The FOX True Crime Podcast

Host Chanley Painter and former law enforcement officer Mike King discuss the rise of Samuel Bateman, who exploited the power vacuum left by Warren Jeffs' imprisonment to establish a splinter group characterized by generational indoctrination and coercive control. The episode explores the psychological manipulation used by cult leaders to control both lifelong members and new recruits, noting how charisma is often granted by followers. The discussion further examines the extreme difficulties faced by those raised in generational cults who lack outside life experience. The speakers conclude with advice on identifying red flags, such as a sudden lack of transparency, and how recruiters target vulnerable individuals by exploiting personal hardships.

The FBI has become involved in an investigation regarding the discovery of a newborn baby's body found in a port-a-potty at the Electric Forest Music Festival in Rothbury, West Michigan. The body was discovered on June 28th by a restroom vending company employee during routine maintenance at Double JJ Ranch. Preliminary autopsy findings from the Michigan State Police indicate that the infant was viable and born alive. The FBI's Detroit field office is assisting Michigan State Police with the investigation and has offered a $15,000 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of those responsible. Authorities have expressed confidence that forensic science and ongoing investigative efforts will identify a suspect.

Host Chanley Painter and former prosecutor Joshua Ritter analyze the recent five-day preliminary hearing regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk. They examine the overwhelming evidence presented, including multiple confessions and video footage, while discussing the intense media scrutiny and the prevalence of conspiracy theories surrounding the case. The discussion also covers the prosecution's strength, the defense's strategy of attempting to delay proceedings, and potential challenges with jury selection. While the evidence appears solid, Ritter notes that significant delays are expected, making a trial within this calendar year unlikely.

The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has arrested 70-year-old Gary Edward Glovatch in connection with the 1987 murder of 20-year-old Melissa Ellison. The case, which involved Ellison being found with blunt force trauma injuries in her Jacksonville, Florida, home, had remained cold for nearly four decades until Glovatch contacted authorities to provide information. Glovatch now faces charges of murder and burglary following his arrest.

Gianna Jolosi reports on the investigation into the death of 35-year-old Brooke Hanlon, who was found stabbed inside her home in Chester, New Jersey, on June 6th. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit has confirmed that her husband, Connor Hanlon, has obtained a lawyer and is communicating with investigators, though he has not been charged with any crime. Authorities have noted that the victim suffered multiple sharp force injuries and cardiac arrest, but as of one month after the incident, no arrests have been made and no suspects have been identified.

Author Tony Wright discusses the discovery of the Yuba County Five's remains in the Plumas National Forest, detailing the mysterious circumstances surrounding Ted Weir's death and the ongoing mystery of Gary Mathias, who remains missing. The episode explores various theories regarding the group's disappearance, including potential foul play or local vendettas. The conversation also examines how the lack of modern technology and the contamination of the crime scene hindered the investigation. Wright reflects on the missed forensic opportunities and expresses his hope for finding answers before the 50th anniversary of the case in 2028.

A 41-year-old cold case involving the hotel murder of traveling salesman John Warren has been solved. Warren, an employee of an auto parts company, was found dead in his Middletown, Ohio, Holiday Inn room on October 17, 1985, after a robbery left his belongings and 1985 Oldsmobile missing. The investigation, which went cold for decades, was reopened in 2019 when items found behind a Cracker Barrel in Dalton, Georgia, were sent to crime labs for analysis. Through forensic analysis of the recovered items, detectives identified 62-year-old Randy McAllister of Columbus, Ohio, as a suspect. McAllister now faces murder and aggravated murder charges. The investigation also identified an accomplice who has since passed away.

Host Chanley Painter and author Tony Wright discuss the mysterious 1978 disappearance of the Yuba County Five, a group of five men who vanished while traveling home from a basketball game. The episode explores the backgrounds of the men and the baffling discovery of their abandoned, unlocked vehicle in the Plumas National Forest. The discussion delves into the suspicious circumstances surrounding the abandonment of the car and investigates various theories, including potential foul play in Oroville and the unreliable witness testimonies that have complicated the search efforts.

