Once Upon A Crime

Danny Masterson is an American actor best known for his role in That 70’s Show. In 2020, he was charged with raping three women in 2001 and 2003. Masterson and his victims were all members of the Church of Scientology. The church’s policies and threats toward the victims caused a 20-year delay in bringing the crimes to justice. Sources: A Timeline of Danny Masterson’s Controversies, Skyler Caruso for People.com, Sept 7, 2023 https://people.com/tv/danny-masterson-charged-rape-timeline-of-allegations/ Danny Masterson’s Long History with the Church of Scientology, Christina Dugan Ramirez for People.com, March 3, 2017. https://people.com/celebrity/danny-masterson-history-church-of-scientology/ Danny Masterson Used Drugging, Scientology to get Away with Rape, Prosecutor Says, Andrew Dalton, AP News, May 16, 2023 https://apnews.com/article/danny-masterson-rape-retrial-ecf0ee15fb71ef603dc4ad30ba74f3dd Danny Masterson was Convicted of Rape. What Happens to Scientology?, Tony Ortega for RollingStone, June 5, 2023. https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-features/danny-masterson-rape-conviction-scientology-accountability-1234764377/ Two Hollywood stars are accused of rape, but Scientology is also on trial, Diana Dasrath and Corky Siemaszko for NBC News, Sept 7, 2023. https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/two-hollywood-stars-are-accused-rape-scientology-also-trial-rcna54196 Danny Masterson is Sentenced to 30 Years to Life in Prison for Two Rapes, Derrick Bryson Taylor, Livia Albeck-Ripka, and Michael Levenson for The New York Times, Sept 7, 2023. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/09/07/arts/television/danny-masterson-rape-trial-sentencing.html#:~:text=Danny%20Masterson%2C%20the%20actor%20best,Judge%20Charlaine%20F. Danny Masterson Branded a ‘Suppressive Person’ After Being Expelled from the Church of Scientology, Favour Adegoke for TheBlast.com, October 24, 2023. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/danny-masterson-branded-suppressive-person-180002162.html#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20report%2C%20the,growth%20of%20those%20around%20them. Former members reveal hell of life inside Church of Scientology, 60 Minutes Australia, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Na0EfFTp50 The Untold Story of Danny Masterson, WatchMojo.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPGe120Mlh4 The Most Shocking Revelations from Danny Masterson’s First Trial, Natalie Finn for E News, Sept 7, 2023. https://www.eonline.com/news/1350935/the-most-shocking-revelations-from-danny-mastersons-rape-trial Links: CrimeCon 24 -https://www.crimecon.com/CC24 - Use offer code ONCE for 10% off your registration. Listen to Marooned - https://visitmarooned.com/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

...1 historic steam train... ...9 exceptional true crime podcasts... ...9 tales woven with the spirit of Women's Day... ...Will YOU unravel the mysteries aboard? This International Women's Day, join Shane Waters and Wendy Cee on an unprecedented journey through the heart of England to Crimecon UK in London. Mysteries on the True Crime Express is not just a podcast episode; it's an immersive voyage into the depths of true crime, history, and the indomitable spirit of women. Aboard this old-world locomotive, you'll encounter the hosts of 9 distinguished true crime podcasts, including Esther Sanchez Ludlow of Once Upon A Crime. Each host presents a captivating story that not only chills the spine but also illuminates the historical essence of Women's Day. From the comfort of Shane and Wendy's compartment to the lively ambiance of the dining car, each tale unfolds in a unique setting on the train, adding layers of intrigue and ambiance to this auditory experience. So, secure your ticket and settle into your seat... ...but be forewarned... ...the journey ahead is filled with twists and turns. Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance: 1. Deep Dark Secrets (https://www.deepdarksecretspodcast.com/) 2. The Trail Went Cold (https://www.trailwentcold.com/) 3. The Cult Vault (https://www.cultvaultpodcast.com/) 4. Extinguished (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/extinguished/id1711608332) 5. Once Upon a Crime (https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/) 6. True Crime and Wine with Sherrilyn Dale (https://open.spotify.com/show/6zDVtsctjbO1OWeeL3iXXN) 7. Defense Diaries (https://defensediaries.com/) 8. Dip in and Out with Lucy (podcasts) 9. Foul Play: Crime Series (https://www.itsfoulplay.com/) Join all the shows you heard in this episode at Crimecon UK in London! Go to Crimecon.co.uk and use code ONCEUPON Listen to Shane’s other holiday collaborations here: https://www.itsfoulplay.com/collaborationsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special episode, I speak with author Gareth Russell. His new book, The Palace: From the Tudors to the Windsors, 500 Years of British History at Hampton Court, gives us a look at the storied history of what is called the most beautiful palace in England. But, behind the walls of Hampton Court, true tales of intrigue, sex scandals, assassination plots, and murder played out among the royals and court members. Links: https://www.simonandschuster.com/authors/Gareth-Russell/500660891 https://www.amazon.com/Palace-Windsors-British-History-Hampton/dp/1797169165 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-palace-mr-gareth-russell/1143030248See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In history, there have been several monarchs known as “Mad Kings” - monarchs who were plagued by erratic and even violent behavior often attributed to mental illness. King Eric the XIV of Sweden is one such ruler. While intellectually brilliant, King Eric suffered from extreme paranoia, which led to erratic, violent, and even murderous behavior. Sources: Disturbed Facts About Eric XIV Of Sweden, The Butcher King - Factinate Eric XIV, King of Sweden, Britannica.com https://www.britannica.com/biography/Erik-XIV Karin Mansdotter, wikipedia.com https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karin_Månsdotter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This month, we’re taking a peek at royal families. What secrets and scandals lie behind these noble houses? In this week’s episode, I’ll tell you about an illicit affair an heir to the British throne engaged in with a French courtesan during WWI. Marguerite Alibert retained evidence of her affair with Prince Edward that she would later use as blackmail when she was on trial for the murder of another prince. Sources: Marguerite Alibert: Courtesan, Murderess and Blackmailer of a King - Historic Mysteries, December 2021. The murderous mistress of Edward VIII before he met Wallis Simpson - NZ Herald The Perfect Murder, Royalty Magazine Monthly, Jan 2023 https://www.royalty-magazine.com/books-film/the-perfect-murder-2.html Marguerite Alibert was a Royal Mistress who got away with Murder, Shannon Quinn, History Collection, Nov 16, 2018. https://historycollection.com/marguerite-alibert-was-a-royal-mistress-who-got-away-with-murder/ Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime - Purchase an annual membership at the $5 level or above by February 26th to be entered to win a night out in San Francisco with Esther! Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy information - www.edgarallenpoebar.com For information on the Generation Why/Once Upon a Crime Podcast Meetup on February 22nd go to https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/p/upcoming-events/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this month’s series, we’ll take a look at the dark side of royalty. I will detail crimes, sex scandals, and even murders that have occurred within royal families. First up, a member of the British royal family, Prince Andrew, the Duke of York’s reputation is muddied when his close, personal friend, Jeffrey Epstein, is exposed as a sex trafficker of underage girls. Prince Andrew will fall even further into disgrace when one of Epstein’s victims accuses him of sexual assault while she was a minor. Sources: Andrew: The Problem Prince (Channel 4 Documentary), 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95BujL2mFnM&t=1880s The Fall of Prince Andrew: A Timeline, Harry Taylor and Rachel Hall for The Guardian, Feb 12, 2022 https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jan/13/prince-andrew-a-timeline Will no one rid King Charles of his turbulent prince - Andrew has to go, but how to do it?, Martha Gill for The Guardian, Jan 14, 2024. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/jan/14/will-no-one-rid-king-charles-of-his-turbulent-prince-andrew-has-to-go-but-how-to-do-it Who is Prince Andrew? All About Queen Elizabeth’s Disgraced Son, Lynsay Eidell for People.com, Jan 10, 2024 https://people.com/royals/prince-andrew-all-about-queen-elizabeth-son/ Prince Andrew ‘spent weeks’ at Epstein’s home - witness, Max Matza for BBC News, Jan 5, 2024. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-67898784 Prince Andrew Won’f Face a New Police Investigation - But He Still Might be Evicted from Royal Lodge, Erin Vanderhoof and Katie Nicholl for Vanity Fair, Jan 5, 2024. https://www.vanityfair.com/style/prince-andrew-new-documents-evicted-from-royal-lodge Why Prince Andrew was so close to Jeffrey Epstein: Scandal in the House of York, Real Royalty on YouTube, Jan 4, 2024. Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime - Purchase an annual membership at the $5 level or above by February 26th to be entered to win a night out in San Francisco with Esther! Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy information - www.edgarallenpoebar.com For information on the Generation Why/Once Upon a Crime Podcast Meetup on February 22nd go to https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/p/upcoming-events/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the summer of 1984, a young woman kidnapped in Northern California finally makes her escape after seven years of violence, torture, imprisonment, and coercive control. While free from the physical restraints of her horrific experience, the emotional battle is just beginning. The investigation and legal battles unfold while the victim, Colleen Stan, attempts to rebuild her life. Resources: True Crime Documentary: The Girl in the Box - YouTube The 'Girl In The Box' Case And The Tragic Story Of Colleen Stan (allthatsinteresting.com) Colleen Stan Was Kidnapped and Kept in a Box for 7 Years - A&E True Crime (aetv.com) Girl in the Box Speaks: How I Survived My Seven-Year Ordeal (people.com) Cameron Hooker & Wife Janice Today: Where Are They Now? (heavy.com) PEOPLE v. HOOKER (1988) | FindLaw Perfect Victim, Christine McGuire & Carla Norton, Arbor House/William Morrow Publishers, 1988. Links: Website - www.truecrimepodcast.com Patreon: www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 1977, a young woman kidnapped by a married couple while hitchhiking is taken to their home and imprisoned for the next seven years. During this time the woman is subjected to depraved torture, sensory deprivation, and sexual abuse. Deep and pervasive brainwashing and coercive control make it less and less likely she will ever escape, despite one of her captors eventually telling her the terrible truth which could facilitate her breaking free. Resources: True Crime Documentary: The Girl in the Box - YouTube The 'Girl In The Box' Case And The Tragic Story Of Colleen Stan (allthatsinteresting.com) Colleen Stan Was Kidnapped and Kept in a Box for 7 Years - A&E True Crime (aetv.com) Girl in the Box Speaks: How I Survived My Seven-Year Ordeal (people.com) Cameron Hooker & Wife Janice Today: Where Are They Now? (heavy.com) PEOPLE v. HOOKER (1988) | FindLaw Perfect Victim, Christine McGuire & Carla Norton, Arbor House/William Morrow Publishers, 1988. Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime Our website - www.truecrimepodcast.com For information on the Once Upon a Crime/Generation Why Meetup in San Jose, California go to https://www.facebook.com/events/758402692774634.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this first part of a 3-part episode, I share an infamous kidnapping case that began in 1977 in northern California. The kidnapping of Colleen Stan become famously, and chillingly, known as “The Girl in the Box” case. It’s an incredible story of unprecedented evil but also one of faith, strength, and the courage of a young girl to survive a horrific nightmare at the hands of the worst kind of predator. Sources: True Crime Documentary: The Girl in the Box - YouTube The 'Girl In The Box' Case And The Tragic Story Of Colleen Stan (allthatsinteresting.com) Colleen Stan Was Kidnapped and Kept in a Box for 7 Years - A&E True Crime (aetv.com) Girl in the Box Speaks: How I Survived My Seven-Year Ordeal (people.com) PEOPLE v. HOOKER (1988) | FindLaw Perfect Victim, Christine McGuire & Carla Norton, Arbor House/William Morrow Publishers, 1988. Links: February Meetup with Generation Why - https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/p/upcoming-events/ Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we wrap up 2023, I ask the question, “What was your true crime obsession this year?” In this episode, I’ll find out what true crime cases your favorite true crime podcasters were talking about. You’ll hear my discussions with Tyler from Minds of Madness, Michael from True Crime Guys, Leroy from Excuse Me, That’s Illegal, Jerri from FBI Retired Case File Review, and Eric, from True Consequences. I’ll also share the most exciting milestones and events for Once Upon a Crime in 2023 and tell you about the true crime stories I was most obsessed with this year. Go to our YouTube Channel to watch the video chats of these discussions, or join our Patreon to get the uncut versions. You’ll learn more about me and my guests as we go “off-topic.” Links: Once Upon a Crime on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/onceuponacrimepodcast Join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponACrime Our website: www.truecrimepodcast.com Our Guests’ links: Tyler - Minds of Madness https://mindsofmadnesspodcast.com Michael - True Crime Guys https://linktr.ee/Truecrimeguysproductions Goodnight Sugar Babe: The Killing of Vera Jo Reigle - https://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Sugar-Babe-Killing-Reigle/dp/B0757CSRSV Leroy - Excuse Me, That’s Illegal https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/excuse-me-thats-illegal/id1526994548 https://www.tiktok.com/@excusemethatsillegal.pod?lang=en https://www.patreon.com/excusemethatsillegal/ Jerri - FBI Retired Case File Review https://jerriwilliams.com Eric - True Consequences https://www.trueconsequences.com https://angelsvoicesnm.org The Garden: Commune or Cult? - https://go.discovery.com/show/the-garden-commune-or-cult-discovery-atve-us My recommendations: Candy - https://press.hulu.com/shows/candy/ Love and Death - https://www.max.com/shows/love-death/f7b16534-5a7b-4e0e-906f-406d25e6b7af Finding Tamika - https://www.audible.com/pd/Finding-Tamika-Audiobook/B09R52P8PWSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 1958, 19-year-old Starkweather went on a killing spree that shocked the nation. He took his 14-year-old girlfriend, Caril, with him. The story of that crime spree has become a legend in true crime history, and Starkweather and Fugate have been portrayed as villains on par with Bonnie and Clyde. In this episode, I revisit this case by speaking with best-selling true crime author Harry MacLean. His new book Starkweather: The Untold Story of the Killing Spree That Changed America takes a comprehensive look at this case and comes to some new conclusions about Caril Fugate’s guilt or innocence in the murders. Links: To learn more about Harry MacLean and purchase his books, visit www.harrymaclean.com. To watch “In Broad Daylight” - https://youtu.be/Q_A3N75uV-4?si=BkK5oN_z9FpIYaxLSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this month’s episodes, I’ll wrap up 2023 by discovering what listeners, podcasters, and other true crime experts list as their “true crime obsessions” this year. This week, I’m privileged to talk to veteran true crime journalist, correspondent, podcaster, and celebrity Erin Moriarty. Erin has been a correspondent for 48 Hours on CBS Television for over three decades. Her award-winning true crime podcast My Life of Crime has returned for season four. I’ll talk with Erin about her life as a true crime reporter, the cases she’s covering on the podcast this season, and learn her true crime obsession(s) in 2023! Links: “My Life of Crime with Eric Moriarty: A 48 Hours Original Podcast” - https://www.cbsnews.com/news/erin-moriarty-my-life-of-crime-48-hours-podcast/ “48 Hours on CBS” - https://www.cbsnews.com/48-hours/ Once Upon a Crime on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/onceuponacrimepodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A missing person’s case in Columbus, Ohio, grows cold. It seemed that what happened to 20-year-old Ashley Howley would remain a mystery until a psychic medium connected with the spirit of the missing girl. Did Ashley Howley return from beyond to solve her own murder? Resources: A Vision of Murder: Professional Psychic Medium, Shelly Stewart-Soldan, The Citizen Online, Oct 9, 2023. Missing woman’s family left to wait, The Columbus Dispatch, April 5, 2008. Metro Detroit psychic says she communicates with the dead, Gus Burns, mLive.com, April 14, 2014. www.Kristyrobinett.com Restless Souls, Season 1-Ep 1, Investigation Discovery Channel, April 14, 2014. Ashley Lyn Howley, Porchlight USA, June 11, 2007 Man Pleads Guilty to 3 Slayings, 10TV.com, July 22, 2008. Tipster in killing portrayed as out to avoid prosecution, The Columbus Dispatch, July 27, 2008. Triple killer gets life without parole, The Columbus Dispatch, July 22, 2008. Offender Detail: Robert MacMichael II, Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, Feb 7, 2022. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The family of a missing man turns to a psychic in a desperate attempt to locate him. Rosemarie Kerr’s psychic predictions as to the fate of Andre Daigle would prove to be so accurate that she was later called to testify at his murder trial. Resources: “A Mysterious Murder and a Psychic Detective,” JournalOnline, March 19, 2022, https://journal.com.ph/a-mysterious-murder-and-a-psychic-detective/ State v. Horne, Court of Appeal of Louisiana, Fifth Circuit, Dec. 13, 1989 https://www.casemine.com/judgement/us/5914c06eadd7b049347b3be4 “Cypress Psychic Tells Court of Helping to Solve Murder,” The Los Angeles Times, Feb. 7, 1988. Rosemarie Kerr: Touching Into the Other Side of Light, Blog by Rosemarie Kerr, November 7, 2006. Links: Become a Patreon member today - https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponACrime Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC17PL60EqRV7DcDdgLC3YTQSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two ten-year-old girls went missing in Soham, Cambridgeshire, England in 2002. After one of the most extensive searches in British criminal history, one of the girls’ parents consults a psychic in a desperate attempt to find them. When the perpetrator is identified, Dennis McKenzie’s predictions about what happened to the girls will be eerily accurate. Resources: Soham Murders, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soham_murders “I’m the Soham Psychic” - https://www.express.co.uk/expressyourself/135069/I-m-the-Soham-psychic Ian Huntley: Faking It: Tears of a Crime, www.YouTube.com Being the Soham Psychic: The Man Who Talks to the Other Side, Dennis McKenzie, Hachette Books UK, 2009. Links: Patreon: www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Theresa Cross Knor was jealous, controlling, and abusive to her partners and children. After murdering one husband and getting away with it, her children became her next targets. She would make her children complicit in the murders of two of their siblings and would almost get away with murder again. Resources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Theresa_Knorr Theresa Knorr: The Mother Who Burned Her Daughter Alive, from The Lineup, May 9, 2019 Theresa Knorr: Murderpedia Mother’s Day, Denis McDougal, Ballentine Books, 1995. Links: Website: www.truecrimepodcast.com Patreon: www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

..1 eerie corn maze... ...9 haunting figures... ...9 spine-tingling tales... ...Will YOU find your way out? This holiday season, step into a labyrinth of shadows and suspense with Shane Waters as your guide. In this chilling collaboration, you'll encounter the hosts of 9 acclaimed true crime podcasts, each offering a dark tale and a life lesson to send shivers down your spine. This is not just a special episode; it's an immersive journey through a maze of twisted paths and unsolved mysteries. So, lift your lantern high and venture into 'Maze of Secrets'... ...but be warned... ...not everyone makes it to the end… Prepare to get lost in the stories, but find yourself in their lessons. It's an odyssey of crime, mystery, and eerie life lessons that you won't soon forget. This is Shane’s 5th holiday collaboration. If you dare to walk this twisted path with us, you're in for a night you'll never forget. Are you ready? Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance: Frightful (https://www.itsfrightful.org/) Marooned (https://visitmarooned.com/) Rotten to the Core (https://www.itsrottentothecore.com/)mur Murder, She Told (https://www.murdershetold.com/) Obscura (https://www.itsobscura.com/) Crimelines (https://linktr.ee/crimelines) Once Upon a Crime (https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/) The Trail Went Cold (https://www.trailwentcold.com/) Foul Play: Crime Series (https://www.itsfoulplay.com/) Listen to the other holiday collaborations here: https://www.itsfoulplay.com/p/collaborations/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I’m continuing the series “A Family Affair,” detailing cases of a parent involving their children in murder plots. This time a mother and daughter team up to murder family members for financial profit and to rid themselves of the “burden” of caring for them. This is the case of Diane and Rachel Staudte aka “The Antifreeze Murders”. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a special bonus! I interviewed Laurah Norton, friend, and fellow podcaster, about her new book “Lay Them to Rest: On the Road with the Cold Case Investigators Who Identify the Nameless,” just released by Hachette Publishing. If you purchase “Lay Them to Rest” by October 17th, 2023, at 20% off the publisher’s price, use code LAYTHEMTOREST. www.hachettebookgroup.com Resources: “I Forgive Mom For What She Did…” The Springfield New-Leader, Springfield, Missouri, Jan 22, 2016. “20/20 Will Feature Diane Staudte…”, The Springfield New-Leader, Springfield, Missouri, Feb 25, 2022. “How Diane and Rachel Staudte Killed Their Family with Antifreeze,” True Crime Blog: Stories and News, Nov. 9, 2022. “Mother convicted of poisoning her family maintains her innocence,” ABC News, Feb 25, 2022. “Pastor Tips Off Police in Antifreeze Murders,” People.com, Feb 25, 2022. “Just the Two of Us: The Lethal Mother-Daughter Bond Between Serial Killers Diane and Rachel Staudte,” written by Joni E. Johnston, Psy.D., published in Medium.com, Sep. 30, 2021. Links: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1730325570622505 - OUAC Facebook Fan Page https://www.thefalllinepodcast.com - The Fall Line Podcast with links to episodes and the link to purchase the book Lay Them to Rest. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this month’s series “A Family Affair,” I’ll share cases in which children are manipulated into involvement in criminal offenses - even murder - at the direction of a parent. First up, lust and greed spur a man to manipulate his 14-year-old daughter into committing murder. Later, when facing a lengthy prison sentence, loyalty to her father causes Cinnamon Brown to keep her father’s secret…at first. Resources: The Real Murders of Orange County: Stolen Youth, Season 3, Episode 9, July 21, 2023, Oxygen Network. https://www.oxygen.com/the-real-murders-of-orange-county/season-3/episode-9/stolen-youth - If You Really Loved Me, author Ann Rule, Simon and Schuster Books, 1991. “An Almost Perfect Murder”, Los Angeles Times, August 19, 1990. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-08-19-vw-3027-story.html - lots of details “The Tragic Story of Cinnamon Brown” All That’s Interesting, May 17, 2023. https://allthatsinteresting.com/cinnamon-brown “Girl in Brown Family Slaying Case Paroled After 8 Years” The Los Angeles Times, Feb 29, 1992, https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1992-02-29-me-2474-story.html People v. Brown, 1992, Court of Appeal, Fourth District, Division 3, California. Decided April 23, 1992, https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/ca-court-of-appeal/1771760.htmlSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A 19-year-old college student dies as a result of a fraternity hazing incident at Pennsylvania State University in 2017. It will result in the largest criminal indictment of a fraternity in American history. RESOURCE LINKS: “Penn State is Still Keeping Secrets on Frat Row” - https://video.vice.com/en_us/video/penn-state-drinking/5a74f2a3f1cdb375f62d5ddd “What Happened the Night of Beta Theta Pi’s Bid Acceptance Night” - https://onwardstate.com/2017/05/05/what-happened-the-night-of-beta-theta-pis-bid-acceptance-night/ “How a Fatal Frat Hazing Became Penn State’s Latest Campus Crisis” - https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2017/10/penn-state-fraternity-hazing-death Death of Tim Piazza - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Tim_Piazza Pennsylvania State University Grand Jury Report on the Hazing Death of Tim Piazza - Released from the Court of Common Pleas, Centre County, Pennsylvania, December 15, 2017. https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/4329784-Grandjury-Report.html Links: Once Upon a Crime’s Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1730325570622505 Check us out on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast/videos Join Patreon for ad-free, early-release episodes, and behind-the-scenes peeks into the podcast! https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponACrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this month’s series, I detail crimes that happened on school campuses. In 1996, a 14-year-old walked into his 8th-grade math class and opened fire. This early school shooting would shock his community and spark a nationwide debate about violence in the media, school bullying, mental health, and gun control. But what was the real reason Barry Loukaitis brought terror to his classroom? Sources: State v. Loukaitis, Appeal from the Superior Court for Grant County, Decided July 2, 1996. https://casetext.com/case/state-v-loukaitis Teacher Tells Court Of Classroom Horror Witness Describes Negotiating With An Armed Loukaitis, Finally Subduing Him, The Spokesman-Review, Sept. 5, 1997. https://www.spokesman.com/stories/1997/sep/05/teacher-tells-court-of-classroom-horror-witness/ A teacher and two students die in shooting rampage at Frontier Junior High School in Moses Lake on February 2, 1996, HistoryLink.org, 2/7/2020 https://www.historylink.org/File/20965 Full letter from Jon Lane, the teacher who tackled Moses Lake school shooter, KIRO7.com News, 2/28/2018 https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/full-letter-from-jon-lane-teacher-whotackled-moses-lake-school-shooter/708789938/ Scarred By Killings, Moses Lake Asks: ''What Has This Town Become?'' | The Seattle Times Media Links: Natural Born Killers - Trailer https://youtu.be/XpLKNclOtLg?si=XAJxF31AkCcRJTWN Natural Born Killers - Copycat crimes https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_Born_Killers_copycat_crimes Rage by Richard Bachman/Stephen King: https://archive.org/stream/standthe/Rage_djvu.txt Stephen King: Why the U.S. must introduce limited gun controls, Feb 7, 2013 https://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/feb/01/stephen-king-pulled-book-gun-controls Links: Once Upon a Crime on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, and members-only perks! www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

LIVE FROM U.K. Tune in to this special bonus episode. We're pleased to offer you this special episode in collaboration with the amazing and very popular true crime podcast Minds of Madness! Esther and Tyler co-host this episode to unravel the mysteries surrounding this gruesome case from the U.K. Links: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/s7-ep287-the-long-con-the-murder-of-mee-kuen-chong/ https://mindsofmadnesspodcast.com/listen/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this month’s series, I detail crimes that happened on school campuses. In this episode, A 14-year-old high school student commits a horrific act of rape and murder in a school bathroom. Was Philip Chism mentally ill, as his defense would later claim, or was he faking it to get away with murder? Sources: https://allthatsinteresting.com/philip-chism https://www.boston.com/news/local-news/2015/12/17/12-questions-about-the-philip-chism-trial-answered/ https://www.masslive.com/politics/2013/09/gov_deval_patrick_signs_law_to.html https://casetext.com/case/commonwealth-v-chism-6 https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/philip-chism-colleen-ritzer-murder-sentencing-danvers-high-school-teacher-victim-impact-statements/ Links: Once Upon a Crime on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, ad-free episodes, and members-only perks! www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week’s episode, a successful, young entrepreneur gains a large following on Instagram by sharing her photos and videos of her life’s milestones over the years. Alexis Sharkey’s followers only saw the best times - fun with friends, professional achievements, and glamorous trips. But, in 2020, her life quickly took a dark turn hidden behind the idyllic images posted on social media. Sources: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10066217/Husband-influencer-killed-year-dead-gunshot-wound-head.html https://www.newsweek.com/alexis-sharkey-husband-thomas-death-suicide-evade-houston-1636540 https://www.thedailybeast.com/instagram-influencer-alexis-sharkey-found-dead-along-houston-road https://www.khou.com/article/news/crime/alexis-sharkey-update-husband-found-dead-florida/285-2dd1fce8-6d0c-4930-8bee-7ace18141e65 https://abc13.com/alexis-sharkey-tom-houston-instagram-influencer-death/11100357/ - Exploring the Truth About Alexis Sharkey's Final Days Before Her Death - E! Online - CA (eonline.com) Who was Tom Sharkey? Wiki, Biography & Facts About Alexis Sharkey's Husband (newsunzip.com) Links: Once Upon a Crime on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast Patreon: www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, I’ll tell you about a rising singing star who began her career on YouTube before making it to Hollywood to compete