The sex-mad geisha who sliced off her lover’s genitals, strangled him with a kimono belt, and carved her name into his arm, is perhaps Japan’s most famous criminal of the 20th century.Today, Abe’s story is practically a part of Japanese folklore. So how did this brutal killer become an unlikely celebrity, feminist icon and star of stage and screen? What exactly is a geisha? And what does her story tell us about the mystifying world of Japanese sexuality today?Exclusive bonus content:Wondery - Ad-free & ShortHandPatreon - Ad-free & Bonus EpisodesFollow us on social media:YouTubeTikTokInstagramVisit our website:WebsiteSources available on redhandedpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The brutal hatchet murders of Andrew and Abby Borden are still among the most infamous and hotly debated cases in true-crime history.Truly springing from the pages of your favourite murder mystery – with seemingly innocent housekeepers, “evil stepmothers”, and precocious ladies of luxury aplenty – there’s a lot of fact and a lot of fiction to wade through. Join us as we discover the real story behind the infamous Lizzie Andrew Borden, and the trial that swept the English-speaking world.Exclusive bonus content:Wondery - Ad-free & ShortHandPatreon - Ad-free & Bonus EpisodesFollow us on social media:YouTubeTikTokInstagramXVisit our website:WebsiteSources available on redhandedpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With Ross Ulbricht now a free man thanks to his recent presidential pardon we thought it would a good idea to look back at who he is, what he did, and what he represented as "The Dread Pirate Roberts". So enjoy our episode from all the way back in March 2023 for some all important context on the internets iconic drug kingpin, and decide for yourself: Should he be walking free?--For some, the end of the world's most infamous online marketplace was a major victory in the never ending war on drugs. But for others, the global, multi-agency investigation into the Silk Road set a dangerous precedent for law enforcement – who rifled through the personal data of countless innocent users in their hunt for the elusive online drug-lord/revolutionary: Dread Pirate Roberts.So prepare for a trip on the Silk Road, and find out how a tax inspector hanging out on a hallucinogenic mushroom forum caught one of the most slippery criminals we’ve ever covered.Exclusive bonus content:Wondery - Ad-free & ShortHandPatreon - Ad-free & Bonus EpisodesFollow us on social media:YouTubeTikTokInstagramXVisit our website:WebsiteSources available on redhandedpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The world’s media painted Brock Turner as a promising young swimmer – an Olympic hopeful with everything to lose. Whereas his anonymous victim was identified only from the police report: a blackout-drunk girl, passed out by some bins at a frat party, claiming sexual assault.Turner’s expensive team of lawyers did everything they could to further debase and defame the victim’s testimony. But they hadn’t counted on coming up against Chanel Miller. Miller’s unflinching impact statement started a movement worldwide, and became a kind of rallying cry for survivors of sexual assault – and her book, ‘Know My Name’, reclaimed the narrative once and for all.Exclusive bonus content:Wondery - Ad-free & ShortHandPatreon - Ad-free & Bonus EpisodesFollow us on social media:YouTubeTikTokInstagramXVisit our website:WebsiteSources available on redhandedpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ellen Greenberg was murdered, or at the very least died under very suspicious circumstances. To us, and to almost everyone who has even so much as glanced at this case, that much is obvious. Yet as of this episode the state of Pennsylvania refuses to view the 27-year-olds death as anything but suicide.In our second of two parts on Ellen’s brutal murder we’re going to tell you how incompetent policing, shambolic coverups, and institutional corruption led to this case being put on ice. Despite clear signs that evidence was missed, misplaced, or downright removed.Donate to Justice for Ellen here.Exclusive bonus content:Wondery - Ad-free & ShortHandPatreon - Ad-free & Bonus EpisodesFollow us on social media:YouTubeTikTokInstagramXVisit our website:WebsiteSources available on redhandedpodcast.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Delve into the unsettling world of Munchausen syndrome by proxy through the tragic tale of Gypsy Rose Blancharde. Discover the shocking truths behind her mother's manipulation and the brutal murder that unveiled a life of deception. Explore Gypsy's desperate quest for freedom and the complex dynamics of her relationship with Nicholas Godejohn. Unpack the psychological aftermath of her escape, including struggles with consent and victimhood, while highlighting the chilling consequences of familial abuse and societal perceptions.

A chilling mystery unfolds as the controversial death of Ellen Greenberg, a young teacher, is examined. Despite multiple stab wounds, authorities insist it was suicide, sparking outrage over police mishandling and potential corruption. The podcast dives into the frantic moments before her death and the relentless fight for justice by her family. Key figures involved in the investigation raise eyebrows, with experts challenging the initial conclusions. The case highlights the struggle against systemic failures that have left many questions unanswered.

Delve into the chilling saga of Elizabeth Báthory, the infamous Blood Countess. Was she truly a sadistic vampiress, or a victim of medieval gossip? Discover the unsettling tales of her alleged gruesome deeds in her quest for eternal youth. Explore her complex legacy, the myths surrounding her as a female serial killer, and the impact of her noble status on her dark actions. The discussion unravels the truth hidden behind the eerie legends of one of history's most notorious figures.

Dive into the chilling case of Erin Patterson, who allegedly poisoned her family with death cap mushrooms during a seemingly innocent lunch. The hosts explore the absurdity of final meal choices and the devastating consequences of misidentified fungi. As the story unfolds, questions arise about Erin's intentions amid a backdrop of suspicion and family dynamics. With a blend of dark humor and sobering realities, this discussion reveals the complexities of food safety and the dangers lurking in nature's kitchen.

The podcast dives into the chilling events leading up to the Jonestown Massacre, spotlighting Congressman Leo Ryan's ill-fated visit. Tension escalates as he confronts the unsettling realities behind the facade of happiness at Jonestown. The harrowing escape attempt reveals personal betrayals and a desperate struggle for freedom against armed resistance. It also explores the psychological grip of cult life and the deep indoctrination that kept members loyal to Jim Jones. Amid reflections on this dark chapter, there's a light-hearted nod to upcoming holiday cheer.