 10 federal charges of distributing child sexual abuse materials — is that kind of guy. Just ask his father, whose post-arrest advice to May was “Humility, Robert John. You've got to have humility in all this.” But is RJ May truly representing himself? Or is he getting behind-the-scenes help from friends? On today's episode, Mandy and Liz share RJ May's texts and phone calls from Edgefield County Detention Center, and piece together why they think RJ fired his public defense team in favor of his own skills … as a non-lawyer. Are the same people who stood by RJ after the raid on his house still standing by him now? PLUS!!! Inspired by shocking actual events... Murdaugh: Death in the Family Premieres October 15th on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+!!! And We Are HERE FOR IT! You thought you knew the story. Now, step inside the family. Murdaugh Murders Podcast and True Sunlight creator Mandy Matney is an Executive Producer for this eight-episode Hulu limited series—honoring victims while unfolding the emotional truth behind the headlines. We're sharing the new trailer for Hulu's Murdaugh: Death in the Family at the top of the episode!!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell sit down with Stephanie Tinsley to turn up the mic—and the spotlight—on Stephanie's ‘Everything They Missed', a new, true-crime podcast series that reopens a murder case that should've never been closed. Everything They Missed is a new series retracing the cold case of Danny Harris—a father, veteran, and Tennessean whose murder became a case study in how quickly justice can be closed off. Through a cinematic, document-rich narrative, Stephanie raises crucial questions about the choices investigators made, voices dismissed, and evidence overlooked. Her work is a vivid reminder: justice isn't just about what's easy to see, but what requires the courage to investigate the inconvenient. But here's the real twists: its the railroading cops, missing fingerprints, and page-flip detective work that just doesn't add up. Stephanie's method? Relentless digging, unheard voices, and questions no one else dared to ask. We're unpacking where this case went wrong—and why none of us can look away.☕ Cups Up! ⚖️Episode References Follow Stephanie Tinsley on Instagram and X Give “Everything They Missed” a listen on your favorite streaming service!
It's a surreal week for us at True Sunlight and LUNASHARK. On October 15th, the story that began here as the Murdaugh Murders Podcast will premiere worldwide as Murdaugh: Death in the Family on Hulu and Disney+. Seeing Mallory, Gloria,, Stephen, Maggie and Paul's stories honored on screen is bittersweet — a reminder of the victims at the heart of all of this. While that project brings global attention to systemic corruption in South Carolina, we remain deeply rooted in the work of uncovering the truth. Thanks to Liz Farrell's intrepid reporting, Mandy Matney and Liz and review the 18-minute interview Horry County Police Department had with North Myrtle Beach businessman Weldon Boyd, who — along with his friend Bradley Williams — shot and killed 33-year-old Scott Spivey on Sept. 9, 2023, in Loris, South Carolina. Despite inconsistencies between Weldon's 911 call (that they listened to as a group before Weldon was read his rights) the lead investigator in the case, Alan Jones, showed no interest in getting to the bottom of what actually happened that night with Scott. It is yet another example of Horry County Police doing their best to protect Weldon Boyd from being criminally charged in and civilly liable for Scott's death. So much to cover, so let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland are examining how Cardi B. has been schooling the courtroom on authenticity, Russell Laffitte stalls his way through justice. Cardi B's testimony in California shows how authenticity and honesty can make a witness credible, even when the stakes are high. Contrast that with South Carolina's Russell Laffitte, whose plea and sentencing delays reflect a system that bends for the well-connected We also touch on how JP Miller's courtroom stunts might seem laughable, but they're a distraction from the real harm caused when predators use legal loopholes to protect themselves. Plus, in Texas, the family of Christa Bauer Gilley is still fighting for justice after her suspicious death was nearly written off as a suicide. These cases may span celebrities, bankers, and grieving families, but the thread is the same: victims deserve better, and the truth deserves sunlight. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Mandy's Reaction to Taylor & Travis Engagement on Instagram
Accused pedophile and former SC lawmaker RJ May is facing ten federal charges of distributing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) — but instead of mounting a serious defense, his lawyer leaned on arguments involving Wi-Fi passwords, multitasking excuses, and even LEGOLAND trips. Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell dig into May's detention hearing, exposing the bizarre legal tricks, the failure of DSS to protect children, and the lingering questions about how deep South Carolina's “Good Ole Boy” network goes. The team also continues its investigation into (48:01) Weldon Boyd and the suspicious handling of the Scott Spivey case by Horry County Police. A video of Weldon Boyd's police interview not only shows the lead investigator on the case treating it like it's a foregone conclusion that Weldon and Bradley killed Scott in self-defense, it also shows him allowing both shooters to listen to Weldon's 911 call to get their stories straight before the interview... Let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland are back again … and the filters (as usual) are OFF. Mandy shares the tea about what went on last week in a Columbia, South Carolina, courtroom where her attorney Meredith Bannon argued against Mandy sitting for a deposition in a case she isn't a part of (David Voros and Alexandra Stasko v. Allison Dunnavant). The case stemmed from stories Mandy wrote before the Murdaugh murders about a University of South Carolina art professor accused of sexual harassment by a number of women. Why are there no repercussions for lawyers who take objectively bad cases that seem to have only one purpose (to harass Mandy and Allison)? Why is it OK for Mandy to be deposed when one of the plaintiffs in the bad case has plainly and publicly stated that she wants to ruin and destroy Mandy's credibility (and life)? Also on the show, what the heck happened at University of South Carolina on Sunday with the false alarm over an active shooter? And why did the school encourage people to “defend themselves against the shooter”? Plus Eric Bland has mad beef with Congresswoman Nancy Mace who — as it turns out — is allowed to SAY ANYTHING about ANYONE, as long as it's on the House floor. She — and other House members — have ABSOLUTE immunity from defamation cases stemming for what they've said in that forum according to Judge Gergel, which seems, very dangerous in this day and age. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Mandy in Jamaica with - kobe_1_love_tours on Instagram
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell share the horrifying details contained in the 105-page federal court transcript from the June 12 detention hearing of the now-former South Carolina House of Representatives legislator — and now-former state Freedom Caucus leader — Robert J. May III. RJ May. Though the tip about RJ's alleged activity was delivered on March 31, it would take nearly three months for that tip to make its way to South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson's Office, another week to make its way to the sheriff's office and another three months before RJ's house would be raided. Mandy and Liz talk about what went down in the hearing and how it's even more egregious to know how few people in power have spoken out about RJ May's alleged actions. Also on the show, Myrtle Beach churchy business bro “pastor” John-Paul Miller was in court again this week for the final frivolous lawsuit he filed against a protester. Spoiler alert: JP lost. Again. Plus, a look at an opinion piece written about the Scott Spivey killing case and why it's wrong to conclude that South Carolina's Stand Your Ground law means it's OK to shoot and kill anyone so long as you feared for your life at the time. Let's dive in!
If you find yourself involved in the civil justice system, you don't have to go to trial. Alternatives like mediation or arbitration can offer faster, less adversarial paths to resolution without airing out all your business to the public. But, they're not the best option for every case — like everything with our justice system, there's a lot of nuance. Kimberly Taylor, CEO of JAMS, sat down with investigative journalist Mandy Matney and attorney Eric Bland to discuss the advantages of differences between mediation and arbitration. Taylor highlights JAMS' 40-year history, its 30-40 new panelists annually, and its optional appellate process. JAMS recently welcomed judge Clifton Newman as one of their newest mediators! In the end… everyone agrees that a little emotional expression and a little lunch goes a long way to bringing an amicable resolution. And some fresh baked cookies apparently don't hurt either…
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell were pleasantly surprised last week to find out how much power the South Carolina Attorney General's Office's packed with its punch back to Alex Murdaugh and his increasingly embarrassing attempts at getting his murder conviction overturned. Six attorneys at the AG's office — including Creighton “BCE” Waters himself — compiled a nearly flawless 182-page response to Dick Harpootlian and Jim Griffith's arguments in favor of an appeal. Let's just say, BCE and Co. ate and left no crumbs.
