Koltergeist: True Crime Stories

Because the cameras were high: The case of Afroman

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

This episode dives into the strange and unsettling raid on the home of Afroman — a

search warrant based on serious accusations that left more questions than answers.

But what happened after the deputies left may be even more disturbing than the raid

itself. Security footage, missing money, and a lawsuit would slowly expose a situation

that felt less like justice… and more like something gone very wrong behind the scenes.

https://www.npr.org/2026/03/19/nx-s1-5753563/afroman-lemon-pound-cake-trial

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/19/us/afroman-trial-lemon-cake-verdict.html

https://www.thefp.com/p/afroman-is-an-american-hero

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The Murder of Larry Isenberg

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

What started out as a romantic sunrise cruise turned tragic when a beloved husband and father disappeared underneath the dark and frigid waters of Lake Coeur d'Alene in northern Idaho. His death would soon expose a tangled web of deception-and the true character behind a one town’s most recognizable residents.

District of Idaho | Lori Isenberg Pleads Guilty to Over $570,000 in Wire Fraud and Federal Program Theft | United States Department of Justice

Jul 27, 2018, page A4 - The Idaho Statesman at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Where Is Lori Isenberg Now? Insider Her Life After Poisoning Her Husband

Lori Isenberg Is Convicted of Killing Husband Larry Isenberg

New court documents show North Idaho man may have been murdered | Spokane News | khq.com

Now it's Dean's turn | Coeur d'Alene Press

Jul 27, 2018, page A4 - The Idaho Statesman at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

DIPHENHYDRAMINE OVERDOSE: LIFE-THREATENING COMPLICATIONS OF A WIDELY USED DRUG - CHEST

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Kouri Richins: The Evidence Keeps Growing

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In this update episode of Koltergeist, we revisit the shocking case of Utah author Kouri

Richins, who is accused of poisoning her husband, Eric Richins, before writing a

children’s book about grief. Since the initial charges, new evidence, financial motives,

and disturbing details have continued to surface, raising even more questions about

what really happened the night Eric died.

https://www.sltrib.com/news/2026/02/22/kouri-richins-case-timeline-what/

https://www.biography.com/crime/a70499053/who-is-kouri-richins-case-and-murder-trial

https://www.cnn.com/2026/02/22/us/kouri-richins-utah-trial

https://people.com/kouri-richins-ex-boyfriend-text-messages-stand-11920351

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Smells like something fishy: The tragic death of Kurt Cobain

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For most of his life, he was labeled a throw away, mocked, bullied, criticized, and misunderstood.

But beneath the grunge appearance, the suffering, and the addictions, there existed an artist with a brilliant mind, a truly genuine being who never compromised his artistic integrity. Deep down - a really good human. A man whose tragic death seemed like a classic open and shut case. Yet-the story has inconsistencies that are too loud to ignore the doubts refuse to die=and now are louder than ever before.

This episode of Koltergeist is dedicated to my fellow Generation Xers-and to the man whose music gave our generation a voice-this is the story of the life and tragic death of Kurt Cobain.

Dave Grohl On Smells Like Teen Spirit: “No one thought it was a hit.”

One of Kurt Cobain's Final Interviews - Incl. Extremely Rare Footage

· Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love’s Relationship: Look Back at the Singers’ Marriage

Strange Love: The Story of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love | Vanity Fair

Sep 21, 1992, page 62 - The Los Angeles Times at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Sep 21, 1993, page 39 - The News Tribune at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Jul 02, 1993, page 22 - The Spokesman-Review at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15510941/Kurt-Cobains-suicide-homicide.html

Kurt Cobain's Downward Spiral: The Last Days of Nirvana's Leader

https://cobaincase.com/

Azerrad, Michael. Come As You Are: The Story of Nirvana . Crown. Kindle Edition.

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Unsolved Mysterious Death of Rey Rivera

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

In May 2006, 32-year-old Rey Rivera vanished after receiving a mysterious phone call at his

Baltimore home. Eight days later, his body was discovered inside an unused conference room at

the historic Belvedere Hotel, beneath a hole in the roof. His glasses and phone were found

nearby, strangely undamaged.

Authorities initially theorized he jumped from the hotel’s rooftop, but questions about the

distance, lack of witnesses, and unexplained circumstances led the medical examiner to rule the

cause of death as “undetermined.” Rey’s family believes foul play may have been involved. His

case, featured in Netflix’s Unsolved Mysteries (“Mystery on the Rooftop”), remains unsolved.

https://www.netflix.com/watch/81029324?trackId=14277283&tctx=-97%2C-

97%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C81026055%2CVideo%3A81029324%2CdetailsPageEpisod

ePlayButton

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Rey_Rivera

https://www.calebkaltenbach.com/post/the-suspicious-case-of-rey-rivera-and-why-he-matters-

part-1

https://unsolved.com/gallery/mystery-on-the-rooftop/

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Robert Eugene Brashers-The crimes of a serial killer

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

This episode of Koltergeist delves into the life and crimes of Robert Eugene Brashers-a monster who committed at least eight murders and numerous sexual assaults between 1990 and 1998 across several states and who was just last year finally identified as the man behind the 1991 yogurt shop murders.

Oct 06, 2018, page 23 - The Bangor Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Oct 12, 2018, page 17 - Greenville Journal at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Oct 06, 2018, page A3 - The Greenville News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Jan 15, 1999, page 2 - Paragould Daily Press at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Robert Eugene Brashers - Wikipedia

Jan 15, 1999, page 2 - Paragould Daily Press at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Nov 23, 1985, page 146 - The Miami Herald at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Nov 03, 1991, page 18 - The Greenville News at Newspapers.com™

Austin Yogurt Shop Murders: Suspect's daughter speaks after learning the news

Y-STR Testing: Enhancing Sexual Assault and Cold Case Workflows

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A review of the Family Next Door: The Turpin family horror

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

For years, the Turpin family lived quietly in plain sight—while thirteen children were

being systematically controlled, starved, and isolated behind closed doors. In this

episode of Koltergeist, we examine the disturbing beliefs, generational abuse, and

institutional failures that allowed unimaginable cruelty to continue unchecked. This is a

story not just about captivity, but about silence, missed warnings, and the single act of

courage that finally broke it.

https://www.amazon.com/Family-Next-Door-Heartbreaking-

Extraordinary/dp/1250202132

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The Valentine's Day Murder of Reeva Steenkamp by Oscar Pistorius

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Valentine’s Day—a celebration of love. From grand gestures to whispered promises, a holiday devoted to romance. But on February 14, 2013, Reeva Steenkamp wasn’t struck by Cupid’s arrow - she was struck by gunfire. Four hollow-point bullets tore into her body through a locked bathroom door. The trigger was pulled by the man who said he loved her. Was it a deliberate act of violence… or a catastrophic case of mistaken identity as he claimed?

In this episode of Koltergeist, we dive into the details: the courtship, the tragedy, and the aftermath of the death of Reeva Steenkamp at the hands of the Olympian known worldwide as the Bladerunner-Oscar Pistorius.

Oscar Pistorius Fast Facts | CNN

Reeva Steenkamp’s Family Speaks Out After Oscar Pistorius’ Release

Fibular Hemimelia | Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA)

Oscar Pistorius trial: Evidence - BBC News

Hotlines - National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence

Facebook

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The Curious Case of Stan Sears

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:30:00 GMT

In Run, Hide, Repeat, a family’s quiet life is slowly consumed by an invisible threat—break-ins that don’t make sense, warnings that arrive too late, and a growing belief that someone powerful is watching their every move. As fear tightens its grip, the family is forced into constant flight, changing homes, identities, and routines in a desperate attempt to stay ahead of danger. But as the story unfolds, unsettling cracks begin to appear in the narrative itself, raising an even more disturbing question: what if the danger wasn’t lurking outside the walls at all, but living inside the story they came to believe?