on a nationally televised talent show. Christina Grimmie had a bright future ahead of her as an entertainer in 2016 when an obsessed fan cut her career short with an unprovoked act of violence. Resources: The cold-blooded murder of Christina Grimmie was Orlando's most tragic and shocking crime ... for about 26 hours (orlandoweekly.com) Christina Grimmie Murdered At Concert - Selena, Ariana & More React To Orlando Shooting (DHR) - YouTube Kevin Loibl: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know | Heavy.com Singer Christina Grimmie was shot to death. Now, her family supports others impacted by gun violence | The Independent Links: The Christina Grimmie Foundation - www.christinagrimmiefoundation.org Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This month I’ll be detailing true crime cases that involved rising stars who made names for themselves in social media. In this first episode, a young comedian boasts almost a million followers on TikTok alone. But Ali Abulaban’s out-of-control jealousy and possessiveness will lead to a double murder charge instead of internet stardom. Resources: https://fox5sandiego.com/news/local-news/tiktok-star-accused-of-double-murder-speaks-to-fox-5-from-jail/ https://lionessrue.medium.com/the-tiktok-star-freaked-out-after-finding-his-wife-with-another-man-then-shed-blood-a07408ad3716 https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/double-murder-suspect-killed-his-wife-da/2762676/ https://hollywoodunlocked.com/influencer-murders-wife-friend-after-spying-on-them-with-daughters-ipad/ https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2021/11/17/tiktok-stars-ali-ana-abulaban-seemed-perfect-hes-accused-murder/8623432002/ Links: Once Upon a Crime Patreon: www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sheila Davalloo made it a habit of looking outside her relationships for passion and sex. But she soon turned cold toward her secret lovers once these relationships became routine. That is until she met a man who rejected her for a new love interest. That’s when her attraction turned into a deadly obsession. Sources: Sheila Davalloo | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers Sheila Davalloo:Tangled Web, Love, Lies, Murder (wickedness.net) Murder of Anna Lisa Raymundo by Sheila Davalloo featured on Betrayed (dailycrime.com) Who Is Sheila Davalloo? Facts About The Convicted Female Murderer In Oxygen's Snapped: Behind Bars | YourTango Links: Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1730325570622505 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onceuponacrimepod/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ouacpod Threads: https://www.threads.net/@onceuponacrimepodSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week’s episode, Lorena joins me to discuss another true crime that resulted from a love triangle. Betty Gore was brutally murdered with an axe in the summer of 1980 in her small town of Wylie, Texas. The community would initially be terrified that a psychotic axe murderer was on the loose. But the reality would shock them even more when it was discovered a respected and well-liked member of the local church choir had wielded the axe, killing Betty Gore with 41 whacks. This is the case of “A Deadly Affair: Candy Montgomery.” Resources Cited: Candy (2022) - A Hulu Original Show - https://www.hulu.com/series/candy-2ce80ed9-7ab6-44de-8434-f7dadb6ec11b Love and Death (2023) - Love and Death can be streamed on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube. Movie: A Killing in a Small Town (1990) People Magazine Investigates: Candy and Betty - https://www.investigationdiscovery.com/video/people-magazine-investigates-investigation-discovery/candy-and-betty Book: Evidence of Love: A True Story of Passion and Death in the Suburbs (reprinted 2016), by John Bloom and Jim Atkinson, Open Road Media. Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime Website - www.truecrimepodcast.com YouTube channel - www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, two people in committed relationships become infatuated with one another. When one of their spouses is murdered, investigators quickly zero in on the star-crossed lovers. However, investigators will find it challenging to prove who killed Marlene Warren due to the baffling description of the attacker. Sources: A Clown At The Door | A Court TV Special Michael Warren Now: Where is Marlene Warren's Ex-Husband Today? Update (thecinemaholic.com) What happened to Marlene Warren? | The US Sun (the-sun.com) True Crime: Clown killer accused of murdering Marlene Warren (palmbeachpost.com) Killer clown: Key players in the murder trial of Marlene Warren (palmbeachpost.com) Wellington clown murder case: Defense says state hid possible suspect (palmbeachpost.com) Killer Clown suspect Sheila Keen-Warren pleads guilty (WPTV West Palm Beach) https://www.wptv.com/news/region-c-palm-beach-county/wellington/sheila-keen-warren-plea-deal Son of Killer Clown victim ‘relieved’ following Sheila Keen Warren’s plea deal (WPTV West Palm Beach) https://www.wptv.com/news/region-c-palm-beach-county/wellington/son-of-killer-clown-victim-relieved-following-sheila-keen-warrens-plea-deal Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode we’ll revisit the Michael Peterson case aka “The Staircase Murder”. My guest, author Tiddy Smith, will discuss an alternate theory to explain the death of Kathleen Peterson detailed in his new book Death by Talons. Links: Tiddy Smith’s Author Page: https://wildbluepress.com/death-by-talons-tiddy-smith-true-crime/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SmithTiddy https://www.patreon.com/OnceUponACrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On June 10th, 2021, an elderly woman vanished without a trace from her own home in Wembley, London. 16 agonizing days later, and a staggering 200 miles away, visitors exploring the seaside town of Salcombe stumbled across a horrific scene. There amidst the beauty of the coastal landscape, lay a headless body. Join us to unravel the mysteries surrounding this gruesome case. We're pleased to offer you this special episode in collaboration with the amazing and very popular true crime podcast Minds of Madness! Esther and Tyler co-host this episode to unravel the mysteries surrounding this gruesome case from the U.K. Research&Writing: Nicole Colin & Katherine Thomas - Epigram Literary Group Editing: Aiden Wolf Sources: en.wikipedia.org 1 en.wikipedia.org 2 en.wikipedia.org 3 en.wikipedia.org 4 theguardian.com theguardian.com 2 cbsnews.com bbc.com 1 bbc.com 2 abc.net.au dailytelegraph.com.au 1 dailytelegraph.com.au 2 dailytelegraph.com.au 3 lbc.co.uk metro.co.uk devonlive.com vice.com birminghammail.co.uk aol.com thechronicle.com.au dailymail.co.uk kilburntimes.co.uk standard.co.uk news.sky.com judiciary.uk youtube.com 1 youtube.com 2 youtube.com 3 youtube.com 4 Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime Minds of Madness - https://mindsofmadnesspodcast.com/listen/ CrimeConversations - https://www.crimecon.co.uk/crimeconversation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re celebrating our 7th anniversary of the podcast by bringing you 7 case updates of crimes we’ve covered since 2016. Thank you all so much for making this crazy true crime ride possible! Episodes referenced: Episode 1: Lost and Found: Jaycee Dugard Date released: June 9, 2016 Link to episode: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-072-the-12-crimes-of-christmas-laci-peterson-part-2/ Episode 71 & 72: The 12 Crimes of Christmas: Laci Peterson Date released: December 18, 2017 Links to episodes: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-071-the-12-crimes-of-christmas-laci-peterson-part-1/ https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-072-the-12-crimes-of-christmas-laci-peterson-part-2/ Episode 83: Unusual Criminal Defenses: The Affluenza Defense Date released: March 26, 2018 Link to episode: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-083-unusual-criminal-defenses-the-affluenza-defense/ Episode 126: Bad Sports: Sally “Killer” McNeil Date released: April 8, 2019 Link to episode: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-126-bad-sports-sally-killer-mcneil/ Episode 158: Bad Seeds: Leslie Arnold Date released: February 24, 2020 Link to episode: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-159-bad-seeds-leslie-arnold/ Episode 168 & 169: Last Dance: The Pelley Murders Date released: May 11, 2020 Links to episodes: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-168-last-dance-the-pelley-murders-part-1/ https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-169-last-dance-the-pelley-murders-part-2/ Episode 238 & 239: The Ties That Bind: The Crimes of Shelly Knotek Date released: April 12, 2022 Links to episodes: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-238-the-ties-that-bind-the-crimes-of-shelly-knotek-part-1/ https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-239-the-ties-that-bind-the-crimes-of-shelly-knotek-part-2/ Other links: CrimeCon UK - www. Crimecon.co.uk - use my discount code ONCEUPON for 10% off your tickets!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this series, I share true crime cases that resulted in women being sentenced to Death Row. In 2009, a woman victimized by a childhood of abuse and violence becomes immersed in anti-immigrant vigilante groups. Her zeal and dedication to this cause result in a home-invasion plot that results in the murders of a Hispanic man and his young daughter. Resources: https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/shwna-forde-kid-killing-minutewoman-sentenced-to-65-years-in-prison-in-addition-to-death-sentence-6637423 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murders_of_Raul_d_Brisenia_Flores https://murderpedia.org/female.F/f/forde-shawna.htm https://caselaw.findlaw.com/az-supreme-court/1655105.html Links: CrimeCon UK - www.crimecon.co.uk - The ultimate true crime weekend will take place on June 9th and 10th in London. Come out and meet me and all your favorite true crime podcasters, documentary filmmakers, authors, investigators, and more. Use my offer code ONCEUPON to claim your discount at registration. You can meet me on Podcast Row and attend my live show with Tyler from Minds of Madness Podcast! Subscribe to Once Upon a Crime’s YouTube Channel! - https://www.youtube.com/onceuponacrimepodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This Mother’s Day, join Shane Waters on a chilling adventure featuring 14 podcasters (including Once Upon A Crime) as they share sinister stories of motherhood. Mother’s Day is typically a time to honor the love and sacrifices of mothers, but today we’ll be exploring the twisted tales that lurk behind the shadows. Part 2: Once Upon A Crime [https://www.truecrimepodcast.com] PNW Haunts & Homicides [https://www.pnwhauntsandhomicides.com] The Trail Went Cold [https://www.trailwentcold.com] Coffee & Cases [https://tinyurl.com/pc25pzzs] Already Gone [https://www.alreadygonepodcast.com] Twisted and Uncorked [https://www.twistedanduncorked.com] Mystery Inc [https://www.itsmysteryinc.com] If you enjoyed this holiday collaboration special, check out the other collaboration specials: Deceptions & Resurrections [https://tinyurl.com/3a9d7yrf], Bloody Valentine [https://tinyurl.com/e6ynmzpr], and A Nightmare before Halloween [https://tinyurl.com/52jeh66d]. Until our next adventure, stay safe and stay vigilant.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This Mother’s Day, join Shane Waters on a chilling adventure featuring 14 podcasters (including Once Upon A Crime) as they share sinister stories of motherhood. Mother’s Day is typically a time to honor the love and sacrifices of mothers, but today we’ll be exploring the twisted tales that lurk behind the shadows. Podcasts are listed here in order of appearance: Part 1: Foul Play: Crime Series [www.itsfoulplay.com] Music City 911[https://musiccity911.com] Crimes from the East [https://tinyurl.com/37sx22bt] Cults, Crimes, Cabernet [https://www.cultscrimescabernet.com] A Nefarious Nightmare [https://tinyurl.com/y5nuezs5] Crimelines [https://linktr.ee/Crimelines] The Asian Madness Podcast [ https://tinyurl.com/5n8nv6aySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Who Killed Robert Wone? Streaming on Peacock: https://pck.tv/3XzPVui On the night of August 2, 2006, a call comes in to 911 to report a man has been stabbed by an intruder at a Washington D.C. home. First responders arrive to find attorney Robert Wone already dead in the guest room. With little blood at the scene and no signs of struggle or robbery, suspicions heighten after police interview the three housemates. Believing the men know more than they are revealing, the investigation soon uncovers more questions than answers. In this episode, Esther gets the inside story on this fascinating and baffling case from producer and documentary filmmaker, Paul Epstein. Links: Who Killed Robert Wone? Now streaming on Peacock TV. Watch a trailer for the show here: https://youtu.be/cR6yXsqBzsM Stream on Peacock TV here: https://pck.tv/3XzPVui Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime CrimeCon UK - CrimeCon in London is back! June 10th and 11th, 2023, Tower Bridge Leonardo Royal Hotel. Get tickets here: https://crimeconuk.seetickets.com/tour/crimecon-uk - Use my offer code ONCEUPON to claim your discount. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 1995, a troubled young woman, jealous of one of her peers, enlists the help of two others to eliminate her enemy. But when the full and horrifying details of the plan emerge, the public is aghast at how a young woman could be capable of such depravity. Resources: Christa Pike | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers Christa Gail Pike v. State of Tennessee :: 2011 :: Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals Decisions :: Tennessee Case Law :: Tennessee Law :: US Law :: Justia STATE v. PIKE (1998) | FindLaw Christa's Story | My Site 1 (mercyforchrista.org) The Sacrifice and Mutilation of Colleen Slemmer | by Rivy Lyon | Medium Motorcyclist dies after hit-and-run on Western Avenue | wbir.com A Case Almost Too Gruesome To Mention: Christa Pike - YouTube A love to die for : Patricia Springer : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive Interview with Tennessee murderer Christa Pike Part I - YouTube Interview with Tennessee murderer Christa Pike Part II - YouTube Interview with convicted Tennessee murderer Tadaryl Shipp Pt I - YouTubeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On our final collaborative episode for the series “Fool Me Once,” Leroy and I share true stories about criminals who were very bad at their jobs. Resources: Taco Shop Turns Burglary Footage Into Awesome Ad (newser.com) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzdv4FUHqP8 Suspect Busted by Police Near Liberty, Missouri, After Farting (newser.com) Million Dollar Moron Walmart clerk rejects $1 million bill - UPI.com Vain Vandalizer Sends Selfie https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-35284225 The Terrorist Who Claimed His Own Reward https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-17755072 Links: Listen to Excuse Me, That’s Illegal - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/excuse-me-thats-illegal/id1526994548 https://open.spotify.com/show/0Wgi2jEXEyE4RWqPCIfe3m?si=e8cf0a479e264609 Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@excusemethatsillegal.pod CrimeCon UK - CrimeCon, the ultimate true crime event, is coming to London, June 10 and 11th, 2023! Get your tickets at www.crimecon.co.uk and use our offer code ONCEUPON to score your discount. Watch Once Upon a Crime on YouTube! - https://www.youtube.com/onceuponacrimepodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue our “April Fools” series with a fun game for all you Metalheads! Play along as I try to stump Leroy Luna, host of Excuse Me, That’s Illegal, as he tries to guess I’m quoting serial killers or lyrics from metal songs. We also discuss how rock and metal bands’ music has been tied to and even blamed for some horrific true crimes. Resources: Article: “10 Heavy Metal Bands That Were Blamed for Seriously Heinous Crimes” by Michael Berdan for The Pit, Mar 17, 2023. https://www.wearethepit.com/2023/03/10-heavy-metal-bands-that-were-blamed-for-seriously-heinous-crimes/ https://www.inquirer.com/philly/hp/news_update/20080929_Confessed_killer_now_seeks_insanity_trial.html https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/an-ozzy-osbourne-fan-commits-suicide Links: Listen to Excuse Me, That’s Illegal - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/excuse-me-thats-illegal/id1526994548 https://open.spotify.com/show/0Wgi2jEXEyE4RWqPCIfe3m?si=e8cf0a479e264609 Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@excusemethatsillegal.pod CrimeCon UK - CrimeCon, the ultimate true crime event, is coming to London June 10 and 11th, 2023! Get your tickets at www.crimecon.co.uk and use our offer code ONCEUPON to score your discount. Once Upon a Crime is on YouTube! - https://www.youtube.com/onceuponacrimepodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’re celebrating April, the month of “April Fools” by having a little fun with true crime. The best person I know to help me with this is my friend and fellow podcaster Leroy Luna, host of Excuse Me, That’s Illegal. Leroy will be my co-host on April’s episodes, so come and join us for true crime stories and quizzes. This week, we try to stump each other with a guessing game called “Fake or Felony?”. Resources: https://clickhole.com/ California man who beat wife to death with cement block claims group infected him with mayonnaise, reports say | Fox News Thieves snort cremated human, animal remains believing the ashes were cocaine – New York Daily News (nydailynews.com) https://www.nj.com/bergen/2017/10/the_strange_story_of_2_young_women_who_feds_say_he.html Links: Listen to Excuse Me, That’s Illegal - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/excuse-me-thats-illegal/id1526994548 Follow on TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@excusemethatsillegal.pod Facebook Group - https://www.tiktok.com/@excusemethatsillegal.pod See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A young couple out for a leisurely day at the lake find themselves faced with one of the most infamous killers of the 20th century. Bryan Hartnell and Cecelia Shepard were victims of a brutal attack by a hooded man who called himself “The Zodiac.” They survived the initial attack after being left for dead but still faced a fierce battle to summon help. Only one would survive. Resources: Zodiac, Robert Graysmith, Penguin Random House Publishers, 1986. Napa Valley Sheriff’s Department Interview with Bryan Hartnell (NSO CASE #105907) at Queen of the Valley Hospital, September 28, 1969. Zodiac Killer Police Report, Page 1 Zodiac Killer KPIX News report 1969 - YouTube 1969 Zodiac Killer news clip Interview with college student Bryan Hartnell and bus driver - YouTube KGO Story (zodiackiller.com) KCRA Story 1 (zodiackiller.com) Bryan Hartnell – Shadow of the Zodiac The Zodiac Killer - Crime Museum The Zodiac Killer: A Timeline - HISTORY https://zodiackillerfacts.com/gallery/displayimage.php?pid=270&fullsize=1 Bryan Hartnell Interview in 1969 : MrBaseball2 : Free Download, Borrow, and Streaming : Internet Archive Zodiac Killer Letters: KRON-TV Compilation (1969-70) - Bay Area Television Archive (sfsu.edu) Something good comes from tragic tale – Redlands Daily Facts Links: Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime Follow Once Upon a Crime on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@OnceUponACrimePodcast See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This month I’m sharing cases of people who, against all odds, survived some of the worst killers in modern history. In this week’s story, a teenage girl is picked up by a seemingly ordinary couple and then spends two days trapped in a nightmare. She is the fifth victim of one of the rarest types of killers on record - a serial killer couple. But Kate Moir would keep her wits about her, and even though she was only seventeen, she outsmarted the evil duo, ending their killing spree. Resources: The Best New True Crime Stories: Partners in Crime, Mitzi Szereto, Editor, Mango Publishing, 2022. Catherine, David Birnie: The macabre, sadistic Moorhouse murders | news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site David and Catherine Birnie: Australia’s worst serial killer couple still haunt Kate Moir | news.com.au — Australia’s leading news site 'How I escaped the house of horrors': Hostage of Australia’s most evil killers tells how she fled (yahoo.com) Links: Join our Patreon for bonus episodes and ad-free episodes - www.patreon.com/ onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this month’s episodes I’ll tell you stories of people who were fortunate enough to survive horrifying experiences. In this episode, a family dream vacation turns into a nightmare on the sea. All seems lost when the ship sinks with all onboard. But by some miracle, a sole survivor is found. The story she tells about what happened onboard The Bluebelle will horrify all who hear it. Resources: Delivered From Evil: True Stories Of Ordinary People Who Faced Monstrous Mass Killers and Survived, Ron Franscell, Fair Winds Press, 2011. Alone: Orphaned on the Ocean, Tere Duperrault and Richard D. Logan, Titletown Publishers, 2010. SURVIVED: 11-Year-Old Found Alone in Middle of Ocean - YouTube Extraordinary Lives | Tere Jo Duperrault - YouTube Book 'Em: Alone, Orphaned on the Ocean - CBS News Terry Jo Duperrault – the girl who survived her entire family being brutally murdered at sea | Mysteriesrunsolved The Sea Waif: A Murder on the Ocean and the Little Girl Who Stayed Alive | Mental Floss Julian Arthur Harvey | American Air Museum Terry Jo Duperrault Family Now (thefamilynation.com) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this second part of a two-part episode, in their quest to be transformed into vampires, Daniel and Manuela Ruda conclude that the only way to prove their loyalty to Satan is by performing a human sacrifice. Their crime would be described as “a picture of cruelty and depravity” such as had never been seen before in the German town of Witten. The subsequent trial would become a media circus with the two perpetrators proudly displaying their bizarre antics in front of the press and the public. Resources: The Best New True Crime Stories: Partners in Crime, Edited by Mitzi Szereto, Mango Publishing, 2022. Murder Dictionary Podcast: “Occult Murders: Daniel and Manuela Ruda” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/occult-murders-daniel-manuela-ruda/id1169967004?i=1000389846158 https://serialkillercalendar.com/A-MATCH-MADE-IN-HELL-DANIEL-AND-MANUELA-RUDA.php https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2002/nov/16/thefarright.uk Satanist couple jailed for killing – The Irish Times https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/germany/1383474/Last-kiss-as-Satanist-killers-are-locked-up.html https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/3674781/satanist-killer-who-butchered-friend-in-coffin-to-drink-his-blood-is-back-in-court-charged-with-plotting-to-kill-his-ex-wife/ https://expressdigest.com/german-murderer-who-drank-his-victims-blood-is-freed/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Daniel Ruda, a 26-year-old, self-described “black vampire” immersed himself in Germany’s goth and death metal scene as an outlet for his dark proclivities. In the year 2000, he was ready to find his soulmate or, as he put it, his “princess of darkness” and placed a singles ad in a German black-metal magazine. 