Send us a text

Robyn Breedlove, Becky Breedlove's sister, joins Detective Hammond to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the murder of Becky Breedlove. Robyn helps to paint a more complete picture of her beloved sister and the tremendous loss and burden her murder placed on her family.  In a follow up to episode #4 Detective Hammond and Robyn discuss Becky and the case and the ongoing fight to find her killer and see justice done.   

Thank you to Robyn Breedlove for her courage and strength to stand up and speak for Becky.  Thank you, as well, to the extended family and friends of Becky Breedlove. 

"Every murder strikes at the heart of civilization; it is an attack on all mankind."
Rae Foley (Elinore Denniston)

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

Episode 11,  Detective Hammond is again joined by his former homicide partner Mike Pietryla and close friend, brother and owner of the Welcome Back Lounge, Chicago, Chris Kafcas,  to finish walking you through the incredible story of the murder of 21 year old Magdalena "Maggie" Idzikowska and the nearly 15 investigation and judicial process that led to the identification and prosecution of her killer.   If you have ever wondered what the life of a homicide detective is really like in a place like Chicago these episodes are for you.  Listen to find out how this incredible story plays out.

Link to William Moore's final appeal to the Illinois State Appellate Court
https://casetext.com/case/people-v-moore-2867



Detective Story would like to thank the following:
Of course, Maggie's Family. Her mother Wanda Idzikowska, her brother Marcin Idzikowska and her father Alex Idzikowska.  Their undying faith and love of Maggie was motivation enough to keep us after answer's even at times when it seemed they were out of reach. They never sought vengeance,  just answers and the assurance that that her killer be definitively found and kept from doing more harm.

To CPD Detective Mike Pietryla (United States Army Retired)  CPD Lieutenant Sam Manto ( Colonel United States Army Retired)  and, of course the man who drove a tank around the jungles of Vietnam and an outstanding Chicago Police Detective "The Tank Commander". whose real name will finally be revealed when he hangs up  his badge for good. The very best of men.  

We would also like to acknowledge the outstanding work of the State's Attorney's who did a phenomenal job of prosecuting this case, not once but twice.  William"Bill"Delaney and Patrick "Pat"Morley.  Dogged determination indeed as they saw the case clearly and did "Maggie' and her family great justice.  I have not asked for Pat's permission to use his name here so that is completely on me, Mike Hammond, and I hope he forgives me as he deserves the accolades. Thank you both. 

To the men and women of the Illinois Sate Police Crime Lab, the FBI Crime Lab and the good people of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.  Great work all and thank you for putting up with our insistent insanity.  

And finally, to our families for indulging our absences and obsessions.  Part

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

After all of the detective books have been read and the movies and television's shows cast what is solving a true mystery homicide really like? Can those entities every capture the humanity, the slow grind and the sheer focus it takes to solve a case that takes years to get answers? In episode 10, and concluding with Episode 11,  Detective Hammond is joined by his former homicide partner Mike Pietryla and close friend, brother and owner of the Welcome Back Lounge, Chicago, Chris Kafcas,  to walk you through the incredible story of the murder of 21 year old Magdalena "Maggie" Idzikowska and the nearly 15 investigation and judicial process that led to the identification and prosecution of her killer.   If you have ever wondered what the life of a homicide detective is really like in a place like Chicago these episodes are for you.  

Detective Story would like to thank the following:
Of course, Maggie's Family. Her mother Wanda Idzikowska, her brother Marcin Idzikowska and her father Alex Idzikowska.  Their undying faith and love of Maggie was motivation enough to keep us after answer's even at times when it seemed they were out of reach. They never sought vengeance,  just answers and the assurance that that her killer be definitively found and kept from doing more harm.

To CPD Detective Mike Pietryla (United States Army Retired)  CPD Lieutenant Sam Manto ( Colonel United States Army Retired)  and, of course the man who drove a tank around the jungles of Vietnam and an outstanding Chicago Police Detective "The Tank Commander". whose real name will finally be revealed when he hangs up  his badge for good. The very best of men.  

We would also like to acknowledge the outstanding work of the State's Attorney's who did a phenomenal job of prosecuting this case, not once but twice.  William"Bill"Delaney and Patrick "Pat"Morley.  Dogged determination indeed as they saw the case clearly and did "Maggie' and her family great justice.  I have not asked for Pat's permission to use his name here so that is completely on me, Mike Hammond, and I hope he forgives me as he deserves the accolades. Thank you both. 

To the men and women of the Illinois Sate Police Crime Lab, the FBI Crime Lab and the good people of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.  Great work all and thank you for putting up with our insistent ins

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

In honor of the brave soldiers, police officers and all first responders who have fought the battles to keep us free, safe and healthy,  Detective Story takes great honor in inviting  you to join Detective Hammond for the interview of Mike Marotta, Executive Director of Warrior's Heart. 