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell and attorney Eric Bland have read the 182-page response filed Friday evening by the South Carolina Attorney General's Office in Alex Murdaugh's appellate case and it is BEYOND fiery. Prosecutors pulled no punches when deconstructing every single one of Team Murdaugh's intellectually dishonest and time-wasting arguments in pursuit of getting his murder conviction overturned. They also laid out the facts of the case — and all of the compelling evidence against Alex — in what is the clearest account of what happened in June 2021 yet. Mandy, Liz and Eric break down the best parts of the filing. Their conclusion? Anyone who STILL thinks Alex Murdaugh didn't get a fair trial needs to read every word of this response before talking. Also on the show, Congresswoman Nancy Mace has announced she's running for South Carolina governor... Will Nancy's antics and reputation put much-needed pressure on her biggest opponent, Attorney General Alan Wilson, to do his job? ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️Episode References US Marshalls refuse re-entry to SC federal courthouse to press during jury deliberations in August 2024
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell continue to connect the dots in the Scott Spivey shooting case as they impatiently wait for South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to appoint a special prosecutor to revisit what has turned out to be one of the most corrupt police investigations in state history. On this week's episode: Did shooter Weldon Boyd's months-long obsession over his ex-fiancé have him in a fighting-mood on the day he and his friend Bradley Williams killed Scott? In SLED's download of Bradley's phone there were 60 screenshots of text messages between Weldon and the mother and grandmother of his son, showing Weldon's increasing anger over his inability to control and manipulate his former fiancé. Those messages, along with court records, recorded phone calls and social media posts reveal that Weldon wasn't just momentarily upset about his broken engagement the afternoon of Sept. 9, 2023, when he encountered Scott on Highway 9 in Horry County… Mandy and Liz share their new timeline on Weldon's potential state of mind as he tousled with Scott on the road, along with Weldon's tactical messages, seemingly crafted to create a paper trail for the narrative he wanted everyone around him to believe. Let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell share part three of their look into how the family of Scott Spivey was treated by the South Carolina Attorney General's Office. In April 2024, Prosecutor Heather Weiss tried to explain why she felt there was “insufficient evidence” to charge North Myrtle Beach man Weldon Boyd and his friend Bradley Williams in Scott's shooting death. Why would Heather Weiss' boss, Attorney General Alan Wilson, want to open the door to all-out vigilantism in South Carolina? Why would he want it to be legal for people to chase each other with guns and just be able to say the dead man started it with no meaningful investigation into that claim? Oh right. His brother Julian Wilson co-owns the private equity firm JJE Capital Holdings which owns the state's biggest weapons and ammunition retailer: Palmetto State Armory. How else can you explain why Alan's office continues to sit on their hands and do NOTHING when it comes to taking another look into the appropriateness of criminal charges against Weldon and Bradley? Also on the show, did Weldon Boyd … record a video of himself killing Scott Spivey? At that April 2024 meeting with prosecutor Heather Weiss, Scott's family asked her if she was aware of this video. Surprise, surprise she wasn't. And SLED Agent Nathan Poston assured the family that no such video existed … We are guessing he didn't look at the evidence either. Let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell — and attorney Eric Bland — discuss the power of victim impact statements in the Bryan Kohberger case. Kohberger was charged in 2022 shortly after the horrific killings of four Idaho college students, whom he stabbed to death while they slept. His victims' loved ones used the power of their voices to let the court — and the public — know how many lives have been affected by this one man's depravity. Mandy, Liz and Eric discuss the importance of these victim impact statements and — in a case like this one — who these statements are for... Also on today's show, a discussion about the Florence County Sheriff's Office's arrest of a woman who miscarried at 18 weeks and the agency's menacing response to a journalist after she requested the police report on the investigation.
