Criminal

In this enlightening conversation, Sister Helen Prejean, a Catholic nun and fierce anti-death penalty advocate, shares her transformative journey following Elmo Patrick Sonnier on death row. She reflects on witnessing executions, discussing the emotional intensity and the complexities of guilt and innocence. Sister Helen also explores the systemic injustices within the criminal system and her efforts to shift Catholic teachings on the death penalty. Her experiences challenge listeners to consider human dignity and the importance of compassion, even amidst profound loss.

In this lively discussion, Sven Montgomery shares the lighthearted story of a speeding duck caught zooming at 52 km/h by a Swiss speed camera. Sergeant Zebediah Dickinson humorously recounts rescuing a javelina from an abandoned Subaru after a snack mishap. Meanwhile, Heidi Taylor delights listeners with the tale of her goat, Joshua, who unexpectedly joined a local half marathon and finished proud with a medal. These amusing animal antics provide a refreshing look at the unexpected adventures of wildlife in everyday life.

Laura Nowlin, a mother, shares her gripping Christmas morning story when she discovered an abandoned infant on her porch. She remembers the mix of emotions—fear, anger, and concern—as she rushed to call 911. Officer Austin King recounts the urgent police response to the stolen car connected to the baby’s drop-off. The surprising twist reveals the teenage suspect's background, deepening the narrative of love and choices on a holiday meant for celebration. Both Laura and Officer King reflect on the impact of this unexpected event.

Joining the discussion is Kate Winkler Dawson, an author and journalist known for her book The Sinners All Bow. She delves into the tragic case of Sarah Cornell, a mill worker found dead in 1832, sparking a sensational trial. Topics include Sarah's challenging life in the factory, her allegations against Reverend Avery, and the courtroom's bias shaped by religious tensions. Dawson highlights how the trial became a spectacle, featuring victim shaming and a controversial acquittal, ultimately connecting Sarah's narrative to Hawthorne's Hester Prynne.

Howard Siegel, an attorney known for representing the Horn family in a high-profile wrongful-death case, shares gripping insights into a shocking murder investigation from 1993. He recounts the complexities of the case, including the discovery of a disturbing manual, "Hitman," that detailed steps for committing murder. The conversation dives into the legal battle against Paladin Press, who published the manual, and the moral dilemmas surrounding free speech in the face of tragedy. Siegel's experiences highlight a chilling intersection of crime and law.

Scott Darlington, a former sub-postmaster, shares his harrowing journey of being wrongfully accused of theft due to flaws in the Horizon IT system. He recounts the moment he discovered discrepancies and the overwhelming self-doubt that followed. Joining him is Nick Wallis, an investigative journalist, who discusses the broader implications of this scandal, including the role of technology and the Post Office's resistance to admitting fault. Both highlight the devastating impact on sub-postmasters and the slow fight for justice.

Journalist Ken Silverstein, author of The Radioactive Boy Scout, dives into the fascinating and alarming tale of David Hahn, a teenager whose passion for chemistry led him to build a homemade nuclear reactor. Discussing David's childhood obsession, risky experiments, and his quest for the Atomic Energy merit badge, Silverstein reveals how David sourced radioactive materials, leading to a dramatic police search. The story highlights the consequences of his ambitious pursuits and the impact on his life and community, sparking curiosity in young scientists everywhere.

Gabe Gonzalez, a dedicated community organizer from Protect Rogers Park, shares gripping stories of how locals band together against ICE activities in their neighborhood. He explains the innovative use of Signal to coordinate volunteer verifiers, who monitor reports of ICE sightings and mobilize to protect vulnerable neighbors. With whistle alerts and nonviolent tactics, the community dramatically responds to threats. Gabe also discusses the emotional impact of recent kidnappings and his hope that grassroots efforts can foster change and safety in their streets.

In this captivating discussion, radio personality Kevin Reiter shares his alarming experience with a live prank that spiraled out of control, revealing the chaos that ensued when a staged murder confession went public. Horror screenwriter Stephen Volk dives into the controversial BBC broadcast Ghostwatch, exploring its authentic presentation and the viewer panic it triggered. Both guests reflect on the ethical boundaries of media and the lasting impacts of their respective incidents on public trust and the legacy of broadcast horror.

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.