Jonathan Joss (1965–2025) was a Native American actor and musician renowned for his roles as John Redcorn in King of the Hill and Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation. His tragic death on June 1, 2025, has brought attention to issues of hate crimes and the underrepresentation of Native American victims in media coverage. Native activists emphasize that Joss’ death highlights an underreported crisis of mental health disparities and violence against Native and LGBTQ communities. #JonathanJoss ...
Jun 23, 2025•24 min•Ep. 359
Pack your bags and grab your passport — we’re taking the Once Upon a Crime community on the road! In this special episode, we’re officially announcing our upcoming group trip to Mexico City, and trust us, you’re going to want in on this. From March 27–30, 2025, we’ll be exploring one of the world’s most vibrant cities together — filled with amazing food, iconic art, rich history, and a killer itinerary curated just for our true crime-loving community. You’ll travel with like-minded listeners, ha...
Jun 20, 2025•6 min•Ep. 358
On this week’s episode we’re going international! You’ll travel to London with Esther for a behind-the-scenes listen to the Once Upon a Crime live show recorded at CrimeCon UK on June 8th. Esther emceed a game show called “Killer Knowledge” where she challenged fellow true crime podcasters Neil and Megan from Mortal Musings on their true crime trivia knowledge. The audience even got in on the action to see who knew their true crime best. So, grab your detective hat and play along — let’s find ou...
Jun 17, 2025•41 min•Ep. 358
In the fall of 1984, fear took hold of San Jose, California. In just six weeks, six young women vanished or were found murdered — their lives cut short under brutal and mysterious circumstances. As residents watched the headlines mount, few could imagine the horror hiding in plain sight. Six Weeks of Terror is a gripping true crime story that unravels the chilling timeline of Fernando Cota — a convicted rapist who slipped through the cracks and went on to terrorize a city. A routine traffic stop...
Jun 09, 2025•35 min•Ep. 357
Dennis Rader, the self-proclaimed "BTK" killer—short for "Bind, Torture, Kill"—terrified Wichita and Park City, Kansas, for nearly two decades. But behind the mask of a monstrous mastermind was a man whose crimes were riddled with laughable mistakes, sloppy execution, and a bizarre craving for attention. In this episode, we dismantle the myth of BTK as a criminal genius and reveal the truth: Dennis Rader wasn’t brilliant—he was a bungler. Tune in as we unravel the twisted, error-filled path of o...
May 19, 2025•50 min•Ep. 356
In 1968, the quiet streets of Scotswood, England, were shattered by a chilling discovery: two young boys, just three and four years old, had been murdered—and the killer was an eleven-year-old girl. Mary Flora Bell's name would soon become synonymous with one of Britain’s most disturbing criminal cases. In this episode, we explore the harrowing details of her crimes, the trial that stunned the nation, and the deeply troubled upbringing that may have shaped a child into a killer. Sources: Once Up...
May 12, 2025•38 min•Ep. 355
In the summer of 1976, a small town in California was shaken to its core when 26 schoolchildren and their bus driver were abducted in broad daylight. The hijackers drove them to a remote rock quarry, where they were forced into a buried moving van—essentially a mass grave beneath six feet of earth. But an extraordinary act of bravery and resilience led by one victim - a 14-year-old boy - resulted in a daring escape after 36 terrifying hours underground. In this episode, we revisit the Chowchilla...
May 05, 2025•40 min•Ep. 354
At the end of 2024, Once Upon a Crime released a two-part deep dive into The Life and Crimes of Sean Diddy Combs, unraveling the shocking allegations and federal charges facing the music mogul. Since then, the story has only grown more intense. With over 50 civil lawsuits filed and a federal trial set to begin on May 5th, the once-celebrated producer now finds himself at the center of one of the most high-profile legal battles in entertainment history. In this week’s episode, we catch up on wher...
Apr 28, 2025•47 min•Ep. 353
In the gripping conclusion of The True Tale of Lizzie Borden, we turn to the defense’s side of the story. What arguments did Lizzie’s lawyers make to counter the damning evidence? What did the jury ultimately decide—and why? Join me as we uncover the final chapter of this notorious case, from the courtroom verdict to the lasting legacy Lizzie Borden left behind. Don’t miss the dramatic end to one of America’s most enduring true crime mysteries. Catch Up: Missed Part 1 or 2? Be sure to listen to ...
Apr 14, 2025•44 min•Ep. 352
In Part 2 of The True Tale of Lizzie Borden, we step into the courtroom for one of America’s earliest media frenzies—the infamous trial of Lizzie Borden. After the shocking 1892 axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden, suspicion turned toward Andrew’s 32-year-old daughter, Lizzie. The brutal nature of the crime and the unexpected suspect captivated the nation. In Part 1, we explored the tense dynamics within the Borden household and followed the investigation that led to Lizzie’s arrest. Now, in t...
