Right after sunset, three boats sailed towards the rice plantations on the Combahee River. Harriet Tubman knew they had to hurry - they only had six hours before the changing tide would make it very difficult to get away.Edda L. Fields-Black's book is "COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War."Say hello on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Sign up for our occasional newsletter. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts.Sign up for Criminal Plus to get behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal, ad-free listening of all of our shows, special merch deals, and more.We also make This is Love and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop.Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Christopher Kinahan is probably the most successful and entrepreneurial criminal that Ireland has ever produced.”Say hello on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Sign up for our occasional newsletter, The Accomplice. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts.Sign up for Criminal Plus to get behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal, ad-free listening of all of our shows, special merch deals, and more.We also make This is Love and Phoebe Reads a Mystery.Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop.Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kayla Guo, a reporter for the Texas Tribune, dives into the gripping case of Robert Roberson, a man on death row accused of shaking his baby daughter. The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of shaken baby syndrome and the implications of flawed medical evidence in the legal system. Tension rises as a legislative hearing issues a last-minute subpoena, interrupting a scheduled execution. Guo emphasizes the complexities in both forensic science and justice, revealing how new developments could alter Roberson's fate.

Ed Newcomer, a former special agent for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, shares tales from his gripping undercover work against butterfly smuggling. He reveals a world where rare butterflies are worth a fortune in the collector's market. The conversation highlights the intricacies of maintaining a cover, navigating the illegal trade, and the shocking emotional complexity that arises in relationships intertwined with crime. Newcomer also delves into unexpected encounters at bug fairs and the evolving nature of wildlife trafficking.

Ava Do, a former pickpocket turned mentalist, and Apollo Robbins, a world-renowned pickpocket and magician, share their unique insights on deception and psychology. They recount Ava's thrilling past on the Las Vegas Strip and her journey from theft to mentalism. The duo explores the complexities of love and trust at the Magic Castle, revealing how their careers intertwine with romance. They also discuss the moral implications of crime, reflecting on vulnerability and critical thinking in an engaging conversation on ethics and illusion.

Michael Boulware Moore, the great-great-grandson of Robert Smalls, shares the riveting history of his ancestor, who freed himself and his family from slavery by commandeering a Confederate ship in 1862. They discuss Smalls' daring escape and clever strategies amidst the Civil War chaos. Moore highlights the bravery of Smalls in commanding a U.S. naval vessel and his advocacy for African American rights. The conversation emphasizes the need to reclaim neglected historical narratives, celebrating Smalls' heroism and the struggle for justice.

Eric Meyer, editor and publisher of the Marion County Record, shares the shocking story of a police raid on his newsroom and home, which resulted in the tragic loss of his mother, Joan. They discuss the implications for press freedom and community trust in law enforcement. Eric reveals how the raid, stemming from allegations of identity theft, highlighted the challenges faced by local journalism. He also reflects on the resilience required to navigate grief and trauma while striving to uphold journalistic integrity amid rising public support.

Barbie Augustini and James Kane, a couple turned magnet fishing duo, share their thrilling underwater adventures. They discuss their unexpected romantic journey that began during the pandemic. The highlight? The discovery of a safe filled with cash that sent them on a rollercoaster of excitement and confusion with authorities. They also recount challenges with deteriorating money and their insightful trip to retrieve it, sparking dreams of homeownership and a simpler life. Their stories balance thrill and humor amidst the mysteries lurking beneath urban waters.

Bettersten Wade, a grieving mother and tireless advocate, shares her heart-wrenching journey of searching for her missing son, Dexter Wade, for nearly six months. Joined by John Shuppie, an NBC News reporter, they delve into the shocking police indifference and the heartbreaking revelation of Dexter's tragic death at the hands of an off-duty officer. Their conversation uncovers systemic failures in the justice system, the emotional struggle for closure, and the deep scars left by loss, ultimately highlighting the resilience of a mother’s love.

Joe Gutheinz, a former special agent at NASA's Office of Inspector General, shares captivating stories from Operation Lunar Eclipse. He recounts a quirky ad seeking moon rocks that led to an undercover sting operation. Gutheinz reveals the allure of counterfeit lunar treasures and the surprising experiences he had while investigating their authenticity. He also discusses the legal battles surrounding stolen moon rocks, offering listeners a glimpse into the complexities of space memorabilia and the fascinating history of the Apollo missions.