Criminology

In 1956, Angelo LaMarca abducted Peter Weinberger and left a ransom note for the baby's parents. A cat-and-mouse game with the Weinbergers and the police ensued while 1-month-old Peter's life hung in the balance. Multiple ransom demands were made, but the drops were never picked up. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss this case from the 1950s. The Weinbergers weren't famous or rich, so in that way, this kidnapping differed greatly from the infamous Lindbergh kidnapping case. But, there were some similarities as well. The hunt for the abductor relied heavily on handwriting analysis. When the truth came out, people were horrified to learn the true details and the motive behind the abduction. LaMarca's actions devastated two families. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Behind every infamous news story is a journalist trying to hold power to account. Join reporters Vanessa Grigoriadis and Gabriel Sherman as they take an in-depth look at the most explosive scandals of this century. From high-profile divorces to sex cults to the lies that started a war, they'll guide you through the juiciest, most outrageous, celeb-filled stories of the last two decades, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to shine an unflattering light on the world's most powerful people. A Campside Media & Sony Music Entertainment production. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ed Kemper is a notorious serial killer who was given many different monikers. The Co-ed Butcher, the Ogre of Aptos, and the most well-known, the Co-ed Killer, are all names that have been assigned to Kemper. Ed Kemper had a troubled childhood, and over the years, he developed an intense hatred toward his mother. This hatred seems to be the driving factor in many of his crimes. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the infamous Ed Kemper. Ed killed his grandparents at a young age and was released when he was 21 years old. At 6'9", he was a very imposing figure. But, he managed to coax many young women into his car under the guise of giving them a ride. He murdered and dismembered many young women, and then he turned on his mother and one of her friends. The murders were shocking, but it's what Ed Kemper did with the bodies that made his crimes even more bizarre. You can support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this very special Halloween episode of Criminology, 'The Nightmare before Halloween,' we take part alongside many of our true crime podcast friends to bring you some creepy and terrifying tales of terror. It's a jam-packed episode, and in our segment at around the hour and 30-minute mark, we explore the October 30th, 1966 murder of Cheri Jo Bates in Riverside, CA. …1 campfire… …1 dark forest… …31 bone-chilling stories… …Will YOU survive the night? This Halloween season, enter the woods for a unique and truly epic podcast experience! Around the campfire Shane Waters will introduce 31 crime podcast hosts, including Mike and Morf. Each host brings a new, nerve-wracking true story to the circle. It's an extra special, two part, five-hour, Halloween event, but before hitting play you might want to ask yourself…can you really handle this much murder and mayhem? So, pull up to the fire and brace yourself for 'A Nightmare Before Halloween' …but be warned… …bad things happen in these woods…. Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance: - Foul Play: Crime Series [https://link.chtbl.com/foulplay] - Murder She Told [https://tinyurl.com/55473exk] - Crime Salad [https://tinyurl.com/4pbtdtpc] - Crimelines [https://linktr.ee/crimelines] - Frightful [https://link.chtbl.com/frightful] - Reverie True Crime [https://linktr.ee/paigeelmore] - Rotten to the Core [https://link.chtbl.com/Rotten] - The Trail Went Cold [https://tinyurl.com/2zydj3y] - Once Upon A Crime [https://www.truecrimepodcast.com] - Criminology [https://tinyurl.com/yvuu9u8d] - The Peripheral & Generation Why [https://link.chtbl.com/ThePeripheral] - Live, Laugh, Larceny [https://linktr.ee/Live.Laugh.Larceny.Podcast] - The Hidden Staircase [https://link.chtbl.com/TheHiddenStaircase] - True Crime Cases with Lanie & It's Haunted...What Now? [https://linktr.ee/LanieHobbs] - Obscura: A True Crime Podcast & Disaster [https://link.chtbl.com/obscura] - True Crime Island [https://tinyurl.com/y6kk2npj] - Based on a True Story [https://tinyurl.com/37axzn5z] - The Asian Madness Podcast [https://tinyurl.com/yckkxbjn] - Sistas Who Kill [https://linktr.ee/Sistas.Who.Kill.Podcast] - Hometown History [https://link.chtbl.com/hometownhistory] - Coffee and Cases [https://linktr.ee/coffeeandcases] - Military Murder [https://tinyurl.com/yc5fxjyh] - Dystopian Simulation Radio [https://tinyurl.com/khpw786w] - Cults, Crimes & Cabernet [https://linktr.ee/cultscrimesandcabernet] - Morbidology [https://tinyurl.com/mshyvxyt] - Dark Pountine [https://tinyurl.com/ycydanm9] - Hillbilly Horror Stories [https://tinyurl.com/567vxrkz] - True Consequences [https://tinyurl.com/39fpfv3h] - Gone Cold [https://tinyurl.com/ytzxudt8] - Crime Stories with Nancy Grace & Crime Online [https://tinyurl.com/3dxp47wf] - True Crime IRL & True Crime Sleep Stories [https://tinyurl.com/ykzwmnxr] ReplyForward Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 16th, 1986, the small town of Cokeville, Wyoming, experienced a bombing at the Cokeville elementary school. That day, husband and wife David and Doris Young entered the school with guns and a homemade bomb. The bomb eventually detonated, and in what many call the Cokeville miracle, not a single student or member of the faculty was killed. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the Cokeville bombing. David Young had once been the sole police officer in the small town of Cokeville. He was fired for misconduct after only six months. And over the years, he developed some very strange ideas and began to associate with some different hate groups. He walked into the school that day, intent on killing everyone inside. The events of that day are incredible and, to many miraculous. