RedHanded Episode 41 - How Not to Fake Your Death: John Darwin - Canoe Man
Apr 12, 2018
John Darwin, a man who faked his death and disappeared for 5 years, discusses the challenges of setting up a new life and acquiring false documents. The hosts explore his failed property ventures, dark threats, and plans for a hotel featuring 'Canutors'. The podcast also delves into the world of faking deaths, discussing real-life examples and offering advice on creating new identities, acquiring Bitcoin, and obtaining a fake passport.
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The Canoe Disappearance And Hidden Return
- John Darwin paddled out in his handmade red canoe and disappeared, triggering a costly search and later an inquest that declared him dead.
- He actually hid nearby, resurfaced later, and used a false identity to live covertly with his wife for years.
Death Certificate As Financial Shortcut
- Anne and John used a false death to access life insurance and mortgage protection payouts to settle debts.
- The scheme relied on getting a death certificate fast because insurers delay payouts without one.
Identity Theft Using A Dead Baby's Birth Record
- John stole the birth certificate of a baby who died in 1950 to assume the identity 'John Jones' and opened a bank account.
- He then obtained a passport using that identity and even used his real address on the application.