Game of Crimes

Retired DEA Special Agent Jeff Sweetin pulls back the curtain on almost three decades of undercover operations, international cartel takedowns, and the razor's edge between life and death. Jeff worked alongside legendary agents in some of the most dangerous corners of the drug war — Panama, the Dominican Republic, South America — and lived to tell the tale.

Former LAPD Officer Toni McBride survived a life-altering officer-involved shooting on April 22, 2020. She was cleared. She did everything right. But being right didn't protect her from what came next — the media firestorms, the public hatred, the departmental politics, the lawsuits, and the battle against an autoimmune disease that attacked her body just as the world was attacking her name.

She was born to wear the badge. Raised by an undercover LAPD officer in Southern California, Toni McBride didn't just dream about law enforcement — she dominated it. She became the youngest female in LAPD history to complete the Level 2 Reserve Academy, earned the title of Top Shot, and served as class leader. Then came April 22, 2020 — and the officer-involved shooting that changed everything. Where was her partner?

After dismantling his own drug trafficking network and agreeing to cooperate with federal agents, Ben entered a world few ever talk about from the inside. The deals, the dangers, the mental toll, the paranoia — and the unexpected truth about the people supposed to protect him.Ben is now a law enforcement consultant and informant expert — training handlers on what they're getting wrong. His insights are changing how agencies across the country approach informant management.

What started as small marijuana runs across state lines grew into a sophisticated, multi-state criminal operation. Ben Freedland stayed ahead of law enforcement by constantly reinventing his methods: "I always changed my methods of transport to stay ahead of law enforcement." He was connected, calculated, and relentless — until the day everything changed.

In Part 2 of this exclusive interview, Mary reveals what happened when the resilience that kept her alive in combat collided with the emotional toll of saving premature babies — and how COVID-19 pushed her to a breaking point she never saw coming. She opens up about nurse burnout, the invisible wounds veterans carry into civilian careers, and the self-care journey that saved her.This is the story the military didn't prepare her for.

In this powerful episode of Game of Crimes, host and retired DEA Special Agent Steve Murphy sits down with Mary Howe — an eight-year U.S. Air Force veteran who nearly lost herself before the military gave her the structure that saved her life. From growing up in the shadow of America's most elite special operations unit to becoming a military veteran herself, to transitioning to a family nurse practitioner and mental health advocate, Mary's story is one of resilience, service, and legacy.This isn't just a military story — it's a story about what happens when service runs in your blood.

Veteran New York City Medical Examiner investigator Barbara Butcher, who was one of the first forensic professionals to enter Ground Zero, continues discussing her amazing career as she reveals the raw, emotional reality of working the largest victim identification operation in American history. Barbara shares the surreal moment she entered a city buried in smoke and ash, and what it was really like sorting through remains to give grieving families the answers they desperately needed.First responders, forensic investigators, and volunteers from across America worked around the clock — driven by compassion, duty, and an unbreakable commitment to honoring every single victim. Hear firsthand how these heroes coped with trauma, exhaustion, and heartbreak — yet never stopped. This is a story of resilience, sacrifice, and humanity in America's darkest hours. This is Game of Crimes — real stories from the people who lived them!!

Murph sits down with Barbara Butcher, a former medical legal investigator for the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. After navigating the counterculture era, battling Alzheimer's patients' suffering, and becoming a physician assistant, a life-changing interview with the Chief Medical Examiner set her on a new path. "Forget the money, do what you love." She did, and through forensic science and crime scene investigations, Barbara spent decades investigating homicides, suspicious deaths, and humanity's darkest moments alongside the NYPD. Enjoy these true crime stories.

Retired DEA agent J. Todd Scott takes us inside his most intense assignment — serving as Assistant Special Agent in Charge in El Paso, Texas, during some of the bloodiest years of cartel violence in Juarez, Mexico. From 21st-century drug trafficking operations to old-school smuggling straight out of the Wild West, Todd saw it all unfold from the front lines of America's border crisis.Todd reveals what it's really like working drug enforcement in a border city where cartel wars are happening right across the bridge, how he transitioned from DEA headquarters in Washington D.C. to the chaos of the southwest border, and why his time leading complex operations in Phoenix became the career highlight of nearly 30 years in federal law enforcement.This is real border security — told by the man who lived it.

