Dead Before Deadline

In the newest episode of "Dead Before Deadline," hosts Robin Yocum and Jaclynn Wilson unravel the complex and poignant story of David Drake, a name that once echoed in the hidden corners of Columbus, Ohio for reasons that will leave listeners both troubled and bewildered.

David wasn't just a child; he was a survivor navigating the underbelly of Columbus as a child prostitute. His story is a tapestry of despair and resilience, tragedy, and the occasional unexpected humor that life throws from the most unexpected places. Robin brings an intensely personal touch to this episode, recounting his direct encounters with David's world, a reality that most would find unfathomable.

This episode is far from your typical true-crime narrative. It's an exploration of lost innocence, the fight for survival on the streets that don't forgive easily, and the blurred lines between victimhood and culpability. Robin and Jaclynn navigate this delicate terrain with the empathy and boldness it requires, painting a picture of David that defies black and white perceptions.

The story of David Drake is imbued with unexpected turns, featuring characters as bizarre as they are real, and life choices that will have you questioning the very fabric of society and the systems meant to protect the vulnerable. Amid the wild tales are moments that will tug at your heartstrings, challenge your preconceptions, and perhaps, offer a faint glimmer of hope.

Join the hosts as they dissect this multifaceted case, offering insights only possible from Robin's first-hand experiences. "Frayed Lives: David Drake's Tangled Path" is not just an episode; it's a journey through the spectrum of human experience, one you won't forget anytime soon. So, tune in for a narrative that's as unpredictable as life itself, on "Dead Before Deadline."

In this gripping episode of "Dead Before Deadline," hosts Robin Yocum and Jaclynn Wilson take listeners into the harrowing world of Dr. Edward F. Jackson, ominously known as "The Grandview Rapist." A story that not only sends shivers down the spine but showcases the horrifying duality of a man: a respected figure in daylight, but a sinister predator under the cloak of night.

Robin, with his seasoned investigative instincts, brings a unique, firsthand perspective to this chilling case, having been personally entwined with the events as they unfolded. His recollections, paired with Jaclynn's incisive questioning and analytical prowess, make for a truly immersive dive into the dark recesses of Jackson's psyche and actions.

The episode peels back the layers, revealing a world of deception, duality, and the dreadful reality that monsters can often hide in plain sight. How does a seemingly upstanding individual harbor such malevolent intentions? How many lives were shattered before justice cast its shadow upon him? And what was it like for Robin to be at the heart of the storm as it raged?

Dive deep into the psyche of "The Grandview Rapist," as Robin and Jaclynn meticulously piece together a narrative that's as horrifying as it is captivating. This episode of "Dead Before Deadline" stands as a chilling reminder of the unspeakable evils that can lurk beneath the veneer of respectability.

Prepare for an emotional, haunting, and eye-opening journey. This isn't just storytelling; it's an expedition into the darker side of humanity, punctuated with moments of raw emotion, startling revelations, and the relentless pursuit of truth. Tune in, if you dare, for an episode that promises to linger in your mind long after the final note fades.

The air is thick with intrigue and unsolved mysteries in the latest installment of "Dead Before Deadline," as Robin and Jaclynn embark on a riveting exploration of the infamous Circleville Letters case. The episode unfolds a peculiar tale marked by perplexing correspondence, unfounded accusations, and a shocking wrongful conviction.

Dive deep into the twists and turns of this enigmatic case, as our hosts dissect the elaborate web of anonymous letters that plagued the town of Circleville, sparking fear, speculation, and a relentless search for the truth. Robin and Jaclynn expertly navigate through the myriad of theories and inconsistencies, shedding light on the shadows and unanswered questions that surround this haunting case.

The journey through the maze of the Circleville Letters is not just about uncovering the unknown author; it's a profound exploration into the ramifications of untraceable accusations, the pursuit of justice, and the impact of unresolved mysteries on a community. Our hosts delve into the wrongful conviction that arose from the chaos, dissecting the legal and moral complexities intertwined in this enigma.

Listen in as Robin and Jaclynn unravel the strands of this intricate mystery, combining meticulous analysis, insightful commentary, and a relentless pursuit of the truth. This episode of "Dead Before Deadline" is laden with unexpected revelations and a deep dive into the human psyche, depicting how an untraceable string of letters can shake the foundations of a town.