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Generation Why Podcast released its first episode in 2012 and pioneered the true crime genre in the podcasting world. Two friends, Aaron & Justin, break down theories and give their opinions on unsolved murders, controversies, mysteries and conspiracies. One of the longest running true crime podcasts out there, Generation Why has a little something for every true crime listener. Follow The Generation Why Podcast on Amazon Music, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Or you can listen ad-free by joining Wondery Plus in the Wondery app. Listen here: http://wondery.fm/C_GenWhy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On November 2nd, 2016, Keith Papini of Redding, CA, called 911 to report his 34-year-old wife, Sherri Papini missing. 22 days later, Sherri was found walking along a highway. Her hair was cut short, she was very thin, and she had metal bindings on both her hands and feet. The police believed Sherri's story of what happened, but many in the public were highly suspicious. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance and return of Sherri Papini. The police worked hard to find Sherri, and then after she returned, they worked to find her captors. Sherri told the police that a group of Hispanic women had abducted her, and one had set her free. But, as the police began to dig, they revealed holes in Sherri's story, and eventually, her story completely unraveled. Just exactly what happened to Sherri Papini? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In September 2022, 59-year-old Debbie Collier disappeared. The police were able to track her rental van and found her remains pretty quickly. But, the scene was mysterious, and the authorities so far have been working hard to put the pieces of the puzzle together. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss this bizarre and currently evolving case. Debbie was seen on surveillance footage at a store more than 70 miles away from her home. The authorities discovered a mysterious Venmo transaction from Debbie to her daughter Amanda that included an extremely cryptic message. Police have ruled out suicide and have said publicly that there is no serial killer involvement. Some members of Debbie's family have come under scrutiny online. This is a case that needs to be monitored closely to find out what police know as additional details are revealed. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to the Hellmouth Weirdos! Your favorite Morbid hosts Ash and Alaina are branching out from true crime and heading to Sunnydale for the ultimate Buffy the Vampire Slayer Rewatch podcast! Alaina is a Buffy superfan and Ash has never watched a single episode, so whether you're Team Angel, Team Spike, or have no clue who those people are…they've got you covered! Join them each week as they slay their way through the series, episode by episode, re-watching, and watching for the very first time. They'll break down Buffy and her friends adventures through weekly recaps, categories, and awards while Ash takes some (wooden stake) stabs at predicting what she thinks will happen next. They'll also welcome the occasional Buffy cast member, guest star, or celebrity superfan to join in the slaying. Listen to The ReWatcher: http://wondery.fm/Criminology_BUFFY Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Mike Crites, or Mike as he was known by, was living in his dream location on an 80 acre property in Birdseye, Montana, just outside of Helena, Montana. But, the dream turned into a nightmare when a series of property disputes began occurring with multiple neighbors. Then, in 2011, Mike suddenly vanished with out a trace and his friends and family began searching for him. Later that year, someone found remains in two trash bags that turned out to be Mike Crites. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the murder of John Mike Crites. Mike had made a number of enemies over the years during these land disputes. But, he had some people on his side as well. It seemed as though every neighbor who owned land around the area took up sides. The police looked at everyone who had run-ins with Mike, some of them armed confrontations. One man in particular stood out to them and they worked hard to put together a case against him. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lynette Dawson disappeared in Australia in 1982. Her husband Chris came under suspicion, but the authorities couldn't put together enough evidence against him to charge him and take him to trial. Damaging information came out about Chris Dawson over the years. His relationship with Lynette was extremely troubled, and through his role as a physical education teacher, he groomed a young female student. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance of Lynette Dawson. Though Lynette's body has never been found, the police did finally charge Chris with Lynette's murder. Without Lynette's body, they would need a mountain of circumstantial evidence against Chris Dawson to get a conviction. The big question became would they have enough? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The water level of Lake Mead, near Las Vegas, Nevada, along with other lakes in the West and SouthWest US, has reached dangerously low levels. Some areas are experiencing a "megadrought," and it has been called the worst drought in the last 1,200 years. This situation is causing a serious issue for drinking water and hydroelectric power for those who rely on both from some of these bodies of water. The water levels in Lake Mead have also unearthed a number of bodies, including at least one that was found in a barrel. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the bodies that have recently surfaced in Lake Mead. Many are still unidentified, including one found inside a barrel. This one for sure is no accident because people just don't accidentally end up in a barrel. The fact that the body was found inside a barrel, and the proximity to Las Vegas, have led many to suspect that this was a murder committed by the mob. These discoveries are very recent, so it remains to be seen how many of these individuals were murdered or died by accident. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2009, the bodies of eleven women were unearthed in an area of Albuquerque, New Mexico, called the West Mesa. Many of the women were identified as missing persons who had been on the radar of police for many years. Detective Ida Lopez had long suspected that many of the women on her missing person's list would be found together, and she turned out to be correct. Many have theorized that a lone serial killer, who has been dubbed "The West Mesa Bone Collector", is responsible for this series of murders. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the West Mesa murders and the person many believe to be responsible, "The West Mesa Bone Collector," In addition to being buried in the same location, these women had many things in common. Is one person responsible for this series of murders, preying on women in the middle of the night and then burying their bodies in one location? Or were there multiple killers operating over the years who happened to choose to bury the bodies of the victims in the same location? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From 1962 to 1964, the Boston Strangler terrorized the Boston area, praying mostly on older and vulnerable women. The police eventually connected the murders due to the signature methods that this predator used. Many of the women were strangled with a piece of their own clothing, and the killer tied a knot, and often a bow. 11 murders were eventually connected to the Boston Strangler. A man named Albert DeSalvo eventually confessed to all 11 of the murders. But did he actually commit them? Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the infamous killer who became known as the Boston Strangler. Albert DeSalvo was undoubtedly a bad man. He was in prison for other crimes when he confessed to being the Boston Strangler. His other crime sprees earned him the monikers of "The Measuring Man" and "The Green man." But many people did not believe that DeSalvo was the Boston Strangler even though he was able to provide a lot of information on the murders. A fellow inmate named George Nassar has been looked at by many as the real perpetrator. And some people believe not all 11 murders were committed by the same person. In recent years DNA has shed some light on Albert DeSalvo's connection to the murders. But, for many, quite a bit of mystery still surrounds this case. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dorothy Davis died at the Fort Lewis Army base in Washington State in 1991. Her death was originally ruled a suicide because that's what the scene inside her bedroom suggested. But, as more pieces of the pictures came into focus, suspicion began falling squarely on the shoulders of Dorothy's husband, Corporal Christian Davis. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss Dorothy's death and the investigation that eventually led back to her husband. As authorities pieced everything together, they learned that Christian may have tried to kill Dorothy years earlier in a fire made to look like an accident. Crucial clues emerged, including the jacket Christian was wearing the night his wife died and a hazy 20-minute window of time that night. Suicide letters next to Dorothy turned out not to be what authorities they were, and the way that she was holding the gun was re-examined. It all led to one suspect, Dorothy's husband, Christian. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1970, a family hiking in Norway stumbled upon the burned body of a woman. Police had very little to work with to try to identify this woman. There were, however, items scattered around the woman's body that appeared to have been staged. Days later, investigators found more of the woman's belongings inside some suitcases at a railway station. The items inside the suitcases were also intriguing as it appeared that any type of identifiable information had been removed from the items. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the intrigue and mystery surrounding the unidentified Jane Doe who has become known as The Isdal Woman. Investigators discovered quite a bit of information about the woman's movements before her death, and they interviewed a number of people who had seen her. These individuals had some very interesting things to say about the woman. Entries written in code, multiple aliases, which all would have required a different passport, and a documented check fraud scheme have led to much speculation in this case. But, the question remains, who was The Isdal Woman, and how did she die? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the 1970s and 1980s, Robert Hansen hunted women in the last frontier of Alaska. He lured women with offers of large amounts of money for sex. Once a woman got into a car with Robert Hansen, they were trapped. He even bought his own plane in order to transport women out into the wilderness of Alaska. All of this occurred while Hansen was operating a bakery and playing the role of a husband and father. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the notorious serial killer Robert Hansen. Hansen admitted to authorities that he would take women to secluded areas, like his cabin near the Knik River, a place you can only get to by boat or in a bush plane, and then let them go there in the wilderness. As they ran for their lives, naked and barefoot, he hunted them the same way that he was known for hunting animals. His confessions shocked even seasoned investigators. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1975, 2 sisters, 10-year-old Katherine Lyon and 12-year-old Sheila Lyon, disappeared in Wheaton, Maryland. The sisters had gone to the local mall to see the Easter decorations and eat lunch, but they never made it home. A number of people came forward to report that they had seen the two girls. One man even came forward, saying that he saw the sisters being abducted and put into a car. But, he later admitted that he was lying. There were fake ransom demands from people preying on the grief and agony that the parents were experiencing. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the infamous case of the Lyon sisters. A number of suspects emerged over the years, including one man that the police dubbed "the tape recorder man" who had been seen with the sisters at the mall. It took many decades, but the police finally zeroed in on a man who crossed their path early in the investigation. And it was this man, Lloyd Welch, that turned about to be the culprit behind what happened to the Lyon sisters. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we're discussing two different cases, the disappearances of Monique Daniels and Jhessye Shockley. Both are very similar cases but with very different outcomes. Monique Daniels, a 15-year-old from Moore, Oklahoma, disappeared in 1992. In 2011 5-year-old Jhessye Shockley disappeared from Arizona. The parents of both victims were charged and convicted on child abuse charges. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss these two cases. In both, suspicion was cast on a parent and/or stepparent, and siblings told the authorities very damaging information. But, only in the case of Jhessye Shockley was a murder conviction obtained. Even though many people believe that the mother and stepfather of Monique Daniels were involved somehow in her disappearance, to date, neither has been charged with murder. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The circumstances surrounding the 2004 disappearance of 5-year-old Tamra Keepness are extremely mysterious. Tamra disappeared from her home in Saskatchewan, Canada, while her three siblings and two half-siblings were in the house. The timing of events has been debated based on the facts that various people in Tamra's life have given. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance of Tamra Keepness. Tamra's mother Lorena, Lorena's boyfriend Dean, and a man named Russell Sheepskin, who was living at the home, all have their accounts of the events of that night. All three had been drinking, and for a period of time, the children were alone in the home. Despite a massive search, no evidence of what happened to her has been uncovered. This is a case that, as many do, comes down to who you believe and the plausibility of certain statements that have been made by the people involved in Tamra's life. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clark Perry Baldwin is a man who has been linked to a number of murders in different states. In this episode, we are discussing a number of murders that are solved, but we have no idea who the victims are, while others remain unsolved. One common thread in these cases is DNA, forensic genealogy, and the potential for that technology to finally close out some of these cases and others. But there's another common thread connecting some of these cases, and that is a man named Clark Perry Baldwin. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss Clark Perry Baldwin. Baldwin was a long-haul trucker who, at times, also drove a taxi. He is currently awaiting trial on murder charges in Tennessee. But, he is believed to be linked to multiple Jane Does, including Bitter Creek Betty and the Sheridan County Jane Doe. We will have to wait to see how his trial progresses and also how technology may link him to other cases. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When a car bomb kills Daphne Caruana Galizia on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Malta, the hunt for her killers exposes secrets with consequences that go far beyond its shores. In the aftermath of her death, an international team of journalists comes together to continue her work. Along the way, they start to uncover clues that might lead to her killers. From Wondery, comes a new story about power, corruption, and one woman's fight for the truth. Hosted by investigative reporter Stephen Grey. Listen to Who Killed Daphne? - http://wondery.fm/Criminology_DAPHNE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 19th, 2005, 35-year-old Richard Petrone and 34-year-old Danielle Imbo went out on a casual night out on South Street in Philadelphia PA, and on the way back to Danielle's home in Mt Laurel, NJ they vanished, and have never been seen since. There have been many theories and a lot of speculation about what happened to the pair but to date, the authorities have not been able to solve the mystery. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the mysterious disappearance of Danielle Imbo and Richard Petrone. Many people have been suspicious of Danielle's soon-to-be ex-husband Joe Imbo but he appeared to have a solid alibi. The authorities have since come out and expressed suspicion of their own. Much of the speculation centers around the possibility that a hit was ordered on Danielle. Some even believe that it was the mob that carried it out. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Pillowcase Rapist was a moniker given to a man who committed over 40 violent assaults on the East coast of Florida from 1981 to 1986. This individual was extremely cunning and cautious and staked out apartments that were well hidden from view. He crept inside the residences of unsuspecting women, usually by climbing through open windows or simply opening sliding glass doors that had been left unlocked and would scale balconies to get to higher units. He usually attacked professional women in upper-middle-class apartment complexes. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the case of the pillowcase rapist. In many ways, his crimes show many parallels to the crimes of The East Area Rapist / Golden State Killer Joseph DeAngelo. Both men were good at avoiding the law. The police had trouble finding out who The Pillowcase Rapist was. Thankfully, a crime scene technician did an excellent job preserving some evidence in the days before DNA was used. In 2020, a DNA link was made to a man named Robert Eugene Koehler and he was arrested as The Pillowcase Rapist. He has not yet faced a jury of his peers but, the authorities seem pretty confident in the evidence they have against him. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 4, 2001, Bonny Lee Bakley was found fatally shot in a car on a dark North Hollywood street. The prime suspect was her husband, famed actor Robert Blake. But Bonny, a longtime con artist, had plenty of enemies. She left behind a trail of men she'd scammed, and she had a volatile relationship with Christian Brando, the troubled son of movie star Marlon Brando. Not since the O.J. Simpson case had the eyes of the nation been so fixated on a homicide. The search for Bonny's killer took detectives on an eleven-month odyssey across the country and through Hollywood's underbelly of hustlers, drug addicts, and would-be hitmen. It would be the most expensive murder investigation in LAPD history to date. This is the story of Robert and Bonny's toxic relationship, her shocking murder, and his chaotic trial. Did actor Robert Blake kill his wife? Or was the murder someone else's vendetta? From Wondery, and the team behind the hit series Hollywood & Crime (The Dating Game Killer, The Wonderland Murders, Death of Starlet) comes a six-part series about love, obsession and fame gone wrong. Co-hosted by Tracy Pattin and Josh Lucas. Listen by subscribing to Wondery Plus in Apple Podcasts or the Wondery App: wondery.fm/Criminology_TEOBLB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In July 2021, 40-year-old Katie Janness was murdered in Atlanta's Piedmont Park. Her partner, Emma Clark, found Katie's body along with their dog Bowie just inside the park and called 911. The murder was extremely brutal and included mutilation which has led some to believe Katie's killer was known to her. The aspects of the murder have led to much speculation by the public. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the murder of Katie Janness. Much of the public's speculation has fallen on Katie's partner Emma. Some believe that Emma's behavior on the 911 call doesn't match what they believe it should have been. And, despite her pleas, the police have yet to officially clear Emma which further fuels speculation on just exactly what evidence the police have. Many questions remain including just who murdered Katie Janness. Was her killer someone inside her inner circle or was she the victim of a predator who saw Katie in the park and targeted her? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recently, people across the nation were taken with the story of escaped inmate Casey White and his accomplice, decorated corrections officer Vicky White. These types of escapee-on-the-run stories are often romanticized, the most famous being the story of Bonnie and Clyde. In 2022, Texas has had a number of escapees who went on the run rather than either face court or the sentences for which they had already been given. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss a number of recent escapee stories from the State of Texas. Kaitlin Armstrong is wanted in connection with the murder of Moriah Wilson. Matthew Edgar went on the run after being convicted of killing his 19-year-old girlfriend Livye Lewis. And Gonzalo Lopez escaped from a prison transport bus and showed how desperate he was to remain free when he was found by police. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Introducing the true crime podcast Persona: The French Deception— the story of Gilbert Chikli, one of the greatest con artists of all time. What does it feel like to pick up the phone and scam someone out of $50 million? Host and award-winning journalist, Evan Ratliff, investigates how Chikli successfully duped some of the world's most powerful people into handing over their fortunes. He explores how Chikli evaded the law for years and became a Robin Hood-like hero. More than just a tale of criminal genius, this is a show about the moment we're living in right now — the golden age of scammers — and the power of seduction. But what happens when the fantasy we've been lured into finally crumbles away? For all that and more, follow "Persona: The French Deception" wherever you get your podcasts. Or you can listen early on Amazon Music or early and ad-free by subscribing to Wondery Plus in Apple Podcasts or the Wondery App: http://wondery.fm/Crime_Persona Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

17-year-old Brittanee Drexel, disappeared from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in 2009. She remained missing for 13 years, until in May 2022, when her body was found. 62-year-old Raymond Moody led the police to Brittanee's body and confessed to her murder. Moody was on police radar but they couldn't put anything solid together against him. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance of Brittanee Drexel. Brittanee lied to her mother so that she could go on a trip to Myrtle Beach with some other teenagers. When Brittanee stopped picking up the phone, her boyfriend got worried and told Brittanee's mother Dawn the truth. Dawn frantically began the search for her daughter, moving to South Carolina over the years. Police couldn't solve the case until Raymond Moody came forward. But, many questions remain. Why did he confess to the crime and lead authorities to Brittanee's body? Moody has not had his day in court, so it's possible that the answers to some questions will come out later. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rebecca Coriam, a crew member aboard the cruise ship, the Disney Wonder, vanished in 2011 and has never been found. 24-year-old Rebbeca or "Becks", as she was known to friends and family, disappeared on March 22nd, 2011. From the very beginning, the investigation seemed lacking including jurisdictional disputes on who should lead the investigation. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance of Rebecca Coriam. The ship had a lot of cameras and Rebecca was seen on CCTV footage early that morning. But not a single camera captured what happened to her. A search ensued but no sign of her was found. The Royal Bahamas Police was the investigating agency and their investigation has led many to question its thoroughness. Did Rebecca Coriam end her life, get swept overboard by a rogue wave, or was it a love triangle that led to murder? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The body of wife and mother Orsolya Gaal was in April 2022 inside a rolling hockey bag in New York City. This case has received a lot of media attention due to video footage that showed a man rolling the bag down the street. Police discovered a trail of blood from the bag's location that led directly back to Orsolya's home. Inside they found a very bloody crime scene. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the murder of Orsolya Gaal. It didn't take the authorities long to focus on a man named David Bonola. Bonola was a handyman who had done work at the Gaal home. It also came out that Orsolya and David had some sort of relationship. He has reportedly said that he killed Orsolya because she refused to see him anymore but has also made statements that point to other motives. Bonola has been charged with 13 counts including murder but has not yet gone to trial. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The I65 killer, sometimes referred to as the Days Inn Killer, was given those names because he targeted victims that worked at hotels along Interstate 65 in Indiana and Kentucky between 1987 and 1989. The cases took many years to be solved and were done so through the use of forensic genetic genealogy. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the I65 killer. It wasn't until 2008 that DNA linked the cases together. And it wasn't until 2022 that the police announced they had identified the killer Harry Edward Greenwell. The good news was that the cases had been solved and the killer identified. The bad news was that Greenwell had died nine years earlier so he would never face the justice that he deserved. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1997, 20-year-old Keith Mann disappeared in Wichita Falls, Texas after being dropped off at his apartment by some friends. Keith was just really starting his life and things were going well. He was in love with a girl named Carrie and they were going to share the apartment. He also had a good job at a local car dealership. Carrie had just finished up school and was getting set to join Keith in their apartment. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance of Keith Mann. No one has given up on finding Keith, especially his father Gregg and his stepmother Debra. Detective John Laughlin of the Wichita Falls police department has also been very active in Keith's case. All three of these individuals join us for this episode to talk about Keith and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Andrew Cunanan was very intelligent. He knew how to manipulate people and used that to get what he wanted from everyone in his life. But, like many con artists, he was never satisfied. Andrew was always looking for the next big thing, always craving something bigger and better. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss Andrew Cunanan. Cunanan's name became infamous after a murder spree that culminated with the murder of fashion giant Gianni Versace. A manhunt ensued that ended after Cunanan took his life as the authorities closed in on him. What drove Andrew to begin killing? And, why did he target Gianni Versace? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In September 1988, 19-year-old Tara Calico disappeared from Belen, New Mexico. Police suspected foul play as did Tara's family. The authorities did find some witnesses who saw Tara riding her bike as well as a suspicious truck that they thought may have been following her. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the baffling disappearance of Tara Calico. This is an unsolved case that has fascinated the true crime community for many years. Much of the fascination centers around some photographs that surfaced after Tara disappeared that some believe include Tara. There are many rumors and a lot of speculation regarding this case. Some of those rumors involve a police cover-up and the son of a local law enforcement officer. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1973, a group of 5 teenagers was attacked and four of them killed in Iowa in a case dubbed The Gitchie Manitou Murders. Gitchie Manitou State Preserve in Northwestern Iowa was a place where kids would go to hang out and have fun. But, in 1973, Stewart Baade, Dana Baade, Roger Essem, Michael Hadrath, and Sandra Cheskey faced three brothers who were bent on destruction. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the Gitchie Manitou Murders. Brothers Allen, David, and James Freyer encountered the group on a November night. This encounter ended with the brothers shooting and killing Stewart, Dana, Roger, and Michael and abducting Sandra. Once they were captured, the brothers began pointing the finger at each other, each one trying to minimize their own involvement. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we are discussing the mysterious 1992 disappearance, of 3 people: 23-year-old Wendy Camp, her 6-year-old daughter Cynthia Britto, and Wendy's 22-year-old sister-in-law Lisa Kreger. Their disappearance would eventually become a murder case. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss this case which is filled with twists and turns. Wendy Camp met a man named Chad Noe in 1987 and they eventually married. Wendy became pregnant but fell into a coma after giving birth to a son named Jonathan. She was in the hospital, unconscious, for months and was eventually diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Members of Chad Noe's family were determined to keep Jonathan away from Wendy and they were willing to go to any length to ensure that happened. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

