Crime Salad

Born on September 7, 2019, Journey—referred to as J.G. in legal documents—had a heartbreaking start to life in Tulare County, California. It didn’t take long for Tulare County Child Welfare Services (CWS) to begin receiving multiple reports concerning Journey’s safety and well-being. In the year leading up to Journey’s birth, his father became consumed by conspiracy theories and developed a dangerous plan to raise an entirely plant-based baby. Journey’s parents took their beliefs to an extreme, feeding their newborn a diet of blended bananas, dates, and honey—ignoring his basic nutritional needs for breast milk or infant formula. Despite repeated calls from Journey’s grandmother to Child Protective Services (CPS), no effective action was taken until it was tragically too late. Miraculously, Journey survived the severe neglect and abuse, but he now faces lifelong challenges as a result of the trauma he endured. Thanks to our sponsors!  BetterHelp: Visit better help.com/crime salad to get 10% off your first month. Kikoff: Build credit fast and get your first month FREE at GetKikoff.com/crimesalad today. Thanks to Kikoff for sponsoring us! Shopify: Sign up for your $1 per month trial and start selling today at shopify.com/crime salad.  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Journey Tulare County  J.G. CPS case Tulare County child neglect Plant-based baby neglect Child Protective Services failure Tulare County CPS lawsuit Infant neglect California Journey child abuse survivor Tulare County Child Welfare Services CPS failure California Child nutrition neglect Honey dates baby diet Child abuse true crime Journey survivor story Child welfare reform California

In this episode we investigate the heartbreaking disappearance and tragic fate of Kei’Mani Latigue, a 13-year-old girl from Toledo, Ohio, whose story devastated her family and community. As new information and interviews with Kei’Mani’s loved ones emerge, we explore critical questions: Could earlier intervention have saved her? What role did suspected abuse and potential failures by child protective services play in the events leading up to her death? We trace the chilling timeline from March 17th, 2025—the day Kei’Mani vanished—uncovering the clues left behind and examining the actions of key individuals connected to her household.  Keywords: Kei’Mani Latigue, Toledo Ohio, missing teen, child abuse case, CPS failure, true crime podcast, March 2025, Ohio disappearance, vulnerable children, child safety, legal guardianship, emotional storytelling, investigative podcast. Be sure to check out our amazing sponsor this week: FUM: Head to:  https://www.tryfum.com/salad and use promo code salad to kick your bad habit today! References:  https://people.com/keimani-latigue-cause-of-death-revealed-11703522 https://youtu.be/6-k6XlSzXA0?si=wqMbvaSHNGZLnt2u https://booth.law/advocating-for-child-safety-how-communities-can-hold-cps-accountable/  https://www.nationalchildrensalliance.org/media-room/national-statistics-on-child-abuse/ https://youtu.be/Q2e32PLM4VA?si=f-KWGqS72OHNO1fI https://co.lucas.oh.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1891 https://www.wtol.com/article/news/special-reports/keimani/lucas-county-children-services-addresses-keimani-latigue-case/512-5f2d366c-33b0-4b09-bf22-46cc786582cb https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/26/this-feels-preventable-keimani-latigues-former-teacher-speaks-out-community-vigil-toledo-teen/ https://www.wtol.com/article/news/crime/keimani-latigue-toledo-buffalo-soldiers-ohio-news-local/512-00ea9544-4a17-44ec-b7af-47b6c23fb359 https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/26/local-leaders-consider-task-force-look-into-children-services-details-about-keimani-latigue-come-light/ https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/29/protestors-march-outside-lucas-county-children-services-keimani-latigues-birthday/ https://youtu.be/RIwV7nmQ2So?si=xlYiYnCbthma_O7d https://youtu.be/TwyBGdWhB2o?si=BTme77c8TUd6hkxB https://www.wtol.com/article/news/crime/keimani-latigue-grandmother-not-arrested-police-say/512-dd4ed1e9-a471-4853-94cb-ca6d694f23a9 https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/19/police-family-searching-missing-13-year-old/ https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/24/father-missing-toledo-girl-charged/ https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/22/search-party-gathers-look-missing-13-year-old-north-toledo/ https://www.wtol.com/article/news/special-reports/keimani/qa-tpd-chief-troendle-on-the-keimani-latigue-missing-child-investigation-and-murder-case-darnell-jones-toledo-police/512-f3aac941-a590-4194-abcd-c7f56ced73ee https://www.13abc.com/2025/03/26/city-leaders-seek-answers-abuse-allegation-reports-following-keimani-latigue-case-developments/ https://www.toledoblade.com/local/police-fire/2025/03/29/accused-murderer-has-history-violent-offenses/stories/20250329019 https://www.wtol.com/article/news/local/missing-13-year-old-keimani-latigue-family-searches/512-6f3eee36-d1d3-416d-b51a-3ef6b2b3df14 https://americanspcc.org/child-maltreatment-statistics/ https://www.childhelphotline.org https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2065955/ https://www.childwelfare.gov/resources/states-territories-tribes/state-liaison-officers-child-abuse-and-neglect/?rt=809 https://www.stopitnow.org/ohc-content/what-can-i-do-when-the-system-seems-unable-to-protect-my-child https://www.americanbar.org/groups/dispute_resolution/resources/just-resolutions/2024-september/childrens-ombudsman-what-they-are-and-how-to-access-services/ https://justiceforchildren.org/about-us/system-is-failing-our-children/