Prepare to be immersed in a world where every turn is unexpected, and every revelation is a step closer to unmasking the specter behind the Circleville Letters. It's a journey of discovery, reflection, and relentless pursuit of the elusive truth—another thrilling ride with "Dead Before Deadline" that you won't want to miss!

Hold onto your seats as Robin and Jaclynn Wilson bring you the thrilling conclusion to the tumultuous and perplexing saga of John Spirko in this episode of "Dead Before Deadline." This final installment promises to leave listeners in awe as the chaotic tapestry of Spirko's life reaches its jaw-dropping climax.SPT

Following the riveting revelations in the first part, "Dead Before Deadline" returns with the much-anticipated second installment of "The Wild and Crazy Life of John Spirko." Robin and Jaclynn take listeners deeper into the labyrinthine life of John Spirko, a man whose already tumultuous life takes an even more bewildering turn.

In this episode, delve into the perplexing circumstances surrounding how Spirko, despite having no involvement, found himself indicted and subsequently convicted of a heinous murder. How does a man with no ties to a crime become the prime suspect? What twists of fate, missteps in justice, or machinations led to his wrongful conviction?

Robin and Jaclynn expertly dissect court testimonies, police interviews, and the series of events that culminated in one of the most baffling convictions in recent history. Through interviews with key players, a review of overlooked evidence, and a critical look at the testimonies that played pivotal roles, the Yocums navigate listeners through a judicial maze where not everything is as it seems.

"The Wild and Crazy Life of John Spirko: Part 2" is more than just a true-crime episode; it's an exposé on the fragility of justice, the influence of bias, and the dire consequences of misjudgments.

So, strap in and prepare to be both fascinated and flabbergasted as this wild tale continues to unfold, challenging perceptions, and spotlighting the gray areas of the justice system. Another roller coaster episode from "Dead Before Deadline" awaits!

John Spirko has been in prison for the murder of Betty Jane Mottinger for 40 years. Dead Before Deadline host Robin Yocum believes he has spent four decades of his life incarcerated for a crime that he did not commit. Spirko, Yocum says, had nothing to do with the murder. He's the only guy Yocum has ever met who inserted himself into an investigation into a murder he did not commit and talked himself into an indictment, was convicted, and then told the jury to give him the death penalty. "In retrospect, not one of my smarter moves," Spirko now says.

John Spirko was convicted of the 1982 kidnapping and murder of Mottinger, who was the postmaster in the tiny village of Elgin, Ohio. In this three-part episode, Yocum recounts his investigation into the murder and Spirko's subsequent conviction. Spirko is no saint and he has a long history of convictions and prison time, including a stretch for killing an elderly woman in Kentucky. However, Yocum is convinced that he did not kill Betty Jane Mottinger.

Listen to this three-part series as we explore one of the most bizarre cases Yocum ever investigated as a reporter with the Columbus Dispatch.

In this evocative episode of "Dead Before Deadline," Robin and Jaclynn Yocum transport listeners to the streets of Columbus, Ohio, painting a vivid yet somber picture of Mary Hebeler. Known to many as the town drunk, Mary's life was layered with struggles, sorrow, and a quest for belonging.

"The Lost Soul" dives deep into Mary's life, a woman often dismissed by society yet carrying a world of pain and stories that went unheard. While her label as the town drunk defined her for many, behind it was a soul yearning for understanding, acceptance, and perhaps redemption.

Robin and Jaclynn journey through the hazy alleys of Columbus, retracing Mary's steps, and endeavoring to give voice to a woman who, in life, often went unheard. The episode takes a haunting turn as they delve into the circumstances surrounding Mary's tragic death - a cold case that haunts the corridors of Columbus PD and lingers in the memories of those who knew her.

What happened to Mary Hebeler? Why, with all the eyes on her during her life, were there none that could shed light on the darkness of her untimely demise?

Join the Yocums as they unpack this poignant story, weaving through the streets of Columbus, past whispered rumors, and into the very heart of a mystery that remains unsolved. "The Lost Soul" is not just an exploration of a cold case; it's a tribute to a woman whose narrative deserves to be told, understood, and remembered.

