Podcast appearances and mentions of ryan creep

Korrina Malinoski, 26, disappeared from South Carolina's Mount Holly Plantation on November 21, 1987, after arguing with her abusive husband, Stephen. Her car was found locked on the property, but she was never located. On October 4, 1988, her daughter, Annette Sagers, 11, vanished from a nearby bus shelter, leaving a note claiming she left with her mother, though its authenticity is debated. Stephen, with a history of abuse and abandoning families, is the main suspect, but no evidence confirms his involvement. Despite extensive searches, including a 2019 effort narrowing the search area and investigating a suspicious carpet, Korrina and Annette remain missing, with theories pointing to murder by Stephen, unrelated foul play, or a voluntary departure. The case is unsolved, and Korrina's sons continue seeking answers.   Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 5:00 Korrina Malinoski and Annette Sagers 56:20 The Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance   Sources: From Victim to Monster: Cary Stayner – the Yosemite Killer. (2024, May 1). https://www.truecriminelle.com/cary-stayner-the-yosemite-killer/ Annette Sagers & Korrina Malinoski — unresolved. (n.d.). Unresolved. https://unresolved.me/annette-sagers-korrina-malinoski   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Shanti Devi's reincarnation case, one of the most compelling and well-documented in modern studies, unfolded in 1920s and 1930s India, a period of cultural revival and anti-colonial resistance led by Mahatma Gandhi. Born in Delhi on December 11, 1926, Shanti began claiming at age four to be Lugdi Devi, a woman from Mathura who died in 1925 after childbirth, about a year before Shanti's birth. She provided precise details about Mathura, her husband Kedar Nath Chaubey, their son, and her past life, using Mathura's dialect and terms unfamiliar to her Delhi family. Her school principal verified Kedar's existence, and a surprise visit from Kedar and his family saw Shanti correctly identify them, emotionally reconnecting with her former husband and son. Intrigued, Gandhi commissioned an investigation in 1935, during which Shanti led researchers to Lugdi's Mathura home, noted town changes, and located an empty coffer where she claimed to have hidden money (Kedar admitted removing it). The 1936 commission report concluded Shanti was Lugdi's reincarnation, finding no rational explanation for her knowledge. Shanti later described her death and afterlife experiences, lived a quiet spiritual life, and passed away in 1987. Her case, extensively studied and covered by media, remains a cornerstone in reincarnation research.   Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 5:45 Shanti Devi 48:00 The Brand of Hope - JED Foundation   Sources: Hartzman, M. (2024, April 29). Shanti Devi, the girl who claimed she was reincarnated. All That's Interesting. https://allthatsinteresting.com/shanti-devi   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

30-year-old Ben McDaniel had been through a lot by the time he reached the age of 30; He had lost his brother, his business and his home. In 2010, Ben was in the middle of a year-long sabbatical when he went scuba diving in a dangerous underwater cave late one afternoon and was never heard from again. It was assumed that Ben had run into trouble and drowned in the cave, but despite numerous searches, Ben's body has never been found.  Did Ben really drown in Vortex Spring? Did he stage his own death so he could run away and start a new life, or was his death the result of foul play?    Sources:  Caterina, D. (2025, May 27). The Deeper You Go. . . - Dellantonio Caterina - medium. Medium. https://medium.com/@dellantonio.caterina/the-deeper-you-go-e5c2c94e85f7 Lovethesepicture. (2012, June 29). Adrenaline Junkies Cave Diving Vortex Spring [Pics, Videos]. lovethesepicture.com. https://lovethesepicture.wordpress.com/2012/06/28/adrenaline-junkies-cave-diving-vortex-spring-37-pics-5-videos/ Battison, J. (2024, September 12). Haunting theory about what happened to diver who jumped into Vortex Spring water and never came back. LADbible. https://www.ladbible.com/community/ben-mcdaniel-vortex-spring-missing-diver-133757-20240912   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On June 6, 1991, Penny Bell, a 43-year-old businesswoman and mother of two, was brutally stabbed over 50 times in her Jaguar in the busy Gurnell Leisure Center parking lot in Greenford, London, in a frenzied attack that left no witnesses despite the public setting. Penny, a happy and successful director at a recruitment agency, lived in an affluent Buckinghamshire neighborhood with her husband, Alistair, and their children, Matthew and Lauren. That morning, she left home for an unspecified 9:50 a.m. appointment, mentioning it to builders renovating her home, but no record of it was found. Three days prior, she withdrew £8,500 from a joint account, an unusual act possibly linked to her murder. Witnesses reported seeing a man enter a blue Jaguar, a slow-moving Jaguar with hazard lights, and Penny mouthing “Help me” with a passenger, but no one intervened. The investigation, which interviewed over 8,000 people, was hampered by compromised forensic evidence and no clear motive, though the attack's savagery suggested Penny knew her killer. Suspects like Alistair, a former neighbor, John Richmond, and serial killer Robert Napper were cleared. In 2021, Penny's daughter, Lauren, who was nine at the time and has no memories of her mother, renewed efforts with a £20,000 reward and media campaigns, believing the killer was motivated by personal rage. The case remains unsolved, leaving Lauren to honor her mother's vibrant legacy by naming her daughter Penny.   Sources: McMahon, J., & McMahon, J. (2024, August 9). The Inside Story of Britain's Most Notorious Cold Case Murder. VICE. https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-inside-story-of-britains-most-notorious-cold-case-murder/   Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 2:25 Penny Bell 53:09 The Brand of Hope - JED Foundation     Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On June 10, 2011, 36-year-old Shane Fell vanished after a car accident in Marrero, Louisiana. After a night at a bar watching his brother Brett's pool tournament, Shane, who had some beer but wasn't visibly drunk, took a backroad home, possibly avoiding DUI checkpoints. He crashed his car on River Road, told Brett he was fine, and exited through the window. By the time Brett arrived, Shane was missing. Police found minor blood traces, a fastened seatbelt, and later one of Shane's shoes nearby. Extensive searches—using helicopters, dogs, and river scans—yielded nothing, nor did his phone, wallet, or keys turn up. A couple reported Shane declined their help at the scene. Despite family-led efforts, including a reward and billboard, and unverified sightings of Shane possibly homeless, the case stalled. Theories range from amnesia to a river accident, but no evidence confirms his fate, leaving the mystery unsolved.   Sources: Baxter, J. (2023, June 2). Man vanished from scene of accident: Where is Shane Fell? Medium.   https://medium.com/@jennbaxter_69070/man-vanished-from-scene-of-accident-where-is-shane-fell-102d8bab2f9a   https://open.spotify.com/episode/0qXUhYwZlWfWIvVV6IUl68?si=9r6vGYDKTNyp5y6I4Gz4tw   Join The Dark Oak Discussion:   Patreon   The Dark Oak Podcast Website   Facebook   Instagram   Twitter   TikTok   Youtube   This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep  

Described as "America's Dyatlov Pass Incident," the disappearance of five young men has baffled the world for decades.  When their vehicle is found abandoned on a rough mountain road, authorities are suddenly filled with more questions than answers. Why did the group of men drive the wrong direction from home and end up on the side of a mountain? Why did they leave the safety of the vehicle to head out, presumably on foot, completely unprepared and underdressed, into the snow? Where did they go? When signs of the men start being discovered, the questions only intensify.  Here we are, over 40 years later, still asking.....what happened to the Yuba County Five? Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 10:15 The Yuba County Five 57:28 The Brand of Hope - JED Foundation     Sources: Gorney, C. (2023, December 21). 5 “Boys” who never come back. The Washington Post. https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1978/07/06/5-boys-who-never-come-back/f8b30b11-baeb-4351-89f3-26456a76a4fb/ Yuba County five. (2023, July 17). Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/yuba-county-five/id1609249707     Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep    

When 15-year-old Emanuela Orlandi failed to come home after her music lesson on a hot summer day in Rome, her family immediately knew something was wrong. Fear grew to absolute dread when a man known only as "The American" claimed to have abducted Emanuela and threatened to kill her unless a captive terrorist was released in exchange for the girl. When the deadline for release came and went and Emanuela's body was not found, investigators had a renewed sense of hope that perhaps the teenager was still alive. The dark theories that have surrounded Emanuela's vanishing in the more than forty years since she went missing have many people wondering if all is as it seems in Rome. Could the ones meant to help be the very ones responsible for her disappearance?    Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 05:15 Emanuela Orlandi 01:08:10 The Brand of Hope - JED Foundation Sources: Vatican Girl: The Disappearance of Emanuela Orlandi. (2017). https://www.netflix.com/title/81117191   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep    

Ellen Sadler, born in 1859 in Turville, England, became known as the "Sleeping Girl" after falling into a mysterious nine-year sleep starting March 17, 1871, at age 11. Living in poverty with her mother Ann and stepfather Thomas Frewen, Ellen exhibited a melancholic, dreamy demeanor and had health issues, including headaches and glandular swellings. After a brief stint as a nursemaid, terminated due to inattention and drowsiness, she was diagnosed with possible spinal disease and an abscess. Discharged as incurable from Reading Hospital, she returned home, experienced seizures, and fell into a deep, unresponsive state.   For nine years, Ellen remained in the same position—on her left side, hands under her head, knees drawn up—visited by doctors, journalists, and curious onlookers. Her mother fed her minimal amounts of port wine, sugar, and milk through teapots, raising questions about starvation survival. Despite scrutiny, including a government investigation in 1875, no hoax was proven, and Ann's care was deemed devoted. Ellen awoke in late 1880, shortly after her mother's death, showing childlike behavior and no memory of the period. She later lived a normal life, marrying and having five children, and died in 1946 at 86.   The case remains unexplained. Possible medical explanations include an extreme form of narcolepsy, a coma from brain infection, or a psychological response to stress from her stepfather's behavior. Skeptics questioned the lack of bedsores and minimal sustenance, but no evidence confirmed a hoax. The story, widely reported in newspapers like The Times, puzzled contemporaries and remains a medical mystery.   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Amber Hagerman is a 9-year-old little girl whose legacy has helped change the lives of thousands of people in the last three decades. Unfortunately, Amber Hagerman's story has a tragic ending, but out of the tragedy a new system was born that would ultimately help save the lives of thousands of children all over the world. Every January 13 is AMBER Alert Awareness Day where the nation remembers the little girl who was abducted and murdered in in January of 1996. Her story inspired the creation of the nation-wide system, known as the Amber Alert, that allows law enforcement to quickly alert the public to child abductions.   Though Amber's case remains unsolved and her killer has never seen justice, we can hold onto the hope that through scientific advancements in DNA research we may one day find the person responsible for taking her life.    Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 01:10 Amber Hagerman 45:20 The Brand of Hope - JED Foundation     Sources:  Frequently asked Questions | AMBER Alert. (n.d.). AMBER Alert. https://amberalert.ojp.gov/about/faqs#faq3 Staff, U. (2024, April 15). 5 stories of kidnapped children who were rescued. Upworthy. https://www.upworthy.com/5-incredible-stories-of-missing-kids-that-were-rescued-in-nick-of-time-rp3 Still searching for Amber's killer. (n.d.). National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. https://www.missingkids.org/blog/2021/still-searching-for-ambers-killer Amber Alert | Highland Beach, FL. (n.d.). https://highlandbeach.us/230/Amber-Alert DeLong, W. (2023, May 25). Amber Hagerman, the 9-Year-Old whose murder inspired AMBER alerts. All That's Interesting. https://allthatsinteresting.com/amber-hagerman   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Mitrice Richardson, a 24-year-old psychology graduate, disappeared on September 17, 2009, after being released from the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff's Station in Los Angeles, following her arrest for failing to pay an $89 restaurant bill and possessing a small amount of marijuana. Exhibiting erratic behavior suggestive of a mental health crisis, possibly undiagnosed bipolar disorder, Mitrice was released at 12:28 a.m. without her phone, wallet, or car, despite her mother's plea to hold her until morning. Last seen alive resting in a resident's backyard six hours later, her skeletal remains were found 11 months later in a remote canyon, with her clothing 700 feet away and no clear cause of death determined. The Los Angeles Sheriff's Department faced criticism for releasing her, mishandling her remains, and obstructing the coroner's investigation, prompting lawsuits and allegations of foul play, though her death was ruled undetermined, not a homicide. Her case led to policy changes for missing persons and mental health evaluations, but her family continues to seek justice, believing she was murdered.   Branch of Hope for May 2025: The JED Foundation - Jedfoundation.org   Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 01:40 Mitrice Richardson 1:28:20 The Brand of Hope - JED Foundation     Sources: Suspicious death: Mitrice Richardson | Malibu, CA | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/mitrice-richardson Office of Independent Review, Gennaco, M. J., Katz, W. W., Miller, R., Ruhlin, J., Hernandez, C. L., Arias, A. A., Teran, D. M., Shasty, B., Calderon, A., Avery, M., & Newkirk-Ma, S. (2012). REPORT REVIEWING THE INVESTIGATION REGARDING THE DISCOVERY AND RECOVERY OF THE REMAINS OF MITRICE RICHARDSON (AND UPDATE ON PRIOR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SYSTEMIC REFORM OF RELEASE PROCEDURES). http://shq.lasdnews.net/shq/LASD_Oversight/Richardson_Coroner_LASD%20final.pdf Croft, C. (2025, May 3). Lost compassion [Video]. Vimeo. https://vimeo.com/156140192 Veliz, L. (2022, October 17). The tragic 2009 disappearance and death of Mitrice Richardson. Grunge. https://www.grunge.com/1052145/the-tragic-2009-disappearance-and-death-of-mitrice-richardson/ The Jed Foundation. (2024, August 30). The Story of JED | The JED Foundation. https://jedfoundation.org/the-story-of-jed/ Sengupta, S. (2024, April 20). Mitrice Richardson Murder: What led to her tragic end? The Cinemaholic. https://thecinemaholic.com/mitrice-richardson-murder-how-did-she-die-who-killed-her/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