Investigative journalists and True Sunlight Podcast co-hosts Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell — and attorney Eric Bland — (reluctantly) discuss the latest (and perhaps most pathetic and reaching) strategy from Dick Harpootlian in his quest to get Alex Murdaugh's murder charge overturned. Cousin Eddie's text messages to Alex! Messages that literally don't help Alex's case one bit. Also on the show … why is the legacy media helping Russell Laffitte advertise his Palmetto State Bank stock? Plus listeners are outraged by the 2024 recording of South Carolina assistant attorney general Heather Weiss telling Scott Spivey's family why she “can't” charge Weldon Boyd and Bradley Williams with killing Scott. And they should be! Mandy, Liz and Eric talk about why the prosecution's reasons for not charging Boyd and Williams are weak, ill-informed and dishonest and why the citizens arrest law in South Carolina would even apply in this case. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References “New text messages fuel Alex Murdaugh's push for new trial” - Fox News, July 15, 2025
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell can't wrap their heads around the patchwork logic behind the South Carolina Attorney General's Office's decision not to file charges against North Myrtle Beach businessman Weldon Boyd and his friend, Bradley Williams — the two men responsible for killing 33-year-old Scott Spivey in September 2023. And there's a reason why Mandy and Liz can't grasp it … it's because the so-called logic is absurd. In April 2024, assistant attorney general Heather Weiss met with Scott's family — including his mother, Deborah, and his sister, Jennifer Spivey Foley — to explain her reasoning in deciding against pursuing a criminal case against Weldon and Bradley. The meeting exposed just how little Heather Weiss understood the case — specifically the evidence that she appears not to have taken a look at…In today's episode, Mandy and Liz take a closer look at what went down at that meeting and why the Attorney General's Office seemed to do its very best to find a nice and soft landing spot for Weldon and his friend. Let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell continue their in-depth, real-time reporting on the Scott Spivey shooting case (aka the Horry County Police Department public corruption case). On this week's episode: Was Heather Weisz from South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson's office working as a prosecutor or Weldon Boyd and Bradley William's free defense attorney? Also on the show, the first part of True Sunlight's deep dive into the so-called star witness for Weldon and Bradley. Other than Weldon, Witness No. 1 is the only other person who called 911 to report Scott for driving erratically and allegedly pointing a gun at people. Does Witness No. 1's account hold up after looking at the evidence? Photos taken by the shooters, surveillance footage, Weldon's recorded calls, body camera footage and a second by second breakdown of what happened on Camp Swamp Road tell a different story. Plus! We're sharing part of our Premium Dive on Jury Duty from LUNASHARK Librarian Kate Thomas. Kate's episode is chock-full of info on why Jury Duty is so important, though flawed at times, and also features an interview with Jim and Meredith Bannon from the Bannon Law Group - our first advertisers and our besties. Learn more about Premium Membership at lunashark.supercast.com to get more Premium bonus episodes like the Corruption Watchlist, Girl Talk, and Soundbites that help you Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight. Let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell of True Sunlight Podcast sit down with Sarah Turney, the creator of “Voices for Justice” podcast, to talk about the latest in her sister's case and Sarah's fight for answers. In 2001, Alissa Turney was just 17 years old when she disappeared on her last day of junior year in Phoenix, Arizona. Sarah and Alissa's father, Michael, told police that Alissa had run away from home. The police believed him — and for years, so did