Retired DEA agent J. Todd Scott went from running undercover operations and dismantling cartel networks to consulting on hit TV shows like Yellowstone. In this episode of Game of Crimes, host Murph sits down with Todd to hear stories that most people only see on screen — the brutal reality of DEA operations in Haiti, the mindset of criminals who think they're smarter than everyone, and how nearly three decades of chasing drug lords shaped one of the most unique voices in true crime storytelling.Todd's journey from a small-town Kentucky upbringing to the front lines of America's drug war is a masterclass in resilience, strategy, and reinvention.

In Part 2 of this Game of Crimes true crime special, Murph returns with Jen Buchholz to break down exactly how a cold case gets solved. Transitioning from a career in military intelligence and corrections, Jen proves that sometimes it takes a fresh pair of eyes to see what others missed.

In this week's true crime podcast episode of Game of Crimes, Murph sits down with Jen Buchholz, a former U.S. Army Counterintelligence Specialist and Supermax prison social worker who now dedicates her life to solving the impossible: Cold Cases. Jen uses that same intensity to hunt killers who thought they got away with it. Listen as we find out exactly how modern technology is cracking cases that police gave up on decades ago.

In part 2, we go deep into Sheriff Mark Lamb's career trajectory, his bold strategy for securing a 20% pay raise for Deputies, and the controversial but effective media tactics that rebuilt public trust. Discover the real stories behind the headlines as Mark discusses the transition from local law enforcement to the national stage.

Murph sits down with one of America's most recognized law enforcement figures, retired Arizona Sheriff Mark Lamb. Go behind the badge as he reveals the gritty reality of policing, his personal journey from business to the front lines of crime, and the untold stories of taking down criminals.Mark and Murph dive deep into border crime, the psychology of policing, and how Mark balanced raising five children wile fighting a war on crime.

Murph continues his gripping conversation with Seamus McElearney, a former FBI Special Agent fighting organized crime from the inside. This episode dives deeper into the deadliest phase of mob investigations: informants, witness protection, betrayal, and survival.Seamus pulls back the curtain on the real-world Mafia behind The Sopranos, revealing how the DeCavalcante crime family—the so-called “Sixth Family”—operated in plain sight while federal agents worked tirelessly to dismantle it. He explains why flipping a capo is never as simple as it sounds, how trust becomes a weapon, and why one wrong move can get people killed.

This episode pulls back the curtain on the high-risk world of informants, the fragile trust required to flip a capo, and the relentless challenges of witness protection, where one mistake can cost lives. Seamus also opens up about the personal toll these investigations took on him and his family—and why cooperation between federal, state, and local agencies is essential in taking down organized crime.Drawing from his book Flipping Capo, Seamus delivers firsthand insight into how the Mafia actually operates, how informants are protected, and why the war against organized crime is far from over.

This powerful conversation with Chad Meli goes beyond headlines, diving into real-life trafficking cases, rescue operations, and the often-overlooked reality of victim support after recovery. Chad shares firsthand stories that reveal how traffickers exploit technology—and how law enforcement, NGOs, and community partners are using that same technology to fight back.Chad and Murphy explore the critical role of proactive policing, international and local collaboration, and the emotional toll faced by investigators and advocates working these cases. Chad also breaks down why parental awareness and online safety education are now frontline defenses in protecting children from predators.You’ll hear how NGOs and law enforcement work together to identify victims, dismantle trafficking networks, and provide long-term care for survivors. The discussion also addresses the mental health challenges faced by those on the front lines—and why community involvement can make a real difference.

Murph sits down with anti-human trafficking investigator Chad Meli. Chad walks us through a harrowing investigation involving a father who exploited his own daughters for profit, using social media and online platforms to traffic abuse across borders. What followed was a complex, high-risk operation requiring undercover work, cutting-edge technology, and unprecedented collaboration between NGOs and law enforcement agencies worldwide. This is a heroic fight to protect the most vulnerable. January is Human Trafficking Awareness month.