A cold case from 1985 involving the death of an infant known as Baby Boy Doe of Mansfield, Massachusetts, has been reopened due to advancements in forensic genetic genealogy. The newborn's body was discovered in the woods by a father and son hunting rabbits, leading to a decades-long investigation that remained unsolved until 2022. DNA evidence recovered from a soda bottle has now linked Diane Curry Peck to the death of her son. Peck, who was a 17-year and student at the time of the incident, has pleaded not guilty to murder charges.

The Fox True Crime Minute reports on the murder investigation involving the family of Baltimore Raven star Calais Campbell. Nathiel Campbell, 71, was found dead in her Buckhead, Atlanta townhouse following a welfare check initiated by concerned relatives. The suspect, Sierra Campbell, a former college football player at Colorado State and the University of Montana, was taken into custody after barricading himself inside the home. Charges against the 41-year-old include murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm or knife during the commission of a felony.

Dr. John Van Dyke discusses how the Lindbergh kidnapping case established a blueprint for modern conspiracy theories, noting how people often favor sensational narratives over simple, evidence-based explanations. He explores the role of unreliable witnesses and the impact of modern technology in spreading unverified claims. The episode also addresses various misconceptions surrounding the kidnapping, including debunking claims regarding the child's health and the unfounded theory that Charles Lindbergh was involved in his son's death. The discussion concludes with a lesson on applying the principle of parsimony to historical evidence.

This episode of Fox True Crime Minute covers the recent status hearing for Alex Murdaugh's second murder trial. The report details legal disputes regarding courtroom attire, the use of shackles, and the defense's request for DNA analysis involving unknown male DNA found under his late wife's fingernails. It provides background on Murdaugh's previous convictions for financial crimes and the overturning of his initial murder convictions by the state Supreme Court due to judicial misconduct.

Host Shanley Painter and Dr. John D. Van Dyke explore the 1932 kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh Jr., a case famously known as the 'crime of the century.' The episode delves into the intense media coverage, the various conspiracy theories that have emerged over the decades, and the forensic evidence regarding the child's death. The discussion details the investigation and trial of Bruno Richard Hauptmann, highlighting forensic breakthroughs involving handwriting, ransom money, and wood expert testimony that linked him to the crime. The conversation also addresses the impact of Lindbergh's global fame and the role of modern forensic science in re-examining the case.

This episode of Fox True Crime Minute covers the case of David Vandermeer, a former youth pastor who died by suicide in a jail cell shortly after being charged with the murder of his wife, Bernadette. The incident occurred on their wedding anniversary in 2006 at Angels Landing in Zion National Park, where Bernadette's death was initially ruled an accident. The investigation reopened following a tip from a former church official alleging that Vandermeer pushed his wife. The report also details allegations of misconduct during Vandermeer's time as a youth pastor, including an affair with a minor and hosting underage parties.

Pennsylvania authorities have announced a significant break in a high-profile cold case involving the 2022 murders of Richard and Rita Zajko in a Philadelphia suburb. Michelle Zajko, the couple's 33-year-old daughter, has been charged with arranging the gunshot murders, which occurred on her 30th birthday. The investigation has uncovered links between the crime and a recent shootout in northern Vermont involving a Border Patrol agent. Investigators are exploring connections to the Zizians, described as a cult-like group of AI-obsessed transgender vegans, and are currently working to identify a second suspect captured on security footage at the crime scene. The report also includes a promotional announcement for the Fox News Wine Shop.

Historian Harold Schechter explores the 1927 Bath School disaster in Michigan, detailing how Andrew Kehoe used his position on the school board to plant explosives. The discussion examines the mechanics of the attack, the perpetrator's motivations, and the distinction between the psychological profiles of serial murder and mass murder. The episode also investigates why this significant tragedy was largely overshadowed in public memory by Charles Lindbergh's transatlantic flight. Schechter describes the devastating impact on the community and the horrific scene of destruction found at Kehoe's farm.

Gianna Jolosi presents a Fox True Crime Minute report regarding the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, the 84-year-old mother of NBC Today show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. The investigation into her disappearance from her home near Tucson, Arizona, has revealed conflicting ransom notes, with a second note claiming Guthrie had passed away and was buried with nature. The FBI has recovered doorbell camera footage showing an armed and masked man at the residence on the morning of the disappearance, though the case remains an active mystery.

