Criminal

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.

On a fateful Christmas in 1843, a tragic fire reveals the mysterious deaths of Emmeline Hausman and her daughter. The tale takes us through societal pressures, sensational media coverage, and a gripping murder trial involving scandal and public opinion. A courageous juror stands alone against the tide, forcing a retrial and highlighting flaws in the justice system. Meanwhile, Polly Bedine, the main suspect, faces a haunting life of isolation after her acquittal, becoming a ghostly figure in the eyes of the community.

Ashley Klass, a brave homeowner, shares her eye-opening experience of discovering a massive beehive in her daughter's wall, which surprisingly tied into her daughter's fear of monsters. The conversation dives into the challenges of confronting childhood fears and the unexpected connections between imagination and reality. Alongside amusing animal stories, including a possum making itself at home in a Christmas tree, listeners are treated to a blend of humor and heartfelt parenting insights.

Alan Goldberg, a seasoned television producer, shares his firsthand experience embedding with the U.S. Marshals during Operation Flagship. He unravels the elaborate scheme where a fake TV contest was used to catch fugitives, drawing parallels to innovative law enforcement tactics of the '80s. The conversation quickly pivots to the fallout, revealing ethical dilemmas and wrongful identifications that emerged post-operation. Goldberg’s insights challenge the effectiveness and morality of these stings, sparking a captivating discussion on crime prevention.

Rachel Swarns, a contributing writer for The New York Times, joins Letitia Clark, a clinical radiology professor and descendant of Edward Queen, along with Jeremy Alexander, who uncovers his enslaved family history. They discuss the painful legacy of slavery connected to the Jesuit Church in Maryland. The conversation highlights court cases where enslaved individuals sought freedom, personal stories of struggle, and the emotional journey of discovering familial ties to this dark past. Their insights reflect on ethics, family legacies, and the ongoing quest for justice.

Saladin Ahmed, a comic book writer known for his engaging storytelling and fresh perspectives, joins the discussion to dive into the intersection of youth crime and comic books. They explore how comic book culture in the 1940s and 50s sparked concerns about juvenile delinquency. Ahmed discusses the societal fears surrounding comic narratives and their potential influence on young readers. The conversation also touches on the historical scrutiny comic books faced during the infamous Senate hearings and the lasting impact of these controversies on the comic industry.

Gary Settle, a former bank robber serving a staggering 177-year sentence, now champions the cause of compassionate release for inmates. He shares compelling stories about his journey and the daunting healthcare issues faced by prisoners. Settle's advocacy has helped over 40 inmates secure their freedom, revealing the emotional and systemic hurdles within the prison system. The discussion highlights the profound impact of health crises on incarcerated lives and the desperate quest for redemption amidst the harsh realities of confinement.