Episode Sources:

https://www.amazon.com/Run-Hide-Repeat-Fugitive-Childhood/dp/0735233225

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Suspicious Trash Chute Deaths: Lara Prychodko, Jaclyn Elmquist, and Justine Gross

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 09:30:00 GMT

In this episode of Koltergeist, we examine the cases of three women whose tragic deaths were all sudden, heartbreaking, and shrouded in mystery. All three ended in the same way—with a body found at the bottom of a trash chute without a logical explanation of how it got there. But the circumstances of each are vastly different and fiercely contested.

Were these deaths unfortunate mishaps, misjudgments, or something far more sinister? The evidence doesn’t quite align with any logical answer.

Episode Sources:

Remains Found in N.Y.C. Garbage Chute Belonged to Missing Woman: Police

Dec 03, 2023, page 36 - Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Penn State History Lesson: The Death Of Justine Gross | Onward State

Full autopsy report for PSU student who fell down trash chute subject of court battle

Petition update · Received Justine's Toxicology and Autopsy Reports · Change.org · Change.org

Obituary information for Justine Marie Elizabeth Gross

https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/twincities/name/jaclyn-elmquist-obituary?id=54161644

Feb 26, 2021, page 14 - Daily News at Newspapers.com™

Death of woman found at bottom of Manhattan trash chute could have been murder, forensic pathologist says – Crime Online

Search Lara Prychodko Obituaries and Funeral Services

Wrongful death lawsuit filed 5 years after Lara Prychodko was found dead at the bottom of Manhattan trash chute

The mysterious death of Lara Prychodko | FOX 5 New York

Exclusive | Lara Prychodko had affair with wealthy CEO before death | New York Post

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The Tragedy in the Garage: The Kristil Krug Case

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Kristil Krug was found dead in the garage of her suburban Colorado home, her body bearing clear signs of violence that immediately ruled out any natural cause. What should have been an ordinary evening ended in a brutal crime that left investigators searching for answers amid a web of contradictions, half-truths, and unsettling behavior from those closest to her. As police pieced together timelines and examined troubling details from Kristil’s marriage, her home life, and the hours leading up to her death, it became clear that nothing about the scene was as straightforward as it appeared. In a case marked by deception, silence, and unanswered questions, the truth of who killed Kristil Krug would remain obscured far longer than anyone expected.

Episode Sources:

https://apnews.com/article/0658e5bac14daa0aba8a18a9330bb6d4

https://apnews.com/article/af75475b55865fd03ecc14452b1f157a

https://people.com/colorado-man-convicted-killing-wife-stalking-her-impersonating-ex-boyfriend-11718201

https://www.the-independent.com/news/world/americas/crime/kristil-krug-daniel-murder-denver-stalking-court-update-b2727262.html

https://www.crimeonline.com/2024/01/02/cops-colorado-man-murders-his-wife-after-pretending-to-be-stalker-ex-for-months/

https://www.ksat.com/news/2025/04/18/colorado-man-gets-life-in-prison-for-killing-his-wife-after-posing-as-ex-boyfriend-and-stalking-her/

https://nypost.com/2025/04/04/us-news/colorado-man-posed-as-wifes-ex-then-murdered-her-cops/

https://www.reddit.com/r/Dateline/comments/1nulqyq

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When the Mind Breaks - Inside the Clancy, Simms, and Greist Cases

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Some of the most devastating intersections of mental illness and violence occur in cases that are unthinkable-when parents killed their children while experiencing episodes of active acute psychosis.

In this episode of Koltergeist, we discuss just 3 of the many stories of fractured reality—where delusions overrode instinct. We examine what psychosis looks like in deeply unwell parents and how when symptoms go unrecognized or misunderstood, they can lead to irreversible outcomes-cases of filicide-where a parent kills their own child.

Mental illness does not discriminate by age, race, gender, income, or education. It can take root in any home, unravel any mind, and alter anyone’s life. These cases will challenge our most basic ideas about intent, culpability, compassion, and justice.

These are stories of Lindsay Clancy, Romechia Sims, and Richard Greist.

Episode Sources:

Oct 26, 2023, page A5 - The Republican at Newspapers.com™

Oct 16, 2024, page B4 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Lindsay Clancy's Husband Speaks Out After Killings, Says Wife Isn't a 'Monster'

Lindsay Clancy hearing weighs psych records and reporter's notes | Court TV

Postpartum Psychosis - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf

Sep 15, 2015, page 4 - The McDowell News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Apr 23, 2016, page A2 - Lexington Herald-Leader at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Jun 07, 2015, page A25 - The News Journal at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

May 11, 1978, page 1 - The Morning Press at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Jan 23, 1980, page 35 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Aug 03, 2022, page B3 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

May 12, 1978, page 1 - The Reporter at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2787197

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The Tragic Murder of Yeardley Love

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 09:30:00 GMT

Episode Description:

In May 2010, the University of Virginia was shaken to its core when star lacrosse player Yeardley Love was found dead in her off-campus apartment—her bright future cut short by someone she once trusted. In this episode, Koltergeist unravels the volatile relationship between Yeardley and her ex-boyfriend, George Huguely V, tracing the warning signs, the privilege, and the explosive rage that ended in tragedy. A case that began as campus gossip became a national reckoning… and its echoes still linger in Charlottesville.

Sources:

https://www.29news.com/2025/05/07/one-love-continues-advocacy-15-years-after-death-uva-lacrosse-player/

https://washingtonian.com/2011/06/01/george-huguely-and-yeardley-love-love-death-and-lacrosse/

https://www.amazon.com/All-American-Murder-Amber-Hunt/dp/0312541066

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The Amish Devil: The Story of Convicted Killer Eli Stutzman

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 09:30:00 GMT

Episode Description:

On Christmas Eve, 1985, the frozen body of a young boy clad only in blue pajamas was found abandoned in a snowswept ditch along a stretch of rural Nebraska highway. With no clues to his identity, he became known among the locals as “little boy blue”. Nearly 2 years later, authorities found his family and uncovered a trail of dead bodies and sordid tale of secrets and lies that shattered a peaceful Amish community.

Sources:

Jul 19, 1988, page 15 - Austin American-Statesman at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

30 years later, two Durango murders remain unsolved - The Durango Herald

Swartzentruber Amish: The Most Traditional Group - Amish America

Re-Examining the Death of Amish Woman Ida Stutzman

Father jailed in death of 'Little Boy Blue' - UPI Archives

Olsen, Gregg. The Amish Wife: Unraveling the Lies, Secrets, and Conspiracy That Let a Killer Go Free (p. 121). Thomas & Mercer. Kindle Edition.

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The Pardo and Lawson Christmas Massacre

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 09:30:00 GMT

Episode Description:

On Christmas Eve 2008, a man dressed as Santa Claus rang the doorbell of a family home in Covina, California. Minutes later, the house was engulfed in flames, and a holiday gathering turned into one of the most horrifying massacres in modern true crime history. In this episode, Koltergeist unpacks the deception, the rage, and the chilling premeditation behind Bruce Pardo’s violent rampage—and the unanswered questions that still linger long after the smoke cleared.

Then, On Christmas Day, 1929, a North Carolina tobacco farmer wiped out his entire family—just days after forcing them into an expensive, unexplained portrait. Nearly a century later, the Lawson murders remain one of America’s most chilling holiday mysteries. In this episode, Koltergeist unravels the strange behavior, whispered secrets, and unanswered questions behind a crime that still haunts the foothills… and the photograph that warned no one.

Sources:

https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=6530779&page=1

https://abc7.com/post/covina-christmas-shooting-survivor-hopes-walkout-sends-a-message/3217340/?userab=abc_web_player-460*variant_a_abc_control-1900%2Cotv_web_player-461*variant_a_otv_control-1902%2Cotv_web_content_rec-445*variant_a_control-1849%2Chp_banner-426*variant_a_control-1777

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lawson_family_murders

https://www.dncr.nc.gov/blog/2016/12/25/story-lawson-family

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The Death of Ana Walshe

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 09:30:00 GMT

Episode Description:

New Year’s Eve is supposed to be one of the most electric nights of the year—champagne, countdowns, and the glittering promise of a clean slate. But for Ana Walshe, a striking, ambitious mother of three with a successful real estate career, it was the last night anyone would ever see her alive.

Her husband, Brian Walshe, carried a past stitched together with lies, fraud, and theft. Investigators uncovered a trail of incriminating evidence, including a string of chilling internet searches that painted a horrifying picture of the death and dismemberment of Ana Walshe.

Sources:

Friend of Ana Walshe reacts to bombshell guilty pleas on first day of jury selection – Boston 25 News

Jan 09, 2023, page A9 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.com™ - Newspapers.com™

Brian Walshe: Court docs reveal struggles with mental health, relationship between Ana & his mother – Boston 25 News

Walshe pleaded guilty in 2021 to wire fraud, interstate transportation for a scheme to defraud

Ana Walshe, whose husband is accused of killing her, had an affair before she went missing, court documents show | CNN

Brian Walshe and Ana Walshe: A timeline of the case | CNN

Family Of Massachusetts Mom Helped Alleged Killer Husband Brian Walshe Stay Out Of Prison

New details emerge from arrest documents in Ana Walshe case

Brian Walshe trial live stream: Day 2 of trial, Google searches – NBC Boston

At Brian Walshe's murder trial, attention turns to his wife's affair before she disappeared | AP News

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Ultimate Betrayal: The Dominique Pelicot case heard ‘round the world

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Episode Description:

For years, a quiet house in France hid a truth no one dared to imagine. Behind its neat shutters and well-tended garden lived a family that seemed unremarkable — polite, private, ordinary.

But then one day there was a discovery so disturbing, it would force an entire community to confront the darkness lurking just beneath the surface.

In this episode of Koltergeist, we explore a tale of deception, identity, and the lies so unbelievable you would wish they were a nightmare.

Episode Sources:

https://www.amazon.com/Ill-Never-Call-Him-

https://www.courthousenews.com/i-was-looking-for-someone-to-abuse-my-wife-dominique-pelicot-takes-the-stand-in-french-mass-rape-appeal/

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/06/world/europe/pelicot-trial-timeline.html

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The Murder of Joseph Shymanski

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Episode Description:

Joseph Shymanski was a photographer known for capturing beauty through his lens — fine art, celebrity portraits, and important events. But behind the camera, his own life had fallen out of focus. After surviving a contentious divorce and fierce custody battle, his life was taken on a quiet afternoon by someone he never saw coming. He was shot, dismembered, and burned. This is the story of the photographer who met a brutal end… and whose murder leaves us with more questions than answers.

Episode Sources:

What Happened to Joe Shymanski? A Timeline of Tragedy

Commonwealth of PA v. Brandon R. Holbrook No. No. CP-38-CR-0002100-2014

"48 Hours" contributor finds herself in uncharted territory investigating D.C.-area murder - CBS News

Sep 29, 2023, page Z14 - Maryland Independent at Newspapers.com

Family of murdered photographer wonders if his killer acted alone

Joseph Shymanski Obituary (1971 - 2023) - Washington, DC - The Washington Post

All the men — Heather's Story

Watch 48 Hours Season 38 Episode 5: My Uncle Joe's Murder - Full show on CBS

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The Last Thanksgiving, Guy family tragedy

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Episode Description:

It was supposed to be a normal family holiday — a long weekend filled with turkey, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings. But when relatives couldn’t reach Joel and Lisa Guy after Thanksgiving dinner, police arrived at their Knoxville home to find something out of a nightmare. The house was warm — too warm — and what they discovered inside would haunt investigators forever.

Who could commit something so calculated, so cold, and yet so personal? And what exactly happened between a quiet son and the parents who seemed to give him everything?

In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel a Thanksgiving that turned into a crime scene, and the chilling story of a family’s darkest secret hidden behind closed doors.

Episode Sources:

https://www.tncourts.gov/sites/default/files/OpinionsPDFVersion/Majority%20Opinion%20-%20State%20of%20Tennessee%20v.%20Joel%20Michael%20Guy%2C%20Jr.%20-%20E2021-00560-CCA-R3-CD.pdf

https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/neworleans/news/press-releases/knoxville-fugitive-arrested-by-fbi-for-the-alleged-murder-of-his-parents

https://www.courttv.com/tag/joel-michael-guy/

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Death Row: The case against Robert Roberson

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Episode Description

Robert Roberson has been condemned on death row for over two decades—convicted of the unthinkable crime of murdering of his own daughter. The case seemed clear. The timeline, the testimony, the science—at first it all seemed to point in one direction.

But what if it was wrong? Recently, new medical evidence has surfaced. Evidence that challenges the very foundation of the prosecution’s story and calls into question what really happened the night Nikki Curtis died… and whether her father ever should’ve been charged at all.

This isn’t just a story about a conviction. It’s about what happens when grief, medicine, and justice intersect.

Episode Sources:

Nikki Curtis Autopsy Report.pdf

https://innocenceproject.org/news/what-to-know-about-robert-roberson-on-texas-death-row-for-a-crime-that-never-occurred/

FAMILY CODE CHAPTER 32. CONSENT TO TREATMENT OF CHILD BY NON-PARENT OR CHILD

24A349 Roberson v. Texas (10/17/2024)

Difficulties Encountered by Forensic Pathologists in Proving Abusive Head Trauma in Children: A Case Report - PMC

Legislative Reference Library | Current Issues | Related documents

54485.pdf

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The Boston Tragedy: The story of Charles and Carol Stuart

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 11:30:00 GMT

In Boston, 1989, a young couple’s late-night drive ended in a shocking act of violence that left the city gripped with fear. A brutal attack, a frantic call for help, and a story that seemed too horrific to question. But as investigators dug deeper, cracks began to form in the tale that had captured the nation’s attention. Was this truly the work of a faceless predator lurking in the shadows—or was the danger far closer than anyone dared to imagine?

Sources:

https://www.hbomax.com/shows/murder-in-boston-roots-rampage-reckoning/68af2b13-0855-4d8f-aca4-040802d63fcb

https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2024/02/could-troubling-police-media-response-to-stuart-murder-happen-again/

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/january-3/the-husband-did-it-the-controversial-stuart-case

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Steel City’s Lost Girl: The Disappearance of Mary Ann Verdecchia

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 11:30:00 GMT

It was June 1962, the last day of school in Pittsburgh—a day buzzing with summertime excitement. But the celebration was short-lived when 10-year-old Mary Ann Verdecchia vanished without a trace. Her disappearance shattered the neighborhood’s sense of safety and still stands as one of America’s oldest unsolved missing-child cases.

Sources:

On Purpose | Pitt Magazine | University of Pittsburgh

Jun 20, 1962, page 1 - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette at Newspapers.com

Jun 14, 1962, page 25 - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette at Newspapers.com

Apr 20, 1991, page 7 - The Pittsburgh Press at Newspapers.com

Amazon.com: Therese Rocco: Pittsburgh's First Female Assistant Police Chief eBook : Rocco, Therese: Kindle Store

Nov 26, 1959, page 18 - The Pittsburgh Press at Newspapers.come

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Halloween of Horrors, stories of Halloween gone wrong and the story of Daniel Laplante

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 10:30:00 GMT

On this haunted night, we open the door to some of the darkest Halloween tales ever told. From Daniel LaPlante, whose twisted crimes blurred the line between horror and reality, to the so-called “Candyman Killer,” whose name still sends shivers down parents’ spines, we unravel stories where trick-or-treating turned into terror. Alongside them, other eerie Halloween horrors remind us that sometimes the scariest monsters aren’t in costumes—they’re hiding in plain sight.

Sources:

https://www.hcdistrictclerk.com/Common/HistoricalDocument/pdf/COTM_Oct_2021.pdf

https://outliermedia.org/devils-night-detroit-history-coleman-a-young-mike-duggan/

https://darkdowneast.com/daniellaplante/

https://www.talesfromtheunderworld.com/p/threes-a-crowd-the-cold-blooded-halloween

https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/61058958/william_edward-liske

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Murder in the Electric City: The Renee Waddle Case

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:30:00 GMT

Scranton mechanic Frank Osellanie had a dark and predatory past that culminated with the brutal assault and murder of 9-year-old Renee Waddle. But can investigators tie him to other unsolved cases? In this episode we delve into four other unsolved cases of the Electric City-the murder of Laureen Finn and the disappearances of Michelle Jolene Lakey, Shelley Diane Luty, and Joanne Williams.