The Redhead Murders, spanning 1978 to 1992, involve a series of unsolved homicides of white women found along highways in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, with victim counts ranging from 5 to 14. While some cases may be linked to a serial killer dubbed the "Bible Belt Strangler," inconsistencies in victim profiles—such as hair color, cause of death (strangulation or blunt force trauma), and state of dress—leave uncertainty about whether all are connected. Many victims, often transient, hitchhikers, or sex workers estranged from family, remained unidentified for decades, complicating investigations during an era when serial killer profiling was nascent. Key victims include Lisa Nichols, Tina Farmer, Tracy Sue Walker, Michelle Inman, and Espy Pilgrim, with identifications often delayed until 2018 or later. Jerry Leon Johns, a trucker convicted of kidnapping survivor Linda Schacke, was linked to Farmer's murder via DNA in 2016 and is the primary suspect, though he died in 2015. A significant breakthrough came in 2018 when Elizabethton High School students, led by teacher Alex Campbell, analyzed the cases, identified six potential victims, and implicated Johns through their podcast, Murder 101, though they received no official credit. The case underscores the marginalization of victims and the power of community efforts, with ongoing victim identifications offering hope for justice.   Murder 101 Podcast   went to town on June 6. 1984, they had no way of knowing the tragedy that would be awaiting them. While Raymond handled some business at the bank, Sherry walked to a gas station to buy a sod and was never seen again. With little clues, the case went cold rather quickly but in recent years has garnered new attention with the help of an unlikely team. In today's bonus episode, we will tell you the facts of Sherry's case and then share with you a compelling conspiracy theory that might just hold the answers to what happened to Sherry Lynn Marler.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 01:15 100th Episode Celebration 09:00 The Redhead Murders 01:09:40 The Branch of Hope     Sources: Paoletti, G. (2019, May 1). The unsolved mystery of the Redhead serial murders. All That's Interesting. https://allthatsinteresting.com/redhead-murders Ubiera, C. R. (2024, January 26). ‘Redhead' serial killer case ‘is solved by high-schoolers' during class project with same suspect now named. . . The US Sun. https://www.the-sun.com/news/10193888/redhead-murders-teenagers-solve-mystery-true-crime/ Frankie, C. (2023, May 22). The 'Redhead Murders': Are we any closer to solving the mysterious cases? A&E. https://www.aetv.com/real-crime/redhead-murders Jun 26, 1985, page 17 - The Tennessean at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/112755748/?match=1&terms=redhead%20murder Nov 09, 1985, page 20 - Messenger-Inquirer at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/378780385/?match=1&terms=redhead%20murder Apr 25, 1985, page 12 - Intelligencer Journal at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/563469082/?match=1&terms=redhead%20murder Naves, A. (2022, October 19). Who is the Killer in the Redhead Murders? - A.W. Naves - Medium. Medium. https://medium.com/@awnaves/who-is-the-killer-in-the-redhead-murders-f1143a7f4c9a North, J. (2020, June 3). Appalachian Unsolved: The trucker who liked redheads. wbir.com. https://www.wbir.com/article/news/investigations/appalachian-unsolved/appalachian-unsolved-the-trucker-intrigued-by-serial-killers/51-624ef38c-0372-42a4-8bee-25b2b1647c95 Ubiera, C. R. (2024, January 26). ‘Redhead' serial killer case ‘is solved by high-schoolers' during class project with same suspect now named. . . The US Sun. https://www.the-sun.com/news/10193888/redhead-murders-teenagers-solve-mystery-true-crime/ Murder 101 | iHeart. (n.d.). iHeart. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-murder-101-140096221/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

When 12-year-old Sherry Lynn Marler and her stepfather Raymond went to town on June 6. 1984, they had no way of knowing the tragedy that would be awaiting them. While Raymond handled some business at the bank, Sherry walked to a gas station to buy a sod and was never seen again. With little clues, the case went cold rather quickly but in recent years has garnered new attention with the help of an unlikely team. In today's bonus episode, we will tell you the facts of Sherry's case and then share with you a compelling conspiracy theory that might just hold the answers to what happened to Sherry Lynn Marler.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 07:05 The Disappearance of Sherry Lynn Marler 55:45 The Branch of Hope   Sources:  Have you seen this child? Sherry Lynn Marler. (n.d.). https://www.missingkids.org/poster/NCMC/601811/1 FindtheMissing. (2020, July 18). Sherry Lynn Marler. The Resource Center for cmcc.com/2019/08/29/51-alf-sherry-lynn-marler/The Surviving Parents Coalition: Betty Stringfellow. (n.d.). http://www.spcoalition.org/stringfellow.html https://www.facebook.com/SherryLynnMarler/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