Apr 07, 2025•42 min•Ep. 351
Crime House True Crime Stories is the ultimate destination for true crime fans. Every episode features two notorious cases from that week in crime history, tied by a common theme like infamous serial killers, mysterious disappearances, tragic murders, and more. Every Monday, uncover the full stories behind the headlines as host Vanessa Richardson takes you through high-profile investigations like the murder of Gabby Petito, the kidnapping of Elizabeth Smart, and the mass suicide of the Heaven's ...
Mar 31, 2025•16 min•Ep. 360
On August 4, 1892, the quiet town of Fall River, Massachusetts, was rocked by a gruesome double murder. Andrew Borden and his wife, Abby, were found brutally hacked to death in their own home. But the most shocking twist? The prime suspect was none other than Andrew’s own daughter, 32-year-old Lizzie Borden. The crime and trial became one of the most infamous cases in American history, sparking a media frenzy that still captivates true crime fans today. But was Lizzie truly guilty, or was she wr...
Mar 24, 2025•47 min•Ep. 350
The name "Marcia Clark" has become synonymous with the infamous O.J. Simpson trial. As lead prosecutor in that high-profile case, Clark faced intense scrutiny, not only for her legal strategy but also for her appearance. Now, she's back with a compelling new book that dives into another sensationalized case: Trial by Ambush: Murder, Injustice, and the Truth about the Case of Barbara Graham. In this episode, Marcia Clark joins me to discuss the shocking 1950s capital murder trial of Barbara Graha...
Mar 17, 2025•52 min•Ep. 362
Women’s History Month: Honoring True Crime Trailblazers March is Women’s History Month, and we’re spotlighting the female trailblazers who revolutionized true crime. These women—authors, investigators, prosecutors, researchers, and victims’ advocates—played pivotal roles in shaping the genre, uncovering the criminal mind, aiding victims, and helping bring criminals to justice. In this episode, we explore the stories of three remarkable women whose work has left a lasting impact on true crime. Jo...
Mar 10, 2025•31 min•Ep. 348
In this final episode of our series, So, I Married a Serial Killer... , we unravel the complex and unconventional love stories of Lyle and Erik Menendez—two brothers sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of their parents. Despite being condemned to spend the rest of their lives behind bars with no chance of parole, both Lyle and Erik found love. In fact, Lyle has been married twice while in prison, and Erik has maintained a marriage for over 25 years. But how did these romances bloss...
Feb 25, 2025•32 min•Ep. 347
Ted Bundy was one of the most notorious serial killers in American history—charming, calculating, and deadly. While he was suspected of abducting, raping, and murdering more than thirty women across six states, he also maintained romantic relationships. One woman unknowingly loved a monster, while another chose to stand by his side even as the world recoiled in horror. In this gripping chapter, we explore the twisted love story of Carole Boone, the woman who not only fell for Bundy after his arr...
Feb 18, 2025•43 min•Ep. 346
Throughout history, some of the world’s most notorious serial killers have drawn romantic attention, even after their heinous crimes were exposed. From Ted Bundy to Richard Ramirez, these men—locked away for unspeakable acts—still managed to captivate and attract devoted partners. But what compels someone to pledge their love and loyalty to a known murderer? In this episode, we dive into one of the most infamous cases of romantic obsession with a serial killer: the story of Doreen Lioy and Richa...
Feb 11, 2025•29 min•Ep. 345
In the early 1970s, the tranquil community of Santa Cruz, California, was shattered by a series of murders committed by two serial killers operating at the same time. Edmund Kemper, known as the "Co-ed Killer," murdered eight individuals, including six young women, his mother, and her friend, between May 1972 and April 1973. Simultaneously, Herbert Mullin embarked on his own killing spree in the same area, further terrorizing the residents. In this final episode of "Murder City," we delve into S...
Jan 28, 2025•51 min•Ep. 344
This month, I’m bringing you the story of three terrifying years that unfolded in Santa Cruz, California. Between 1970 and 1973, a series of murders rocked Santa Cruz, a once-peaceful beach community. Before it was all over, residents would live through unimaginable horrors - a prominent family wiped out in a mass murder by a deranged killer and two serial killers working simultaneously, but separately, in their midst. In this second part of the series, we’ll pick up the story at the tail end of...
Jan 21, 2025•45 min•Ep. 343
In the 1970s, Santa Cruz, California, became known by a title no one else wanted - “Murder City.” Between 1970 and 1973, a series of murders rocked the once peaceful beach community. Before it was all over, residents would live through unimaginable horrors - a prominent family wiped out in a mass murder by a deranged killer and not one but two serial killers stalking their streets at the same time. In this 3-part series, we’ll travel back in time to experience those three terrifying years in San...