References:

Dec 04, 1980, page 4 - Indiana Gazette at Newspapers.com

Dec 13, 1987, page 1 - Scrantonian Tribune at Newspapers.com

Dec 17, 1978, page 3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

Sep 09, 1986, page 3 - The Tribune at Newspapers.com

Aug 29, 2010, page A3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

May 24, 1989, page 29 - Scrantonian Tribune at Newspapers.com

May 15, 1989, page 4 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

Jun 11, 2007, page A8 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

Jun 08, 1989, page 3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

Jun 17, 1989, page 5 - The Tribune at Newspapers.com

Oct 21, 1989, page 1 - Scrantonian Tribune at Newspapers.com

Jul 05, 1989, page 4 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

Aug 04, 1990, page 3 - The Times-Tribune at Newspapers.com

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The Disappearance of Ashley Reeves

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we explore the terrifying night when Ashley Reeves became the target of a shocking attack. The details of the assault are chilling, the investigation is relentless, and the community is left reeling. Through interviews, court records, and a careful reconstruction of events, we unravel the story of a young woman caught in a nightmare—without revealing until the very end what happened to her.

References:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1558059/

https://www.stlpr.org/delete1/2007-06-15/shelton-pleads-guilty-is-sentenced-to-20-years

https://www.bnd.com/news/local/crime/article287938355.html

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The Haunting True Story of Pennhurst

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Haunted attraction profit on fear. But sometimes the most chilling horrors don’t come with actors or props—they come from the truth-which can be far darker than anything scripted. In this episode of Koltergeist, we reveal the horrifying truth behind Pennhurst Asylum-a place where disabled people were stripped of their dignity, dehumanized, and endured unimaginable horrors.

References:

Oct 23, 1965, page 1 - The Mercury at Newspapers.com

Oct 22, 1965, page 14 - The Mercury at Newspapers.com

Oct 25, 1965, page 23 - The Mercury at Newspapers.com

Welcome to the Pennhurst Memorial & Preservation Alliance

Suffer The Little Children

Youngberg v. Romeo, 457 US 307 (1982) - Disability Justice

https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/465/89/

The MUI Reporting Hotline for your county board of developmental disabilities,

Call 1-800-617-6733 for the DODD Abuse and Neglect Hotline during business hours,

or report abuse or neglect online

If you believe that you or someone else was discriminated against based on a disability, you can file an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complaint at File a Complaint | ADA.gov

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A Web of Deception: The Case of Ari Squire

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode, we dive into the twisted case of Ari Squire, a man whose actions left investigators scrambling for answers. From mysterious disappearances to shocking clues that emerged in unexpected places, we follow the investigation as it unravels a story of deception, obsession, and danger. With cryptic messages, failed schemes, and a chilling web of manipulation, this episode explores a case that kept everyone guessing—right up until the truth was finally uncovered.

References:

https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna31107096

https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2008-mar-16-adna-fakedeath16-story.html

https://6abc.com/archive/7299425/

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Lost to a Monster: The Deaths of Suzanne Sevakis and Michael Hughes

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

When a young mother is killed in what looks like a hit-and-run, it seems at first like a tragic accident. Over the next three decades, the horrifying crimes of a monster are revealed. And at the center of it all is a story that proves some spirits refuse to be broken.

References:

Jun 22, 1990, page 1 - Tulsa World at Newspapers.com

Oct 12, 1997, page 16 - The Daily Oklahoman at Newspapers.com

Nov 19, 1994, page 3 - The Courier-Journal at Newspapers.com

Nov 02, 1997, page 32 - Tampa Bay Times at Newspapers.com

Jul 18, 2022, page A9 - The Vancouver Sun at Newspapers.com

Apr 12, 2016, page 2 - The Daily Oklahoman at Newspapers.com

Birkbeck, M. (2014). A beautiful child. Berkley Books.

Birkbeck, M. (2018). Finding Sharon. Summerville.

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Why Didn’t Susan Powell Run? (*Re-released episode from 1/6/25)

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

**This is a re-released episode from January 6, 2025

Episode Summary

The Powell podcast episode of Koltergeist dives into the tragic and mysterious disappearance of Susan Powell, a devoted mother of two, and the disturbing revelations about her husband, Josh Powell. We explore Susan's struggle in an allegedly controlling relationship, her fears for her safety, and her efforts to seek help, including meeting with a divorce lawyer. The episode sheds light on Josh’s concerning behavior, as reported by a previous girlfriend, and follows the harrowing timeline leading up to Susan’s vanishing, raising chilling questions that remain unanswered.

References:

https://allthatsinteresting.com/susan-powell https://abcnews.go.com/US/susan-powel...

https://kutv.com/news/local/timeline-...

https://www.scribd.com/read/224326208...

https://youtu.be/97vdLlchb3E?si=GjO_XVNvb7WfvsKB

https://www.ksl.com/article/16985924/steven-powells-musical-website-possibly-dedicated-to-susan-cox-powell

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Under the Stars: The Murder of Terry Bowers, Jr (*Re-released episode from 1/2/25)

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

*This is a re-released episode from January 2nd, 2025

Episode Summary

11-year-old Terrence Bowers Jr's family continues to seek justice for his 1970 murder. What began as an exciting camping weekend for the scouts of troop 275 ended in tragedy when an unknown coward took Terry's life in the middle of the night. Several theories emerged, but no one paid the price for taking this young boy's life almost 55 years ago. In this episode, you will learn about the details surrounding the night of Terry's murder, the involvement of two very powerful organizations, and how you can help Terry finally get his turn for justice.

References:

RAINN | The nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization

Trooper 1st Class Chadwick S. ROBERTS Troop J -Criminal Investigation Assessment Officer & Amber Alert / MEPA Alert Designee

2099 Lincoln Hwy East, Lancaster, PA 17062

Desk: (717) 290-1971 | Cell: (717) 603-2483 Station: (717) 299-7650 | Fax: (717) 299-7663

Philadelphia Grand Jury Report

Complete reference list for this episode is available upon request.

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The Disappearance of Mark Weinberger

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 10:30:00 GMT

Dr. Mark Weinberger was known as a rising star in the world of sinus surgery—handsome, wealthy, and wildly successful. But when he vanished from a luxury yacht in Greece during his wife’s birthday trip, the mystery quickly unraveled into something far more sinister. Behind the designer suits and glossy reputation was a trail of ruined lives, misdiagnoses, and insurance fraud. As investigators closed in, Weinberger did what he did best—he disappeared.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Weinberger

https://law.justia.com/cases/indiana/court-of-appeals/2007/45a05-0606-cv-337-1.html

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The Death of Dawn Walker and Questionable Conviction of Kevin Nunn

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 10:30:00 GMT

When a woman was found brutally murdered in England, investigators quickly found a prime suspect in her ex-boyfriend. But questions remain if a second look at old evidence might point to a different killer and perhaps expose a grave miscarriage of justice -or if they had the right guy from the start.

References:

Kevin Nunn has spent 20 years in prison for a horrifying murder. Was he wrongly convicted? | Criminal Cases Review Commission | The Guardian

Public meeting in Bury St Edmunds - Hickman & Rose Solicitors - London

Kevin Nunn (Claimant) The Chief Constable of the Suffolk Constabulary (Defendant) The Crown Prosecution Service (Interested Party) - vLex United Kingdom

Murder trial hears carpet evidence | East Anglian Daily Times

'Evil' killer jailed for 22 years | East Anglian Daily Times

Fitness fanatic may have been murdered jogging by the river

The case of Kevin Nunn – insidetime & insideinformation

"A Town & Country Murder" Dawn Walker (TV Episode 2013) - IMDb

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The Man at the Door: The Mark Winger Story

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 10:30:00 GMT

When a young mother is found murdered in her home, her grieving husband tells police he acted in self-defense—killing a strange man who had been bothering his wife just days earlier. At first, it seems like a tragic case of a hero protecting his family. But as the years go by, disturbing questions begin to surface. What really happened that afternoon in Springfield, Illinois? And was this home invasion everything it appeared to be?