In August 2004, American student David Sneddon disappeared while hiking in China's Tiger Leaping Gorge. Despite official claims that he fell into the Jinsha River, his family's investigation uncovered multiple witness accounts suggesting he survived and reached Shangri-La. A guide, Keith Chu Chung, reported hiking with David, who spoke fluent Mandarin, Korean, and English, to Tina's Guesthouse, and 12 other witnesses, including the owner of the Yak Bar in Shangri-La, confirmed seeing him as late as August 14, 2004. However, Chinese authorities confiscated guesthouse logs, and all witnesses later recanted, fueling suspicions of a cover-up. In 2011, Chuck Downs, a former Pentagon official, proposed that North Korea abducted David, possibly mistaking him for a smuggler or targeting him as an English teacher due to his language skills, as the gorge was a route for North Korean defectors. Reports in 2012 and 2016 supported this, suggesting David, under the name Yoon Bong Soo, was teaching English in North Korea, married with two children. Despite these leads, the U.S. and Chinese governments maintain he died, and North Korea denies involvement. The Sneddons, frustrated by official inaction, possibly due to U.S. nuclear negotiations with North Korea, urge public awareness through social media and contacting officials to seek justice for David and highlight North Korea's human rights issues. Additional case details, including maps, are available on Instagram at @TheDarkOakPodcast.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 02:40 100th Episode Celebration and Giveaway 06:55 David Sneddon 01:08:40 The Branch of Hope   Sources: Persio, S. L. (2018, June 11). Did North Korea kidnap a U.S. citizen in China? Family hopes Singapore summit will help bring their son home. Newsweek. https://www.newsweek.com/family-us-student-who-disappeared-china-looks-north-korea-summit-answers-967469 China Discovery. (n.d.). China Discovery - Leading China Travel Agency with Reviews. https://www.chinadiscovery.com/ Vogel, C., & Vogel, C. (2022, May 12). Did North Korea kidnap an American hiker? Outside Online. https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/did-north-korea-kidnap-american-hiker/ “Thinking Sideways Podcast” David Sneddon (Podcast episode 2015) - Plot - IMDB. (n.d.). IMDb. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14457712/plotsummary/ O'Donoghue, A. J. (2023, December 31). Utah parents long for answers in missing son's case. Deseret News. https://www.deseret.com/2012/8/5/20505138/utah-parents-long-for-answers-in-missing-son-s-case/ Korea's other Otto Warmbier. (2017, June 23). News. https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/real-life/true-stories/north-koreas-other-otto-the-unbelievable-story-of-missing-hiker-david-sneddon/news-story/90ab2549acafc281d965f7700c52bb4e Corbin, C. (2017, June 28). Family of David Sneddon, missing US student, says North Korea kidnapped him. Fox News. https://www.foxnews.com/world/family-of-david-sneddon-missing-us-student-says-north-korea-kidnapped-him David Sneddon: Tiger Leaping Gorge, China. (2024, February 8). Apple Podcasts. https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/david-sneddon-tiger-leaping-gorge-china/id1715813037?i=1000644599761   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Part 1 of 2 - David Sneddon, a 24-year-old Brigham Young University student from Logan, Utah, disappeared on August 14, 2004, while hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunnan, China, after completing Mandarin language classes in Beijing. A devout Mormon, Eagle Scout, and experienced hiker fluent in Korean and Mandarin, David was described as smart, outgoing, and adventurous, with plans to attend law school. He had spent two years in South Korea on a Mormon mission and was studying in Beijing with friend George Bailey during the summer of 2004.   After classes, David and George traveled to southern China. On August 9, they parted ways, with David heading to hike the 16-mile High Trail of Tiger Leaping Gorge, a scenic but well-maintained trail. His last communication was an email to his parents on August 11 from Lijiang, expressing excitement about the hike and returning home. He planned to stay at Tina's Guesthouse, visit Shangri-La, and fly to Seoul to meet his brother Michael on August 15. When David missed the flight, his family reported him missing.   Chinese authorities conducted a brief investigation, finding no trace of David in hostels, hospitals, or jails. His passport and $700 in his bank account remained untouched, and his backpack, left at Jane's Guesthouse in Lijiang, contained undeveloped film showing his travels. Despite no evidence of foul play and a heavily trafficked trail, officials concluded David fell into the Jinsha River and drowned, a theory his parents, Roy and Kathleen, rejected due to his hiking experience and the trail's safety.   On September 9, 2004, Roy and sons Michael and James traveled to Yunnan to retrace David's steps, hiring a translator and guide. They found the trail safe, wide, and busy, with no perilous drops, contradicting the official narrative. The family's methodical search—using non-leading questions and photos—yielded a confirmed sighting: a guide, Keith Chu Chung, recalled David hiking with a Hong Kong couple on August 11, reaching Tina's Guesthouse by 7 p.m., proving he exited the gorge safely.   The Sneddons grew suspicious of the Chinese authorities' efforts, noting performative searches with bloodhounds and missing person posters that seemed staged. Seven years later, a phone call (details undisclosed) reignited hope that David might be alive. Part 2 will cover the family's continued search, official reactions, and theories, including a controversial claim of North Korean abduction.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 03:30 100th Episode Celebration and Giveaway 05:30 David Sneddon 39:00 The Branch of Hope     Sources: Newsweek. https://www.newsweek.com/family-us-student-who-disappeared-china-looks-north-korea-summit-answers-967469 Vogel, C., & Vogel, C. (2022, May 12). Did North Korea kidnap an American hiker? Outside Online. https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/did-north-korea-kidnap-american-hiker/ “Thinking Sideways Podcast” David Sneddon (Podcast episode 2015) - Plot - IMDB. (n.d.). IMDb. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt14457712/plotsummary/ 13: David Sneddon: Tiger Leaping Gorge, China - The Last Trip | iHeart. (n.d.). iHeart. https://www.iheart.com/podcast/270-the-last-trip-127775104/episode/13-david-sneddon-tiger-leaping-gorge-148633018/ China Discovery. (n.d.). China Discovery - Leading China Travel Agency with Reviews. https://www.chinadiscovery.com/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Joshua Maddux, an 18-year-old from Woodland Park, Colorado, vanished on May 8, 2008, after going for a walk. A bright, creative teen who loved nature, he seemed happy despite the 2006 suicide of his brother. After five days, his family reported him missing, but searches yielded nothing. In August 2015, his body was found in the chimney of an abandoned cabin near his home, upside down in a fetal position, wearing only a shirt, with his clothes folded inside the cabin. The coroner ruled his death an accident, suggesting he climbed in and got stuck, dying of hypothermia or dehydration. However, the cabin owner claimed a grate blocked the chimney, making entry impossible, and the coroner noted two people would be needed to place the body there. Rumors point to foul play, including a tip about Andrew Richard Newman, a convicted murderer seen with Josh, but no evidence supports this. The case remains an accident with no active police investigation, leaving questions about how Josh ended up in the chimney and whether others were involved.   00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 05:15 100 Episode Celebration and Giveaway 07:50 Joshua Maddux 48:18 The Branch of Hope   Sources: Roberts, M. (2015, September 30). Joshua Maddux, R.I.P.: Remains of teen missing 7 years found in Cabin Chimney. Westword. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://www.westword.com/news/joshua-maddux-rip-remains-of-teen-missing-7-years-found-in-cabin-chimney-7197390 StrangeOutdoors.com. (2021, August 6). The strange death of josh maddux, the boy in the chimney. StrangeOutdoors.com. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://www.strangeoutdoors.com/strange-indoors/joshua-maddux Young, N. (2023, May 11). How did Joshua Maddux die in the chimney of an abandoned cabin? Medium. https://medium.com/@nikyoung/how-did-joshua-maddux-die-in-the-chimney-of-an-abandoned-cabin-7502be457cb7 Mendoza, J. (2023, March 13). Disturbing details about the case of Joshua Maddux, the teen found in a chimney. Grunge. https://www.grunge.com/1205963/disturbing-details-about-the-case-of-joshua-maddux-the-teen-found-in-a-chimney/ Migration, & Paul, J. (2015, October 19). Chimney discovery ends mystery over young man's disappearance, but questions remain. The Denver Post. https://www.denverpost.com/2015/10/19/chimney-discovery-ends-mystery-over-young-mans-disappearance-but-questions-remain/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Poon Lim, born in 1918 on Hainan Island, China, grew up in a fishing village before moving to Malaysia at age ten. As Japan invaded China in the 1930s, sparking the Second Sino-Japanese War, Lim's father sent him away to avoid conscription, possibly fearing atrocities like the Nanjing Massacre. Lim joined the British Merchant Navy as a cabin boy, but faced discrimination and abuse, leading him to leave in 1937 for Hong Kong, where he became a mechanic.   In 1939, with Britain at war with Germany, the Navy improved conditions to recruit more Chinese seamen, including Lim, who joined the SS Ben Lomond in 1942 as a Second Mess Steward. On November 23, 1942, the unescorted, lightly armed ship was torpedoed by the German U-172 submarine off Brazil. Lim survived the sinking, which killed 54 of the 55 crew members, by clinging to debris and eventually finding a stocked life raft.   Alone at sea, Lim survived 133 days by rationing supplies—water, hardtack, chocolate, pemmican, milk, and lime juice—building a canopy for shade and rainwater, and crafting tools to fish and hunt birds. Despite being a weak swimmer, he tied himself to the raft and later killed a shark for its blood and meat when dehydration threatened his life. Multiple ships passed him without rescuing him, possibly mistaking him for a Japanese sailor or fearing a U-boat trap.   On April 1943, Brazilian fishermen rescued him near Pará after he drifted close to land, emaciated and weak. After recovering, Lim received the British Empire Medal from King George VI for his courage and resourcefulness. His story influenced Royal Navy survival manuals, and he later became a U.S. citizen, settling in Brooklyn with his family until his death in 1991 at age 72. Lim holds the record for the longest solo survival on a life raft, a testament to his extraordinary resilience.   00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 00:30 100 Episode Celebration and Giveaway 03:30 The Lake Oconee Murders   Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poon_Lim https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/sole-survivor-of-the-sinking-of-the-benlomond-in-wwii-poon-lim-set-a-record-for-133-days-adrift-at-sea/news-story/9c63348c42762182e17bcc3c2ddbe1a8 https://www.historydefined.net/poon-lim/embed/#?secret=sVREifRlva#?secret=E0phajhSTT https://www.joe.ie/fitness-health/133-days-at-sea-in-an-eight-foot-raft-meet-poon-lim-39850 Jones, S. (2024, March 6). Poon Lim, The Man who Survived 133 Days Lost at Sea. Historic Flix. https://historicflix.com/poon-lim-man-who-survived-133-days-lost-at-sea/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

In May 2014, the murders of Russell and Shirley Dermond, a couple in their late eighties, shook the residents of Putnam County, Georgia. The decapitated body of Russell Dermond was found on May 6, 2014, in the garage of the house he owned on Lake Oconee. Neither his head nor his wife, Shirley, could be located in the house. As the investigation unfolded, the murder was revealed to be a double homicide when Shirley's body was found in Lake Oconee and the brutal attacks remain unsolved more than 10 years later.  Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to the Dark Oak 01:20 100 Episode Celebration and Giveaway 03:29 The Lake Oconee Murders 53:27 The Branch of Hope   Sources: Deviant True Crime Podcast. (2024, September 24). The Lake Oconee Murders Part 1: Derby Day [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5-5Nsf7WrA Deviant True Crime Podcast. (2024b, October 1). The Lake Oconee Murders Part 2: By land or by boat [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eShTiXyZAJg Deviant True Crime Podcast. (2024c, October 8). The Lake Oconee Murders Part 3: A big lead [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=018IGAx4FaE Deviant True Crime Podcast. (2024d, October 15). The Lake Oconee Murders Part 4: The Workup [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bo7o4tsoYFQ   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

In 2018 a soccer team made up of 12 boys and their coach was trapped inside a flooded cave in Northern Thailand. All hope seemed lost when the boys had been lost for 10 days with their exact location inside the cave unknown and no sign of life.  This episode chronicles a miraculous survival story and the incredible team of volunteers that worked together while risking their own lives., to save the team. Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to The Dark Oak 01:40 100th Episode Celebration and Giveaway 04:40 The Thai Cave Rescue 01:17:00 The Branch of Hope   Sources:  The Rescue. (2020). National Geographic. Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Mary Louise Day, born in 1968 in Little Falls, New York, grew up in a turbulent household with her sisters Kathy and Sherrie, marked by instability, foster care, and abuse. After her parents' divorce, her mother Charlotte married William Houle, a military man whose relocations added to the family's isolation. By 1980, living in Seaside, California, 13-year-old Mary faced severe abuse from William. In July 1981, following a violent incident where William beat her—allegedly over a sick dog—Mary vanished. Her mother claimed she ran away, and the family never reported her missing, silencing any mention of her.   Nine years later, in 1992, Sherrie, haunted by her sister's disappearance, filed a missing person's report. The case went cold until 2002, when Seaside police reopened it. Investigations revealed William and Charlotte had cashed Mary's Social Security checks after her disappearance, suggesting foul play. In 2003, a search of their former home uncovered a child's shoe and soil indicating decomposition, backed by cadaver dogs, but no body was found. Interviews with Charlotte and William were chilling—William admitted to beating Mary and hinted at a “demon” killing her, yet lacked sufficient evidence for arrest.   Then, in November 2003, a woman claiming to be Mary surfaced in Phoenix, Arizona, during a traffic stop. “Phoenix Mary” matched Charlotte's DNA, closing the case, but inconsistencies—like her accent, vague memories, and sudden ID acquisition—raised doubts. She lived with Sherrie briefly, but tensions and her erratic behavior fueled skepticism, especially from Kathy, who doubted her identity over forgotten childhood details. In 2008, cadaver dogs again hit on a former Houle residence, yet no remains were found.   By 2017, as Phoenix Mary battled cancer, new Police Chief Judy Veloz re-examined the case. Further DNA tests confirmed Charles Day as her father, and a photo from the 1980s, verified by facial recognition, supported her identity. Her memory gaps were attributed to trauma and alcoholism. She died in 2017, leaving unresolved questions: Was she truly Mary? If so, where was she for 22 years? If not, who was she, and what happened to the real Mary? The cadaver dog hits remain unexplained, deepening the mystery of this dark, perplexing case.   Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to The Dark Oak 01:40 100th Episode Celebration and Giveaway 07:10 What Happened to Mary Day? 1:00:30 The Branch of Hope   Sources: 48 Hours Inverview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KheUErGCFJA   Voll, C. (2022, October 3). Mary Louise Day resurfaced after over 20 years - CrimeBeat - Medium. Medium. https://medium.com/crimebeat/mary-louise-day-resurfaced-after-over-20-years-fbb1f7cd2e2f Sengupta, S. (2025, January 21). 5 harrowing details about the murder of Mary Day on Investigation Discovery, explored. Soapcentral. https://www.soapcentral.com/shows/5-harrowing-details-murder-mary-day-investigation-discovery-explored   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Hannah Upp, a 32-year-old teacher, disappeared from St. Thomas on September 14, 2017, after a swim, amidst Hurricanes Irma and Maria. She had dissociative fugue, a condition causing identity loss, and had vanished twice before—once in 2008 in New York, found in the Hudson River after three weeks, and in 2012 in Maryland, found in a creek after two days—both times with no memory. Her 2017 disappearance left her clothes and car at Sapphire Beach, but despite extensive searches, she wasn't found. Theories include drowning, fleeing on a ship, or staging her exit, but none are proven. Her mother remains hopeful; Hannah, now 39, is still missing.   Timestamps: Main Content - 9:30 Branch of Hope - 1:07:10   Sources: Kenton, L. (2023, April 3). Chilling note left by missing Hannah Upp points to ‘two options' of what happened to her. . . The US Sun. https://www.the-sun.com/news/7757272/hannah-upp-amnesia-missing-jason-bourne-irma/ Barcella, L. (2021, March 30). What Happened to Hannah Upp? The Mystery Around the Young Woman's Disappearance Continues. A&E. https://www.aetv.com/real-crime/what-happened-to-hannah-upp-the-mystery-around-the-young-womans-disappearance-continues Villines, Z. (2023, September 6). Dissociative fugue: Symptoms and treatment. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dissociative-fugue Ashley, M. (2022, January 6). Missing Person Hannah Upp May Not Know She is Missing. Medium. https://truecrimemysteries.medium.com/missing-person-hannah-upp-may-not-know-she-is-missing-88d3d882ba5f Jennifer. (2024, November 14). The bizarre disappearance of Hannah Upp - Jennifer - medium. Medium. https://wherearetheypodcast.medium.com/the-bizarre-disappearance-of-hannah-upp-6367f858ce10 Mystery, M. O. (2023, August 7). The very, very, strange case of Hannah Upp. Mind Over Mystery. https://mindovermystery.com/the-very-very-strange-case-of-hannah-upp/ Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