Warrior's Heart, founded by Josh and Lisa Lannon and Tom and Laurie Spooner, is an organization that dedicates itself to not only ending the heartbreaking number of suicides among our military veterans and first responders but to go beyond and provide treatment, hope and guidance toward fulfilled,  joyous lives for those who have dedicated themselves to service and their families. 


************ If you or a warrior need help with addiction, PTS or co-occurring issues, please contact Warriors Heart’s 24-hour hotline (866-955-4035) answered by warriors and/or visit https://warriorsheart.com/connect.  ******************************************

About Mike:
Michael Marotta is the Warriors Heart Virginia Executive Director. He is no stranger to hard work and family. Married at 19 to the love of his life Dawn, Marotta is a father of 2 sons, United States Air Force Veteran, and former Law Enforcement Officer for almost 2 decades. As a veteran law enforcement officer and USAF combat veteran, Marotta has struggled with PTSD and has unique insights into the difficulties and trauma our protectors often face. His 68th Airlift Squadron supported Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. And while serving in the San Antonio Police Department, Marotta was a patrol officer, downtown bike patrol officer, crisis negotiator, mental health officer and wellness program coordinator to name a few. Leaving his career in law enforcement was what he would describe as the hardest decision he has ever made. Marotta emphasizes, “We as a healing community have moral responsibility to bring our heroes HOME. We at Warriors Heart will show up every day with kind, caring, compassionate hearts.” 

Mike's Warrior Heart Blog:
https://www.warriorsheart.com/my-why-michael-marotta/

Photo's of Mike and the Warrior Heart Center:
**Provided by Warrior's Heart

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

Detective Story invites you to join Detective Hammond for the interview of LaDonna Humphrey.  Host of Multiple Podcasts and Writer and Director or the award winning documentary Uneven Ground: The Melissa Witt Story.

Detective Hammond and Mrs. Humphrey dive into the Melissa Witt case and discuss the investigation and circumstances.   A case that demands answers. Answers that are out there and can be found.  

#WhoKilledMelissaWitt
#JusticeForMelissaWitt

A special thank you the the men and women at Core Fueling and Manticore Fuels in Midland and Odessa, Texas for their generous equipment donation to the Detective Story Podcast.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

Visit Core Fueling and Manticore Fuels at:
https://corefueling.com
https://manticorefuels.com

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

In honor of Memorial Day, Detective Story invites you to join Detective Hammond for the interview of Allicia Johnson Niles. On March 27th, 1976 Allicia's father, Lieutenant Junior Grade Burr N. Johnson, was shot and killed aboard his assigned ship, the USS Richard S. Edwards which was docked in Pearl Harbor.   Then a young child, Allicia was told of her father's murder.  For her, the loss caused years of years of pain, trauma and shear terror of the unnamed and unknown evil that had taken her father.  Allicia discusses her journey to recovery and ultimately the decision to pursue answers to her father's murder from the United State's Navy.

Allicia's Website:
https://www.angelinarlington.com

T.A.P.S. Contact Information
https://www.taps.org
24/7 Phone Line- 800-959-TAPS (8277)

Allicia's co-author and works:
M. Bridgett Cook-
The Witness Wore Red
https://www.amazon.com/The-Witness-Wore-Red
Shattered Silence
https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Silence-Untold-Killers-Daughter

A special thank you the the men and women at Core Fueling and Manticore Fuels in Midland and Odessa, Texas for their generous equipment donation to the Detective Story Podcast.  Your support is greatly appreciated.

Visit Core Fueling and Manticore Fuels at:
https://corefueling.com
https://manticorefuels.com

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

Susan Snow is the daughter of slain Los Angeles Police Department Detective Thomas C. Williams, who was ambushed and killed on October 31, 1985 when Susan was 17 years old.  She is a published author, speaker, and coach. Her book, The Other Side of the Gun-My Journey from Trauma to Resiliency, was born out of Susan’s journey through the trauma she experienced with the death of her father. She wrote it on her pathing to healing and to help others heal through her words and experiences.  She is a powerful public speaker and healing coach whose message has value for everyone.  

In this episode of Detective Story, Mrs. Snow joins Detective Hammond for a conversation about her life, her relationship with her heroic father, her family, her book and the journey that she is on to heal herself, others and to continue to honor her father's legacy.

― C.S. Lewis

Susan's Links:
Website:  https://susansnowspeaks.com/
Book on Amazon:  https://a.co/d/42wlX1N

Detective Thomas C. Williams Memorial Page:
https://www.odmp.org/officer/14281-detective-thomas-charles-williams-jr

Personal note from Mike Hammond
         
I hope you enjoy this episode and the interview with the Susan Snow. It was a privilege and an honor to have the opportunity to talk with her.  The power and importance of her journey and work was again on display here again in Chicago and in city Charlotte, North Carolina in the last few days.  As I am preparing to release this episode the Chicago Police Department family and the good citizens of the City of Chicago have been devastated by murder of a Chicago Police Officer.  Patrolman Luis Huesca was shot and killed as he returned home from his shift, still in full uniform.  Killed just two days before his 31st birthday the impact Officer Huesca had in Chicago is clear and evident in the outpouring of grief, emotion and respect in his community.