Sarah, who was only 12 at the time of Alissa's disappearance and thought she had the best father ever. Around the time Michael Turney was indicted for unlawful possession of unregistered destructive devices (IE… bombs and manifestos), Sarah began to question who her father really was but it wasn't until she saw her sister's case file that she truly started connecting the dots… Mandy and Liz have an in-depth conversation with Sarah about the genesis of how she came to suspect her father in her sister's disappearance and what she's learned about criminal investigations, the power of true crime media and the importance of amplifying the voices of victims and their families in their own searches for justice. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References Sarah Turney on Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, & TikTok Sarah's Podcast - “The Voices of Justice” - First season is dedicated to Alissa's case “Family Secrets: The Disappearance of Alissa Turney” on AppleTV “Missing girl's stepdad gets 10 years in union hall bomb plot” - East Valley Tribune, Sept 28, 1010 “Grand Jury Indictment Returned on Michael Turney for 2nd Degree Murder in Death of Alissa Turney” - Maricopa County Attorney's Office, Aug 20, 2020 “An Arizona man was cleared in his stepdaughter's disappearance. His son is convinced he's guilty.” - NBC News, Dec 1, 2023 “20/20 ‘Since You've Been Gone' Preview - The case of missing Arizona teen Alissa Turney” video - ABC News, Sept 16, 2023 “Michael Turney sues for $300,000 over arrest for killing stepdaughter” - Phoenix New Times, Jan 24, 2024 Stay Tuned, Stay Pesky and Stay in the Sunlight...☀️ Premium Members also get access to episode videos, case files, live trial coverage and exclusive live experiences with our hosts. CLICK HERE to learn more and join with Promo Code "COJ25" for your first month free! https://bit.ly/3BdUtOE. Check out Luna Shark Merch With a Mission shop at lunasharkmerch.com/ What We're Buying... Quince - Give yourself the luxury you deserve with Quince! Go to Quince.com/COJ for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns Here's a link to some of our favorite things: https://amzn.to/4cJ0eVn Find us on social media: bsky.app/profile/mandy-matney.com | bsky.app/profile/elizfarrell.com | bsky.app/profile/theericbland.bsky.social Twitter.com/mandymatney | Twitter.com/elizfarrell | Twitter.com/theericbland https://www.facebook.com/cupofjustice/ | https://www.instagram.com/cojpod/ YouTube | TIKTOK SUNscribe to our free email list to get alerts on bonus episodes, calls to action, new shows and updates. CLICK HERE to learn more: https://bit.ly/3KBM *** Alert: If you ever notice audio errors in the pod, email info@lunasharkmedia.com and we'll send fun merch to the first listener that finds something that needs to be adjusted! *** Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell have had enough with mainstream media. After a South Carolina judge dismissed Michael Colucci's murder charge last week in the strangulation death of his wife in 2015, Mandy and Liz noticed a trend … members of the media seemed to be deviating from the facts of the case in favor of carefully coddling Michael by pushing his narrative for him. But for Sara-Lynn Colucci, they did no such thing. Instead they were careless with their words and grossly mischaracterized what her state of mind was in the weeks leading up to her death. After a special episode of Cup of Justice this week with Sara-Lynn's daughter, Bishop Venters, in her first public interview, the mission became clear. Bishop is ready to fight for justice for her mom. And she's going to need an army behind her to get S.C Attorney General Alan Wilson to focus on his job and present Michael's case to the grand jury again for a reindictment. Also on today's show, we found YET ANOTHER moment on Horry County Police Department body cameras where Weldon Boyd got help from an officer at the crime scene with Scott Spivey's body sitting 30 yards away, shot to death by Weldon and his buddy Bradley Williams. We're diving deep into assembling the timeline… Lots to cover so let's dive in!