When Ellen Greenberg, a first-grade teacher at Juniata Park Academy, was found dead in her locked (from the inside) Manayunk apartment in 2011 with more than 20 stab wounds, authorities initially ruled her death a suicide. During her autopsy, the medical examiner discovered that one of Ellen's stab wounds could have potentially cut through her spinal cord, rendering her unable to continue stabbing herself. Could this really have been a suicide? During her autopsy it was also discovered that Ellen was covered in multiple bruises in various stages of healing.    Despite the suicide ruling, the Greenberg family still believes Ellen was murdered and they have been fighting to change the manner of death ruling. As of this year, some of their hard work may have paid off - in January 2025 there was a major update in the case!    Listen to Part 2 of the Ellen Greenberg case and let us know what you think!     Sources:  Ellen Greenberg - Case documents and Details - Gavin Fish. (2025, March 8). Gavin Fish. https://gavinfish.com/cases/ellen-greenberg/ Prosecutorspod, V. a. P. B. (2022, August 20). 146. The death of Ellen Greenberg Part 1 of 4 — Little locked room. The Prosecutors Podcast. https://prosecutorspodcast.com/2022/08/23/146-the-death-of-ellen-greenberg-part-1-of-4-little-locked-room/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

When Ellen Greenberg, a first-grade teacher at Juniata Park Academy, was found dead in her locked (from the inside) Manayunk apartment in 2011 with more than 20 stab wounds, authorities initially ruled her death a suicide. During her autopsy, the medical examiner discovered that one of Ellen's stab wounds could have potentially cut through her spinal cord, rendering her unable to continue stabbing herself. Could this really have been a suicide? During her autopsy it was also discovered that Ellen was covered in multiple bruises in various stages of healing.    Despite the suicide ruling, the Greenberg family still believes Ellen was murdered and they have been fighting to change the manner of death ruling. As of this year, some of their hard work may have paid off - in January 2025 there was a major update in the case!    Listen to Part 1 of the Ellen Greenberg case and let us know what you think!     Sources:  Ellen Greenberg - Case documents and Details - Gavin Fish. (2025, March 8). Gavin Fish. https://gavinfish.com/cases/ellen-greenberg/ Prosecutorspod, V. a. P. B. (2022, August 20). 146. The death of Ellen Greenberg Part 1 of 4 — Little locked room. The Prosecutors Podcast. https://prosecutorspodcast.com/2022/08/23/146-the-death-of-ellen-greenberg-part-1-of-4-little-locked-room/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Logan Schiendelman, a popular and charismatic high school football player, vanished without a trace in May 2016 at the age of 19. Born in 1996 in Tumwater, Washington, Logan was raised by his white grandmother, Ginnie Gebo, after his mixed-race mother, Hannah, pursued art school. Logan never knew his Saudi Arabian father, which later contributed to an identity crisis as he faced racism from peers in his predominantly white hometown during his senior year of high school. After graduating in 2015, he attended Washington State University but struggled socially, dropped out after his freshman year, and returned to live with his grandmother.   On May 19, 2016, Logan told Ginnie he had an "epiphany" and might be gone for a few days. That day, he sent a cryptic text to a girl he met on a dating app, saying, “I hope to survive this week.” He was never seen again. The next day, his black 1996 Chrysler Sebring was found abandoned on Interstate 5 with his wallet, phone, and some belongings inside. Witnesses reported seeing the car drifting across lanes, with a Caucasian man jumping out and fleeing into the woods. Another sighting mentioned a naked teenager in the area, possibly Logan, but searches with dogs and helicopters found nothing.   Investigations revealed Logan had been moody and paranoid after college, possibly linked to his marijuana use. His family noted tension with his sister's boyfriend, who had a criminal record, though he passed a polygraph test. Logan had also recently met his Black paternal relatives, which brought him joy but may have caused friction with Ginnie. In 2017, a woman reported seeing Logan with two white men near his car on May 20, leading to a sketch of one suspect, but no solid leads emerged. The lack of blood or struggle in the car and the presence of valuables ruled out robbery.   Theories abound: Did Logan suffer a mental breakdown, possibly drug-related, and leave voluntarily? Or did he encounter foul play, as suggested by the witnesses and his uncle Mike, a retired deputy? Police found no evidence of a crime but believe he may still be alive. His family, including great-aunt Mary, who runs a Facebook page with 18,000 members, continues to search for answers, offering a reward. Logan would be 29 today, and his case remains unsolved, leaving his loved ones in anguished uncertainty.   Sources: Jan 15, 2017, page A16 - The Olympian at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/702079929/ Jul 01, 2017, page A3 - The Olympian at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/702084544/ Dateline: Missing in America podcast covers the May 2016 disappearance of Logan Schiendelman in Tumwater, Washington. (2023, June 21). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/dateline-missing-in-america-podcast/dateline-missing-america-podcast-covers-may-2016-disappearance-logan-s-rcna90251   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

