Criminal

Jessica Maple, a former junior district attorney camp participant, shares her inspiring story of solving a burglary case at her great-grandmother's house at age 12. She describes her journey from a conflicted camper to a determined young investigator, equipped with a notebook and a desire for justice. The podcast highlights other young heroes who tackle crimes in their communities, featuring one child's adventure to retrieve stolen furniture and another group’s quest to find a missing woman. It's a heartwarming exploration of courage and collaboration!

Join reporter Jessica Lessenhop, known for her investigative work at ProPublica, and Carrie Sperling, Assistant Attorney General at the Minnesota Attorney General's office, as they dive deep into the troubling case of Edgar Barrientos. They discuss the controversy surrounding the portrayal of Jesse's tragic shooting in reality TV, the flaws in the original investigation, and the new findings that challenge Barrientos' conviction. The emotional impact on victims' families and the media's role in shaping public perception of crime adds another layer to this gripping discussion.

Guest Abbott Kahler is the author of "Eden Undone: A True Story of Sex, Murder, and Utopia at the Dawn of World War II." He discusses the bizarre history of the Galapagos island of Floriana, where eight settlers arrived in the 1930s, leading to mysterious disappearances and murders. Kahler shares riveting tales of Frederick Ritter and his radical lifestyle, the ambitious Baroness's dramatic entrance, and the tensions that escalated among the inhabitants. Intrigued by secrets and societal rejection, the narrative unfolds into a gripping tale of survival and chaos.

Ian Mallory, a detective with the University of Iowa Police Department, and Brittany Mejia, an L.A. Times reporter, dive into the perplexing case of two men claiming to be William Woods. They discuss the absurdity of overlapping identities and the chaos surrounding one man's struggles with homelessness and mental health. The complexities of identity theft lead to wrongful imprisonment and an emotional courtroom encounter. Together, they shed light on the profound impact of these intertwining lives and the challenges of reclaiming one's identity.

In a deep dive into the vibrant East Village of the 1980s, the tragic story of Michael Stewart unfolds, exploring the artistic chaos and personal struggles that defined the era. The podcast highlights the unsettling moments surrounding police violence and the reluctance of bystanders to intervene. With a focus on the controversial autopsy that raised questions about accountability, listeners are taken through protests and the community's response to police brutality. The echoes of Stewart's case resonate through societal reflections on art and justice.

Jeff Signorini, son of the notorious Clearwater Monster, shares hilarious tales about his father’s pranks that sparked a local legend. Journalist Jeff Klinkenberg provides a vivid account of the town's wild reactions when gigantic, three-toed footprints appeared on the beach, igniting imaginations about a sea creature. The duo delves into the whimsical hoax behind the rumors, with anecdotes about Ivan Sanderson's captivating personality and the creative mischief that brought the community together in laughter.

Eric Konigsberg, author of *Blood Relation*, unpacks his shocking discovery that his uncle, Harold, was a mafia hitman. He shares the eerie voicemail from Harold that sparked his investigation. The conversation weaves through family pride tangled with a criminal legacy, the emotional turmoil of visits to maximum-security prison, and dark secrets of organized crime. Konigsberg dives into the chilling impacts of Harold’s actions on both his family and his victims' families, portraying a complex portrait of loyalty, trauma, and the powerful grip of a notorious past.

Traveling through Italy takes an unexpected turn when a woman finds her boyfriend's passport with a different name. Their budding romance faces turmoil deepened by the boyfriend's secret life as an undercover officer. The narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, and the emotional fallout of deceptive relationships. Insightful discussions reveal the ethical implications of undercover operations and the call for reforms in policing practices. Through humor and serious inquiry, complex emotions and the struggles of activism are brought to light.

Shruti Swamy, a writer and former disciple of Swami Rama, shares her intriguing journey within a spiritual community steeped in mysticism. She discusses the complex dynamics of trust and the disillusionment faced when allegations against a revered leader arise. Shruti reveals the cultural identity struggles her immigrant family encountered and reflects on the impact of both devotion and betrayal. The conversation dives deep into the nuanced legacy of gurus, exploring themes of faith, manipulation, and the allure of a spiritual path.

Peter Klopfer, a biologist and collaborator at Duke University, shares riveting tales from the captivating world of lemurs. He recounts the amusing escapades and care efforts at the Duke Lemur Center, emphasizing teamwork in research and conservation. The conversation takes a darker turn as they explore the bizarre transformation of John Buettner-Janusch, from a revered academic to a criminal embroiled in drug production. Klopfer reflects on the profound impacts of loss and resilience in academia, intertwining tragedy with unexpected narratives.