Uncover: Calls From a Killer
CBC
What does a reporter do when they receive a cold call from one of the most horrific serial killers in Canadian history?The killer: Clifford Olson, who murdered at least eleven children in the 1980s. The reporter: Arlene Bynon, who recorded her jailhouse calls with Olson for years.Alongside legendary journalist Peter Worthington, Arlene spent hundreds of hours on the phone with Olson. It was kept secret from his prison guards; he wasn't allowed to speak to the media.In Calls From a Killer, from CBC’s Uncover, Arlene unearths secrets that have been buried for decades. Secrets about Olson's crimes, about how police failed his young victims and their families — and why law enforcement paid a psychopathic serial killer $100,000. With Nathaniel Frum — Peter's grandson — Arlene exposes hard truths about a forgotten tragedy, a bungled investigation, the loved ones left behind, and the mind of a killer. About UNCOVER: Crime. Investigation. Revelation. Uncover brings you explosive, high-caliber true crime year-round. From CIA mind control to serial abuse, mysterious disappearances to wrongful imprisonment. Each season features a new host who is deeply connected to the story, committed to tracking down the truth. With over 30 seasons to choose from, Uncover represents the best in true crime.For early access to episodes, plus ad-free listening, visit apple.co/cbctruecrime.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 25, 2023 • 31min
S23 E6: Mr. Big | "The Pit"
Police have Sheree’s alleged killer behind bars, but the suspect says he was scared into a confession. Our reporters investigate the controversial police technique that led to his arrest. Meanwhile, people close to Sheree break their silence.
Dec 25, 2023 • 12min
S23 Update Episode: What happened in court | "The Pit"
Greg Fertuck appeared in court for a two-week preliminary hearing in January, 2020. The goal was to decide if he should be tried for murder. This short update explains what happened.
Dec 25, 2023 • 35min
S23 E7: Needle in a haystack | "The Pit"
A close relative thinks Sheree was dumped somewhere near the gravel pit. Police and volunteers searched the area when she disappeared, and again after the arrest. Could the searchers have overlooked her remains?
Dec 25, 2023 • 23min
S23 E8: The Trial | "The Pit"
The podcast discusses the upcoming murder trial of Greg Fertock and the factors that could decide the verdict. Greg's lawyer explains why he's representing him despite not trusting or believing him. Sheree's sisters contemplate their expectations from the trial as Sheree is still missing.
Dec 25, 2023 • 34min
S23 E9: Six More Months | "The Pit"
A last minute decision puts the trial on hold for another six months. Sheree's family is shocked, and Greg is still in jail. Why would Greg's lawyers want their client in jail longer, and why couldn't this case go ahead when others have? Meanwhile someone close to Sheree finally speaks up.
Dec 25, 2023 • 32min
S23 E10: The case against Greg | "The Pit"
Prosecutors and police reveal their evidence against Greg, including blood DNA and cell phone data. They build a timeline of the day Sheree disappeared, but Greg tells a different version of what happened on December 7, 2015.
Dec 25, 2023 • 35min
S23 E11: Testimony | "The Pit"
Greg's children testify against him in court. Police reveal what set the Mr. Big operation in motion, as observers consider whether the judge will accept the confession from it.
Dec 25, 2023 • 38min
S23 E12: Just between you and me | "The Pit"
The Mr. Big illusion is lifted. Greg's so-called friends turn out to be cops. As details of the elaborate web of deception are revealed in court, we hear what Greg tells the crime boss. Our reporters learn more about Justice Danyliuk.
Dec 25, 2023 • 46min
S23 E13: New Evidence | "The Pit"
A rural couple makes an unusual discovery under a shed and is called to testify in court. Greg forces his own lawyers to make a difficult decision. The trial brings more surprises as the seventh anniversary of Sheree’s disappearance passes by.
Dec 25, 2023 • 34min
S23 E14: Grievances | "The Pit"
Greg explains why he thinks he’s the victim. As witnesses are questioned again, Greg appears in court on another matter. The judge gives a stern lesson in courtroom etiquette.