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Winger

https://abcnews.go.com/US/families-torn-killer-dad-reflect-years-believed-hero/story?id=77097895

https://www.sj-r.com/story/news/crime/2021/04/15/20-20-tv-program-interviews-mark-wingers-ex-wife-kids/7220064002/

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A Military Mystery: The Death of LaVena Johnson

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:30:00 GMT

In the chaos of war-torn Iraq, a young American soldier was found dead under suspicious circumstances—and her family refuses to believe the army’s explanation- alleging that the truth has been buried under red tape, silence, and fear. This case doesn’t just tell LaVena’s story—it screams the truth about the silent, brutal struggles of women in uniform. This episode is dedicated to Private First Class Johnson and with sincere appreciation for all the brave men and women of the US armed forces.

References:

LaVena Johnson: Army Still Calls Grisly Rape and Murder 'Suicide' - Salem-News.Com

CRC_Johnson-Lavena.pdf

The Silent Truth Documentary--aka--The LaVena Johnson Murder Cover-Up | HuffPost Latest News

Mar 05, 2006, page 35 - Columbia Daily Tribune at Newspapers.com

Suicide or Murder? Three Years After the Death of Pfc. LaVena Johnson in Iraq, Her Parents Continue Their Call for a Congressional Investigation | Democracy Now!

A death with two stories evidence - Los Angeles Times A drunken night in Iraq, a soldier left behind | The Seattle Times

Veterans Crisis Line

The Silent Truth: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1778359#:~:text=This%20is%20a%20documentary%20about%20PFC%20LaVena%20Johnson%27s,Johnson%20is%20found%20dead%2C%20shot%20in%20the%20head.

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Murder in the Dollhouse – The Jennifer Dulos Case

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:00:00 GMT

When Connecticut mother Jennifer Dulos vanished in 2019, suspicion quickly turned to her estranged husband, Fotis. This episode unpacks the twisted web of privilege, betrayal, and a bitter custody battle that ended in tragedy. Based on Rich Cohen’s gripping book, we explore the mystery behind Jennifer’s disappearance—and the secrets that came to light after she was gone.

ABC News

Source:

https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Dollhouse-Jennifer-Dulos-Story/dp/0374608067

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Poison or Pathology? The tragic deaths of Ryan Stallings and Stacy Robinson Hunsucker

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In 1989, the sudden death of an infant left investigators pointing the finger at the one person meant to protect him—his mother. Nearly three decades later, in 2018, a healthy young mom is found dead. Each case tells a very different story—and while they both looked like open-and-shut cases… both unraveled into things far more complex.

References:

Husband poisoned wife, tainted daughter's drink: Prosecutors

Dec 24, 2019, page A6 - The News and Observer at Newspapers.com

Apr 01, 2021, page A3 - The Charlotte Observer at Newspapers.com

Inside the Case of Paramedic Accused of Poisoning Wife with Eye Drops

Accused killer now charged with harassing witnesses in case

Proteins Are the Workhorses of the Cell: Misdiagnosis of a Metabolic Malady - Genetic Twists of Fate - NCBI Bookshelf

Complete atrioventricular block due to ingestion of Visine eye drops - PMC

Patricia Stallings

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The Stayner Brothers

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 09:00:00 GMT

This captivating truecrime episode explores the shocking divergence within the Stayner family. It begins with young Steven Stayner’s abduction at age 7 and his courageous escape seven years later—saving a fellow captive along the way. But the story takes a darker turn, as his older brother Cary grows up overlooked and troubled, eventually becoming the notorious “Yosemite Park Killer.” The hosts trace childhood trauma, media obsession, and familial neglect, culminating in Cary’s chilling crimes near Yosemite National Park in 1999. The episode highlights how two brothers, bound by blood, ended up on dramatically different paths.

References:

https://abcnews.go.com/US/steven-cary-stayner-tale-brothers-horror-heroism/story?id=60529944

https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2022/apr/20/there-was-a-lot-of-torment-the-family-who-endured-two-true-stories

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Wrestling With Demons: The Chris Benoit Family Tragedy

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In 2007, the world was rocked by the shocking revelation that a respected and decorated professional wrestler had murdered his wife and young son before taking his own life inside their suburban Georgia home.

As the story unfolded, it exposed a deeply tragic mix of steroid and drug abuse, unprocessed grief, chronic head trauma, and a volatile home life. Together, these forces created a perfect storm—one that led to a devastating mental collapse and the loss of three lives.

References:

Autopsyfiles.org - Chris Benoit Autopsy Report

Autopsyfiles.org - Nancy Benoit Autopsy Report

Benoit case - CID Case file - REDACTED.pdf - Google Drive

Chris & Nancy: The True Story of the Benoit Murder-Suicide and Pro Wrestling's Cocktail of Death: Muchnick, Irvin: 9781550229028: Amazon.com: Books

The Chris Benoit 911 Calls

Original redacted 2007 Chris Benoit police files : r/masskillers

Wrestler Chris Benoit's doctor gets 10 years in prison - ESPN

05-12-09.pdf

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"The Craigslist Killer" The story of Philip Markoff

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 10:00:00 GMT

When several women are lured to Boston hotel rooms by a charming med student offering massages, only to be robbed—or worse—the city begins to unravel a chilling pattern. Behind the polished smile and prestigious future of Philip Markoff lies a secret life fueled by obsession, violence, and a terrifying double identity. In this episode of Koltergeist, we dive into the twisted case of the so-called "Craigslist Killer"—a man who seemed to have it all, yet harbored a darkness no one saw coming.

References:

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1668674/

https://www.bostonherald.com/2010/08/16/the-craigslist-killing-a-timeline/

https://www.biography.com/crime-figure/philip-markoff

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Shenandoah National Park: The murders of Laura "Lollie" Winans and Julianne "Julie" Williams

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

In 1996, the peace of Shenandoah National Park was shattered by a gruesome discovery: the bodies of Lollie Winans and Julie Williams, two young, adventurous women with serious outdoor skills, were found brutally murdered near their campsite. They weren’t just victims—they were fearless, badass trailblazers who felt at home in the wild. As the investigation unfolded, it exposed more than just a killer. It revealed a deeper darkness: a culture of hate, fear, and prejudice, and more than one predator lurking in the shadows. But this story doesn’t end in silence—it ends in karma, long overdue and fiercely deserved.

References:

Jun 05, 1996, page 15 - The Grand Rapids Press at Newspapers.com

Apr 12, 2002, page A1 - Richmond Times-Dispatch at Newspapers.com

Apr 11, 2002, page 7 - St. Cloud Times at Newspapers.com

Jan 01, 2006, page 2 - Potomac News at Newspapers.com

Jun 05, 1996, page 1 - The Patriot-News at Newspapers.com

Sep 19, 1996, page 1 - Culpeper Star-Exponent at Newspapers.com

Apr 11, 2002, page 7 - St. Cloud Times at Newspapers.com

40 Years of Empowering Women Travelers | Adventures in Good Company

Jul 20, 2003, page 7 - The Roanoke Times at Newspapers.com

Trailed: One Woman's Quest to Solve the Shenandoah Murders: Miles, Kathryn: 9781616209094: Amazon.com: Books

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The Email, the Gun, and the Mountain Woman

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

After beloved Montana outdoorsman Bill Stout is found shot to death in his home, a bizarre web of anonymous emails, nighttime prowlers, and escalating threats begins to surface. Was his brief affair to blame—or was something far more sinister lurking closer to home? In this gripping episode of Koltergeist, we unravel a chilling mystery of obsession, betrayal, and a haunting trail that led to murder.

References:

https://www.courtlistener.com/opinion/889396/state-v-stout/?q=&court_fla=on&order_by=dateFiled+desc

https://mail.murderpedia.org/female.S/s/stout-anne.htm

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Father's Day Bank Massacre

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT

On Father’s Day 1991, a brutal and calculated crime unfolded inside the United Bank Tower in Denver, Colorado. Disguised and heavily armed, a man carried out one of the most violent bank robberies in American history. Within minutes, he gunned down four unarmed security guards—execution-style—and vanished with a bag of stolen cash. Despite multiple suspects and years of investigation, no one has ever been convicted. The killer walked away—and remains free to this day.