Natalia Grace was once described as a child straight out of a horror movie — a Ukrainian orphan accused of lying about her age, abandoned by her adoptive family, and cast into a storm of suspicion and media frenzy. But behind the headlines is a real child who endured abuse, neglect, and deep betrayal. In this episode, we look past the sensationalism to tell Natalia’s story. We explore how a vulnerable young girl became the subject of national speculation and what her case reveals about the systems that failed her. Content warning: This episode includes discussions of child abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Listener discretion is advised. Get ad-free episodes when you subscribe on Apple Podcasts or support us on Patreon. Check out crimesalad.shop for Crime Salad Merch!!

What really happened in Room 22 of Patty’s Lodge in the quiet town of Canandaigua, New York? When 24-year-old Sam Nordquist boarded a flight to meet someone he’d connected with online, he carried with him nothing but hope. Known by everyone who loved him as kind-hearted and genuine, Sam was looking forward to the possibility of something real — a new chapter in life and maybe even love. But what was waiting for him in New York was not what it seemed. What unfolded next would become the most painful and unjust chapter of his life — and a nightmare his family is still trying to understand. In this episode, we share Sam’s story: a young man led by trust and warmth, a family forever changed, and a search for truth that refuses to be silenced. This is a story of betrayal, heartbreak, and a community demanding justice. Justice for Sam Nordquist . Important links supporting this case:  Justice for Sam Nordquist Gofundme: https://gofund.me/86190ffa The National Domestic Violence Hotline is here to help. Connect with a trained advocate 24/7 for free, confidential support. *Please be careful when accessing the website — it has a quick exit feature, but it may still appear in your browser history. If you're concerned for your safety, consider calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or texting "START" to 88788 instead. 🖥️ Chat online at thehotline.org 📞 Call 800.799.7233 📱 Text START to 88788 Help is always available. You deserve to be safe. Thanks to our sponsors!  Kikoff:  Build credit fast and get your first month for just a dollar at GetKikoff.com/crimesalad Thanks to Kikoff for sponsoring us! Lume: Get 15% off your first order at LumeDeodorant.com with code CRIMESALAD—stay fresh, dry, and confident from head to toe!

A desperate 32-year-old man who risked everything to escape the nightmare he'd been trapped in for years.  His prison: a locked room inside a quiet house in Waterbury, Connecticut. Starved, abused, and neglected, he weighed just 68 pounds—less than the average 10-year-old. With no way out and no hope left, he made a final, desperate choice: he set his room on fire. Using only a lighter, hand sanitizer, and paper, he sparked the blaze that could either end his life—or save it.  It triggered a race against time as firefighters rushed to a home no one suspected was hiding a horror story. Kimberly Sullivan, his stepmother, is now charged with imprisoning him for over two decades—but she denies everything. Her attorneys claim there’s no real evidence tying her to the abuse.  This man lost decades of his life—hidden from the world, voiceless. But now, his story is being told. If you're worried a child may be experiencing abuse, help is available. Contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline by calling or texting 800-422-4453, or visit childhelphotline.org to chat with a live crisis counselor. They're available 24/7 to listen, offer support, and guide you on the next steps. You don't have to face this alone — someone is always ready to help. Sponsors for this episode! LUME: Get over 40% off Lume’s Starter Pack plus free shipping with code CRIMESALAD at LumeDeodorant.com—smell great everywhere! SHOPIFY: Start your $1/month trial and upgrade your business at shopify.com/crimesalad 