In Charlotte, four law enforcement officers were shot and killed in a single incident and four others were wounded. It is hard to imagine the loss that is being felt in that community.   A very painful reminder that our law enforcement officers quite literally put everything the have on the line for our safety.

We

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

Detective Hammond returns with the very personal story the murder of Vigo County Sheriff Sergeant W. Kevin Artz.   Detective Hammond talks of his relationship with his first mentor in law enforcement Deputy Michael McKissick, the closing of the innocence of his youth with his college internship and the beginning of his journey into the real world of violence.  A story that he has kept inside of his close circle of friends and family until now. He recounts the story from his memories of it and in tribute to Sergeant Artz and his surviving daughters.  As always to keep the name Sergeant Walter Kevin Artz alive and remembered.  

https://www.odmp.org/officer/1316-sergeant-walter-kevin-artz

****** A personal note from Mike Hammond

I recorded this episode unscripted with few notes and in doing so I could not recall the name of a Terre Haute Police Department Detective killed in the line of duty on July 7th, 2021.   His name is Detective Greg Ferency. Forgive me Detective Ferency. Thank you for your service, I hope that you have found peace and your family will find comfort with the pride of knowing that you put their safety and the safety of your community above yourself. You honor, courage and sacrifice is a measure for us all. 

https://www.odmp.org/officer/25357-detective-gregory-joseph-ferency

Some debts can never be repaid so you do your best to honor those who have shown you the way and pay it forward.  There have been many who have helped and supported me along the way.  It is my hope that I have lived up to the standard that Kevin Artz and Mike McKissick set for me. I am proud and lucky to have had the time with them both.  

To my father,  Hank Hammond, my brothers Joe and Andrew and my lasting friend Bryan Leturgez. Thank you for supporting me in this journey since July 1st, 1987 and always standing by me no matter how nuts you thought I may be.  Love and gratitude aren't big enough words.  Of course, to my mother and Maw. The knowledge that I have your blood flowing through me has always made feel braver than I probably really was. 

Thank you all for your support and time.  You can reach Detective Mike Hammond anytime at [email protected] 

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

On a warm summer Chicago night, June 1974 someone brutally stabbed and murdered 25-year-old Becky Breedlove in her apartment. Bubbly, cute and fun loving she was a transplant to Chicago from Mississippi in the prime of her life.  She had a young son who was staying with her parents back in Mississippi at the time she was murdered. She worked hard and loved to socialize in her neighborhood. But Chicago can be a rough place for those not familiar with it. Becky, whether she knew it or not, may have put herself in harm's way. Two of her romantic partners were married men and some of the friends she socialized with were known members of Chicago's Organized Crime.  In Episode 4 Detective Mike Hammond will walk you through the case and tell you the facts as they are known.  Maybe you can discover the key to solving this crime and finally bring closure for Becky's family after 50 years. 

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]

Send us a text

In a special edition of the Detective Story Podcast, Retired Chicago Police Homicide Detective Mike Hammond discusses recent events in the Chicago area during which 12 people were murdered by two separate offenders. He talks about the police procedure, both from the perspective of a homicide detective and administrative responsibilities, during these mass casualty and public threat situations.  He also gives his perspective on how you can get yourself through these events safely both physically and mentally.

Below are some links to help with mental health crisis assistance and the FEMA Active Shooter Webpage which includes detailed descriptions of the Run, Hide, Fight concept of dealing with active threats.  For those of you who want to take a bigger step into personal safety and preparedness there is not many more comprehensive programs than Mike Glover's Fieldcraft Survival training and education programs in Detective Hammond's opinion.   

https://fop.net/officer-wellness/crisis-

hotlines/https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Active-Shooter

https://988lifeline.org/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=onebox

Fieldcraft Survival | Survival Gear & Training

Support the show

The Engine that Makes Detective Story Run:


Big thank you to our sponsors that keep us rolling:
Jenn and Drew Hammond
Colonel Samuel E. Manto
Core Natural Gas Services, Midland/Odessa, Texas
Blue Knight Security Solutions

Co-Host-Chris Kafcas
Video and Audio Editing by Mike Hammond
Original Musical Score-Jared May
Original Studio Artwork: Drew DeMaria
Research and Development-Kari Hutson
Writer and Content Creator-Mike Hammond

Original Show Artwork and Logo's:
Eric Rovegno
https://www.thenorthcreative.com/
Los Angeles, California
(Do yourself a favor and check out his work on his website)

Security and Investigative assistance provided by:
Blue Knight Security Solutions
Contact information:
blueknightsecuritysolutions.com
773-706-4920

Visit us for direct contact, updates and news at our website:
www.detectivestory.net

Find us on the Socials
Facebook, Instagram and TikTok:
@detectivestorymikehammond

X (Twitter)
@hammer640

email Detective Hammond at:
[email protected]