In the late-night hours of December 5, 2003, Jonathan Luna, an Assistant United States Attorney, left the Baltimore courthouse and drove northeast on Interstate 95. After spending the next several hours on a seemingly impromptu multi-state road trip, Jonathan was found dead, having been stabbed thirty-six times with his own pocketknife before he drowned in a creek next to his partially submerged car.  With Jonathan's strange behavior leading up to his death and no appearance of foul play, investigators assumed Jonathan took his own life, but many people think there may be more to the story.    Sources: Somebody Somewhere Season 3. (n.d.). https://www.sbswpodcast.com/s3-episodes/ https://lancasteronline.com/news/local/5-key-moments-in-the-jonathan-luna-case/article_76301364-908e-11ee-85be-9fc7b045a390.html   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On March 26, 1991, a public holiday in South Korea, five boys from Daegu—aged 9 to 13—went missing while searching for salamander eggs near Mount Waryong. After missing their taekwondo lesson, their parents initially searched for them but eventually reported them missing. Unfortunately, police initially dismissed the boys as runaways. Media attention about the lost boys grew, dubbing them the "Frog Boys," and despite a massive search ordered by the president, no trace was found. Hoax calls and inadequate police efforts frustrated the parents. Eventually the boy's fathers even quit their jobs to search nationwide, eventually suspecting a Korean military cover-up as they were followed by intelligence agents. In 2002, the skeletal remains of all five boys were found on Mount Waryong, showing bullet casings, blunt force injuries, and possible bullet holes, suggesting foul play. Police mishandled the scene and claimed hypothermia; a theory experts rejected. The nearby military base, linked to the casings, was never searched, fueling more theories of military involvement. No arrests have been made, and various lawsuits against the police have failed. In 2015, the statute of limitations was lifted, leaving the case open for new evidence. The parents, who buried their sons' ashes together, are still seeking justice. What happened to the Daegu Frog Boys? Please, welcome our special guest, Coffee and Cases! Make sure you give them a follow and a five-star review! linktr.ee/coffeeandcases Sources: Paulo, D. A. (2020, December 22). Intrigue, scandal, heartbreak: The case of South Korea's missing ‘frog boys.' CNA. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/cnainsider/intrigue-scandal-heartbreak-case-south-korea-missing-frog-boys-774406 Banks, A. (2019, January 11). The Frog Boys of South Korea — criminally intrigued. Criminally Intrigued. https://www.criminallyintrigued.com/blog/2019/1/6/the-curious-case-of-the-frog-boys KSIS : What happened to the Frog Boys? (2024, November 13). KSTATION TV. https://kstationtv.com/2024/11/13/ksis-what-happened-to-the-frog-boys/?lang=en   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Please, welcome our special guest, Coffee and Cases! Make sure you give them a follow and a five-star review! linktr.ee/coffeeandcases When Olivia Lone Bear went missing on October 24, 2017, her family was thrust into a search that would span years, uncovering a series of perplexing details that would leave them without answers. This episode delves into the mysterious circumstances surrounding Olivia's disappearance, from the cryptic final texts sent from her phone to the unexplainable discovery of the truck she had been driving being found just miles from her home. With no clear answers and the investigation stalled, the episode also explores the challenges faced by Indigenous families in the fight for justice, highlighting the systemic barriers that complicate the search for missing women like Olivia. As we examine the key pieces of this case, we also ask: who might Olivia have been with on the night she disappeared? Was the truck's location an accident or something more sinister? Could the mysterious digital footprints left behind be part of a larger story, and why has no one come forward with answers?   Sources: AP News. (2019, November 20). Affidavit: Woman was strapped into seat of submerged truck. https://apnews.com/general-news-0c2c29a4bc1d4f309ba5cf5a7f3a79c3 Associated Press. (2018, August 1). Body found in truck pulled from lake tied to missing woman: FBI. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2018/08/01/body-found-in-truck-pulled-from-lake-tied-to-missing-woman-fbi/ Associated Press. (2018, August 2). Brother: Body of missing sister recovered on reservation. AP News. https://apnews.com/general-news-b1d5cfb9dfbe40fcaac7e4ec1454e5a3 Associated Press. (2019, November 20). Missing woman whose body was found in a submerged truck in a North Dakota lake was strapped into the passenger seat. Daily Mail. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7708809/Affidavit-Woman-strapped-seat-submerged-truck.html Canning, A. (2021, August 31). Watch the Dateline episode "The Secrets of Spirit Lake" now. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/watch-dateline-episode-secrets-spirit-lake-now-n1278074 CSVANW. (2018, August 16). CSVANW statement on Olivia Lone Bear. Lakota Times. https://www.lakotatimes.com/articles/csvanw-statement-on-olivia-lone-bear/ Dalrymple, A. (2017, November 16). Investigation into Olivia Lone Bear case got off to 'very slow start,' ND tribal chairman says. Bismarck Tribune. https://www.inforum.com/news/investigation-into-olivia-lone-bear-case-got-off-to-very-slow-start-nd-tribal-chairman-says Democracy Now. (n.d.). Native American mother of 5 missing in North Dakota. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/democracynow/videos/native-american-mother-of-5-missing-in-north-dakota/10155889437833279/ Democracy Now. (2017, November 29). Native American woman Olivia Lone Bear, mother of 5, missing in North Dakota oil fields. Democracy Now. https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/29/native_american_woman_olivia_lone_bear Democracy Now. (2018, August 3). Body of Olivia Lone Bear Found in N. Dakota as Native Women Face Crisis of Murders, Disappearances. https://www.democracynow.org/2018/8/3/body_of_olivia_lone_bear_found Dura, J. (2019, November 20). New details emerge in Olivia Lone Bear case as federal authorities visit Fort Berthold Reservation. Bismarck Tribune. https://bismarcktribune.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/new-details-emerge-in-olivia-lone-bear-case-as-federal-authorities-visit-fort-berthold-reservation/article_7ab709ae-e625-5d3c-8277-96fe812198e4.html Dura, J., & Emerson, B. (2019, July 31). Still no answers about death of Olivia Lone Bear from FBI. InForum. https://www.inforum.com/news/still-no-answers-about-death-of-olivia-lone-bear-from-fbi Ecoffey, B. (2018, August 9). Olivia Lone Bear found: Cause of death not made public. Lakota Times. https://www.lakotatimes.com/articles/olivia-lone-bear-found/ Emerson, B. (2019, April 9). North Dakota AG says Olivia Lone Bear report of death exempt from open records. Bismarck Tribune. https://www.grandforksherald.com/newsmd/north-dakota-ag-says-olivia-lone-bear-report-of-death-exempt-from-open-records Facebook. (n.d.). Searching for Olivia Lone Bear. https://www.facebook.com/searchingforolivialonebear/ Hall, J. (2017, December 6). The Search Continues For Olivia Lone Bear. Roundup Web. https://www.roundupweb.com/story/2017/12/06/news/the-search-continues-for-olivia-lone-bear/10337.html Hillier, B. (2017, December 11). Family frustrated by lack of search efforts in Native American woman Olivia Lone Bear's disappearance. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/family-frustrated-lack-search-efforts-native-america-woman-olivia-lone-n828561 Hillier, B. (2018, August 3). FBI confident that body found in submerged truck belongs to missing mother Olivia Lone Bear. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/feature/missing-in-america/fbi-confident-body-found-submerged-truck-belongs-missing-mother-olivia-n897546 HPR1. (2017, November 8). Senatorial eyes on missing person case. https://hpr1.com/index.php/feature/news/senatorial-eyes-on-missing-person-case HPR1. (2018, August 1). Olivia Lone Bear's pickup truck found. https://hpr1.com/index.php/feature/news/olivia-lone-bears-pickup-truck-found Itzcovitz, R. (2018, August 2). As search for Olivia Lone Bear ends, a new Fargo task force begins. Valley News Live. https://www.valleynewslive.com/content/news/As-search-for-Olivia-Lone-Bear-ends-a-new-Fargo-task-force-begins-489937311.html Keeler, J. (2018, May 7). ‘No crime scene': The search for Olivia Lone Bear. High Country News. https://www.hcn.org/issues/50-12/tribal-affairs-no-crime-scene-the-search-for-olivia-lone-bear/ KFGO. (2020, July 31). Two years later, feds looking for leads into death, disappearance of Olivia Lone Bear. KFGO. https://www.kfyrtv.com/2020/07/31/two-years-later-feds-looking-for-leads-into-death-disappearance-of-olivia-lone-bear/ KFGO. (2023, July 30). ‘Not forgotten' – Five years after body found, Olivia Lone Bear investigation continues. The Mighty 790 KFGO. https://kfgo.com/2023/07/30/860502/ KFYO TV. (2017, November 6). Search for Olivia Lone Bear continues nearly two weeks after disappearance. KFYO TV. https://www.kxnet.com/news/search-for-olivia-lone-bear-continues-nearly-two-weeks-after-disappearance/ KFYO TV. (2019, April 9). Lone Bear family reacts to ruling on access to death report. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/Lone-Bear-family-reacts-to-ruling-on-access-to-death-report-508342561.html KFYO TV. (2019, November 21). Lone Bear family, federal investigators speak on Olivia's case. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/Lone-Bear-family-federal-investigators-speak-on-Olivias-case-565306751.html KFYO TV. (2019, November 26). MHA Chairman releases statement on updates to Olivia Lone Bear investigation. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/MHA-Chairman-releases-statement-on-updates-to-Olivia-Lone-Bear-investigation--565512391.html KFYO TV. (2023, October 24). Search continues for answers in death of Olivia Lone Bear. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/2023/10/24/search-continues-answers-death-olivia-lone-bear/ KFYR TV. (2017, November 2). New Town authorities create tipline in search for Olivia Lone Bear. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/New-Town-authorities-create-tipline-in-search-for-Olivia-Lone-Bear-454740883.html KVVR. (2018, January 23). Search for Missing Native American Woman Expands Beyond Fort Berthold. https://www.kvrr.com/2018/01/23/search-missing-native-american-woman-expands-beyond-fort-berthold/ KXNET. (2019, November 20). BREAKING: New information in Olivia Lone Bear case. KXNET.com https://www.kxnet.com/news/local-news/breaking-new-information-in-olivia-lone-bear-case/ Langhans Funeral Home. (n.d.). Obituary for Olivia Lone Bear. https://www.langhansfuneralhome.com/obituary/olivia-lone-bear The Mighty 790 KFGO. (2023, July 30). ‘Not forgotten' – Five years after body found, Olivia Lone Bear investigation continues. KFGO. https://kfgo.com/2023/07/30/860502/ NBC News. (2024, March 6). Missing and murdered Indigenous people featured in Dateline NBC's Missing in America and Cold Case Spotlight series. NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/dateline/in-the-news/missing-murdered-indigenous-people-featured-dateline-nbcs-missing-amer-rcna142027 Nelson, T. (2018, February 4). Bureau of Indian Affairs taking over Olivia Lone Bear investigation. KVRR. https://www.kvrr.com/2018/02/04/bureau-indian-affairs-taking-olivia-lone-bear-investigation NewsBreak. (2024, March 20). North Dakota woman who disappeared in 2017 was found dead at the bottom of a lake on July 27, 2018. NewsBreak. https://www.newsbreak.com/gistinger-1668135/3374292930279-a-north-dakota-woman-who-disappeared-in-2017-was-found-dead-at-the-bottom-of-a-lake-on-july-27-2018 Ogden, E. (2018, January 23). Olivia Lone Bear search expands to ND cities. Minot Daily News. https://www.minotdailynews.com/news/local-news/2018/01/olivia-lone-bear-search-expands-to-nd-cities/ Prairie Public Broadcasting. (2017, November 1). Search underway for missing Stanley, ND woman. https://news.prairiepublic.org/local-news/2017-11-01/search-underway-for-missing-stanley-nd-woman Rasmussen, A. (n.d.). Still Unsolved: Olivia Lone Bear Found Dead In Submerged Truck After She Vanished In 2017. Investigation Discovery. https://www.investigationdiscovery.com/crimefeed/seeking-justice/still-unsolved-olivia-lone-bear-found-dead-in-submerged-truck-after-she-vanished-in-2017 Shores, E. (2023, August 22). Reservations gain access to state resources. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/2023/08/22/reservations-gain-access-state-resources/ Skurzewski, J. (2017, November 2). New Town authorities create tipline in search for Olivia Lone Bear. KFYR TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/New-Town-authorities-create-tipline-in-search-for-Olivia-Lone-Bear-454740883.html Skurzewski, J. (2017, November 17). Family of Olivia Lone Bear offering reward for info on her disappearance. KFYO TV. https://www.valleynewslive.com/content/news/Family-of-Olivia-Lone-Bear-offering-reward-for-info-on-her-disappearance-458196573.htm Skurzewski, J. (2019, March 19). Missing person's bill gets support from family of Olivia Lone Bear. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/content/news/Missing-persons-bill-gets-support-from-family-of-Olivia-Lone-Bear-507378991.html Strong, S. (2021, April 7). Unit within Interior to investigate cases of missing and murdered Indigenous people. KFYO TV. https://www.valleynewslive.com/2021/04/08/unit-within-interior-to-investigate-cases-of-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-people/ Strong, S. (2021, May 8). Marchers gather in Minot to raise awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. KFYO TV. https://www.kfyrtv.com/2021/05/08/marchers-gather-in-minot-to-raise-awareness-of-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-people/ StrongWalker. (n.d.). FBI offers $10,000 reward for information in Olivia Lone Bear's death, whose body was found strapped on passenger's side of truck in lake. Indigenous Boston. https://indigenous.boston/fbi-offers-10000-reward-for-information-in-olivia-lone-bears-death-whose-body-was-found-strapped-on-passengers-side-of-truck-in-lake U.S. Department of Justice. (2019, November 20). MEDIA ADVISORY - U.S. Attorney and FBI Leadership Brief Family of Olivia Lone Bear on Death Investigation. https://www.justice.gov/usao-nd/pr/media-advisory-us-attorney-and-fbi-leadership-brief-family-olivia-lone-bear-death#:~:text=Olivia%20Lone%20Bear.,toxicological%20causes%20for%20her%20death Valley News Live. (2019, August 1). No answers 1 year later in American Indian woman's death. https://www.valleynewslive.com/content/news/Olivia-Lone-Bear-One-Year-Later-513482291.html   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On the morning of January 25, 2019, 29-year-old Liz Barraza cheerfully set up a garage sale in the driveway of the Tomball, Texas home she shared with her husband Sergio and their beloved dachshund, Diesel. The fun loving, vivacious Liz was excited to make a little extra cash to use on her upcoming 5th wedding anniversary trip to sunny Orlando, Florida. While setting up the garage sale, Liz would be shot four times by an unknown assailant. Shockingly, the entire incident was caught on surveillance camera. Instead of celebrating with his wife, Sergio would be attending a vigil in his Liz' memory on their wedding anniversary. Despite having the suspect's vehicle and the murder on film, the case remains unsolved, possibly because the killer is believed to have been wearing a disguise. With no known enemies and a community of loved ones left behind, it is hard to imagine who would have wanted to hurt Liz, a woman who spent her life spreading joy and happiness to anyone lucky enough to cross her path.   Branch of Hope: The Peter Mayhew Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization devoted to the alleviation of disease, pain, suffering, and the financial toll brought on by life's traumatic events. By providing its available resources directly to deserving children and adults in need, they assist numerous charitable organizations in order to promote and boost their effectiveness and provide support where needed.       Sources:  Who killed Liz Barraza. (n.d.). https://www.whokilledlizbarraza.com/ Willey, J. (2024, January 25). Was Liz Barraza killed in murder-for-hire plot? Her father tells ABC13 he believes she was. ABC13 Houston. https://abc13.com/elizabeth-barraza-shot-and-killed-tomball-garage-sale-murder-who-murdered-husband-of-liz/14354199/ Who Killed Elizabeth Barraza? (n.d.). https://www.khou.com/article/news/crime/tomball-texas-elizabeth-barraza-death-garage-sale/285-6c1cae40-d262-4d2e-bc7a-21ccfb300efe Tomball woman to be honored in memorial 6 years after her unsolved murder. (2025, January 24). ABC13 Houston. https://abc13.com/post/elizabeth-barraza-memorial-tomball-woman-shot-death-driveway-2019-honored-6-years-unsolved-murder/15833300/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Paola Miranda Rosa, 31, vanished from Wekiva Springs State Park on December 18, 2021. Last seen on a video created by an unnamed eyewitness, her car was found in the park despite initial denials by a ranger. The investigation by Osceola County Sheriff's Office was criticized for being inadequate, suggesting suicide or alligator attack with little evidence. Her family, unsatisfied, conducted their own searches, hired a PI, and is now pushing for FBI involvement, especially after the lead detective was added to a Brady list for misconduct. Paola remains missing, with her family advocating for further investigation. Stefanie was able to speak directly to the Miranda family. You won't believe what she found out.   Sources: Munoz, L. (2024, December 14). Family of missing Osceola County woman seeks FBI involvement. WESH. https://www.wesh.com/article/missing-osceola-county-woman/63188736 Paola Marie Miranda-Rosa – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/paola-marie-miranda-rosa Orlando, F. 3. (2022, May 17). Paola Miranda-Rosa: 5 months since Central Florida woman went missing. FOX 35 Orlando. https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/paola-miranda-rosa-5-months-since-central-florida-woman-went-missing Parks, A. (2022, December 2). Wekiwa Springs State Park In Apopka, FL | America's State Parks. America's State Parks. https://www.americasstateparks.org/wekiwa-springs-state-park/ How dangerous are black bears? - North American Bear Center. (2024, January 2). North American Bear Center. https://bear.org/bear-facts/how-dangerous-are-black-bears/ Conflicts: A Research Perspective | Urban Coyote Research. (n.d.). https://urbancoyoteresearch.com/coyote-info/conflicts-research-perspective American Alligator | National Wildlife Federation. (n.d.). National Wildlife Federation. https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Reptiles/American-Alligator Talcott, A. (2024, January 4). How many people have been killed by alligators in Florida? The number may surprise you. WKMG. https://www.clickorlando.com/features/2024/01/04/how-many-people-have-been-killed-by-alligators-in-florida-it-may-surprise-you/ Barabino, W. (2021, March 6). What is the Brady List? - Law Office of William J. Barabino. Law Office of William J. Barabino. https://www.williambarabino.com/blog/2021/03/06/what-is-the-brady-list/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