On the latest riveting episode of "Dead Before Deadline," host Robin Yocum and his lovely daughter Jaclynn navigate us through a mixed bag of stories he encountered during his tenure on the crime beat. These tales, varying from the whimsical to the downright absurd, showcase the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the oddities that a reporter can stumble upon.

Ever heard the rumor about a hippopotamus taking a leisurely swim in the Olentangy River? Robin and Jaclynn dive deep into this peculiar story, separating myth from reality. Then, get a masterclass on how NOT to approach an immigration officer with a bribe, as Yocum recounts one of the most awkward encounters he's documented.

The episode then takes a somber turn with the heartbreaking narrative of a man whose decision-making during a crisis is both bewildering and tragic. Leaving an ailing spouse in a burning house for a beer paints a picture of misplaced priorities and profound neglect.

Lastly, brace yourself for a tale that is as baffling as it is gruesome, as we hear about an individual who undertook a macabre DIY project in an attempt to locate his own brain.

Join in this whirlwind episode as he oscillates between the quirky, the tragic, and the downright inexplicable, illuminating the vast spectrum of human actions and decisions. "Crime Beat Chronicles" serves as a testament to the unpredictable stories that often lie hidden, waiting for a discerning reporter to uncover and share with the world.

In a chilling new installment of "Dead Before Deadline," Robin and Jaclynn Yocum delve into the deeply unsettling tales of two teenage boys who, despite their young age, committed heinous acts that would leave communities in shock and disbelief.

Bradley Porter, a seemingly regular 16-year-old, whose actions would catapult him to infamy, and Jeffrey McDonald, an 18-year-old with a story that's as horrifying as it is perplexing. What drives someone so young to commit acts of such brutality? And how do communities grapple with the aftermath?

Robin, with his seasoned journalistic perspective, revisits the evidence, the scenes, and the chilling aftermath of these crimes. His meticulous recounting paints a haunting picture of events that are nearly impossible to fathom. Alongside him, Jaclynn brings her fresh, analytical approach, dissecting the nuances of the cases and questioning the circumstances that led these young individuals down such dark paths.

"Youthful Darkness" is not just a recounting of events; it's a deep dive into the human psyche, societal pressures, and the possible triggers that might lead someone to commit unthinkable acts. The dynamics between Robin and Jaclynn ensure that every angle is explored, every question is pondered, and every dark corner is illuminated.

Prepare to be both disturbed and intrigued as this episode unravels two tales of youthful transgressions that challenge our understanding of morality, upbringing, and the very nature of evil. The stories of Bradley Porter and Jeffrey McDonald serve as chilling reminders that darkness can sometimes come from the most unexpected places. Join Robin and Jaclynn for an episode that's sure to leave an indelible mark on your consciousness.

In this emotionally charged episode of "Dead Before Deadline," Robin and Jacqueline are back with another powerful story to cover. Listen in as they unravel the haunting story surrounding Kelly Prosser, a name that would become synonymous with heartbreak in the annals of crime reporting. Kelly's disappearance and subsequent discovery shook the very foundations of the community, but the twists didn't end there. Enter Walter Mitchell, an enigmatic figure whose connection to Kelly's story remains riddled with questions.

Through meticulous recounting, Robin paints a somber picture of the events leading up to and following that fateful day. Drawing on archived interviews firsthand accounts, and his own personal experiences from covering the story, Robin brings listeners face-to-face with the stark realities of crime reporting, where the line between professional detachment and personal investment often blurs.

"The Sad Case of Kelly Prosser and Walter Mitchell" is more than just a narrative of events. It's an exploration into the profound impacts of tragedy on a community, the complexities of the human psyche, and the relentless pursuit of truth by journalists and investigators alike.

As the episode unfolds, listeners are invited to bear witness to the anguish, the uncertainties, and the relentless quest for justice. Robin's voice serves as a beacon, guiding us through the dark corridors of a story that, despite the passage of time, remains etched in the collective memory of those who lived it.

Prepare for a journey that's both poignant and chilling, as "Dead Before Deadline" delves deep into the shadows of the past, shining a light on a case that still beckons for answers.