23-year-old Manuela Bartel answered his ad and the two soon became inseparable. Separately, they participated in strange hobbies like sleeping in graves to “see what it felt like” and filing their teeth into fangs. But together they were deadly. In 2001, they jointly committed a gruesome murder. Was their violent behavior a result of mental illness or were they purely evil? Resources: The Best New True Crime Stories: Partners in Crime, Edited by Mitzi Szereto, Mango Publishing, 2022. Murder Dictionary Podcast: “Occult Murders: Daniel and Manuela Ruda” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/occult-murders-daniel-manuela-ruda/id1169967004?i=1000389846158 https://serialkillercalendar.com/A-MATCH-MADE-IN-HELL-DANIEL-AND-MANUELA-RUDA.php https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2002/nov/16/thefarright.uk https://www.telegraph.co.uk/obituaries/2016/06/17/tom-leppard-tattooed-man--obituary/ https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1071&context=cj_fac https://www.cesnur.org/testi/gothic.htm See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I’m pleased to have Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Jake Halpern, back with me again to discuss a new case he investigated for his podcast “Deep Cover”. Deep Cover, a Pushkin podcast, is all about people who lead double lives. In the new season, Jake follows the story of a girl who goes missing without a trace in South Carolina in 1999. Years later, the missing girl is connected to another missing person’s case on the other side of the country. There are twists and turns in this story that you won’t see coming connected to stolen identities, a female fugitive on the run from the law, and even espionage. Join me for this fascinating discussion with Jake where we talk about his latest case, female victims and perpetrators and how they are portrayed by the media, and the ethical dilemma faced by everyone who reports or podcasts about true crime. You can listen to episodes of Deep Cover: Never Seen Again beginning on January 30th. A new episode releases every Monday but you can binge the entire season by subscribing to Pushkin Plus. Go to www.pushkin.fm to find out more You can also listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Overcast, and on YouTubeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We continue the story of Barbora Skrlova from where we left of last week. In part two, you’ll learn all the details of the bizarre unfolding of events in the Mauerova home. I’ll conclude by telling you the unbelievable tale of how Barbora Skrlova almost escaped all responsibility for her part in this horrendous abuse case. Resources: Book: “The Kurim Case: A Terrifying True Story of Child Abuse, Cults & Cannibalism” by Ryan Green, 2016. The Kurim Case: https://youtu.be/DN3nelsuDx0 https://www.irishtimes.com/news/czechs-appalled-and-enthralled-by-obscure-cult-and-fake-identities-1.931498 https://mindlifetv.com/movies/torture-cannibalism-and-incestuous-sex-the-chilling-story-of-barbora-skrlova/# https://www.okaybliss.com/barbora-skrlova-now/ https://signalhorizon.com/orphan-first-kill-ending-explained-the-real-story-of-barbora-skrlova-and-a-fitting-origin-story-for-esther/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For our first series of 2023, we’ll do a deep dive into a case that has so many bizarre twists and turns a Hollywood horror movie was later based on it. In this first part of a 2-part series, a child who has been placed in a children’s home after allegations of abuse goes missing. When he’s found over a thousand miles away in the company of a strange man, the police discover a shocking secret. He is not who he said he was - nor is he a young boy - but an adult woman. The story of Barbora Skrlova only becomes more strange as the truth is revealed. Resources: Book: “The Kurim Case: A Terrifying True Story of Child Abuse, Cults & Cannibalism” by Ryan Green, 2016. The Kurim Case: https://youtu.be/DN3nelsuDx0 https://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/boys-don-t-cry-woman-arrested-in-norway-for-impersonating-teen-a-528047.html https://www.irishtimes.com/news/czechs-appalled-and-enthralled-by-obscure-cult-and-fake-identities-1.931498 https://www.ranker.com/list/facts-about-grail-movement-cult/amandasedlakhevener https://mindlifetv.com/movies/torture-cannibalism-and-incestuous-sex-the-chilling-story-of-barbora-skrlova/# Links: Human Monsters - Listen wherever you listen to podcasts or at https://humanmonsterspod.podbean.com. Patreon - www.patreon.com/onceuponacrimeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 2008, Travis Alexander was brutally murdered in his home in Mesa, Arizona. His ex-girlfriend, Jodi Arias, was convicted of the slaying and was later sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. A new Lifetime Television movie tells the behind-the-scene story of Jodi’s life behind bars. In this follow-up to one of Lifetime's most successful true crime dramas, JODI ARIAS: DIRTY LITTLE SECRET, we see a whole new side of Jodi and follow the story that has captivated the public for nearly a decade. In this episode, I speak with Donavan Bering, a cellmate of Jodi Arias’ who became her good friend and staunchest supporter - that is until she came to learn what kind of person Jodi really was and realized that her claims of innocence were all lies. Jodi Arias: Bad Behind Bars, produced for Lifetime by Cineflix Productions premieres Saturday, January 21 at 8/7c. Links: You can listen to Once Upon a Crime’s in-depth coverage of the Jodi Arias case in a 2-part series from Season 1. Listen to Episodes 43 and 44 on your favorite podcast app or listen on our website: https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-043-a-woman-scorned-jodi-arias-part-1/ https://www.truecrimepodcast.com/episode-044-a-woman-scorned-jodi-arias-part-2/ See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this last of our special holiday episodes, Esther and Lorena discuss the Netflix documentary “I Am Vanessa Guillen" with Margot, host of the podcast Military Murder. Vanessa Guillen was a United States Army soldier who went missing from a Texas military base in 2020. Her family would face an uphill battle trying to get answers when Vanessa’s superiors closed ranks and did little to investigate her disappearance. But the efforts of her family through protests and social media posts that went viral sparked a movement that shone a spotlight on abuses that had, up to that point, gone unchecked. Margot’s podcast, Military Murder, is a true crime podcast that covers cases where the victims or the perpetrators are members of the military.. Margot has served in the military and her knowledge and experience provided additional insights and information regarding this case and the documentary. She covered Vanessa Guillen’s case on her podcast. Links: Link to the Netflix documentary: https://www.netflix.com/title/81460514 Link to an article about the Vanessa Guillen case: https://www.nytimes.com/article/vanessa-guillen-fort-hood.html Esther’s appearance on True Crime Binge w/Bob Ruff: https://audioboom.com/posts/8169182-esther-ludlow-once-upon-a-crime Esther’s appearance on Crawlspace Podcast w/Tim and Lance: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/335-once-upon-a-crime-with-esther-ludlow/id1187326340?i=1000588557865 And the YouTube video:https://youtu.be/-_VZFhz2uss Patreon: www.patreon.com/onceuponacrime See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.