References:

Murders in the Bank Vault: The Father's Day Massacre and the Trial of James King: Phil H. Goodstein: Amazon.com: Books

Jun 19, 1991, page 14 - The Daily Sentinel at Newspapers.com

Inside the investigation into the 1991 Colorado Father’s Day bank massacre

Unsolved: The Father's Day Bank Massacre and the Trial of James King - NewsBreak

Jul 07, 1991, page 3 - St. Louis Post-Dispatch at Newspapers.com

Jul 05, 1991, page 14 - Morning Sentinel at Newspapers.com

You tube: From the Archives: Father's Day Bank Massacre | Teller IDs James King

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Fatal Fiction: Jenelle Potter’s Deadly Lie

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary

In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel the disturbing case of Jenelle Potter—a woman whose lies and online manipulation led to the murders of Billy Payne and Billie Jean Hayworth in a quiet Tennessee town. Jenelle, socially isolated and obsessed with online drama, created a fake CIA agent to convince her parents she was in danger. Her father, Buddy Potter, acted on that deception, with devastating consequences. This twisted story of catfishing, control, and murder shows just how deadly digital lies can become.

Episode Sources:

https://law.justia.com/cases/tennessee/court-of-criminal-appeals/2019/e2015-02261-cca-r3-cd.html

https://abcnews.go.com/US/social-media-feud-led-couples-murder/story?id=108711016

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Final Curtain: The Murder of Hogan’s Heroes star Bob Crane

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary:

A dashing Hollywood icon with a shadowy secret was murdered and his killer was never brought to justice. They said he had it all—fame, fortune, and a smile that made headlines. But behind the velvet ropes and silver screens, this actor carried a secret no one was meant to uncover. This episode delves into the mysterious and tragic death of Hogan’s Heroes star Bob Crane.

Sources for this episode are available upon request.

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Deadly Connections: Bianca Devins & Grace Millane

Mon, 26 May 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary

In this episode of Koltergeist, we explore the tragic stories of Bianca Devins and Grace Emmie Rose Millane—two young women whose lives were cut short by men they trusted. Bianca, a 17-year-old rising social media personality from New York, was brutally murdered by a friend she met online, with images of the crime shared across the internet in a chilling intersection of violence and digital culture. Grace, a 21-year-old British backpacker traveling alone in New Zealand, was killed by a man she met on a dating app during what was supposed to be a night out in Auckland. Through these cases, we examine the dark side of internet relationships, the dangers young women face both online and offline, and the broader implications for justice and online safety.

Episode Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Bianca_Devins

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bianca-devins-murder-violent-images-psychological-terrorism-48-hours/

https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-essex-63627166

https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/21/asia/grace-millane-killer-named-intl-hnk

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Beyond the Badge: The Murder of Teresa Mae McAbee

Mon, 19 May 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary

On an ordinary spring evening, a little girl walked to the corner store to buy a pencil and was never seen alive again. The last person to see her was someone she was supposed to trust-a man in uniform patrolling the small town of Mascotte, Fl. This is the story of Teresa Mae McAbee, who was brutalized and murdered in 1987 by a small-town cop named James Duckett.

Episode sources are available upon request.

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Suitcase Killer, The Case of Melanie McGuire

Mon, 12 May 2025 08:30:00 GMT

In this episode, we delve into the infamous “Suitcase Murder” case of Melanie McGuire, a New Jersey fertility clinic nurse convicted of killing her husband, Bill McGuire, in 2004. After shooting him and dismembering his body, Melanie placed the remains into suitcases that later washed up in the Chesapeake Bay. Despite her claims of innocence, a mountain of circumstantial evidence—including surveillance footage, suspicious internet searches, and forensic links—led to her conviction. We explore the complex double life she was living and the chilling details that unraveled the truth behind the crime.

References:

https://www.aetv.com/real-crime/melanie-mcguire-suitcase-killer

https://www.amazon.com/Have-Kill-Melanie-McGuire-Gruesome/dp/B08ZDFPFHB

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The DC Mansion Murders: The Savopolous Family and Veralicia Figueroa

Mon, 05 May 2025 08:30:00 GMT

In 2015, one of the most horrifying home invasion murders occurred in our nation’s capital, Washington, DC. The murder of Savopolous family and their housekeeper, Veralicia Figueroashocked the nation, due to the brutality and senselessness of the crime. This story is a harsh reminder that no amount of money or prestige can guarantee safety from violence, whether random attacks or premeditated crimes.

References:

DC Mansion Murders: Read the Savopoulos Family's Touching Obituary

May 21, 2015, page 3 - The Call-Leader at Newspapers.com

After mansion killings verdict, a look at evidence jury considered (PHOTOS) - WTOP News

Search Warrant Mansion Murder Case 061015 | PDF

DC mansion murders: A look at the evidence that helped convict the killer - ABC News

Protective Intelligence Case Study: The D.C. Mansion Murders - TorchStone Global

‘Mansion Murders’: Daron Wint Killed Captive Family, Burned Home | Crime News

Suspect in 2015 quadruple murder in Washington, DC mansion convicted of 20 counts, including murder, kidnapping - ABC News

DC Mansion Murders: Read the Savopoulos Family's Touching Obituary

May 21, 2015, page 3 - The Call-Leader at Newspapers.com

After mansion killings verdict, a look at evidence jury considered (PHOTOS) - WTOP News

DC mansion murders: A look at the evidence that helped convict the killer - ABC News

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Fetal Abduction, Crimes Against Mothers

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 08:30:00 GMT

In this episode, we explore two shocking cases of fetal abduction—where pregnant women were targeted by women desperate to steal their unborn babies. First, we recount the 2015 attack on Michelle Wilkins, who was lured by Dynel Lane under the guise of a Craigslist baby clothes sale, only to be brutally attacked and have her baby cut from her womb. Then, we examine the infamous case of Lisa Montgomery, who strangled Bobbie Jo Stinnett in 2004 and stole her baby, later attempting to pass the child off as her own. Both stories reveal the darkest extremes of obsession—and the strength of the survivors and families left behind.

References:

https://www.justice.gov/file/262956/dl?inline=

https://www.cjonline.com/story/news/2021/01/07/lisa-montgomery-federal-execution-bobbie-jo-stinnett-baby-victim-what-we-know/6550809002/

https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/dynel-lane-convicted-in-mother-to-be-stabbing-trial/

https://www.denverpost.com/2016/04/29/judge-sentences-dynel-lane-to-100-years-for-attack/

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Caught on Camera: The Kelsey Smith Case

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Kelsey Ann Smith DOB May 3, 1989

On a warm summer evening in 2007, a young woman ran a quick errand in broad daylight-and met a terrible fate. Through the investigation, glimpses of Kelsey’s final moments emerged, painting a chilling picture of an ordinary day turned nightmare. In the end, her story becomes a haunting reminder of how fragile life can be—and how danger can lurk where we least expect it.

References:

Teen Went Shopping for an Anniversary Gift, Was Killed by Man Lurking in Parking Lot

Jun 07, 2007, page 4 - The Kansas City Star at Newspapers.com

Jul 24, 2008, page 4 - The Kansas City Star at Newspapers.com

The Kelsey Smith Foundation ® - KelseysArmy.org

A Kansas Teen Was Stalked Through A Target Store Before Her Abduction And Murder | Investigation Discovery

The full episode of ID's See No Evil documentary on Kelsey's case is available to watch here.

Prepared Testimony 4/13/2016

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Broadcast to Bloodshed, what happened to April Kauffman?

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Koltergeist, we delve into the mysterious and chilling case of April Kauffman, a beloved radio host and veterans’ advocate who was found murdered in her home. For years, the case remained unsolved—until a shocking web of secrets unraveled, exposing ties to illegal operations, betrayal, and a deadly conspiracy. What really happened to April, and who wanted her silenced? Join us as we uncover the truth behind a case where nothing was as it seemed.

Sources:

https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/53498786-the-doctor-the-hitman-and-the-motorcycle-gang

https://atlanticcityweekly.com/april-kauffman-the-story-behind-the-murdered-veterans-advocate/article_de5ac9dc-2a2d-59f3-be12-dd4d55d6f2a8.html

https://crimereads.com/a-doctor-high-on-greed-a-biker-gang-high-on-opioids-and-the-woman-who-paid-the-price/

https://abcnews.go.com/US/jersey-shore-doctor-charged-murder-hire-plot-left/story?id=55506359

https://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/national-international/april-kauffman-doctor-james-kauffman-murder-charges-new-jersey-linwood-egg-harbor/202720/

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Decades-Old Mystery: The Search continues for Tracy Marie Kroh as a new prime suspect is identified

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In 1989, a 17-year-old rising senior was enjoying the last of the lazy days of summer, no doubt excitedly looking forward to her last year of high school. When she suddenly goes missing, the small town of Millersberg, PA is thrust into the center of a mystery that lasts decades, casting suspicion on it’s residents and shady outsiders, while exposing intimate secrets that were never meant to be told.

This episode discusses the disappearance of Tracy Marie Kroh, following the investigation from where it started in 1989, along the twists and turns in the road, and ending where the case stands today-with a new prime suspect.

References:

Tracy Kroh cold-case suspect claims he’s actually ‘the guy that solved the case’ - pennlive.com

Aug 07, 2022, page A10 - The Patriot-News at Newspapers.com

Oct 08, 2023, page A8 - The Patriot-News at Newspapers.com

May 07, 1994, page 7 - The Times Leader at Newspapers.com

Police finish demolition of home believed to be involved in Tracy Kroh's disappearance; no new evidence found | fox43.com

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Where did Chris Smith sail off to?

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Koltergeist, we explore the mysterious disappearance of Chris Smith, a young entrepreneur who seemingly set off on a worldwide adventure in 2010—only for his loved ones to later suspect something was terribly wrong. His business partner, Ed Shin, claimed Chris had sold his share of their company and was living a carefree life abroad, but as investigators dug deeper, troubling inconsistencies emerged. What really happened to Chris Smith? Join us as we unravel a case filled with deception, greed, and unanswered questions.

Sources:

https://www.oxygen.com/dateline-unforgettable/crime-news/ed-shin-murder-chris-smith-800-exchange

https://abcnews.go.com/US/convicted-killer-posed-dead-business-partner-bigger-talk/story?id=68404439

https://www.gq.com/story/chris-smith-vacation-mystery

https://entertainmentnow.com/news/ed-shin-chris-smith-5-fast-facts-you-need-to-know/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From saving lives to losing her own: The tragic murder of Lt. Rebecca Park

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 09:00:00 GMT

On a beautiful summer afternoon in 2003, a promising young life was tragically cut short by a monster who remained elusive for over 2 decades. Rebecca Park, a medical student and Lt in the US Army, set out on a run through the trails of Fairmount park in Philadelphia only to fall prey to a villain who raped, slashed, and essentially terrorized an entire city before finally being apprehended in 2023.

We also tell the story of an under-appreciated warrior by the name of Marty Goddard who transformed sexual assault cases, and we give you some must-know safety tips to protect yourself on every run.

References:

Kennedy, P. (2025). The secret history of the rape kit: A true crime story. Vintage Books, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.

Jul 26, 2003, page A01 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

Dec 20, 2023, page 4 - Philadelphia Daily News at Newspapers.com

Dec 20, 2023, page A12 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

Jun 03, 2004, page B01 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

Sep 21, 2007, page B01 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

Just Short of Goal, a Vigorous Life Ends - The Washington Post

Runner Safety Tips - Road Runners Club of America

Self Defense Tools | Best Self Defense Tools For Women & Runners GoGuarded.com

Aug 27, 2021, page B4 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

Feb 13, 1976, page 7 - The Mercury at Newspapers.com

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Why did Chris Coleman risk it all?

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary:

When the wife and two young sons of security chief

Chris Coleman were found brutally murdered in their home, investigators uncovered a shocking

web of deceit. What first appeared to be the work of a mysterious stalker soon pointed to

someone much closer to home. In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel the dark secrets, the

damning evidence, and the cold-blooded motive behind one of the most disturbing family

murders in recent history.

References:

https://www.stlmag.com/A-Family-Erased-The-Chris-Coleman-Story/

https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/illinois/coleman-case-timeline/article_4599d2b3-8af8-513d-

89f7-da90d76ab42e.html

https://fox2now.com/news/true-crime/chris-coleman-a-mans-secret-life-ended-in-the-2009-

murder-of-his-family/

https://www.illinoiscourts.gov/Resources/f3164949-3b05-464c-bb53-

22c8a97646b6/5110274.pdf

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The disappearance of Cindy Song and the chilling crimes of Hugo Selenski

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 09:00:00 GMT

It was a crisp Halloween night in 2001, and Penn State student Cindy Song was ready

and dressed for a night of fun—bunny ears perched on her head, a fluffy cotton tail

completing the look. She celebrated with friends at a college bar in downtown State

College, Pennsylvania. But by the time the sun rose on November 1st, Cindy was gone.

Vanished without a trace. No sign of a struggle. No clear suspect. Just an eerie mystery

that would baffle investigators for decades.

Her case would eventually lead to whispers of a terrifying connection—one that involves

a serial killer with a backyard graveyard, a conman, and a tangled web of crimes that

sent shockwaves through Pennsylvania. So what really happened to Cindy Song? Was

she simply in the wrong place at the wrong time? Or is there something even darker

lurking beneath the surface?

In this episode of Koltergeist, we unravel the disappearance of Cindy Song and the

chilling crimes of Hugo Selenski. Buckle up, because this one takes some unexpected

turns.

References:

Selenski gets up to 65 years in Saylorsburg home invasion

The Unsolved — Cindy Song vanishes from State College | wnep.com

20 years since Hugo Selenski escaped prison using bed sheets | wnep.com

Hugo’s Graveyard (2024) by Edward Lewis Amazon.com

‘A light should burn’ | 21 years on, Penn State student Cindy Song remains missing |

Featured News | Daily Collegian | psucollegian.com

Oct 30, 2002, page 6 - Centre Daily Times at Newspapers.com

Nov 08, 2001, page 10 - Centre Daily Times at Newspapers.com

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When did Morgan Mengle turn from liar to murderer?

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Koltergeist, we

delve into the chilling case of Kevin Mengel, a devoted father whose life was cut short by a

shocking betrayal. What seemed like a troubled marriage took a deadly turn when his wife,

Morgan Mengel, and her younger lover hatched a sinister plan. We uncover the lies, deception,

and the trail of evidence that led investigators to the truth. Was justice truly served? Tune in as

we break down this twisted case of love, manipulation, and murder.

https://www.dailylocal.com/2013/02/05/update-morgan-mengel-admits-role-in-killing-husband/

https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/shows/5-chilling-details-kevin-mengel-s-murder

https://www.mainlinemedianews.com/2013/02/05/prosecutor-says-morgan-mengel-was-stupid/

https://www.google.com/search?q=Kevin+Mengle+murder+timeline&rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS847U

S847&oq=kevin+mengle+murder&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBggBEEUYOzIGCAAQRRg5MgYIA

RBFGDvSAQk1NDg1ajBqMTWoAgiwAgE&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8

https://www.nbc.com/dateline-secrets-uncovered/video/toxic/4057105

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Lesson Unlearned: The murder of Ellen Greenberg and the investigation that failed her

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:00:00 GMT

Episode Summary:

On a cold January evening in 2011, 27-year-old Ellen Greenberg, a beloved teacher

and bride-to-be, was found dead in her Philadelphia apartment with 20 stab

wounds—10 of which were to the back of her head and neck. Despite the medical

examiner determining the manner of death as a homicide, it was never really

investigated as such. The medical examiner then suddenly changed the manner of

death to suicide-and then changed it yet again, but the story doesn’t end there. Ellen’s

family and many experts have raised compelling questions about the clearly bungled

investigation. On this episode of Koltergeist we’ll delve into the evidence, the autopsy

findings, and a brand new bombshell to ask the difficult question—who killed Ellen

Greenberg?

References:

Ellen Greenberg - Crime Timeline

Ellen Greenberg died by ‘suicide’ with 20 stab wounds. Her parents are out to prove

that’s impossible | Lamb McErlane PC

Ellen-Greenberg-Autopsy-2012-Wecht-RPT.pdf

https://gavinfish.com/cases/ellen-greenberg/

Teacher stabbing death to be revisited after medical examiner walks back ruling of

suicide - ABC News

Annie McCormick on X: "Breaking Today : The Medical Examiner in Ellen Greenberg’s

case says her death was NOT suicide. The legal tide appears to be turning for the

Greenberg family in their decade plus long fight to change their daughter’s suicide ruling

to homicide or undetermined."

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Love, Betrayal and Tragedy: The Marc Gerardot case

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 10:00:15 GMT

Episode Summary:

When a seemingly successful marriage unraveled due to infidelity, it led to an unimaginable tragedy. This episode dives into the love triangle between Marc Gerardot, his wife Jennair, and Meredith Chapman—a story of betrayal, obsession, and meticulous planning. Explore the events that culminated in a shocking murder-suicide, the chilling evidence left behind, and the devastating aftermath for everyone involved. Join us as we unravel the Marc Gerardot case and examine how secrets and emotions spiraled into violence.

References:

https://abcnews.go.com/US/man-involved-2018-love-triangle-murder-suicide-

case/story?id=65366893

https://www.amazon.com/Irreparable-Three-Lives-Deaths-Story/dp/057866562X

https://www.inquirer.com/news/mark-gerardot-jennair-meredith-chapman-murder-suicide-love-

triangle-radnor-20201107.html

https://people.com/crime/mark-gerardot-wife-murdered-mistress-killed-herself-says-he-loved-her

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From missing to murdered/ The puzzling case of Judith Smith

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 10:00:58 GMT

Episode Summary:

Judith (Judy) Smith was a 50-year-old Massachusetts woman who went missing while sightseeing in Philadelphia, PA in 1997. Mysteriously, her remains were eventually found 5 months later over 500 miles away. This case leaves us with more questions than answers- how and why did Judy Smith go missing, and- who killed her?

References:

Apr 14, 1997, page 16 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.com

Oct 01, 1997, page 28 - The Boston Globe at Newspapers.com

Oct 02, 1997, page 59 - Hartford Courant at Newspapers.com

Aug 31, 1997, page 260 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com by Michael Sokolove

Oct 05, 1997, page 41 - Sun-News at Newspapers.com

Apr 10, 1998, page 18 - Asheville Citizen-Times at Newspapers.com

Aug 31, 1997, page 259 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

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How not to fake your own death…the story of Marcus Schrenker

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 05:05:44 GMT

Episode Summary:

Marcus Schrenker, a former Indiana financial adviser, is best known for his dramatic attempt to fake his death in January 2009 to avoid legal and financial troubles. Schrenker's story involves fraud, deception, and a daring escape attempt that garnered national attention. Schrenker's case became a cautionary tale of greed and desperation. His elaborate but poorly executed attempt to fake his death highlighted the lengths to which some will go to escape accountability.

References:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/walterpavlo/2019/11/22/white-collar-tales-the-story-of-marcus-

schrenker/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcus_Schrenker#:~:text=In%202009%2C%20he%20attempted%

20to,state%2C%20three%2Dday%20manhunt.&text=After%20pleading%20guilty%20to%20fed

eral,fined%20%24905%2C000%20in%20June%202009.

https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna39562817

https://abcnews.go.com/2020/marcus-schrenker-fake-death/story?id=10201960

https://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/15/us/15plane.html

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What happened to Lauren Jackson? Plus 3 tips to keep your kids safe

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:00:55 GMT

Episode Summary:

It’s been 36 years since 5-year-old Lauren Jackson vanished without a trace from her apartment complex in Spring City, Pa. Lauren was last seen by several witnesses playing outside in the early evening hours on October 4, 1988. An extensive investigation by police revealed chilling clues but no sign of Lauren. Was this a stranger abduction or do the answers lie closer to home?

This episode also explains why the “stranger danger” safety tactics of the 80’s fell short of properly protecting our children. We cover safety tips from NCMEC as well as practical age-appropriate strategies to help keep all our children safe.

If you have any information on Lauren’s case please contact the East Vincent police department at (610) 933-0115 , National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-843-5678, or the FBI.

References:

Nov 06, 1988, page 439 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

Oct 06, 1988, page 2 - The Philadelphia Inquirer at Newspapers.com

More than 30 years later, investigation continues into 5-year-old's disappearance

Cold Case Chronicles podcast- Lauren Jackson

CHRISTINA O'DONNELL Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children

Pictures

Have you seen this child? Lauren Maria pico Jackson

Vincent Motel- 3585 Schuylkill Rd, Spring City, PA 19475 | LoopNet

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If Eric Richins only listened to his gut

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 10:00:38 GMT

Episode Summary:

The Koltergeist episode on Kouri Richins unpacks the shocking case of a wife accused of murdering her husband, Eric Richins, allegedly for financial gain and to be with her lover. We delve into the suspicious circumstances surrounding Eric’s death, Kouri's alleged affair with her handyman, and the text exchanges that hinted at her desire to start a new life. The episode reveals a twisted web of deception and betrayal, exploring what led to the tragic outcome and the questions that remain unanswered.

References:

https://www.abc4.com/richins/kouri-richins-allegedly-writes-email-authorities-prior-to-arrest-to-clarify/

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/kouri-richins-denied-bail-utah-mom-charged-with-poisoning-husband/

https://youtu.be/ie2DflEVCq4?si=Q5wWsirqtPpSarw7

https://kutv.com/news/local/family-of-utah-woman-kouri-richins-accused-of-husbands-murder-talks-to-cbs-eric-richins-fentanyl-ronnie-darden-48-hours-natalie-morales-aggravated-murder-charge-paramount-plus

https://www.themirror.com/news/us-news/kouri-richins-murder-husband-book-803126

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/kouri-richins-mother-may-helped-plan-orchestrate-murder-authorities-sa-rcna144099

https://www.walker-mortuary.com/obituaries/eric-richins

https://www.scribd.com/document/680317499/Walk-the-Dog-Letter-by-Kouri-Richins

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The tragic deaths of Samantha Josephson and Chanti Dixon

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 10:00:28 GMT

Episode Summary:

Samantha Josephson was a 21-year-old student at the University of South Carolina who was savagely murdered when she mistakenly got into the car of a man she thought was her Uber driver. Chanti Dixon was a 30-year-old mother of two who was tragically murdered by her Uber driver in Indianapolis.

Ridesharing is a convenient option that is increasingly growing in popularity. Between Uber and Lyft, almost 6 billion rides per year are provided. While the number of crimes, including fatalities and sexual assaults is statistically very low, both drivers and riders should be acutely aware of the potential dangers involved when sharing a vehicle with strangers as well as the safety features available and tactics to utilize when ridesharing.

References:

Uber releases safety data: 998 sexual assault incidents including 141 rape reports in 2020 | CNN Business

Apr 02, 2019, page A1 - The State at Newspapers.com

Apr 04, 2019, page A1 - The Greenville News at Newspapers.com

Jun 27, 2019, page A6 - Passaic Valley Today at Newspapers.com

https://www.uber.com/us/en/about/reports/us-safety-report/

https://www.lyft.com/blog/posts/lyfts-community-safety-report

GAO-24-106742, RIDESHARING AND TAXI SAFETY: Information on Assaults against Drivers and Passengers

About Foundation | #WHATSMYNAME FOUNDATION | Samantha Josephson

Indianapolis mom Chanti Dixon remembered as Uber driver arrested

Uber driver charged with murder in missing woman's death | wthr.com

Rideshare driver arrested for allegedly murdering female passenger: Indianapolis police - ABC News