Criminal

Guest Adam Cohen, an author and expert on the infamous Mignonette case, shares the harrowing tale of survival at sea in 1883. He discusses Captain Thomas Dudley's ill-fated voyage and the dire choices faced by the crew as provisions dwindled. The chilling decision to draw lots for survival versus killing the cabin boy Richard Parker ignites a moral debate. Cohen elaborates on the trial's necessity defense and its impact on legal precedent, making this a gripping exploration of desperation and the darkest corners of human instinct.

Audrey Ryan, a reporter and writer from Mount Desert Island, shares a fascinating tale about her father's involvement in a coastal drug discovery. She recounts growing up near the ocean and learning that fishermen often found hash in their nets. Audrey dives into the story of the Tusker, a smuggling vessel, revealing how it was linked to the Coronado Company. Interesting details emerge about how hash was dumped overboard during Coast Guard encounters, and the local frenzy to recover it after it washed ashore, making it a legendary part of the community's history.

Zakaria Amara, a former member of the Toronto 18, shares his journey from terrorist convictions to rehabilitation after nearly 17 years in prison. Journalist Michelle Shephard, who covered the case extensively, discusses the media's role and the consequences of Islamophobia. Zak opens up about his radicalization post-9/11, the planning behind the bomb plot, and the emotional toll of isolation during his incarceration. They delve into his struggles for parole and the challenges of reintegrating into society while confronting his past.

Patience Russo shares her harrowing journey from miscarriage to conviction after police questioned her Facebook post. Arrested under a century-old abortion law, she recounts the emotional turmoil of losing her baby and facing charges. Caroline Kitchener, a Washington Post reporter, discusses the legal implications and the misapplication of justice surrounding Patience's case. Together, they reveal how Patience's fight for justice led to a landmark ruling that ultimately cleared her name, shedding light on issues of reproductive rights and legal accountability.

Bow Suprasert, a Thailand-born data analyst now in San Francisco, shares her harrowing experience of becoming a victim of identity theft during a trip to Thailand. After returning home, she received a shocking call about a man caught with a passport in her name, which spiraled into a nightmare of coercive tactics and unfounded accusations of money laundering. Bow describes her journey through paranoia, emotional turmoil, and the eventual fight to reclaim her life after contacting the FBI and finding support from her family.

In this compelling discussion, Denise Chan, a seasoned journalist and the host of Scam Factory, dives into the harrowing tale of Jella, a 26-year-old caught in a web of human trafficking. Listeners learn how Jella transitioned from an unfulfilling job to facing deception and exploitation in Thailand. Chan sheds light on the frightening realities of sextortion and manipulative schemes, alongside the chilling experiences of those trafficked to Myanmar. The dire search for escape strategies highlights the bravery and resilience of victims fighting against systemic exploitation.

Ben Hopkins and Morton LeGarthe, creative directors in London, discuss their innovative AI project, Daisy, designed to combat phone scams. They humorously narrate the challenges faced during scam calls, showcasing Daisy's clever interactions with scammers. The conversation touches on the rise of grandparent scams, emphasizing resilience among the elderly, and highlights the darker side of AI in facilitating deception. Personal anecdotes and engaging banter provide insights into the creative process behind DAISY, making this a captivating exploration of technology and its implications.

E. Jean Carroll, a renowned writer and advice columnist, opens up about her challenging legal battles against Donald Trump after publicly accusing him of sexual assault. She candidly discusses the emotional toll of online vitriol and her decision to come forward, inspired by the #MeToo movement. Carroll shares humorous and unsettling anecdotes from her past, including encounters with Trump, and her journey of resilience in facing trauma. She also touches on the legal implications of recent rulings and her commitment to support other sexual assault survivors with potential monetary awards.

Joel Anderson, a seasoned reporter known for his in-depth storytelling, interviews Jabar Gibson, who played a pivotal role during Hurricane Katrina. They discuss the dire conditions in the Fischer Housing Projects and Jabar's courageous plan to escape on a commandeered school bus. Anderson reveals Jabar’s transformation from a heroic figure saving lives to facing legal troubles post-disaster, shedding light on the complex aftermath of survival and media attention. Their conversation captures the resilience and humanity amidst chaos.

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!