In this gripping episode, we delve into the tragic story of Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old sports reporter for Telemundo Kansas City, who was found dead in his New Orleans hotel room on February 5, 2025, while covering Super Bowl LIX. Surveillance footage revealed that Adan was last seen with Danette Colbert, infamously known as the "Bourbon Street Hustler," who has a notorious history of fraud and theft. Authorities suspect that Colbert may have drugged Adan to facilitate a robbery, as similar accusations have been made against her in the past. This episode explores the events leading up to Adan's untimely death, the ongoing investigation, and the broader implications of such crimes in vibrant cities like New Orleans. Join us as we uncover the details of this heartbreaking case and discuss the measures travelers can take to protect themselves from similar dangers. Thanks to our sponsor: Miracle Made’s silver-infused bedding TryMiracle.com/CRIMESALAD and use code CRIMESALAD to get over 40% off plus a FREE 3-piece towel set!

It’s been nearly fifteen years since Tanya Zuvers last saw her three sons—Andrew, Alexander, and Tanner Skelton. But instead of a long-awaited reunion, she’s now standing in a Lenawee County probate courtroom in Michigan, alongside her attorney, making a request that no parent should ever have to make: Tanya has come before the court to petition for her children, who would now be adults, to be declared legally unalived. After years of searching, hoping, and fearing—it’s an acknowledgment of the unthinkable. A declaration that her children, who vanished under the care of their father in 2010, are never coming home. This is the story of the Skelton brothers—a story of loss, unanswered questions, and a fight for justice.  Thanks to the sponsor of this week's show: BetterHelp Visit betterhelp.com/crimesalad to get 10% off your first month.

A middle-aged man with graying hair leaned against his balcony railing, taking in the familiar seaside view. The waves crashed gently against the shore, a sight he had admired for years. He let out a quiet chuckle, bringing a thick cigar to his lips. The rich smoke curled into the evening air as he grinned to himself—satisfied but not free from the past. Join Ashley and Ricky as they conclude Stolen Betrayal: The Life and Tragedy of Lita McClinton, Part 3. In this final chapter, we will unravel the shocking truth behind a story of love, deception, and ultimate betrayal. Will Lita and her family ever get justice? Don’t miss the gripping conclusion to this unforgettable case. Thanks for supporting Crime Salad! Please share our show, find us on social media, and leave a 5-star review to show your love. Your support helps us continue bringing you compelling true crime stories. Also, check out CRIMESALAD.SHOP for some new, updated Crime Salad hoodies and shirts. <3 Thanks to our sponsors for this episode:   Quince: Shop high-quality essentials at unbeatable prices. Get FREE shipping and 365-day returns when you go to Quince.com/crimesalad today! 🛍️💎 Kikoff: Build credit fast and get your first month for just a dollar at GetKikoff.com/crimesalad today. Thanks to Kikoff for sponsoring us!

A chilling tale unfolds from the tragic case of Angela Brandt, whose life changed dramatically during a quiet family night. Gunshots erupted, revealing her brother Charlie's terrifying descent into violence. The aftermath explores the psychological complexities of trauma as the family attempts to rebuild their lives. Secrets of Charlie's dark nature and his tumultuous marriage raise unsettling questions about forgiveness and the implications of familial violence. Dive into the intricacies of trust, loyalty, and the shadows lurking behind seemingly normal facades.

In Part 2 of Stolen Betrayal: The Life and Tragedy of Lita McClinton, we dive into the twisted motives, the hired hitman, and the decades-long pursuit of justice for a woman who deserved so much more. Power, greed, and a cold-blooded plan. Jim Sullivan, a wealthy businessman with everything to lose, was hundreds of miles away in Florida when his estranged wife, Lita McClinton, answered the door to what should have been an ordinary delivery. Instead, she met a bullet. The brutal murder was no random act—it was orchestrated with chilling precision by a man who refused to let go. Fueled by greed and an unchecked ego, Sullivan’s desire for control didn’t end with divorce papers. He wanted Lita erased. But how did he pull off a murder from another state? And how did investigators finally unravel the tangled web of deception? Our favorite bed sheets: TryMiracle.com/CRIMESALAD and use code CRIMESALAD to get over 40% off—plus a FREE three-piece towel set!