Criminal

Barry Yeoman, a journalist known for his innovative storytelling, shares the fascinating tale of Jolene Strickland, a fictional candidate in the 1996 North Carolina gubernatorial race. He discusses the intricacies of her satirical campaign and the ethical dilemmas it posed for journalists. The conversation also highlights the tension between entertainment and integrity in reporting, as well as the nostalgic reflection on civic duty through the lens of a determined voter facing hardship. Yeoman’s insights reveal the evolving landscape of journalism and politics.

In this gripping discussion, Eric Goze, an Assistant U.S. Attorney, shares legal insights into Julie Wheeler's health care fraud case. Stanley Wilson, Deputy Chief Ranger, provides a harrowing account of the intense search efforts at Grandview Overlook following a mysterious fall. Tom Dominski sheds light on the investigation's origins, revealing how irregularities in Wheeler's billing led to her downfall. The podcast dives into the emotional and procedural complexities of a missing person investigation and the desperate lengths individuals will go to evade justice.

Robert Kanasiewicz, a Toronto police officer, recounts a tangled tale of love and deceit involving an elderly man's estate with no will. The discussion reveals the emotional struggles of Adeline Balgobin as she grapples with her relationship with Robert, who is entangled with another woman. The pair's actions spark a police investigation into fraudulent activity surrounding the estate of Heinz Sommerfeld, revealing troubling ethical dilemmas and a courtroom drama that leads to surprising consequences for all involved.

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.