Host Chanley Painter and therapist Denise Brady examine the psychological dimensions of the Mackenzie Shrilla case, analyzing how upbringing, a lack of parental boundaries, and the pursuit of social media validation may have fueled destructive behavior. The discussion explores the impact of social media culture on accountability and the profound, long-term trauma experienced by victims' families. The episode further delves into the concept of 'compound grief' and the critical distinction between parental support and enablement. The conversation concludes with reflections on the importance of setting boundaries and the often-overlooked emotional impact of such crimes on the families of the perpetrator.

Gianna Jolosi reports on a significant legal development in the case of Luigi Mangione, the 28-year-old accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Attorneys for Mangione have reversed course and dropped a mental health defense in a state trial just one day after it was filed. While an extreme emotional disturbance defense could have potentially led to a manslaughter conviction rather than murder, the defense chose to withdraw the psychiatric case to avoid unsealing certain records.

This episode of Fox True Crime Minute covers the sentencing of Rex Heuermann, the Gilgo Beach serial killer. Judge Timothy Mazzei delivered a scathing rebuke to Heuermann, describing him as a disgusting and despicable small man during the court proceedings. Heuermann was sentenced to three consecutive life terms plus an additional 100 years following his confession to the murders of eight women, primarily sex workers, whose remains were discovered between 1993 and 2011. The investigation reached a breakthrough when DNA from a discarded pizza crust in Manhattan led to his arrest in 2023. The prosecution detailed how Heuermann utilized burner phones and fake email accounts to evade detection while treating the murders like a game.

Journalist Ted Rollins joins Chanley Painter to discuss the Gabby Petito case, detailing the investigation into her disappearance and the subsequent manhunt for Brian Laundrie. The episode covers the role of social media sleuths, the chilling details revealed by police body camera footage, and the forensic evidence that led to the discovery of Laundrie's remains. The discussion further explores the aftermath of the investigation, focusing on the conduct of the Laundrie family and the impact of the case on domestic violence awareness. The speakers reflect on the lessons learned regarding harmful relationships and the disparity between social media personas and reality.

Gianna Jolosi reports on the case of 16-year-old Timothy Hudson, who has surrendered to U.S. Marshals following a judge's order to revoke his pretrial release. Hudson is charged with the murder and sexual assault of his step-sister, 18-year-old Anna Kepner, during a Carnival Cruise Line voyage through international waters. The incident occurred during a family cruise following the marriage of Hudson's mother to Kepner's father. Hudson has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and aggravated sexual abuse, facing a potential life sentence if convicted.

This episode explores the 2019 murders of Christine Melton and Diane Ruiz in Cape Coral, Florida, by Wade Wilson. It examines the investigation into Wilson's criminal history and the disturbing phenomenon of his 'Deadpool Killer' persona, where his physical appearance led to a cult-like social media following and even a GoFundMe for his appeal. The discussion delves into the trial proceedings, including the defense's mental illness argument and the courtroom atmosphere. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of shifting public attention away from the perpetrator's image and back toward the devastating impact his crimes had on the victims and their families.

The New Hampshire Supreme Court has overturned the second-degree murder conviction of Adam Montgomery regarding the death of his five-year-old daughter, Harmony. The court determined that Montgomery did not receive a fair trial because his request to separate the murder charge from other counts, such as assault, was denied. While the court upheld convictions for related charges including abuse of a corpse, tampering with evidence, and assault, the New Hampshire Department of Justice has announced plans to pursue a retrial on the murder charge.

FBI Director Kash Patel has announced the surrender of Saeed Abdullah Arag, a former Minneapolis grocery and deli owner, marking the first arrest on the FBI's new most wanted fraudsters list. Arag is accused of orchestrating a massive fraud scheme that diverted more than $4.2 million from the federal child nutrition program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Operating under the nonprofit Feeding Our Future, the defendant allegedly claimed to serve thousands of meals to children in need to fraudulently obtain government reimbursements and launder proceeds through foreign accounts. The case involves charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering. Prosecutors allege the funds were used to finance a lavish lifestyle while the business falsely reported serving over 3,000 meals twice daily, seven days a week.