In the second part of this powerful episode of Game of Crimes, Lew Rice, a retired DEA Special Agent and senior leader, discusses his life of service, sacrifice, and what it truly means to wear the badge.Lew takes listeners inside his distinguished DEA career, which began on the gritty streets of New York City and led to overseas assignments, major leadership roles, and ultimately becoming Special Agent in Charge in New York—the pinnacle of his lifelong dream. He explains why the spirit and energy of New York law enforcement are unmatched, forged by intensity, brotherhood, and an unwavering commitment to the mission.

In this explosive episode of Game of Crimes, Murph sits down with Lew Rice, a legendary 26-year veteran of the DEA, to pull back the curtain on the brutal realities of America’s drug war. Lew shares firsthand stories from the front lines of federal drug enforcement, revealing how drugs like heroin, opioids, meth, and fentanyl have devastated communities across the country. From the early days of the DEA—formed during the heroin crisis of the 1970s—to modern investigations battling fentanyl trafficking, Lew explains how the mission has evolved while the dangers have only intensified.The conversation also dives deep into groundbreaking cases, including the infamous Frank Lucas investigation, which helped establish key legal precedents still used by law enforcement today.

Murph shares his recent trip to Vienna, Austria, where he represented Libertas International at the United Nations Trafficking in Persons Symposium. While the conference highlighted the global awareness surrounding human trafficking, it also exposed the frustration felt by those on the front lines — too much talk, and far too little action. Tyler and Murph reflect honestly on the gaps between policy, promises, and real-world results.The heart of this episode belongs to the survivors. Tyler shares deeply personal stories of individuals who endured unimaginable trauma yet refused to let their past define their future. You’ll hear how choice, connection, and community support play a critical role in long-term healing, and why rescue is only the beginning of the journey.January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month.Awareness leads to prevention. Prevention saves lives. If this episode opened your eyes: ✅ Subscribe ✅ Share this episode ✅ Get educated about online safety and victim supportReal heroes fight crimes most people never see.

This episode dives deep into the alarming scope of human trafficking, from Latin America to the United States, and why Medellín became a strategic base for operations. Tyler shares heart-wrenching survivor journeys, miraculous interventions, and tragic reminders of just how high the stakes truly are. You’ll hear firsthand about the cost of doing good, the dangers NGOs face, and the resilience of survivors who refuse to be defined by their trauma.This episode is difficult—but necessary. Child exploitation thrives in silence. Awareness saves lives.If this story moved you: ✅ Subscribe to support real crime stories ✅ Share this episode to spread awareness ✅ Support NGOs fighting child exploitation worldwideHeroes don’t always wear uniforms—but many do. 👊

Murph is joined once again by veteran DEA leader AJ Collazo for a deep dive into one of the most complex fronts in modern law enforcement—the international drug war. Their conversation centers on Operation Panama Express, a groundbreaking multi-agency effort that transformed how law enforcement tracks and dismantles maritime drug trafficking networks. AJ breaks down how intelligence-driven cases are built, the dangers of undercover work, and why cooperation between DEA, military, foreign governments, and federal agencies became essential after the Patriot Act reshaped global enforcement strategies.

In this gripping and surprisingly hilarious episode of Game of Crimes, Murph sits down with AJ Collazo, a veteran law enforcement officer whose 38-year career includes 24 years with the DEA during some of the most dangerous years of America’s drug war.AJ takes listeners inside the real world of policing—from outrageous Florida criminal stories that will make you laugh out loud, to the deadly serious rise of Colombian heroin trafficking in the 1990s. He shares what it was really like working undercover, the risks agents take that never make the headlines, and how interagency cooperation became a key weapon against powerful drug organizations.

Murph and his former co-host, Morgan Wright, have a fun but informed review of the original Die Hard, breaking down the legendary Nakatomi Plaza hostage takeover with help from someone who actually knows how this stuff works—Rick Massa, a retired LAPD SWAT officer. Spoiler alert: crawling through air vents barefoot is not standard operating procedure.Whether you’re a true crime fan, a law enforcement buff, or someone who just wants to finally settle the debate—is Die Hard a Christmas movie?—this review delivers laughs, insight, and a whole lot of controlled chaos.

In this powerful continuation of Game of Crimes, Murph sits back down with Mike Chavarria, a true American patriot who dedicated more than 31 years to the DEA after serving in the U.S. Navy and NCIS. Mike’s career placed him at the heart of the global fight against drug trafficking, where intelligence, courage, and trust meant the difference between life and death. Mike takes listeners deep inside Operation Band of Brothers, a multi-agency, multi-national investigation that showcases both the complexity and necessity of cooperation between U.S. and international law enforcement partners. Mike also discusses his book, “Junior: A Son of the Gulf Cartel,” offering deeper insight into the human stories behind the drug trade and the men and women who fight it every day.

In this gripping episode, Murph sits down with Mike Chavarria, a U.S. Navy veteran and former DEA Special Agent with more than 30 years of frontline experience in America’s war on drugs. From covert operations to high-stakes international investigations, Mike pulls back the curtain on the real-life battles fought by federal agents—far beyond what you see in movies or TV shows.Mike shares behind-the-scenes insights from one of the DEA’s largest operations ever, including his role in legendary missions like Operation Snowcap and Operation Band of Brothers. The conversation dives deep into the rise and evolution of the Sinaloa Cartel, the critical—and dangerous—role of confidential informants, and the intense pressure law enforcement faces when success is measured by numbers, seizures, and arrests.

Murph continues his discussion with Rob D'Amico, a 26-year FBI special agent, former Marine, and one of the most battle-tested patriots to ever wear a badge. This episode delivers a gripping, unfiltered look into the world of undercover mafia operations, elite counterterror missions, and the real-life heroism that drives America’s frontline defenders.

Murph dives deep into the inspiring, high-octane journey of Rob D’Amico, a former FBI agent whose career spans elite military service, undercover infiltrations, and the intense world of the FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT). Listen as Rob describe behind-the-scenes moments from working alongside elite military units, offering rare insight into tactical operations, operational discipline, and the mindset needed to stay alive when everything is on the line.

Retired FBI Special Agent Jerry Williams takes listeners inside her extraordinary 26-year career—filled with unexpected twists, shocking bureaucratic battles, and unforgettable law enforcement victories. With her signature blend of humor, candor, and grit, Jerry reveals what it really takes to survive and thrive inside one of the world’s most elite investigative agencies.

In this week’s episode of Game of Crimes, host Steve Murphy welcomes the remarkable Jerri Williams, retired FBI agent and creator of the acclaimed podcast FBI Case File Review. With 26+ years inside the Bureau, Jerri pulls back the curtain on the real world of white-collar crime, global travel, cultural surprises, and the surprising dangers hiding behind fraud and corruption investigations.

Murph continues talking with Anthony Dyer, former USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator and author of the gripping memoir, “Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator.” Anthony reveals the philosophy that shaped his life in the aircraft and beyond—what he calls “house money life.” Just like playing with the casino’s money, this mindset frees you to take bold risks, push past fear, and build a legacy worth leaving behind. For combat aviators, these decisions aren’t theoretical—they’re life or death.

Murph welcomes military hero Anthony Dyer, a U.S. Air Force veteran whose inspiring journey captures the dreams, grit, and determination of countless young Americans. Encouraged by his father, a Vietnam-era Air Force veteran, Anthony made a bold choice: he enlisted, chasing opportunity, adventure, and purpose. Throughout his career, Anthony learned that success isn’t about talent—it’s about repetition, training, and relentless effort. That mindset shaped him into a warrior, a leader, and ultimately, an author.

Murph continues with undercover expert Dutch McAlpin to pull back the curtain on one of the most dangerous jobs in law enforcement—going undercover inside violent criminal networks. Dutch shares raw, unfiltered stories from high-risk operations, including tense encounters with cartels, organized crime groups, and traffickers who wouldn’t hesitate to kill an undercover agent caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.Steve and Dutch dive deep into the mindset and adaptability required to survive undercover work, emphasizing why integrity is the foundation of public trust and why every operation—big or small—carries massive stakes. They discuss the personal costs of a law-enforcement life, the strain on families, and the quiet battles that don’t make headlines.