A week after the shocking dismissal of Michael Colucci's 10-year-old murder charge because of prosecutorial misconduct on the behalf of SLED and the South Carolina Attorney General's Office, Bishop Venters — the daughter of Sara-Lynn Moore Colucci, whom Michael is accused of strangling to death in May 2015 — says she's ready to fight for a new trial. Bishop, whose biological father died under tragic circumstances a few years earlier, was about 8 years old when Michael, her mother's new husband, adopted her. She was just 11 when Michael told her that her mother had died in an accident. After her mother's death, Bishop says Michael and his mother Doris kept her away from her maternal grandparents, telling her they were bad people. She would later learn that her grandparents were suing for custody of her. And after Michael's arrest, Michael abandoned his adopted daughter and moved to the beach, leaving Bishop in the care of Doris and her husband Ivo, where Bishop wasn't allowed to speak about or show emotion about her mother's death. Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell sat down with Bishop to talk about what life was like before and after her mother's death, what she thinks happened the day Sara-Lynn died, her thoughts on the judge's decision last week as well as her strong conviction to continue her grandparents' fight for justice. ☕ Cups Up! ⚖️ Episode References “Urge SC Attorney General to PRIORITIZE the Re-Indictment of Michael Colucci” - Change.org Petition About Childhood Trauma from The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell have spent the past year preparing for Charleston-area good ole boy Michael Colucci to be tried again for the 2015 murder of his wife, Sara-Lynn Moore Colucci. Twice a retrial was scheduled. And twice it didn't happen. On Tuesday, after the jury had been seated, South Carolina Judge Roger M. Young quashed the indictment of Colucci and dismissed what was to be a two-week trial and the end of what had become the oldest open murder case in the state. For 10 years, Sara-Lynn's family, including her mother and her only daughter, Bishop, who was a child at the time her mother died, have had to sit silently time and time again as the justice system continued to fail them. What didn't help matters? Original prosecutor and current public official Megan (Burchstead) Burleson's surly and defensive behavior on the stand on Tuesday…
Is Michael Colucci finally going to trial for allegedly murdering Sara Lynn Colucci in 2015? Why does Weldon Boyd claim witnesses back up his story in the Scott Spivey shooting? Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell discuss two separate but related cases in South Carolina that highlight obvious systemic failures within the justice system. First, we focus on the upcoming retrial of Michael Colucci for the murder of his wife, Sara Lynn Moore Colucci, emphasizing red flags in his 911 call, his ‘gathering storm' of financial and stress leading up to her death, and the volatile nature of their relationship. Then we examine the alleged wrongful death of Scott Spivey, critically analyzing Horry County Police Department's investigation, the inconsistencies in witness testimonies, and the actions of Weldon Boyd, exposing a potential cover-up and lack of thorough inquiry by authorities. What does it take to achieve greater transparency and accountability in South Carolina's legal processes, particularly in cases involving influential men…? Let's dive in!
Investigative journalists Mandy Matney and Liz Farrell encountered something new on the JP Miller beat over the past week and it might just be his villain origin story. Myrtle Beach churchy-business bro “Pastor” John-Paul Miller — who stands accused of stalking and harassing his estranged wife Mica Francis and allegedly contributing to her death in April 2024 — got married this past weekend to his rumored longtime paramour Suzie Skinner — the widow of a quadriplegic man who was found dead at the bottom of his community pool in September 2021 (two weeks after he allegedly told JP to stay away from his wife and kids). The beach wedding appeared to be hastily pulled together and none of their combined seven children were seen at the wedding, according to sources. The big question everyone has on their minds after Sunday's nuptials: What are these two up to? Also on the show Mandy and Liz share more recordings in the Scott Spivey case (aka the Horry County Police Department corruption case). Turns out North Myrtle Beach businessman Weldon Boyd got even more help from police officers after he and his friend Bradley Williams shot and killed Scott on Sept. 9, 2023. LUNASHARK reporter and researcher Beth Braden discovered that about an hour after Scott was killed, HCPD Officer Kerry Higgs advised Weldon to stop talking because he might have to walk his story back later. Higgs told Weldon to wait for detectives to get to the scene because they would give him the timeline and chronology of events (presumably so Weldon could shape his narrative around it). Meanwhile a detective with HCPD — the one who interviewed the only witness to see what Scott did (didn't do) in the very last moments of his life — filed a report mixing up the order of events in a way that only served to help corroborate Weldon's account … directly contradicting the witness' 911 call and his video interview. Plus, we'll give an update on surprising news out of Houston, TX connected to the (2:32) Christa Bauer Gilley case. Let's dive in!