Jan 14, 2025•53 min•Ep. 342
Harry Tyson Moore and his wife, Harriette, lived a quiet life but raised their voices for the rights of African Americans beginning in the 1930s. They are two unsung heroes of the Civil Rights Movement who became targets of a deadly attack on Christmas Day, 1951. I’ll share with you this story of extraordinary courage, an unwavering fight for justice, and a shocking and cowardly act that turned a brave couple into martyrs for the civil rights of all Americans. Sources: The Unsolved Murder of Civ...
Dec 17, 2024•29 min•Ep. 341
Welcome back to our two-part series on the life and crimes of Sean Diddy Combs. In this explosive second installment, I detail Diddy’s meteoric rise in the music industry, uncover the allegations regarding his volatile romantic relationships, and expose a shadowy past filled with violence and legal troubles dating back to the 1990s. I’ll also shed light on Diddy’s infamous “White Parties” and the scandalous after-parties known as "Freak Offs," which are now at the center of a federal investigati...
Dec 10, 2024•58 min•Ep. 340
On June 10th, 1983, the decomposing body of a well-dressed man was found in a desolate canyon near Los Angeles. John Doe #94 would soon be identified as missing variety show producer Roy Radin. He'd last been seen after meeting with a mysterious woman in a gold dress. Her name was Lanie Jacobs. Jacobs and Radin were obsessed with becoming Hollywood movie producers. And when their paths collided, it led them to a tantalizing film deal promising fame and fortune. But then, a twisted script unfolde...
Dec 03, 2024•5 min•Ep. 358
American musical producer and entrepreneur Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested in September 2024 on charges of racketeering, sex trafficking by force, and transportation for purposes of prostitution. He is currently in federal custody awaiting trial in Brooklyn, New York. Almost daily, new accusers are coming forward to share additional information about Combs’ alleged history of sexual assault, abuse, and sexual exploitation. In this 2-part series, we’ll dig into Sean Combs’ early life, career, and...
Dec 03, 2024•48 min•Ep. 339
Over two days in 1980, prisoners at a New Mexico penitentiary, angry at the conditions they experienced inside its walls, rose up against their jailers and wreaked havoc upon officers and inmates alike. It would be called the bloodiest prison riot in U.S. history. Over thirty-six hours, thirty-three prisoners were killed, eight guards were brutally assaulted, and hundreds were injured. The prison would never completely recover from the unprecedented violence that took place. In the years since, ...
Nov 19, 2024•34 min•Ep. 338
In this episode, I’ll share a story of an alleged demonic possession of a young boy in the 1940s. While you may be skeptical of such a claim, several sources officially documented the case, including first-person eyewitnesses, making it difficult to dismiss these claims as mere superstition. You’ll also hear how this case inspired a best-selling novel and blockbuster movie that helped to usher in an era of “Satanic Panic,” a phenomenon that would lead to accusations and criminal charges leveled ...
Nov 12, 2024•32 min•Ep. 337
Marine wife Erin Corwin was just 19 years old when she disappeared in California’s Joshua Tree National Park. Nearly two months later, her body was found in an abandoned mine in the unforgiving desert, and suspicions quickly fell on a fellow Marine. Here’s a preview of the new podcast, “48 Hours: NCIS”, which merges the award-winning journalism of one of the most celebrated true crime news programs with the world’s #1 TV franchise, to bring you the real-life cases that NCIS agents will never for...
Nov 05, 2024•10 min•Ep. 358
In this first story, we’ll go back over one hundred years to learn about a Romeo and Juliet story that ended in cold-blooded murder. On the property where the killing took place now sits a stone building known by locals as “The Witch’s Castle.” Some say that the restless spirits of the murdered man, his widow, and the killer roam the area on nights when the moon is full. This is the story of the murder of Mortimer Stump and the haunting of The Witch’s Castle. Resources: https://www.atlasobscura....
Nov 05, 2024•23 min•Ep. 336
In this special Halloween episode, horror comes to a family in the middle of the night. But unlike ghostly tales, this was all too real and was the last thing they’d ever expected as they invited the monster into their home. Resources: https://www.sfgate.com/crime/article/Bay-Area-suspect-allegedly-bludgeoned-victims-3217121.php https://www.therotundaonline.com/remembering-associate-professor-of-sociology-dr-debra-s-kelley/article_2fab25df-a3f5-527c-ba59-cf14588b4e00.html Slain mom, teen had cou...
Oct 31, 2024•22 min•Ep. 358
In July 1993, Mia Zapata, a rising star in the genre of punk rock music, joined what is morbidly referred to as “The 27 Club” - artists and celebrities whose lives ended at the age of 27. Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain, and Amy Winehouse all qualify. But like other members of this unfortunate club, Mia Zapata didn’t die as the result of a drug overdose or by her own hand. She was murdered on the streets of Seattle just before she reached success with her band, The Gits. In this episode,...
Oct 21, 2024•43 min•Ep. 335