Murph sits down with Dutch McAlpin, a seasoned law enforcement officer with more than 20 years of boots-on-the-ground experience. Dutch takes us deep inside the world of small-town crime, narcotics investigations, corrections work, and real-life policing, sharing stories that are equal parts humorous, intense, and deeply human.From his humble beginnings in a small Iowa community to becoming a respected figure in patrol and narcotics enforcement, Dutch reveals the grit, danger, and emotional toll of police work—along with the camaraderie and purpose that keep heroes like him going. He explains how networking, community relationships, and trust can make or break an investigation, and why every cop—big city or small town—faces moments that test their courage, judgment, and resilience.

In this explosive episode, Murph continues his discussion with investigative journalist Katarina Szulc to uncover one of the most powerful tools in the fight against organized crime — following the money. Katarina dives deep into how targeting financial pipelines has become a crucial strategy in dismantling the power of violent cartels, focusing on CJNG’s operations within the United States. She reveals how money laundering, shell companies, and cross-border financial networks allow criminal organizations to grow stronger, and why cutting off those resources is often more effective than arresting foot soldiers.

In this gripping episode, Murph sits down with freelance journalist Katarina Szulc, whose fearless reporting has taken her deep into the heart of Mexico’s criminal underworld. From exposing organized crime to uncovering the harrowing realities of human trafficking, Katarina’s work shines a light on some of the darkest corners of our world.She shares how her passion for storytelling began, the dangers of reporting in hostile environments, and the emotional toll of documenting crimes that few dare to confront. Katarina opens up about the power of integrity in journalism, the moral conflicts of covering corruption, and the courage it takes to stay true to the truth—no matter the cost.

Murph continues talking with Randy Wagner about building trust with local law enforcement partners to leading complex investigations overseas. Randy’s stories reveal the grit, intelligence, and courage behind the badge. His time in Turkey offers a rare look at how cultural immersion and international cooperation drive successful operations — and how accountability within law enforcement keeps integrity strong. The conversation also explores the shocking shift in Afghanistan’s drug trade, where poppy fields are being replaced by meth labs. Randy exposes the motivations, misconceptions, and global ripple effects of this transformation — a chilling reminder of how fast organized crime adapts.

Murph sits down with Randy Wagner, a veteran law enforcement professional whose journey from a local police officer to DEA Special Agent is filled with grit, humor, and heart.Randy opens up about the real challenges behind the badge, sharing unforgettable moments from the streets to federal operations. You’ll hear hilarious stories from the criminal underworld, lessons from undercover life, and candid reflections on what it truly takes to protect and serve.

In this powerful episode, Britnie Turner shares her extraordinary journey of courage, purpose, and transformation. As the co-founder of Aerial Recovery, Britnie has dedicated her life to rescuing victims of human trafficking, rebuilding devastated communities, and restoring hope where it’s been lost.From her early days as a driven entrepreneur to leading global humanitarian missions, Britnie reveals how faith, resilience, and family support became the foundation of her calling. She discusses her vision for creating healing spaces for survivors, her team’s relentless efforts on the front lines of disaster zones, and the collaboration required to fight the dark world of human trafficking.

In this inspiring episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Britnie Turner—an unstoppable force of purpose, resilience, and impact. From humble beginnings in South Carolina to becoming a real estate mogul, humanitarian, and global change-maker, Britnie’s path wasn’t easy. She faced rejection, heartbreak, and the relentless pressure of building her empire from the ground up. Through unwavering faith, grit, and vision, Britnie transformed every setback into a stepping stone—founding companies that rebuild nations, empower survivors, and restore hope where it’s been lost. Her story bridges the worlds of entrepreneurship, survival, and service, showing that true leadership is born through adversity.

Jeremy Locke opens up about his darkest moments — battling alcoholism, suicidal thoughts, and the invisible wounds of war. A decorated U.S. military veteran, Jeremy spent years fighting external enemies, but his greatest fight came after the battles ended — against the pain, trauma, and isolation that haunted him.Everything changed with one life-saving message from his future wife — a moment that pulled him back from the edge and gave him a reason to live again. Jeremy shares how faith, purpose, and love became his foundation for recovery, leading him to co-found Aerial Recovery, an organization that lives to help others. This is more than a story about survival — it’s a story about hope, redemption, and the courage to rebuild a life when everything feels lost.