14-year-old Andrew Gosden disappeared in England in 2007. He skipped school that day, nearly emptied his bank account, and bought a ticket on a train to London. His parents discovered he was gone later that day and contacted the police. The authorities were able to find CCTV footage of Andrew and found some witnesses who encountered him that day. But, no good leads were developed and Andrew's case went cold. They just could not figure out what his plans had been on that day. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance of Andrew Gosden. Early in 2022, nearly 15 years after he disappeared, there was some movement in Andrew's case. Arrests were made of two men in connection with Andrew's disappearance. But, because of British privacy laws, we don't know exactly what police have that connects them to Andrew's case. Both men have been charged with kidnapping and human trafficking while one of the men was found to have child pornography on his computer. The police have not released too many details so it's a case to keep a close eye on. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2013, three women were rescued from a house of horrors in Cleveland, Ohio. Michelle Knight, Amanda Berry, and Georgina DeJesus were rescued from a house where they had been held captive for years by a man named Aeriel Castro. Also rescued was a young girl named Jocelyn who turned out to be Amanda Berry's daughter, fathered by Castro during his reign of terror. Join Mike and Morf for the 200th episode of Criminology as they discuss the infamous case of Ariel Castro. But, this episode is more about the horrors that these three women went through and how they managed to escape and move forward with their lives. Aeriel Castro was a monster who perpetrated unimaginable horrors on Michelle, Amanda, and Gina for many years. After the women were freed, the questions centered on how Castro was able to hide his criminal acts for so many years. Many people, including the police, had been to his house over the years but no one was able to figure out what he was doing. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1996, four German tourists, two adults, and two children disappeared in California's Death Valley. Investigators found a rented minivan with three flat tires but no sign of anyone. The rented car was quickly traced to German tourist 34-year-old Egbert Rikmus. Traveling with Egbert was his 11-year-old son Georg, his 28-year-old girlfriend Cornelia, and Cornelia's four-year-old son Max. Investigators worked hard to search for the four tourists and to track their movements in the United States. But, they were unable to find the group. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the mysteries surrounding the disappearance of the group that became known as the Death Valley Germans. Many years went passed without any luck in finding the tourists. But, one man, Tom Mahood, was fascinated with the case and just couldn't let it go. He worked tirelessly on his own investigation and some of his theories proved to be correct when Egbert's remains were finally identified in 2010. But, there are still a number of mysteries that remain in this case. What exactly happened to four tourists trying to have an idyllic vacation in the United States? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2012, ten-year-old Lyric Cook and eight-year-old Elizabeth Collins disappeared while riding their bikes on their summer vacation. An extensive search began quickly to find the two missing girls. But, even though the authorities found some witnesses and CCTV footage that caught the girls on video, they only managed to find the girls' missing bikes. Sadly, the bodies of the two young girls were found almost five months after they vanished. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance and murders of Lyric Cook and Elizabeth Collins. Some members of their family came under scrutiny for activities that they were involved in. Police even said that some family members were uncooperative. This case has some parallels with the murders of Abigail Williams and Liberty German in Delphi, Indiana. Police did look at a possible connection between the two cases but ultimately said they could not find one. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the series premiere, radio DJ Fred Heckman (Jon Hamm) receives an unexpected call from a listener that turns his life upside down. Follow American Hostage on Amazon Music, to hear all 8 episodes right now: http://wondery.fm/Criminology_Hostage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On July 22nd, 2015, dispatchers in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma received a 911 call. The call itself is chilling and it led authorities to the murders of five members of the Bever family. The scene inside the Bever home was shocking. The news that the murders had been committed by two of the Bever boys was also shocking. Two of their sisters survived the attack and one sister was able to tell authorities just who had committed the murders. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the murders in Broken Arrow of the Bever family. 18-year-old Robert Bever and 16-year-old Michael Bever had a very close bond. They discovered over time that they both shared some very dark fantasies. And they made the decision to make those dark fantasies a reality. The question that many ask is how two children could murder most of their family and were there signs leading up to the massacre that went unaddressed? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In August 2010, 20-year-old Amber Tuccaro disappeared near Edmonton, Canada. Her remains were later found by horseback riders in a field on a farm in a very rural area of Leduc County. The RCMP released audio of a phone call that recorded Amber talking with an unknown male, apparently as a passenger in this man's car. But, the authorities have only released about one minute of what is known to be about a 17-minute recording. Authorities eventually came out and said they believe Amber was murdered and many people have speculated that the determination is based on something found on that portion of unreleased audio. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the mysterious disappearance and murder of Amber Tuccaro. The authorities have been heavily criticized over the investigation into Amber's disappearance and murder. Amber was an Indigenous woman and Canada has experienced a large number of disappearances and murders of Indigenous women in their history. And, many charges have been levied against the police that they have not always taken the cases of Indigenous women as seriously as they should. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two Youtubers promise their followers the secret of true love. But when some of their believers cross the line from love to obsession, the Youtubers are accused of running a cult. As they fight for their new way of life, their followers face a choice too. They have been promised a chance to find The One, but how far is too far? Listen to Twin Flames: wondery.fm/Crime_TwinFlames Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1959, Candice Rogers was abducted and murdered while selling Camp Fire Girls mints door to door. At the time, Candice was in the fourth grade and lived in Spokane, Washington. Her murder shocked the city and forever changed the amount of freedom that children in the area were allowed. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the murder of Candice Rogers. Her murder went unsolved for over sixty years and was called Spokane's Mount Everest by some investigators. Some evidence was collected and preserved for many years. Eventually, DNA technology advanced to the point that a DNA sample was produced from the evidence. This allowed the authorities to utilize genetic genealogy to help zero in on Candice's killer, a man named John Hoff. Hoff's daughter helped by providing DNA to link her father, a man she never dreamed could have been a sadistic killer. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

26-year-old Brandon Lawson disappeared from Texas in 2013. Brandon left home after a fight with his partner Ladessa to make a 4-hour drive to his dad's house to cool off. Along the way, Brandon ran out of gas and a number of strange things occurred. Brandon made some mysterious phone calls. He called 911 and also called his brother Kyle. Some of these calls were frantic and Brandon even suggested that someone was after him. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the mysterious disappearance of Brandon Lawson. Brandon had a history of substance abuse but had reportedly been clean for some time. The calls he made, however, made some think that he was on drugs the night he disappeared. Many searches were done trying to find Brandon but they all found nothing. But, a break occurred just this month in this well-known missing person case. Remains were found that are believed to be those of Brandon Lawson. DNA testing will conclusively prove whether the remains are Brandon but his family is confident that they are based on the evidence found near his remains. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bonnie Haim disappeared in 1993 and her husband Michael was a suspect for many years. People in Bonnie's inner circle knew that the marriage was bad and that she was making plans to get out. When Bonnie disappeared, police suspected Michael but they couldn't put enough evidence together to charge him. They couldn't find Bonnie but the circumstances around her disappearance made most think she had not left voluntarily. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the disappearance and murder of Bonnie Haim. The couple's 3-year-old son, Aaron, told a child psychiatrist some disturbing things about his dad hurting his mommy. Some of these were very specific. But, it took many years for police to close in on Michael Haim. The biggest turning point occurred when Aaron and Bonnie's estate won a civil suit against Michael that forced him to turn over the family home to Aaron. The secret to what happened to Bonnie had been hidden at the home for over 21 years before being discovered. You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The bodies of Harold and Tina Clouse were found in Houston, Texas in January of 1981 but it took 41 years to identify them. A lot of hard work went into the identification of Harold and Tina. But, once that was completed, there were a large number of questions to answer. What was the couple involved with back in 1981 and who may have murdered them? Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the mysterious case of Harold and Tina Clouse. Once they were identified, it was learned that the couple had a young daughter named Holly. This is an ongoing case as Harold and Tina were only recently identified. There have been reports that it is possible that they may have been involved with a cult. Did this cult have anything to do with what happened to Harold and Tina? And is there a woman out there right now that has no idea she is Holly Marie Clouse? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In California, in the 1970s, a large number of women and girls were murdered while hitchhiking. The authorities struggled to solve the murders or even determine whether or not they were a series of murders committed by one or more serial killers. California experienced a large number of serial killers who operated in the 1970s in the same area which made the job for authorities even more difficult. Join Mike and Morf as they discuss the Santa Rosa hitchhiker murders. Hitchhiking was popular back the 1970s and as we look back 40 years later we know how dangerous it is. Many people have lost their lives after accepting a ride from a stranger. This series of murders in Santa Rosa highlights that fact. But, so many questions remain. Were these murders all connected and, if so, were they committed by one or more perpetrators? You can help support the show at patreon.com/criminology An Emash Digital production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices