The FOX True Crime Podcast w/ Emily Compagno

Crime scenes tend to be a gruesome sight to see. But after the police put up the yellow caution tape and collect the evidence, who's responsible for cleaning up the mess left behind? That's where the Soul Mediators come in. Crime scene cleaners Tom DeSena and Junior Lallbachan provide an in-depth look at their line of work. They share stories from some of their most shocking jobs, discuss their toughest cleaning challenges, and even give some cleaning advice for listeners at home. Later, they explain how they hope to provide families with the closure needed to move forward from a traumatic event. Tom DeSena and Junior Lallbachan document their jobs all across social media. You can find them on Instagram and TikTok as @TheSoulMediators. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On May 24th, 2023 62-year-old Raul Meza Jr. called the police and confessed to the murder of his 80-year-old roommate, Jesse Fraga, just four days earlier. During the call, Meza also implicated himself in the 2019 murder of 66-year-old Gloria Lofton. Upon his apprehension by the U.S. Marshals, Meza was found with a bag containing zip ties, duct tape, ammunition, and a pistol, leading authorities to believe he was ready to kill again. Meza was arrested in 1982 for the murder of 8-year-old Kendra Page but was released 11 years into his 30-year sentence. Now, police are investigating Meza's possible connection to 8-10 other murders. KTBC FOX 7 Anchor John Krinjak and Reporter Angela Shen discuss the latest news surrounding Meza's arrest and the ongoing investigation into his potential connection to past murders. Later, they share how the news has impacted the Austin community, as well as reactions from victims' families. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After spending just over two months in office, President Ronald Reagan was adjusting to his new life as the United States Commander in Chief. On March 30th, 1981, as he was departing from a speaking engagement at the Washington Hilton Hotel, President Reagan was shot and wounded by John Hinckley Jr., a mentally-disturbed man who attempted a presidential assassination to impress Actress Jodie Foster. Jeffrey James is a retired Supervisory Special Agent with the United States Secret Service presidential detail who served as the case manager for John Hinckley Jr. and shares details about Hinckley's life, the assassination attempt, and how the incident changed the way the Secret Service ran operations. In 1996, Jeffrey James was sworn in as a United States Secret Service Special Agent, beginning his 22-year-long career within the federal government. During his time in the Secret Service, he was promoted to Assistant Special Agent in Charge and also served as the Liaison to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Now, he works as the President of Capitol Security Consultants, as well as the Chief of Police at Robert Morris University. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the night of May 3rd, 2007, British 3-year-old Madeleine McCann went missing while on a family vacation to Portugal. That night, Madeleine’s parents Gerry and Kate McCann dined with friends at a nearby restaurant, leaving the toddler and her two younger siblings alone in the apartment at which they were staying. The adults took turns checking on the children throughout the evening, but as Kate returned to the complex, she discovered Madeleine was missing. Her disappearance sparked an international search effort, as well as a global media frenzy. 16 years later, the investigation continues with new developments in the case. FOX News London-based Senior Foreign Affairs Correspondent Greg Palkot joins with updates from the latest search operation in Portugal, as well as details about the current suspect in the case. Later, he discusses why Madeleine's disappearance continues to garner media attention all these years later. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Annie Le was a brilliant young woman destined for greatness. While enrolled in a pharmacology graduate program at Yale University, Annie was just days away from marrying her college sweetheart. However, on September 8, 2009, Annie vanished from the campus laboratory in which she regularly worked. Annie's disappearance sent shockwaves across the campus and tragically on September 13, 2009, the day she was to be wed, Annie's body was discovered. Retired New Haven Police Lieutenant Lisa Dadio discusses her involvement with the investigation, how it evolved from a missing person case to a murder case, and how their work led to the swift arrest of Raymond Clark III. Lisa Dadio spent 20 years with the New Haven Police Department, 16 of which were spent with the detective division. After ultimately rising to the rank of Lieutenant and commanding the Major Crimes Unit, Lisa retired from law enforcement and entered into the realm of higher education. She currently serves as the Assistant Dean for the Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences at the University of New Haven. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before he was known as the Golden State Killer, Joseph DeAngelo was known as the "East Area Rapist" by law enforcement. From 1976-1979, the Sacramento Sheriff's Department received various reports of home invasions and sexual assaults conducted by an unknown man. As a result of the serial attacks, a task force was soon formed in order to identify the attacker and bring an end to his horrific crimes. As the sole female investigator on the case, retired Undersheriff in the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office, Carol Daly understood the importance of bringing empathy to those who suffered from the traumatic attacks. She discusses her role in the investigation of the "East Area Rapist," her close relationship with the victims, and her reaction to Joseph DeAngelo's arrest all these years later. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Throughout the 1970s and 80s, an unidentified man terrorized families across California. Responsible for more than 100 burglaries, over 50 rapes, and at least 13 homicides, the suspect was dubbed the "Golden State Killer." For decades, law enforcement worked tirelessly to uncover the identity of the murderer. In 2018, justice was served when former police officer Joseph DeAngelo was finally arrested at 74 years old. Retired FBI Agent and lead profiler on the Golden State Killer case Julia Cowley shares how she was brought onto the case, the work that went into creating Joseph DeAngelo's profile, and how her work played a pivotal role in the investigation. Julia Cowley served as a Forensic Scientist and Special Agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Upon joining the FBI, Julia was assigned to the Boston Division where she investigated various violent crime cases and later rose to become the leader of their Evidence Response Team. In 2010, she was promoted to FBI Headquarters, where she worked in their Behavioral Analysis Unit. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 2005, 18-year-old Natalee Holloway went missing while on a graduation trip to Aruba with her fellow classmates. According to her peers, Natalee was last seen leaving a club with Joran van der Sloot, a man who would soon become the prime suspect in her disappearance. While serving a 28-year prison sentence in Peru for the murder of 21-year-old Stephany Flores, van der Sloot is to be extradited to the United States where he faces charges of extortion and wire fraud. WBRC Anchor Jonathan Hardison has been covering the story from Birmingham, AL for years now. He discusses the timeline of events in the Natalee Holloway case, as well as the extradition and trial awaiting van der Sloot. Later, he shares the impact Natalee's disappearance has left on the community of Birmingham 18 years later. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When thinking back to her childhood, Kerri Rawson is able to recall fond memories with her father, Dennis Rader. To other residents of Wichita, KS, Rader seemed like a model citizen. Little did they know the darkness he held within. Over the course of three decades, the infamous serial killer dubbed BTK ("Bind, Torture, Kill") murdered 10 innocent victims to satisfy his chilling sexual fantasies. It wasn't until Rader was arrested in 2005 that his family made the connection. Author and daughter of Dennis Rader, Kerri Rawson shares details from her childhood with a serial killer father, the impact the revelation had on her life, and how she learned to overcome the traumatic discovery. In her memoirs, A Serial Killer's Daughter: My Story Of Faith, Love, And Overcoming, and Breaking Free: Overcoming The Trauma Of My Serial Killer Father, Kerri Rawson discusses how she navigated through the traumatic discovery of her father's secret life. With the help of therapy, faith, and family, Kerri could forgive her father for what he did to her, and ultimately learned to become herself again. Now, she works to help others by providing a voice for victims of trauma, crime, and abuse. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On April 29th, 2023, 29-year-old Lauren Heike was killed in broad daylight while hiking on a community trail in Phoenix, Arizona. Lauren was chased and stabbed 15 times by her attacker and ultimately died from her injuries. Less than a week later, authorities arrested 22-year-old Zion William Teasley, a convicted felon, in connection with Lauren's murder. Lauren's death sent shockwaves across the country and has left hikers with a sense of unease as they continue to pursue the hobby. CEO of Girls Fight Back Nicole Snell shares important tips for bettering personal safety and boundary-setting skills. She also explains how self-defense classes can be a source of empowerment. Later, Nicole discusses an instance in which she was forced to use these skills in order to stand her ground. Self-defense expert Nicole Snell is the CEO of Girls Fight Back, a personal safety and empowerment program designed to give women and girls the tools they need to protect themselves and prevent violence. The company places an emphasis on helping young women cultivate confidence by providing them with necessary self-defense strategies and techniques and reminding them that they're worth fighting for. Nicole is also the founder of Outdoor Defense, a video series that educates viewers about defense strategies so that they can feel secure when pursuing outdoor activities. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the night of July 8th, 2006, Yolanda Silvera was carjacked, sexually assaulted, and shot by New Jersey serial killer Noah Cuebas. After being left to die, Yolanda was found the following morning just barely alive. She was rushed to a hospital where she remained in a coma for six months. Doctors were unsure whether or not Yolanda would ever wake up, walk, or even talk again. Despite all odds, Yolanda has made a remarkable recovery and is able to share her story almost 17 years later. Retired East Orange Detective Joseph Juliano worked on the case and discusses details from the attack, the arrest of Cuebas, and how Yolanda helped law enforcement link his violent crimes. Later, Yolanda Silvera shares what it meant for her to testify against Cuebas, her incredible recovery, and the goals she's currently working towards in her physical therapy. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Tuesday night, the four-day-long manhunt for the suspect involved in a mass shooting was brought to an end. The suspect, 38-year-old Mexican immigrant Francisco Oropesa is accused of killing five of his neighbors in a mass shooting in Cleveland, Texas Friday night. Oropesa opened fire after one of his neighbors asked him to stop firing his gun so that his children could sleep. Retired Chief Inspector and Commander of the U.S. Marshals' New York/New Jersey Fugitive Task Force Lenny DePaul shares details of the manhunt and explains what goes into law enforcement's intensive search for fugitives. As one of the Regional Fugitive Task Force's original members, Lenny DePaul oversaw hundreds of arrests and investigated some of the U.S. Marshals' most-wanted fugitives. During his time with the Marshals Service, DePaul was given numerous awards, including the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation's Investigator of the Year award, as well as the Attorney General's Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sonny Franzese was one of the most formidable mobsters in America. With a career spanning over the course of 80 years, Franzese rose through the ranks of the Colombo Crime Family, ultimately earning the title of "underboss." Much of the family's success was due to the oath of Omertà, a sacred vow of silence which new recruits were ordered to take to prove their loyalty. When Sonny Franzese was sentenced to 50 years in prison, his son, Michael took it upon himself to make that vow and enter into the Colombo syndicate. Former Colombo Caporegime Michael Franzese shares the details of his life in the mafia, the impact it had on his family, and why he ultimately chose to walk away from the life of crime. After leaving behind his career with the Colombo Crime Family, Michael Franzese has since become an author and motivational speaker. In his book, I'll Make You An Offer You Can't Refuse, Franzese shares business lessons he learned during his time as a mob boss. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While genetic genealogy is typically used to reveal more details about one's ancestry, it can also be incredibly helpful in aiding law enforcement with their criminal investigations. With just one piece of DNA, scientists can identify both violent criminals and human remains, bringing answers to even the most mysterious cold cases. Chief Genetic Genealogist at Parabon Nanolabs CeCe Moore explains the background behind the genetic genealogy field, how DNA databases operate, and how the science has evolved to provide more details about criminals and victims alike. Later, she shares details from some of the cases she's worked on alongside enforcement. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the middle of the night in February 2010, a young woman was raped, strangled, and left to die in a snowy Virginia forest. After flagging down a couple driving by, the woman recounted the horrific story of the night before. Later that day, law enforcement would arrest Jorge Avila-Torrez for the attack. Little did they know that upon collecting his DNA, a string of previous assaults and murders connected to Avila-Torrez would be revealed. Former Federal and State Prosecutor Jonathan Fahey led the case. He shares the full story behind Jorge Avila-Torrez's crimes, how a confession was obtained, and details from the trial in the case against him. Jonathan Fahey worked at the United States Attorney's Office in the Eastern District of Virginia, where he served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, leading various grand jury investigations. He would go on to serve as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, and would later become the Acting Director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Now, Fahey works with Brown Rudnick LLP as Counsel in the firm's Litigation and Arbitration practice group. For his work prosecuting the case against Jorge Avila-Torrez, Fahey was given the Attorney General's John Marshall Award for Trial of Litigation. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The United States Marshals Service is a federal agency responsible for the arrests of federal fugitives. With origins dating back to the nation's beginnings, the U.S. Marshals continue to serve the country by protecting the federal judiciary. Retired U.S. Marshal Bill Sorukas discusses the history of the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Apprehension Program, how the group operates, and some of its high-profile cases. After working as an undercover officer in Indiana, Bill Sorukas became a Deputy U.S. Marshal in the Southern District of California. He would soon become a Chief Inspector within the Investigative Operations Division. Bill also served as a Senior Fellow at the International Association of Chiefs of Police, where he helped establish the Center for the Prevention of Violence Against the Police. Now, he works as a Project Alert Consultant at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Bill was given many honors throughout his career, including the National Association of Police Organizations' "Top Cop" award for his work on the Beltway Snipers case, as well as the Attorney Generals Award for Distinguished Service for Investigative Excellence for his involvement with the investigation of Ed and Elaine Brown. In his book, Chasing Evil: Pursuing Dangerous Criminals with the U.S. Marshals, Sorukas details various high-profile cases on which he worked. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In October 2002, a series of sniper attacks terrorized residents of Washington D.C. and the surrounding area. For three weeks, civilians were shot at random, sporadically injured, and killed while completing mundane activities in their day-to-day routine. As the shootings continued to unfold, people within the D.C. communities were paralyzed with fear, too afraid to step outside and live their lives. With virtually no actionable leads, law enforcement was tasked with the difficult mission of hunting down the Beltway Snipers. Retired U.S. Marshal Bill Sorukas was the Chief Inspector within the Investigative Operations Division at the time of the attacks. He shares how he became involved in the Beltway Sniper case, the sensitivity of the investigation, and how he was able to track down the shooters. Bill Sorukas spent 28 years with the United States Marshals Service, managing program areas among various branches. For his work with the Beltway Snipers investigation, Bill was given the National Association of Police Organizations' "Top Cop" award. Sorukas now works with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children as a Project Alert Consultant. In his book, Chasing Evil: Pursuing Dangerous Criminals with the U.S. Marshals, Sorukas details various high-profile cases on which he worked. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To everyone that knew her, Ashley Eiffert was a ray of sunshine in her hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. At 19 years old, Ashley was pregnant with her first child with her boyfriend at the time, Joe Hill. During one of her prenatal doctor's appointments, Ashley met a woman named Nicole Johnson. Nicole, who had just lost a child, offered to donate baby clothes and furniture to Ashley. Shortly after arriving at her house, Nicole claimed Ashley had gotten into an argument with Joe on the phone, and soon left to go to a gas station. 20 years later, Ashley's family is still looking for answers. Ashley Eiffert's cousin Madeline Ludwick discusses the details of Ashley's disappearance, her efforts to revive the investigation, and how Hurricane Katrina hindered the case's progress. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club became the face of the rebellion against the status quo during the midpoint of the 20th century. Known for their leather jackets and Harley-Davidson-riding packs, the group developed notoriety for their involvement in various violent crimes, including drug trafficking, extortion, assault, and homicide. Becoming a member of the mysterious organization is a feat that's as difficult as it is dangerous. Retired ATF Special Agent Jay "Jaybird" Dobyns discusses his involvement in a two-year-long undercover operation to infiltrate Hells Angels, the dangers he faced during his assignment, and how he was able to bring justice by taking down some of the most dangerous members. After conducting over 500 undercover investigations spanning over 20 years, Jay Dobyns retired from his career with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. For his bravery and service, Dobyns has been decorated with numerous awards, including the ATF Distinguished Service Medal for Outstanding Investigative Accomplishment, the International Narcotics Officers Association Medal of Valor, the National Association of Police Officers "Top Cop" Award, and the U.S. Attorney General's Medal of Valor. In his best-selling book, No Angel, My Harrowing Undercover Journey to the Inner Circle of the Hells Angels, Dobyns details his treacherous mission of infiltrating Hells Angels. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the Secret Service's greatest assets is its K-9 units. The teams consist of highly-trained Belgian Malinois and their handlers, who together, detect and prevent threats while providing the highest levels of protection to the country's political leaders. One K-9 hero, Hurricane, was recognized for his immense bravery when protecting President Obama and the first family from an intruder who jumped the White House fence. Retired U.S. Secret Service Special Operations Officer and Hurricane's Handler Marshall Mirarchi discusses how he became involved in the Secret Service's K-9 SWAT unit, the story of Hurricane's heroism, and how his nonprofit organization, K-9 Hurricane's Heroes, works to ensure subsidized veterinary care to retired law enforcement and military dogs. Recognized for the fearlessness exhibited when protecting the President, Hurricane received honors including the Secret Service's Award for Meritorious Service, the Department of Homeland Security's Secretary's Award for Valor, the Animal Medical Center in New York City's Top Dog Award, and Great Britain's PDSA Order of Merit. Hurricane was also awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, making him the first dog to ever receive the award. After retiring from the Secret Service, Marshall Mirarchi founded K-9 Hurricane's Heroes, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing Handlers with the financial resources needed to ensure that retired law enforcement and military dogs receive medical care after their retirement. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The art of Ken Perenyi is remarkable, but it's extremely difficult to detect which pieces are his. As a teenager, Ken entered New York City's art scene, admiring famous pieces alongside artists and celebrities alike. Feeling inspired to learn the craft, he taught himself how to paint. Ken soon learned that not only was he a talented artist, but a talented forger as well. With his remarkable ability to reproduce the art of well-known painters, Ken began a 34-year career of forgery, tricking some of the world's most famous art experts along the way. Author of Caveat Emptor: The Secret Life of an American Art Forger Ken Perenyi discusses how he discovered his talent, how he was able to dupe some of the world's most well-known galleries, and the close encounters he had with the FBI throughout his career. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In missing person cases, the first 48 hours is the most important window for the beginning of the investigation. However, complications between state and local police can be an obstacle to bringing federal agencies onto the case. Former Secret Service Special Agent and Liason to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Jeffrey James explains the function and purpose of NCMEC, how the federal government is activated when a missing persons case occurs, and the challenges he's faced throughout his career working on these types of crimes. In 1996, Jeffrey James was sworn in as a United States Secret Service Special Agent, beginning his 22-year-long career within the federal government. During his time in the Secret Service, he was promoted to Assistant Special Agent in Charge and also served as the Liason to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Now, he works as the President of Capitol Security Consultants, as well as the Chief of Police at Robert Morris University. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 15th, 1999, Carole Sund, her 15-year-old daughter Juli, and 16-year-old family friend Silvina Pelosso went missing from their motel room during a trip to Yosemite National Park. An intensive search ensued as law enforcement searched for the trio. The bodies of Carole and Silvina would later be found charred in the shell of their burnt rental car, with Juli's remains to be discovered separately just days later. Horror would again strike Yosemite months later when 26-year-old Joie Armstrong was found murdered near her cabin. Two days later, law enforcement tracked down Cary Stayner, the man responsible for the string of crimes. Former FBI Agent Jeffrey Rinek was the lead investigator on the case. He shares details from the investigation, as well as how he was able to obtain a confession from Stayner himself. More about Jeff: Jeffrey Rinek retired from the FBI after 30 years of service. Throughout his career, Rinek worked on active and cold cases related to crimes against children. In 2003, Rinek received the California Sexual Assault Investigators Association Investigator of the Year Award, making him the first FBI agent to be given the title. In 2006, he was given the International Homicide Investigators Association Award for Excellence. In his book, In the Name of Children, Rinek details some of the cases that defined his career, as well as the impact they had on him. Jeff is also the author of In the Name of the Children: An FBI Agent's Relentless Pursuit of the Nation's Worst Predators. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During his reign of terror, Pablo Escobar was feared not only by Colombians but by people across the world. The lives of police, politicians, journalists, rival gangs, and innocent civilians were lost during his notorious acts of violence at the height of his cocaine smuggling career. Former DEA Special Agents Javier Peña and Steve Murphy were tasked with the impossible mission of taking down Escobar and his deadly cartel. In part two of this story, the duo details the capture and final moments of the notorious drug lord, Pablo Escobar. Steve Murphy was the recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout his law enforcement career, including the “DEA Special Agent of the Year Award,” the “DEA Administrator’s Group Achievement Award,” the “Director’s Award” from DOJ’s OCDETF Program, the “Distinguished Service Cross” from the Republic of Colombia (first time presented to a non-Colombian official), and the “International Award of Honor” from the International Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association. For his efforts, Javier Peña received Colombia’s highest award given to someone, not a Colombian citizen, as well as commendation awards from the DEA and the international community. Additionally, the U.S. Government honored Javier in 2010 with the Presidential Rank Award in 2010, awarded to exceptional career Senior Executive Service (SES) members and Senior Career Employees. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pablo Escobar was one of the world's richest and most dangerous men at the height of his drug smuggling career. Capitalizing on the rise in demand for cocaine within the 70s and 80s, Escobar formed the infamous Medellin Cartel to traffic large shipments of the drug across international borders. Escobar was feared across his home country of Colombia due to his ability to take down any of his adversaries. Although he seemed untouchable, two brave Americans were tasked with the mission of bringing down the murderous kingpin. Former DEA Special Agents Javier Pena and Steve Murphy discuss their careers in law enforcement, their work within the war on drugs, and the manhunt for Pablo Escobar. Steve Murphy was the recipient of numerous awards and honors throughout his law enforcement career, including the "DEA Special Agent of the Year Award," the "DEA Administrator's Group Achievement Award," the "Director's Award" from DOJ's OCDETF Program, the "Distinguished Service Cross" from the Republic of Colombia (first time presented to a non-Colombian official), and the "International Award of Honor" from the International Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association. For his efforts, Javier Peña received Colombia's highest award given to someone, not a Colombian citizen, as well as commendation awards from the DEA and the international community. Additionally, the U.S Government honored Javier in 2010 with the Presidential Rank Award in 2010, awarded to exceptional career Senior Executive Service (SES) members and Senior Career Employees. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a rare courtroom occurrence, Alex Murdaugh's defense attorney requested to bring jurors to the infamous Moselle estate where Maggie and Paul Murdaugh were brutally murdered. The jury toured the Murdaughs' hunting lodge, finding bullet holes from the night of the murder. The following day, the jury reached a verdict, and Alex Murdaugh was found guilty on all counts of the murder of his wife and son. Criminal defense lawyer and former South Carolina U.S. Attorney Bill Nettles explains what happens when juries visit crime scenes, and why it happens during some trials. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On February 9th, 2004, 21-year-old nursing student Maura Murray packed her belongings, emptied her bank account, and left her campus dorm room. After crashing her car along a snowbank in New Hampshire that night, Maura was never seen again. Authorities have worked on the cold case disappearance for years to no avail, leading Maura's family to take it upon themselves to find answers. Julie Murray, Maura's older sister, discusses the details of her sister's disappearance, her efforts to uncover more information, and the impact the case has had on her family. Julie has spearheaded an online campaign dedicated to telling Maura's story, finding more details and information related to the case, and sharing the emotional toll that Maura's disappearance has had on her family. For more updates and information about Maura Murray, visit: https://www.mauramurraymissing.org/ Follow Julie on TikTok: @MauraMurrayMissing Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In 1993, 12-year-old Polly Klaas was abducted from her own home during a slumber party with her friends. Polly was later murdered by her killer, Richard Allen Davis, a man with an extensive criminal history. Marc Klaas, Polly's father, has never stopped fighting for justice, even 30 years later. On this bonus edition of the FOX True Crime Podcast, Emily speaks with Marc to discuss his work with the KlaasKids, a foundation he started to advocate for laws to prevent crimes against children. Later, he shares some of his favorite memories of his daughter. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For young girls, slumber parties are a childhood essential. On October 1st, 1993, 12-year-old Polly Klaas and two of her friends had planned a sleepover after school. It was a night filled with dancing, goofing off, and playing games, but it would soon take a turn for the worse. As the girls got ready for bed, a stranger broke into the home, bound the trio of girls, and kidnapped young Polly at knifepoint, beginning a more than 60-day mystery that captivated the nation. Retired FBI Agent Eddie Freyer was the lead investigator on the case. He shares the efforts that both local and federal law enforcement made to locate Polly and bring her home. Later, he explains how the case would go on to leave a lasting impact on America's criminal justice system. Eddie started his law enforcement career when he joined the FBI in April 1972 (J. Edgar Hoover was still the Director), and worked in the Pittsburgh Field Office. He became an agent in 1976 and was transferred to the Phoenix Office until 1979 when he came to California and was assigned to the San Francisco Field Division. There he worked on financial crimes, special operations, and bank robberies. He was transferred to the Santa Rosa Resident Agency in 1989 as the Senior Agent. Eddie finished his FBI career as the Senior Team Leader of the regional SWAT team, retiring after the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City in 2002. Eddie was the lead investigator of the 1993 Polly Klaas kidnapping/murder case in Petaluma, California. He also created the High Sierra SWAT Team Challenge in 1996 which later became Urban Shield. Eddie instructed at several locations in the Bay Area including, Santa Rosa Training Center, Alameda Regional Training Center, and Mendocino College. Eddie also worked in the private industry as a security consultant. Eddie developed public safety curriculum for a high school career tech program between 2008 and 2009 in the north bay which was offered in 11 area high schools. In 2009, Eddie accepted an assignment with the US Army and was deployed to Iraq for one year where he worked on anti-terrorism targeting and rule of law programs. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In April of 2013, using his experience on both the Hostage Rescue Team and the Crisis Negotiation Unit, retired FBI Special Agent Kyle Vowinkel worked with the CNU in order to secure the peaceful surrender of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, one of the two Boston Marathon bombers. On this bonus edition of The FOX True Crime Podcast, Emily takes a look at Kyle's illustrious career in law enforcement. Kyle Vowinkel served for 24 years as an FBI Special Agent is a former U.S. Army officer, and is a West Point graduate. Kyle served on both the FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) and the Crisis Negotiation Unit (CNU). After his assignments on HRT and the CNU, he used his leadership experiences as a supervisor at multiple FBI offices and retired as Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) in the Miami Division. During his Bureau career, Kyle was deployed to over twenty countries, including China, Qatar, Kenya, South Korea, and Peru, and as a tactical operator on HRT on hundreds of high-risk missions domestically as well as overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. While a member of CNU, he negotiated with kidnappers, pirates, and more. Kyle is a keynote inspirational speaker at events around the world for companies and institutions such as West Point, Cornell University, Google, hostage negotiation seminars, and FBI National Academy events. Later, in 2023, he plans to publish a book sharing stories from his career. Learn more about Kyle: https://www.apexriskconsulting.us/ Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With century-old origins deep in South Carolina's Lowcountry region, the Murdaugh family was known for its long-established legal dynasty within the state. On the night of June 7th, 2021, Maggie Murdaugh and her son, Paul, were found shot dead at the family's hunting lodge. Just over a year later, Alex Murdaugh would be put on trial for the double murder of his wife and son, surfacing a web of mysterious deaths and financial crimes linked to the family. FOX News Atlanta-based Correspondent Jonathan Serrie has been closely following the case and joins to discuss the latest updates. Later, former South Carolina 7th Circuit Solicitor and former U.S. Assistant Attorney Trey Gowdy provides his unique perspective on the trial. Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Warning: This podcast episode contains graphic audio. Midland City, Alabama is the kind of small town where everyone knows their neighbor, for better or for worse. Neighbors of Jimmy Lee Dykes knew him as a hostile recluse to be avoided at all costs. The extent of the danger that Dykes posed wouldn't be realized until January 29th, 2013, when he boarded a school bus, murdered the driver, and took 5-year-old Ethan Gilman hostage. Retired FBI Special Agent Kyle Vowinkel discusses his experience working on the case, and the great lengths his team went to fight for Ethan's safe return. Kyle Vowinkel served for 24 years as an FBI Special Agent is a former U.S. Army officer, and is a West Point graduate. Kyle served on both the FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) and the Crisis Negotiation Unit (CNU). After his assignments on HRT and the CNU, he used his leadership experiences as a supervisor at multiple FBI offices and retired as Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) in the Miami Division. During his Bureau career, Kyle was deployed to over twenty countries, including China, Qatar, Kenya, South Korea, and Peru, and as a tactical operator on HRT on hundreds of high-risk missions domestically as well as overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan. While a member of CNU, he negotiated with kidnappers, pirates, and more. Kyle is a keynote inspirational speaker at events around the world for companies and institutions such as West Point, Cornell University, Google, hostage negotiation seminars, and FBI National Academy events. Later, in 2023, he plans to publish a book sharing stories from his career. Learn more about Kyle: https://www.apexriskconsulting.us/ Follow Emily on Instagram: @realemilycompagno Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“The FOX True Crime Podcast with Emily Compagno” will tell the stories of those impacted by true crime in America. Each week, Emily Compagno – Co-Host of Outnumbered on The FOX News Channel - will be joined by a team of FOX News Digital true crime reporters, legal and law enforcement experts, along with the latest insights from the FOX News Investigative Team. Emily will bring stories of survival, solved and unsolved murders, America's Most Wanted killers, missing persons, and celebrity crime trials. This podcast will bring the listener into the story, as told by the people involved and those reporting on the ground. The first episode is available on Tuesday February 28th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices