Charles Ng and Leonard Lake - Part 1: Before the Horror. Explore the troubled early lives of two killers before they ever joined forces. From Ng's strict upbringing in Hong Kong to Lake's abandoned childhood in San Francisco, discover how their paths to violence began. This episode covers thier military service, early crimes, and the fateful meeting that would lead to one of America's most shocking criminal partnerships. Ko-fi.com/chaseellerman - Buy me an Arizona Green Tea https://www.facebook....
Jul 01, 2025•43 min•Season 4Ep. 1
In May 2013, 17-year-old Georgia Williams vanished after telling her parents she was helping a friend with a photo shoot. That friend was Jamie Reynolds, a boy with a hidden obsession, a disturbing past, and a plan he had written in horrifying detail years before. This episode explores the chilling case of Georgia Williams’s murder, the warning signs authorities ignored, and the predator hiding in plain sight. With exclusive insight, narrative depth, and haunting detail, we expose the cracks in ...
Jun 03, 2025•39 min•Season 3Ep. 25
In this gripping true crime episode, we investigate the haunting case of Nathan Ybanez, a 16-year-old who murdered his mother after years of alleged abuse. This deeply emotional story examines how a system meant to protect children failed repeatedly, leading to tragic consequences. Featuring exclusive details about Nathan's troubled childhood, his desperate calls for help, and the controversial trial that sent a teenager to prison for life, this episode challenges everything we think we know abo...
May 30, 2025•37 min•Season 3Ep. 24
In 2012, Celeste Fronsman was abducted, tortured, and burned alive in rural Ohio. Her killers? People she thought were her friends. In this episode of Almost Fiction , we explore the dark world of addiction, abuse, and betrayal, and how Celeste’s final words helped solve her own murder. Sources: Lafonse Dixon v. Warden Richland Correctional Institution. Case NO. 2:16-CV-0251-EAS-KAJ. Filed November 21, 2016. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-ohsd-2_16-cv-00251/pdf/USCOURTS-ohsd-2_16-c...
May 21, 2025•33 min•Season 3Ep. 23
In the shocking conclusion of our three-part true crime series, we uncover the final days of Charles William Yukl, a manipulative killer whose parole failure led to a second brutal murder in 1970s New York City. After convincing the system he was rehabilitated, Yukl lured an aspiring actress to his apartment under the pretense of casting her in a fake film. What followed was a horrific repeat of his first crime, strangulation, assault, and deception, all while hiding in plain sight. With disturb...
May 12, 2025•38 min•Season 3Ep. 22
In Part 2 of our deep dive into the life of Charles William Yukl, we explore the years that followed his shocking manslaughter conviction. After serving just a portion of his time, Yukl was released on parole, and what happened next is a chilling reminder of how the justice system can fail. Set in 1970s Manhattan, this episode traces Yukl’s disturbing reentry into society: his fake credentials, psychological manipulation, therapy sessions, and how he infiltrated New York’s struggling artist scen...
May 07, 2025•39 min•Season 3Ep. 21
In this chilling episode of Almost Fiction, we begin the disturbing story of Charles William Yukl, a classically trained pianist, teacher, and, ultimately… convicted killer. From his troubled upbringing and intense musical training to his years of hidden darkness, we uncover how a seemingly mild-mannered man led a double life. Based heavily on the book The Piano Teacher by Robert K. Tanenbaum and Robert Greenberg, this episode dives deep into Yukl’s past, his manipulations, and the brutal 1966 m...
Apr 30, 2025•39 min•Season 3Ep. 20
In this gripping episode of Almost Fiction, we dig into one of the strangest true crime cases in American history, the disappearance and murder of Madalyn Murray O’Hair, the woman once dubbed “The Most Hated Woman in America.” From her rise as an infamous atheist activist to her mysterious vanishing in 1995, this story is steeped in ideology, betrayal, greed, and ultimately, tragedy. We follow the twisted path of David Roland Waters, an ex-con turned office manager at American Atheists, whose da...
Apr 22, 2025•43 min•Season 3Ep. 19
In this gripping true crime episode, we uncover the horrifying story of serial killer Anthony Edward Sowell, also known as the Cleveland Strangler. Between 2007 and 2009, Sowell lured vulnerable women to his Cleveland home, where he committed unspeakable acts of violence. We trace his troubled childhood, disturbing behavior, and the systemic failures that allowed him to evade justice for so long. Featuring survivor accounts, court details, and the tragic stories of the 11 women whose lives were ...
Apr 15, 2025•49 min•Season 3Ep. 18
Richard Paul White’s life was filled with violence, fear, and manipulation—but did his past shape him into a serial predator, or was the evil already inside him? This episode of Almost Fiction explores the disturbing transformation of a man who claimed demons made him kill. Sources: I Am a Killer: Richard Paul White. By SE King for MorningCoffeeandCrime.com. March 27, 2023. Killers’ Families Left to Confront Fear and Shame. By Serge F. Kovaleski. Feb. 4, 2012. https://www.investigationdiscovery....
Apr 08, 2025•34 min
Mauricio Rodriguez Silva's life was a constant struggle—abandoned, abused, and cast aside at every turn. But did his tragic childhood create a monster, or was he always destined for violence? This episode of Almost Fiction unravels the disturbing life and crimes of a man who could have been saved… but wasn’t. Sources: PEOPLE v. SILVA. Supreme Court of California. No. S004727. April 30, 2001. https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/ca-supreme-court/1072397.html Portrait of ‘The Monster’ on Death Row By...
Apr 01, 2025•38 min
What happens when a predator lurks in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike? This episode of Almost Fiction delves into the dark and disturbing case of Thomas Whisenhant, a killer whose crimes haunted Alabama for decades. Join us as we unravel the chilling details of his past, the investigation that led to his capture, and the twisted psychology behind his horrific acts. Sources: Whisenhant v. State. 370 So.2d 1080 (Ala.Cr.App.). (Direct Appeal). 1979. THOMAS WARREN WHISENHANT v RI...
Mar 25, 2025•32 min
Justice is served, or is it? In the chilling conclusion to our Sean Vincent Gillis series, we explore his final crimes, the investigation that finally brought him down, and the disturbing details of his confessions. From his shocking courtroom antics to the families seeking closure, this episode uncovers the twisted mind of a man who evaded capture for years. Did the system truly hold him accountable? Or did his victims deserve more?Tune in for the gripping finale on Almost Fiction. SOURCES: Mus...
Mar 18, 2025•40 min
The darkness continues. In Part 2 of our deep dive into Sean Vincent Gillis, we explore the gruesome evolution of his crimes, his twisted obsessions, and the investigation that struggled to catch up. As police search for answers, Gillis remains in the shadows—watching, waiting, and perfecting his horrifying craft. What drove him deeper into depravity? And how did he evade capture for so long? Tune in for the chilling continuation of this case on Almost Fiction. SOURCES: Mustafa, Susan D.; Israel...
Mar 11, 2025•40 min
A quiet Louisiana neighborhood. A troubled past. A gruesome discovery. In this chilling episode of Almost Fiction, we unravel the disturbing origins of Sean Vincent Gillis, a seemingly ordinary man with a dark secret. From a childhood shaped by instability to a life spiraling into depravity, we explore the events that led to one of Baton Rouge’s most terrifying crimes. What drives someone to cross the line between fantasy and horror? And who, if anyone, saw the warning signs? Listen now for a gr...
Mar 04, 2025•40 min
In this episode of Almost Fiction, we delve into the bizarre and horrifying case of Kevin Lloyd Artz, infamously known as the "Deep Fry Killer." What begins as a story of a seemingly ordinary man takes a dark turn into a tale of obsession, crime, and culinary horror. Join us as we piece together the unsettling puzzle of a man whose crimes shocked a community and earned him a macabre nickname that still haunts true crime enthusiasts. What drove Artz to such extremes, and could he have been stoppe...
Feb 25, 2025•30 min
A talented jazz musician with a mysterious past. Melvin David Rees captivated audiences with his haunting melodies and effortless skill, but behind the stage lights and smoky jazz clubs lurked something far darker. A man of intelligence, charm, and discipline. A man who lived two lives: one in the spotlight, and one in the shadows. From his time as a military musician in Europe to his nights playing in dimly lit clubs around Washington, D.C., Rees moved through life unnoticed, well… until the cr...
Feb 18, 2025•35 min
In 1993, a stolen car, a desperate plan, and a shattered life set the stage for one of California’s most disturbing crimes. Mark Scott Thornton had always struggled to find his place in the world—but when his obsession spiraled out of control, the result was abduction, murder, and a reckless attempt to outrun justice. Decades later, the echoes of his crimes still haunt those left behind. But in a shocking twist, one voice from the past is fighting to save the man who destroyed his family. Source...
Feb 12, 2025•50 min
What happens when reality shatters? When paranoia and delusion take hold, twisting a mind beyond recognition? In this harrowing episode of Almost Fiction, we uncover the chilling case of Larry Keith Robison—a man battling schizophrenia, abandoned by the system, and left to spiral into unthinkable violence. Diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia yet denied proper treatment, Robison’s descent into madness led to one of Texas’s most brutal mass murders. 💡 In this episode, we explore: The warning si...
Feb 04, 2025•30 min
In this heart-wrenching episode of Almost Fiction, we examine the harrowing case of Mark Dean Schwab and his horrifying crimes against 11-year-old Junny Rios-Martinez. What began as an act of manipulation spiraled into a tragedy that shook an entire community. This is a story of unimaginable loss, but also one of resilience, as Junny’s family worked tirelessly to ensure his legacy would spark change. Join us as we navigate the complexities of this case, from the psychology of the predator to the...
Jan 30, 2025•38 min
In this chilling episode of Almost Fiction, we uncover the twisted story of Joachim Georg Kroll, infamously known as "The Cannibal of Ruhr." For over two decades, Kroll preyed on unsuspecting victims across West Germany, leaving a trail of horror and confusion. We delve into the dark psychology behind his crimes, from his unsettling methods of victim selection to his shocking motive for cannibalism, a reason as cold and practical as it is horrifying. Join us as we unravel how police were misled ...
Jan 21, 2025•40 min
In this chilling episode of Almost Fiction, we explore the violent crime spree of Mitchell Sims and Ruby Padgett, a couple whose anger and desperation led to a series of horrifying murders. From the Domino's Pizza murders in South Carolina to the shocking double homicide in California, their story reveals how personal grievances and greed spiraled into a nationwide killing spree.Join us as we dissect the motives behind their actions, the details of their crimes, and the legacy of fear they left ...
Jan 15, 2025•36 min
Julie Corey had already had 5 children and had full custody of none of them. The 35 year old woman could feel the pressure of time, and was making one last chance to start a family, one that hopefully this time, she could keep. But sometimes, fate just has other plans. Sources: COMMONWEALTH vs. JULIE A. COREY. SJC-12100. Worcester. December 8, 2023. Julie Corey sobs as jury finds her guilty of first-degree murder in Worcester fetal abduction case. By John F. Hill - MassLive.com . February 12, 20...
Dec 17, 2024•30 min
Ramon Jay Rogers was a nice guy. He grew up in a strange environment, but by all outward appearances he was well adjusted, polite, and well liked. Until he killed his best friend, and everything just seemed to spiral out of control. Sources: https://murderpedia.org/male.R/r/rogers-ramon-jay.htm#google_vignette People V. Rogers (2009). Supreme Court of California. No. S064337. Decided July 6, 2009. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramon_Rogers State court upholds death sentence for actor in mid-1990...
Dec 11, 2024•37 min
From the outside, it appeared as if Veronica Paz desperately missed high school. She missed the social aspect, the drama, and most importantly… the boys. For his part, Brandon Perry would have probably done just about anything for his high school sweetheart, Veronica, and she was about to put that devotion to the test. Sources: 3 More Arrested in Killing of O.C. High School Wrestler By David Reyes, H.G. Reza And Daniel Hernandez. November 15, 2003 for the LA TIMES. Timeline. By Larry Welborn, Th...
Dec 04, 2024•38 min
Welcome to Season 3!! Christy Thompson Harris was a good mother. And even though she had her issues, she always did what she felt was best for her children, something not shared by her husband, Jason Thomas Harris. Welcome to another episode of Almost Fiction. Sources: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/wrongful_death State of Michigan Court of Appeals. People v Jason Thomas Harris. No. 359675 Genesee Circuit Court. LC No. 19-046043-FC. February 2024. Davison 'cereal murderer' Jason Harris sentence...
Dec 03, 2024•38 min
For a lot of people, the holiday season can be a time of happiness, togetherness, and joy. A time full of family, laughter, and good will, but for others, the holiday season can have the opposite effect. Enjoy the latest episode of Almost Fiction Plus for free as a gift from me and the rest of the 11:59 Media crew, and no matter what you celebrate, or don’t, this year, know that all of us appreciate everything you do. Hugs. SOURCES: https://nbcpalmsprings.com/2021/06/04/man-gets-15-to-life-for-b...
Oct 31, 2024•22 min
Some people are… magnetic, easily able to attach themselves to others, drawing them in with relative ease with their larger than life personalities. There are just some people who can talk to anyone, make them feel at ease, quickly transitioning from stranger to acquaintance, to… friend. SOURCES: https://murderpedia.org/male.Z/z/zack-michael-duane.htm Michael Duane Zack vs State of Florida Case No. SC03-1374 Answer Brief of Appellee https://www.tampabay.com/news/florida-politics/2023/10/03/micha...
Oct 23, 2024•25 min
October. You can feel it. A change in the air. The days grow shorter, the nights grow colder. Fall tends to feel like an end.Welcome to a special Halloween episode of Tethers. CHECK OUT TETHERS SEASON 1 WHERE EVER YOU LISTEN TO PODCASTS! TETHERS SEASON 2 COMING SOON! Access ad-free episodes, bonus content, and get all of the 11:59 Media Podcast library!Access hours of extra content each week, exclusive merch, and early access to new podcasts.Visit https://1159plus.com or https://www.patreon.com/...
Oct 23, 2024•19 min
Rituals span across every country, every religion, and every group. No matter what you are a part of, there are going to be rituals and practices that you follow, sometimes without even realizing it. This week we follow the case of a man who wanted to perform an ancient ritual, one now banned in almost every civilized country. This week we cover the story of Tyree Lincoln Smith. SOURCES: https://www.ctpost.com/news/article/bridgeport-ct-tyree-smith-released-18394546.php ARTICLE: A Portrait of Ty...
Oct 15, 2024•28 min