The Bloody Benders were a family of serial killers active in Labette County, Kansas, from 1871 to 1873. Consisting of John Bender Sr., his wife Elvira (or Almira), their son John Jr., and daughter Kate, they operated a small inn and general store on the Osage Trail, which was frequented by travelers. The family would invite guests to sit at a table with their backs against a curtain, where they would be struck from behind with a hammer, usually by John Sr. or John Jr., while distracted by Kate, who was known for her beauty and purported spiritualist abilities.   After the murder, the victims' throats were slit, and their bodies were buried in an orchard or thrown into a well on the property. The Benders are believed to have killed between 11 to 20 people, with the actual number uncertain due to the frontier's sparse record-keeping.   The family's crimes came to light after the disappearance of Dr. William York in 1873, whose brother, a prominent state senator, organized a search. When authorities arrived at the Bender homestead, the family had already vanished. The property was searched, revealing several bodies, confirming the grim suspicions.   The Benders' fate remains a mystery; stories range from them being lynched by vigilantes, escaping to other parts of the country or even abroad, or changing identities. Their story has since become a legendary tale in American folklore.   Sources: Nadel, D. (2024, July 19). The bloody benders: the family that wasn't. HubPages. https://discover.hubpages.com/education/The-Bloody-Benders-The-Family-That-Wasnt Sep 25, 1952, page 8 - The Wichita Beacon at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/720215261/?match=1&terms=bloody%20benders McCoy, M. (2021, October 31). A mysterious murder site has a new owner. He's looking for answers about the Bloody Benders. Kansas Reflector. https://kansasreflector.com/2021/10/31/a-mysterious-murder-site-has-a-new-owner-hes-looking-for-answers-about-the-bloody-benders/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

After a night out on January 28, 2022, 46-year-old Boston Police Officer was discovered dead in his friend's driveway, covered in snow. The already bizarre scene was made more chaotic when John's girlfriend, Karen Read, was allegedly heard by first responders saying "I hit him! I hit him!"  Almost immediately law enforcement determined that John's death was a result of Karen Read purposely hitting him with her vehicle the night before.....but this case wasn't so cut and dry. Almost all of the witnesses shared relationships with John and were involved in the law enforcement community. Was it possible they were covering up what really happened that night?  According to Karen Read and her defense team, everyone involved with the case was involved in a conspiracy to frame her and ultimately cover up John's real murderer.    Sources: karen. (n.d.). wondery. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/karen/id1756594491 Brother of John O'Keefe Speaks out about Karen Read mistrial. (n.d.). wcvb.com. Karen Read and the Death of John O'Keefe (episode 252-260). (n.d.). https://prosecutorspodcast.com/tag/karen-read/ www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/who-is-karen-read-a-look-at-the-woman-at-the-center-of-a-media-firestorm/ar-BB1lznpM https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/karen-read-trial-timeline-john-okeefe/ https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/15/us/karen-read-murder-trial-boston.html   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

After a night out on January 28, 2022, 46 year old Boston Police Officer was discovered dead in his friend's driveway, covered in snow. The already bizarre scene was made more chaotic when John's girlfriend, Karen Read, was allegedly heard by first responders saying "I hit him! I hit him!"  Almost immediately law enforcement determined that John's death was a result of Karen Read purposely hitting him with her vehicle the night before.....but this case wasn't so cut and dry. Almost all of the witnesses shared relationships with John and were involved in the law enforcement community. Was it possible they were covering up what really happened that night?  According to Karen Read and her defense team, everyone involved with the case was involved in a conspiracy to frame her and ultimately cover up John's real murderer.    Sources: karen. (n.d.). wondery. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/karen/id1756594491 Brother of John O'Keefe Speaks out about Karen Read mistrial. (n.d.). wcvb.com. Karen Read and the Death of John O'Keefe (episode 252-260). (n.d.). https://prosecutorspodcast.com/tag/karen-read/ www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/who-is-karen-read-a-look-at-the-woman-at-the-center-of-a-media-firestorm/ar-BB1lznpM https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/karen-read-trial-timeline-john-okeefe/ https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/15/us/karen-read-murder-trial-boston.html   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On Nov 26, 2016, the Saturday after Thanksgiving, 18-year-old high school student Ben Keita was reported missing by his parents, Ibrahima and Aissata Keita. He apparently left his home in Lake Stevens, Washington State by himself, without his wallet, phone or car. Temperatures around that time were freezing, and his family was worried the cold could trigger problems for Ben's sickle cell anemia. Because Ben left his cell phone behind, the police were not able to get a precise location to begin their search, so they began by looking through a wide sweeping wooded area around the Keita home.  Experienced searchers, including a dog trained to detect human remains, were deployed. The search for Ben stretched on for days, and then to weeks. Six weeks passed with no sign of Ben. Then, on January 9, 2017, a group of teenagers wandering into the woods stumbled across an awful sight. About 12 to 14 feet from a trail, and about 10 feet from the nearest backyard fence was the body of Ben Keita. He was hanging from a rope strung over a tall branch in a densely wooded area just blocks from his home. Disturbingly, his body was found in an area that was previously searched multiple times in the days after his initial disappearance. One end of the rope was fashioned into a noose around Ben's neck; The other end was attached to a branch that was estimated to be 50 feet in the air. Ben's feet were 2 and a half feet off the ground. Incredibly his neck was not broken. His official cause of death was recorded as asphyxiation. Despite the odd circumstances, based on the fact there were no other evidence of trauma, the Snohomish County Medical Examiner determined the manner of death to be suicide. But Ben's parents immediately objected to this finding. His family said there was no reason to suspect anything was bothering Ben to the point that he would take his life. Ben was a young black man being raised in the Muslim faith. To Ben's family, Ben's cause of death was nothing short of a lynching. What happened to Ben Keita?   Sources: Victim Connect Resource Center. (2024, October 29). Victim Connect Resource Center - Confidential referrals for crime victims. https://victimconnect.org/ King, R. (2017, March 9). Parents again call for FBI to investigate death of Ben Keita | HeraldNet.com. HeraldNet.com. https://www.heraldnet.com/news/parents-again-call-for-fbi-to-investigate-death-of-ben-keita/ Hanna, J., & Hassan, C. (2017, March 4). Family asks FBI to probe black Muslim teen's hanging. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2017/03/03/us/washington-teen-ben-keita-hanging/index.html Staff, C. (2017, March 3). FBI reviewing case of Muslim teen found hanging from tree. CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fbi-reviewing-case-of-muslim-teen-found-hanging-from-tree/ Green, S. J. (2017, March 14). Hate-crime suspicions cloud death of Muslim teen in Lake Stevens. The Seattle Times. https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/law-justice/hate-crime-suspicions-cloud-death-of-black-teen/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Merry Christmas Day from The Dark Oak! Christmas traditions run deep in every culture and every family. In America, the legend of St Nicholas reigns supreme. But it turns out that Santa Claus is only one of the many fables, legends and haunts that come alive around the celebration of Christmas. So, today I present to you, The Monsters of Christmas. Join us for discussions of The Tomten, The Yule Family (including the Yule boys and the Yule Cat), Mari Lwyd, Belsnickel, Krampus, and more!   Sources: December 15). The Monsters of Christmas. Atlas Obscura. https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/monsters-of-christmas Palmer, A., & Palmer, A. (2021, December 20). Mari Lwyd, or “Caroling with Zombie Horses”: A Christmas Story - Weird Little Worlds Press. Weird Little Worlds Press -. https://weirdlittleworlds.com/mari-lwyd-or-caroling-with-zombie-horses/ Little, B., & Little, B. (2023, December 12). Meet Krampus, the Christmas devil who punishes naughty children. HISTORY. https://www.history.com/news/krampus-christmas-legend-origin   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

We know the tragic story well: a 6-year-old beauty queen is found murdered in her upscale home the day after Christmas. Police and the media immediately zero in on the usual suspects...the remaining three members of the Ramsey family.  Nearly three decades later we have learned that much of what we were "fed" in the days, weeks, months and years since JonBenet's death has been skewed to fit a particular narrative. Unfortunately, the downside of having a case so widely covered is that much of the widespread information can be incorrect. At The Dark Oak we understand that sometimes it can feel like the victim is lost in the chaos of the investigation and the media frenzy that surrounds it.  In this episode, Cynthia and Stefanie want to remember JonBenet the person, while exploring the facts surrounding her murder investigation.     Sources:  The ransom note – a short life in the spotlight. (n.d.). https://sites.gsu.edu/moyasfinalproject/support-1/ JonBenet Ramsey Murder - The 911 Call - Statement Analysis®. (n.d.). https://www.statementanalysis.com/jonbenet-ramsey-murder/ Lovitt, B. (2018, June 25). Who killed JonBenet Ramsey? 8 possible suspects. Rolling Stone. https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-lists/who-killed-jonbenet-ramsey-8-possible-suspects-129125/the-mother-129180/ JonBenet Ramsey murder case: The Denver Post. (n.d.). https://extras.denverpost.com/news/jon031400.htm https://pherson.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/JonBenet-Ramsey-Case-Study.pdf https://abcnews.go.com/US/inside-mistakes-jonbenet-ramsey-investigation-noted-police-chief/story?id=29247378 Kenton, L. (2023, August 6). JonBenét Ramsey's father reveals beauty pageant regrets as he recounts final show on what would be her 33. . . The US Sun. https://www.the-sun.com/news/8758625/jonbenet-ramsey-birthday-beauty-pageant-regrets-dad/ Jon Benet Ramsey Investigation: The Denver Post Online. (n.d.). https://extras.denverpost.com/news/jon22.htm https://www.walteradavis.com/works/2005/02/essay_there_is_.html. (n.d.). https://www.walteradavis.com/works/2005/02/essay_there_is_.html. The Denver Post Online: Today's news. (n.d.). https://extras.denverpost.com/news/jon102.htm JonBenét Ramsey's Murder: Timeline of the Child Pageant star's death and investigation. (2020, November 17). Biography. https://www.biography.com/crime/jonbenet-ramsey-murder-investigation-timeline   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