Investigative genetic genealogist CeCe Moore discusses the complexities of solving the 1991 Austin yogurt shop murders using advanced DNA technology. She explains how her work identifying serial killer Robert Eugene Brashears through Y chromosome profiling and ballistics eventually provided the foundation to link him to the Austin crimes. The episode also explores the broader impact of genetic genealogy, highlighting its power to both identify perpetrators and exonerate the innocent. While advancements now allow for the analysis of degraded or mixed DNA, the speaker emphasizes that the presence of usable DNA remains a critical requirement and that funding continues to be a significant barrier for many agencies.

A South Carolina judge has been assigned to oversee the legal proceedings following the overturning of Alec Murdoch's convictions for the murders of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul. South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice John W. Kitteridge issued an order granting Judge Deborah R. McCaslin jurisdiction over the indictments related to the 2021 killings at the family's Colleton County estate. The case reversal follows allegations that the jury was improperly influenced by former Colleton County clerk of court, Rebecca Hill.

This episode explores the 1991 Austin yogurt shop murders, a case marked by the tragic deaths of four young girls and a crime scene destroyed by arson. The investigation initially led to the convictions of several young men based on coerced confessions, which were later overturned due to constitutional violations and a lack of corroborating evidence. The narrative follows the breakthrough provided by advanced DNA technology and investigative genetic genealogy, which eventually identified serial killer Robert Eugene Brashears as the true perpetrator. The discussion highlights the devastating impact of wrongful prosecution on the exonerated men and the ongoing difficulty for families to find closure when the motive behind such crimes remains unknown.

Actor James Handy has died after being found stabbed to death in Los Angeles County, California. Police report that the 81-year-old actor was found unconscious outside a home with multiple stab wounds to his chest. Investigators have arrested 44-year-old Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy's girlfriend, following a 911 call where the suspect allegedly admitted to the killing. Handy was a veteran actor known for roles in Jumanji and Top Gun Maverick.

Gianna Jolosi presents a Fox True Crime Minute report regarding the legal proceedings of OnlyFans model Courtney Clenny. Clenny is currently awaiting trial for the second-degree murder of her boyfriend, Christian Obumselli, who was fatally stabbed in their Miami apartment in April 2022. The report covers recent updates from a pretrial hearing where defense attorneys claimed to have examined crucial evidence, including the knives involved, and announced upcoming depositions.

Former FBI agent Ken Maxwell discusses the investigation into Benjamin Kyle, revealing that his claims of amnesia and physical trauma were likely fabrications. Through medical records, a 1976 missing persons report, and forensic analysis of a laptop, investigators uncovered evidence of a manipulative individual attempting to hide his true identity and digital history. The investigation further explores the subject's connections to a criminal past in Indiana and the deceptive nature of Bill Powell. The discussion covers Powell's use of identity theft to live under the radar and his mysterious disappearance and whereabouts between 1983 and 2004.

The Fox True Crime Minute reports on the discovery of 53-year-old Melissa Casillas, an administrative assistant at Los Alamos National Lab, whose remains were found by a hiker in a New Mexico national forest. Casillas had been missing since June 26th of last year, and her discovery follows the finding of a handgun near her body. The investigation highlights a pattern of concern, as Casillas is one of at least ten individuals with high-level access to sensitive U.S. nuclear and aerospace research who have disappeared or died under mysterious circumstances in recent years.

This episode explores the mysterious case of Benjamin Kyle, a man discovered in Georgia in 2004 with no memory of his identity. The investigative team behind 'The Many Lives of Benjamin Kyle' discusses their decade-long journey to uncover evidence suggesting his amnesia was a calculated cover for a new identity. The investigation delves into medical inconsistencies, including evidence of malingering, and follows crucial leads provided by a witness connected to a criminal enterprise. The team also shares the personal toll of the investigation, including the experience of facing threats directed at their families.

A murder suspect, Jacob Baker of Pahoa, Hawaii, has been arrested following an intense search involving state and federal authorities on the Big Island. The 36-year-old faces suspicion in the deaths of three men, including a 69-year-old man found strangled in a cement apartment pond and a 79-year-old man found nearby. The investigation also links him to the death of a third man, aged 69, who died of sharp force trauma 19 miles away. The arrests followed a manhunt through remote tropical landscapes and lava fields, culminating in Baker being discovered hiding in a small cave after a chase through the jungle. While police have not yet identified a motive, authorities expressed confidence in his involvement in all three killings.