Murph talks with Jeremy Locke, co-founder of Aerial Recovery, who has transformed his experience in war and trauma into a mission to rescue and rebuild lives after natural disasters, human trafficking operations, and war-torn crises. He opens up about the brutal realities of combat, the invisible wounds of PTSD, and the struggles of maintaining relationships during and after military service. But Jeremy’s story is not one of defeat — it’s about redemption and purpose. He shares how finding a new mission to serve others became the key to healing himself and saving countless others.

The life of Barry Todd, a decorated U.S. Army veteran, takes a shocking turn when a life-threatening confrontation led to charges of attempted murder. What began as an act of self-defense spiraled into a nightmare of legal battles, financial strain, and public scrutiny.Barry takes us through the split-second decisions that changed everything — and the long road that followed. He opens up about the fear, confusion, and injustice that come when the system turns against someone who’s dedicated their life to service. This episode dives deep into Stand Your Ground laws, the role of prosecutors, and how media narratives can shape justice long before a trial ever begins.

Murph sits down with Barry Todd, a retired U.S. Army Captain whose story defines honor, resilience, and justice. From his early days of service and family life to leading soldiers in the U.S. Army, Barry shares profound lessons on leadership, mentorship, and moral courage.But his journey takes a dramatic turn. A single incident changes everything—thrusting Barry into a legal battle that tests his faith, integrity, and the presumption of innocence. What happens when a decorated officer becomes the accused? Barry opens up about navigating the emotional and legal storm, the toll it took on his family, and his unyielding fight for truth.

This final part shines a spotlight on a drug trafficking case intertwined with assassination attempts, exposing the violent underworld that plagues the island of St. Croix. Listeners are taken behind the scenes of a harrowing arrest, the tense investigation that followed, and the violent consequences that law enforcement officers were forced to face. From crime scene investigations gone wrong to the difficulty of gathering evidence in a region scarred by corruption, Chris and Rikk reveal the brutal truth about organized crime on the island. They detail the fear that gripped the police force, the sociopathic nature of gang members, and the heavy toll of serving in one of the most dangerous environments for law enforcement. But through it all, one theme shines through: the brotherhood and resilience that keep law enforcement officers going when everything else seems stacked against them.

Rikk and Chris take you deep inside the intense world of DEA and island operations, where every decision could mean life or death. From heart-pounding shootouts to the unseen psychological toll of pulling the trigger, Rikk shares his earliest encounters with violence in law enforcement and the crucial role of agency support after traumatic incidents.The conversation then transports listeners to the island of St. Croix, where the DEA waged war against drug traffickers in daring missions like Operation Limpia Casa and Operation Beach Party. These missions weren’t just about chasing cartel leaders—they revealed the ingenuity, grit, and resourcefulness required to outsmart criminals in unpredictable environments.

From the early days of the police academy to life-or-death moments on the streets, Chris and Rikk share raw and unfiltered stories of courage, sacrifice, and betrayal. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of undercover operations gone wrong, shocking encounters with corrupt officers, and the devastating impact of the drug trade on the community. These are the untold stories that expose the brutal realities of police work and the human cost of fighting crime.The conversation dives deep into operational security, the complexities of infiltrating violent criminal networks, and the aftermath of split-second decisions—including shootouts that forever changed lives. It’s an emotional, powerful journey through the front lines of justice, corruption, and survival.

Murph welcomes back Rikk Rambo and introduces Chris Howell—two seasoned law enforcement professionals with incredible stories you won’t believe. From outrageous criminal antics in Alaska and Florida to the hard realities of police academy training and the challenges of serving with the Virgin Islands Police Department, this conversation is packed with shocking, hilarious, and inspiring moments.Rikk and Chris share personal stories from their careers, offering an inside look at the courage, resilience, and humor it takes to survive in law enforcement. Whether it’s facing unpredictable criminals, enduring the grind of training, or navigating the unique world of island policing, their stories highlight both the serious and lighter sides of a cop’s life.