We know the tragic story well: a 6-year-old beauty queen is found murdered in her upscale home the day after Christmas. Police and the media immediately zero in on the usual suspects.....the remaining three members of the Ramsey family.  Nearly three decades later we have learned that much of what we were "fed" in the days, weeks, months and years since JonBenet's death has been skewed to fit a particular narrative. Unfortunately, the downside of having a case so widely covered is that much of the widespread information can be incorrect. At The Dark Oak we understand that sometimes it can feel like the victim is lost in the chaos of the investigation and the media frenzy that surrounds it.  In this episode, Cynthia and Stefanie want to remember JonBenet the person, while exploring the facts surrounding her murder investigation.     Sources:  The ransom note – a short life in the spotlight. (n.d.). https://sites.gsu.edu/moyasfinalproject/support-1/ JonBenet Ramsey Murder - The 911 Call - Statement Analysis®. (n.d.). https://www.statementanalysis.com/jonbenet-ramsey-murder/ Lovitt, B. (2018, June 25). Who killed JonBenet Ramsey? 8 possible suspects. Rolling Stone. https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-lists/who-killed-jonbenet-ramsey-8-possible-suspects-129125/the-mother-129180/ JonBenet Ramsey murder case: The Denver Post. (n.d.). https://extras.denverpost.com/news/jon031400.htm https://pherson.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/JonBenet-Ramsey-Case-Study.pdf https://abcnews.go.com/US/inside-mistakes-jonbenet-ramsey-investigation-noted-police-chief/story?id=29247378 Kenton, L. (2023, August 6). JonBenét Ramsey's father reveals beauty pageant regrets as he recounts final show on what would be her 33. . . The US Sun. https://www.the-sun.com/news/8758625/jonbenet-ramsey-birthday-beauty-pageant-regrets-dad/ Jon Benet Ramsey Investigation: The Denver Post Online. (n.d.). https://extras.denverpost.com/news/jon22.htm https://www.walteradavis.com/works/2005/02/essay_there_is_.html. (n.d.). https://www.walteradavis.com/works/2005/02/essay_there_is_.html. The Denver Post Online: Today's news. (n.d.). https://extras.denverpost.com/news/jon102.htm JonBenét Ramsey's Murder: Timeline of the Child Pageant star's death and investigation. (2020, November 17). Biography. https://www.biography.com/crime/jonbenet-ramsey-murder-investigation-timeline   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Sandra Hemme, is the longest known wrongfully convicted woman in the United States. Sandra was just 20 years old when she was found guilty of the murder of Patricia Jeschke, despite no solid evidence that she committed the crime. She didn't know the murder victim, there were no witnesses, and no DNA evidence ever connected to her. We will give you all the information on Sandra, Patricia's murder, Sandra's conviction and exoneration, and maybe most shockingly of all, the person suspected of being Patricia's true killer.   Sources: 8 facts about Sandra Hemme's case you need to know - Innocence Project. (2023, May 1). Innocence Project. https://innocenceproject.org/8-facts-about-sandra-hemmes-case-you-need-to-know/ Zeff, S. (2024, October 9). Missouri released Sandra Hemme from prison, so she's spending time with her dying father. KCUR - Kansas City News and NPR. https://www.kcur.org/news/2024-07-23/missouri-sandra-hemme-innocence-prison-freed-attorney-general-andrew-bailey Ozarks True Crime — Anne Roderique-Jones. (2023, June 13). Anne Roderique-Jones. https://www.anneroderiquejones.com/ozarks-true-crime Nov 14, 1980, page 1 - St. Joseph Gazette at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/563725892/?match=1&terms=Patricia%20Jeschke Dec 13, 1980, page 13 - St. Joseph News-Press at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/562524263/?match=1&terms=sandra%20hemme 8 facts about Sandra Hemme's case you need to know - Innocence Project. (2023, May 1). Innocence Project. https://innocenceproject.org/8-facts-about-sandra-hemmes-case-you-need-to-know/ Apr 10, 1981, page 1 - St. Joseph News-Press at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/562058591/?match=1&terms=sandra%20hemme Mar 31, 1983, page 7 - St. Joseph Gazette at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/563837303/?match=1&terms=sandra%20hemme Apr 16, 1983, page 27 - St. Joseph News-Press at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/562460478/?match=1&terms=sandra%20hemme Jul 19, 2024, page A6 - Johnson City Press at Newspapers.com. (n.d.). https://www.newspapers.com/image/1126157909/?match=1&terms=sandra%20hemme   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On the night of November 28th, 1985, several members of the Blount Family had gathered at a family trailer in the Hilltop Mobile Home Park that lay in the suburbs of Fort Worth, Texas. The gathering consisted of Joe Blount, a skilled mechanic, Joe's wife Susan, Robert who was Joe and Susan's teenaged son, Joe's daughter Angela, Joe's brother Carl Blount and Carl's estranged son Michael Columbus. The family sat down and ate dinner between 4 and 5pm, after dinner was finished, Carl went home. At 9pm that night Susan went for a lie down while Joe drove Angela, Robert and Michael to a local convenience store about half a mile away so the kids could grab ice-creams, and he could pick up some beer. While the others were out, Susan later said she heard a knock at the door but when she looked outside, she didn't see anyone and went back to sleep. When the others returned to the trailer around 20 minutes after they had left, they found a tan briefcase sitting at the door. The three teenagers were excited that the briefcase might contain valuables or money and brought it inside. At a minimum, they figured they could find out who it belonged to and return it. Angela immediately set it down in the living room, opened it and the bomb inside detonated. Joe Blount aged 44, Angela aged 15 and Michael aged 18 were all killed instantly by the blast. Even though a suspect was tried and convicted, they were eventually cleared of all charges and the case remains unsolved to this day. Who bombed the Blount family? Sources: Blanco, J. I. (n.d.). Michael Roy Toney | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers. https://murderpedia.org/male.T/t/toney-michael-roy.htm A Thanksgiving Mystery, the Blount Family Bombing : r/UnresolvedMysteries. (n.d.). https://www.reddit.com/r/UnresolvedMysteries/comments/jyly61/a_thanksgiving_mystery_the_blount_family_bombing/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

April 17, 2016, was a very rainy day in Midlothian, Texas and 45-year-old Missy Bevers was scheduled to teach a fitness class outside of Creekside Church at five the next morning. That evening Missy posted on her FB page” If it's raining, we're still training!” giving the time and location of the class with instructions to meet inside the church building instead of their usual spot in the parking lot.  Around 5:00 am the next morning, students arrived at the church, but instead of being met with the expected smile and encouragement that Missy was known for giving, they found Missy lying unresponsive on the floor surrounded by blood and broken glass.  Later that day, Missy would be pronounced deceased. When authorities reviewed the church's surveillance footage, nobody was prepared for what they would see. This video catapulted Missy's case into the public eye and despite having very clear pictures of Missy's killer, more than 8 years later, her case remains unsolved.    Sources: https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/crime/missy-bevers-murder-investigation-midlothian-texas-police-suspects-leads/287-9de8d7d7-6684-4cb0-9f5f-57bc10847b26 https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/husband-of-missy-bevers-discusses-unsolved-case-nearly-8-years-after-her-murder/3464935/ Tom Webster. (n.d.). Missy Bevers - My Research [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESI68Z6Qo-o MURDER: Missy Bevers. (n.d.). [Video]. YouTube.   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

It seemed like a typical day for 37-year-old Dr. Cherryl Lamont Pearson on January 4, 2002. She attended a Memphis Grizzlies game then she headed home to hang with two of her friends. When her friends left at 1am, she told her friends she was heading to be because she needed to be up early to babysit her nieces and nephews the next morning. After taking a 5 second phone call at 1:58am on Saturday, Cherryl disappeared into thin air. What happened to Cherryl Pearson?   Sources: Four years later, grief continues. (2006, May 15). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna12756112 Missing: Cherryl Lamont Pearson | Bartlett, TN | Uncovered. (n.d.). https://uncovered.com/cases/cherryl-pearson JR Erickson. (2021, December 19). The Vanishing of Cherryl Lamont Pearson [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ga7k3mjP0Y Action News 5. (2012, February 17). Missing doctor Bartlett's only cold case. https://www.actionnews5.com. https://www.actionnews5.com/story/16953495/missing-doctor-bartletts-only-cold-case/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

On April 27, 2024, 30-year-old South Carolina woman, Mica Miller, placed a disturbing 911 call. She was found later that evening having been killed by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.  At first glance, Mica's death sounds like a tragic suicide; however, in the days, weeks and months since, many dark secrets have surfaced including allegations of abuse by her estranged husband, Pastor John Paul Miller, leaving many of us asking…. 'Who is actually responsible for Mica Miller's death?'    Sources:  Keller, E. (2024, August 1). Major update in Mica Miller case three months after her death. Newsweek. https://www.newsweek.com/mica-miller-case-update-jp-pastor-1933518 Mica Miller did not kill herself. (n.d.). WILD. https://www.wildernesstowild.com/blog/mica-miller-did-not-kill-herself Caplan, A. L., & Kantor, W. G. (2024, July 31). Mica Miller's Family Ends Legal Battle with Her Pastor Husband After Her Suicide: 'Put This Behind Us' People.com. https://people.com/mica-miller-family-ends-legal-battle-pastor-husband-after-her-suicide-8686996 Benson, A., & Moody, E. (2024, May 29). WBTW. WBTW. https://www.wbtw.com/news/news13-investigates/news13-exclusive-john-paul-millers-former-associate-says-hes-not-the-man-i-thought-he-was/ Rowles, C. (2024, May 20). TIMELINE: Everything we know about the Mica Miller case. WCIV. https://abcnews4.com/newsletter-daily/mica-miller-timeline-what-we-know-john-paul-jp-pastor-solid-rock-church-market-common-myrtle-beach-south-carolina-suicide-mental-health-lumber-river-state-park-robeson-county-fbi-us-attorneys-office Facebook. (n.d.). https://www.facebook.com/therobbieharvey/posts/heres-the-full-text-exchange-between-charlotte-mica-miller-and-john-paul-miller-/484282057505382/ Benson, A. (2024, June 4). WBTW. WBTW. https://www.wbtw.com/news/news13-investigates/news13-investigates-solid-rock-pastor-millers-ex-wife-alleges-infidelity-lust-for-power-in-custody-filing/ Crane, E. (2024, June 5). Ex-wife of widowed pastor John Paul Miller accuses him of having sex with prostitutes and underage girls. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2024/06/05/us-news/pastor-john-paul-millers-ex-wife-alleges-he-was-sexually-inappropriate-with-underage-girls/ https://www.fitsnews.com/2024/05/17/mica-miller-saga-the-pastors-paramours-and-another-suspicious-death/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Welcome to Oaktober Fest, The Dark Oak's celebration of the spooky month of October! Every week this month, we will bring you a case that is sure to get you in the creepy mood. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ The father of mystery and the American horror story, Edgar Allan Poe was an American writer, poet, editor, and literary critic who is best known for his poetry and terrifying short stories.  You would be hard pressed to find a reader who didn't get shivers up their spine at the very thought of the Raven's "Nevermore."  Fittingly, mystery and the macabre not only surrounded Poe in life but also his death, as one election day he was discovered incoherent and disheveled outside of a voting place. Did he have a bad reaction to consuming alcohol? Was he the victim of kidnapping and forced voter fraud? Was he robbed and beaten?  Cynthia and Stefanie discuss these theories and more in this special Oaktoberfest edition of The Dark Oak!    Sources: Natale, M. (2023, November 13). A breakthrough clue may untangle the mysterious death of Edgar Allan Poe. Popular Mechanics. https://www.popularmechanics.com/culture/a45782209/edgar-allan-poe-death-mystery/ (The Mystery of Edgar Allan Poe's Death (U.S. National Park Service), n.d.) Geiling, N. (2014, October 3). The (Still) mysterious death of Edgar Allan Poe. Smithsonian Magazine. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/still-mysterious-death-edgar-allan-poe-180952936/ The Poe Museum. (2024b, August 12). https://poemuseum.org/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4DTW4B3Sjs. (n.d.). [Video].   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep  

