In the early 1980s, Chicago was gripped by fear as women vanished and bodies were discovered mutilated in ways that suggested ritualistic violence. At the center of the storm was Robin Gecht and his “Ripper Crew,” consisting of Edward Spreitzer and brothers Andrew and Thomas Kokoraleis, who carried out a series of brutal abductions and murders. Gecht, a former associate of serial killer John Wayne Gacy, wrapped his crimes in a twisted mix of satanic ritual, loyalty, and sadistic control. In this episode of Hidden Cults, we unravel how the crew formed, the horrific nature of their crimes, and the chilling rumors of Gecht’s attic “chapel.” We trace the police investigation that finally brought the group down, the confessions that exposed the rituals of blood, and the sensational trials that shocked Chicago. Survivor testimonies and the legacy of terror left behind show how cult-like devotion can merge with criminality to unleash unimaginable violence.

Part 1 – A City on Edge
Part 2 – The Gathering of the Crew
Part 3 – The Rituals of Blood
Part 4 – Fear in the City
Part 5 – Capture and Confession
Part 6 – Shadows That Remain

From silent compounds to subway attacks, from charismatic prophets to catastrophic ends, Hidden Cults is a documentary-style podcast that digs deep into the world's most extreme, elusive, and explosive fringe groups. Each episode unpacks a different cult with investigative depth, emotional clarity, and gripping storytelling. You'll hear the full timeline: from the origins and ideology, to the rise of control, to the final descent into chaos. We're not here for the sensational. We're here for the truth. If you've ever wondered how ordinary people fall into extraordinary belief systems, and what happens when those systems implode, you're in the right place.

New episodes weekly
Listener stories always welcome
Anonymity guaranteed.

Listener stories: [email protected]

International Resources

• International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA)
  https://www.icsahome.com
  Provides information, recovery support, referrals, and events for survivors and concerned families.
• Open Minds Foundation
  https://www.openmindsfoundation.org
  Offers education and support about undue influence and manipulative organizations.
• The Hotline (USA – Domestic Abuse)
  https://www.thehotline.org
  📞 1-800-799-7233 — 24/7 support for victims of domestic, emotional, and religious abuse.
• Freedom of Mind Resource Center (Steven Hassan)
  https://freedomofmind.com
  Resources on cult recovery, exit counseling, and mind control education.
• FaithTrust Institute
  https://www.faithtrustinstitute.org
  Support and resources for survivors of religious abuse, especially within faith communities.

United States

• Cult Recovery Hotline (ICSA)
  📞 1-239-514-3081
  Referral and support line for ex-members, families, and researchers.
• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
  https://www.rainn.org
  📞 1-800-656-4673 — Confidential support for trauma survivors.

Canada 

• Cult & Trauma Support Resources 
• Info-Cult / Info-Secte (Montreal-based, Canada-wide) Website: https://infosecte.org
• Phone: 📞 514-274-2333
• Email: [email protected]
• Canada’s leading organization for individuals and families affected by cults, coercive groups, and spiritual abuse.
• Offers confidential support, referrals, and information in English and French.

United Kingdom

• The Family Survival Trust
  https://familysurvivaltrust.org
  Support and advocacy for those affected by cults and coercive control.
• Cults Information Centre and Family Support
  https://cults.org.uk
  UK-based information and guidance for cult survivors and families.
• Mind UK (Mental Health Support)
  https://www.mind.org.uk
  📞 0300 123 3393 — Non-judgmental mental health advice and support.

Australia

• Cult Information and Family Support (CIFS)
  https://www.cifs.org.au
  National support for individuals and families affected by cults.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/hidden-cults--6633392/support.