Welcome to Oaktober Fest, The Dark Oak's celebration of the spooky month of October! Every week this month, we will bring you a case that is sure to get you in the creepy mood. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ On April 18, 1943, local boys Robert Hart, Thomas Willetts, Bob Farmer and Fred Payne wandered into Hagley Wood, part of the estate belonging to Lord Cobham near Wychbury Hill, when they came across a large wych elm. The wych elm before them was ancient with a gnarled base and long stretched out branches growing in every direction. To the boys, this tree looked like the perfect place to look for their treasure. Young Bob Farmer climbed into the creepy limbs of an elm tree, and reached into the hollow of a tree to retrieve what he thought was a beautiful egg. But he was mistaken, and terror crossed his face when he realized he had discovered a woman's head. The mystery of the woman in the wych elm takes us through a trail of WWII spies, espionage, witchcraft, the cult, domestic violence and savagery. All to answer the ultimate question of Who Put Bella in the Wych Elm? Sources: Armitage, R., & Stein, L. (2023, April 6). Unravelling the 80-year-old mystery of the woman found in a wych elm in Hagley Wood. ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-04-07/mystery-over-who-put-bella-down-the-wych-elm-/102171844 Warburton_Warrior. (n.d.). Who put Bella in the Wych Elm? - Revisited, and new information? : r/UnresolvedMysteries. https://www.reddit.com/r/UnresolvedMysteries/comments/nxgdb1/who_put_bella_in_the_wych_elm_revisited_and_new/ Lockley, M. (2018, February 25). Revealed after 75 years: The face of Bella in the Wych Elm. Birmingham Live. https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/revealed-after-75-years-face-14329271 Who put Bella in the Wych Elm? (2019, February 21). CrimeReads. https://crimereads.com/who-put-bella-in-the-wych-elm/ Trust, W. (n.d.). English Elm (Ulmus procera) - British Trees - Woodland Trust. Woodland Trust. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/british-trees/a-z-of-british-trees/english-elm/ Fenton, N., Neil, M., Risk and Information Management Research Group, School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science, & Queen Mary University of London. (2014). Who put Bella in the wych-elm? A Bayesian analysis of a 70 year-old mystery (pp. 2–4). https://www.eecs.qmul.ac.uk/~norman/projects/bella/Bella.pdf Who Put Bella In The Wych Elm? | ag-website. (n.d.). Ag-website. https://www.adamgerber.co.uk/bella   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Welcome to Oaktober Fest, The Dark Oak's celebration of the spooky month of October! Every week this month, we will bring you a case that is sure to get you in the creepy mood. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ On the Halloween of 1981, Ron Sisman and his girlfriend Elizabeth Platzman were found brutally executed in Ron's ransacked Manhattan apartment. Detectives originally believed the murders to be drug related, however, a prison informant came forward saying he had information about the case. The informants source? None other than David Berkowitz, the infamous Son of Sam. Come with us as we explore the underbelly of the satanic cult in which David Berkowitz claimed to be operating. Did he commit all of his heinous crimes alone? Was he led by a demonic spirit? How was he connected to Charles Manson? Are other killers still at large? And, as it pertains to this case, how did Ron Sisman find himself in the crossfires in the world of evil?   Sources: Vanapalli, V. (2021, May 5). How and Why Was Ron Sisman Killed? The Cinemaholic. https://thecinemaholic.com/how-and-why-was-ron-sisman-killed/ Fuqua, L. M. (2021, December 12). Son of Sam's connection to a Halloween massacre - True crime addiction - medium. Medium. https://medium.com/true-crime-addiction/son-of-sams-connection-to-a-halloween-massacre-76f0ce92b6c1 LetsRead_YouTube. (n.d.). It is Halloween night 1981 : r/LetsReadOfficial. https://www.reddit.com/r/LetsReadOfficial/comments/cwe2xf/it_is_halloween_night_1981/ The Son of Sam: A Timeline of the Killings that Terrorized New York City. (2021, May 4). Biography. https://www.biography.com/crime/son-of-sam-murder-timeline   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

Welcome to Oaktober Fest, The Dark Oak's celebration of the spooky month of October! Every week this month, we will bring you a case that is sure to get you in the creepy mood. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ While the rest of the world was feeling the chaos of the Covid 19 global pandemic, 54-year-old Sandra Hughes decided to spend time in the place she felt most at home...the great outdoors.  What began as a simple solo camping trip turned into one of the most mysterious missing person cases in recent years.  Chaotic abandoned campsites, unusual behavior, and several eyewitness sightings has left the Sierra National Forest Community questioning what exactly happened to the confident outdoorswoman. The case took an eerie turn when a two-year-old little boy claimed to be able to see and speak to the spirit of Sandra, who was asking for his help from somewhere deep within the woods.    Sources: Franco, M. (2023, October 3). Special Report: The latest on the search for a woman who went missing 3 years ago. KMPH. https://kmph.com/news/local/special-report-the-latest-on-the-search-for-a-woman-who-went-missing-3-years-ago Flanagan, B. K., & Writer, S. (2023, August 3). Three years missing. Mariposa Gazette -. https://www.mariposagazette.com/articles/three-years-missing/ Admin. (2022, March 20). Sandra Hughes - disappeared. Disappeared. https://disappearedblog.com/sandra-hughes/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFm2pRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHS3xOGEy9KIXrhOZiJULjAMU7AUVdErt5lnBB56niRExO2XYss2AMjC7mw_aem_UX9AwiTXWOscVYG4Wf7W2w Evans, R. (2020, September 21). Mummy, I see dead people! These children all have invisible friends who really existed. NZ Herald. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/lifestyle/mummy-i-see-dead-people-these-children-all-have-invisible-friends-who-really-existed/RAQJ7KQRLIU4FTGNZ4RS3EUVMI/   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

32-year-old Robert Eric Wone could never have imagined that spending the night at an old college friend's house would result in his bizarre murder, yet that is exactly what happened on August 2, 2006. A little over an hour after arriving at the DC home that Joe Price's shares with two other men, Robert was dead and a bizarre 911 call was placed. When first responders arrive to find Robert stabbed to death, but very little blood and no signs of a struggle, suspicions quickly turn to the housemates.  This episode is full of twists and turns and at the end we are left asking, Who Killed Robert Wone?    Sources: Robert Wone (episode 240). (n.d.). https://prosecutorspodcast.com/2024/03/26/240-the-murder-of-robert-wone-part-1-of-6-backstabber/ Who Killed Robert Wone. (n.d.). https://www.peacocktv.com/watch-online/tv/who-killed-robert-wone/8330027078016478112/seasons/1   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

An up-and-coming Hollywood actor best known for his role in "The Masked Marvel,” crashed his sports car in a bean field in Los Angeles, California. The actor, christened David Bacon by the famous Hollywood film producer Howard Hughes exited the vehicle and stumble only a few feet before collapsing. In his back was a single stab wound to the back made by a six-inch-long "stiletto-like blade.” Some say it was the result of a love triangle and some say he was cursed from the start. What is known is that how came to meet this fate is still a mystery today.   Sources: Kantor, W. G. (2019, June 27). Who killed the Masked Marvel? EW.com. https://ew.com/celebrity/2019/06/27/who-killed-the-masked-marvel-true-crime/ The Love Triangle that Killed David Bacon. (n.d.). Criminal. https://vocal.media/criminal/the-love-triangle-that-killed-david-bacon   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

16-year-old Cathy Moulton was reported missing on September 24, 1971. She was last seen in downtown Portland, Maine wearing a navy-blue coat and carrying a brown leather bag. Police immediately decided that she was a runaway and her case remained uninvestigated, that is, until nearly thirty years later, a determined detective Kevin Cady devoted his career to finding answers for the Moulton family. Over the course of several decades, Detective Cady and his team tracked down witnesses and were able to piece together what they believe happened to the young girl on a stormy night so many years ago.    Sources: Cady, K. (2016). Cathy Moulton missing & endangered: A Cold Case Missing Person Investigation. Createspace Independent Publishing Platform.   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

30-year-old, Ebonee Spears was last seen on Jan. 14, 2016. The week and days before her disappearance were plagued with strange occurrences and troubling moments that have left her family wondering what could have become of Ebonee. On the evening of her disappearance, she attempted to make a phone call at the Wilmington Police Department but was unable to work the lobby's telephone. In a surveillance camera in the station's lobby, she appeared frustrated at being unable to use the phone before walking away. A neighbor claims to have seen Ebonee at her apartment just 15 minutes before her boyfriend arrived to see her. But Ebonee hasn't been seen since. Where is Ebonee Spears? Listen now.   Sources: Simmons, K. (2023, January 17). Ebonee Spears's family still waits for answers seven years after disappearance. https://www.wect.com. https://www.wect.com/2023/01/17/ebonee-spearss-family-still-waits-answers-seven-years-after-disappearance/ Ebonee Shanetta Spears – The Charley Project. (n.d.). https://charleyproject.org/case/ebonee-shanetta-spears Lupus - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic. (2022, October 21). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789 Podcast, V. (2019, June 24). EPISODE 181: Ebonee Spears — The Vanished Podcast. The Vanished Podcast. https://www.thevanishedpodcast.com/episodes/2019/6/16/episode-181-ebonee-spears   Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep

165. The Holder of Research *** 166. The Holder of the Ethereal *** 167. The Holder of the Palette *** 168. The Holder of Zeal *** Stories can be found at: https://theholderseries.wordpress.com/ *** Sound design by: Samii Taylor *** Music credit: "Melancholia" by Ryan Creep, "Haunted" by Ross Bugden, "A Deep Voice" and "Unspoken" by Myuu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When a 12-year-old dies suddenly, law enforcement focuses their attention on one man almost exclusively. Surveillance footage seems to contradict the person of interest's alibi. In this episode we have a soccer coach, a Sheriff's deputy and a small town torn apart by the devastating loss of Garrett Phillips. Sources: Who Killed Garrett Phillips. (n.d.).   7 News Staff. (2023, July 3). U.S. Appeals Court strikes down Nick Hillary's verdict appeal in discrimination case. https://www.wwnytv.com. https://www.wwnytv.com/2023/07/03/us-appeals-court-strikes-down-nick-hillarys-verdict-appeal-discrimination-case/   City of New York v. Nicholas Hillary - Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP. (n.d.). https://ecbawm.com/results/city-of-new-york-v-nicholas-hillary/     Join The Dark Oak Discussion: Patreon The Dark Oak Podcast Website Facebook Instagram Twitter TikTok Youtube This episode of The Dark Oak was created, researched, written, recorded, hosted, edited, published, and marketed by Cynthia and Stefanie of Just Us Gals Productions with artwork by Justyse Himes and Music by Ryan Creep