Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

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Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns episodes

August 27, 2024 Telles Trial-Former Clark County Official Faces Jury as Murder Trial Concludes
The murder trial of Robert Telles, the former Clark County public administrator accused of killing Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter Jeff German, has reached a critical juncture as testimony concluded on Friday. The case has drawn significant public attention, particularly as prosecutors allege that a series of articles written by German about Telles could have motivated the killing nearly two years ago.

Retired Las Vegas Metro Police detective Clifford Mogg returned to the stand, testifying about the investigation’s findings. Under questioning by Prosecutor Christopher Hamner, Mogg discussed the evidence found on Telles' and his wife’s electronic devices. Notably, Hamner highlighted photos of messages on the Apple watch belonging to Telles' wife that appeared to have been deleted from Telles' phone. "Were you aware these messages were deleted on Mr. Telles' phone?" Hamner asked. Mogg confirmed, stating, "Yes, I was made aware of that fact."
In a dramatic turn, Telles took the stand to address the jury directly, reiterating his claim of innocence and suggesting he was being framed. "I am innocent," Telles asserted firmly. "I'm not the kind of person who could brutally murder another man."

His testimony, however, was met with scrutiny from the prosecution. Hamner pressed Telles on inconsistencies in his account, especially concerning his whereabouts on the day of German's murder. "Isn't there a slide from August 1st to August 31st talking about location data on your phone?" Hamner asked. "It was a blank slate, right?"

Telles had previously told the jury that on the day German was killed, he was at home, making chicken fried rice for his daughter using a Google recipe. He explained the presence of a deep cut on his finger at the time of his arrest as the result of a kitchen accident. However, Metro Forensic Lab Supervisor Matthew Hovanec testified that there were no search results on Telles' phone for terms like "recipe" or "fried rice" on the day of the murder. When questioned by Telles' attorney, Robert Draskovich, about whether these terms could have been searched on other devices, Hovanec confirmed that no such searches were found.

The decision by Telles to testify has been a point of considerable debate. Channel 13 in Las Vegas reported numerous inquiries from viewers regarding Telles' choice to take the stand. Criminal defense attorney Malcolm LaVergne weighed in on this strategy, noting the potential risks. "There has been no bigger witness for the prosecution's case than Mr. Telles choosing to get up and testify on his own behalf," said LaVergne. "This is the problem with testifying when you're a defendant. A lot of things can come in that wouldn't have if it wasn't for Mr. Telles testifying."

Throughout his testimony, Telles repeatedly insisted on his innocence, stating he "did not kill Mr. German." However, his demeanor seemed to shift on the final day of testimony, appearing discouraged and despondent as jurors took their final notes. The trial proceedings concluded with a closed-door meeting between the judge and attorneys, setting the stage for the next phase.

The jury is expected to begin deliberations soon, possibly as early as Monday afternoon. As the trial moves toward its conclusion, the focus remains on the conflicting narratives presented by both sides and the evidence — or lack thereof — supporting each. With the case nearing its end, all eyes are on the jury as they prepare to weigh the evidence and deliver a verdict that will determine Telles' fate.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
15 min
August 26, 2024 Telles Denies Murder Charges Amid Emotional Testimony and Allegations of Conspiracy
Robert Telles, the former Clark County Public Administrator accused of murdering investigative journalist Jeff German, took the stand once again on Thursday, where he not only denied the charges against him but also suggested a broad conspiracy by law enforcement to frame him.

The day began with Telles questioning the evidence presented against him, particularly focusing on a photo of the suspected killer’s pants. After a significant delay in court, Telles compared the jeans taken into evidence with the photo, asserting that the two did not match. "Those pants do not match the ‘killer’s jeans,’” Telles argued, as defense attorney Robert Draskovich presented the items in question.

Telles also recounted his distress during the police search of his home, becoming visibly emotional on the stand. As photos of his residence post-search were displayed, he began to sob, describing the media surrounding his house and the cold conditions he endured in detention. "I spent all day cold in a paper suit," Telles lamented.
Throughout his testimony, Telles maintained his innocence in the murder of Jeff German. He emphatically denied cutting up a shoe or hat and hiding them in his home, as well as using a bag associated with his children’s sports activities in the commission of a crime. “I did not kill Mr. German,” Telles declared, challenging the accusations against him.

The former public administrator went further, claiming that the evidence against him was part of a police conspiracy. He suggested that DNA evidence found at the crime scene had been planted and that Detective Derek Jappe was involved in framing him. Telles described the alleged conspiracy as an effort to “plug holes” in the case, asserting that police officers were behind the manipulation of evidence.

During cross-examination, state attorney Chris Hamner probed Telles on several inconsistencies in his statements and actions. Hamner questioned Telles about the shoes found at his home, the Google Street View images of German’s neighborhood discovered on his phone, and his lack of outgoing messages during the time of the murder. Hamner highlighted the similarity between the rims on Telles’ SUV and those on the suspect vehicle seen near the crime scene, as well as the presence of Telles’ DNA under German’s fingernails.

Telles attempted to explain these discrepancies by reiterating his belief in a conspiracy. He argued that the images and evidence found on his phone were planted and that the entire narrative was constructed to frame him for the murder. However, Hamner pressed him on these points, particularly focusing on the lack of evidence supporting his claims and the fact that no other suspects had been identified.

In a particularly intense moment, Hamner asked Telles about his relationship with Jeff German and whether he believed the journalist's articles had affected his chances in the primary election for Clark County Public Administrator. Telles admitted that he was upset by German’s reporting and believed it had influenced the election outcome, but he stopped short of admitting any motive for the alleged crime.

The trial, which has garnered significant public attention, is set to continue on Friday morning. As the cross-examination of Robert Telles resumes, the jury will weigh the emotional testimony, the allegations of conspiracy, and the evidence presented as they move closer to a verdict in this high-profile case.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
26 min
August 26, 2024 Judge Denies Karen Read's Motion to Dismiss Charges in Murder Case
Karen Read, accused of the murder of her Boston police officer boyfriend John O’Keefe, faced a setback as the judge overseeing her trial denied her motion to dismiss two significant charges. This decision marks a crucial development in a case that has drawn substantial attention due to the complex legal arguments surrounding the mistrial declared in Read's previous trial.

Defense attorneys for Karen Read had filed a motion earlier this month seeking the dismissal of the second-degree murder charge and the charge of leaving the scene of a deadly accident. Their argument was based on the contention that retrying Read on these charges would violate the constitutional protection against double jeopardy, which prevents an individual from being tried twice for the same crime.

“We have evidence here that the jury acquitted Ms. Read,” defense attorney Marty Weinberg told the court. He emphasized the importance of a judicial determination on whether the jury had indeed reached a not guilty verdict on these charges, arguing that continuing the prosecution would be unjust.

The case revolves around the January 2022 incident in which Read is accused of striking John O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him in a snowstorm, leading to his death. The two-month trial that followed ended inconclusively when the jury declared they were hopelessly deadlocked after five days of deliberations, prompting the judge to declare a mistrial.

The defense team highlighted that four jurors had indicated the jury unanimously agreed on not guilty verdicts for the second-degree murder charge and the charge of leaving the scene of a deadly accident. They were deadlocked only on the lesser manslaughter charge. According to the defense, retrying Read on the first two charges would be unconstitutional.

However, Judge Beverly Cannone ruled against the motion, stating, “After careful consideration, this Court concludes that because the defendant was not acquitted of any charges and defense counsel consented to the Court’s declaration of a mistrial, double jeopardy is not implicated by retrial of the defendant.” The judge further clarified that an acquittal must be public and in open court as per state law, which did not occur in Read's case.

In a statement following the ruling, the Norfolk District Attorney’s Office expressed its support for the decision. “We believe that the judge’s decision is consistent with almost 200 years of case law,” the statement read. The office confirmed that they are moving forward with the trial, scheduled to begin on January 27.

Judge Cannone also addressed the defense's stance, noting, "Although the Court did not specifically ask defense counsel if they had any objection to the declaration of a mistrial, counsel had multiple opportunities to voice an objection if they in fact had one." She added that the defense’s current arguments contradicted their earlier position during the trial.

The defense team declined to comment on the ruling when contacted by WBZ-TV. Meanwhile, the Norfolk County District Attorney’s office reiterated their commitment to prosecuting the case, underscoring the legal precedent supporting the judge’s decision.

As the case moves toward a retrial, it continues to raise important questions about the legal interpretations of mistrials, jury deliberations, and the constitutional safeguards against double jeopardy. With the next trial date set for January 27, both the defense and prosecution are preparing for what promises to be another closely watched legal battle.

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Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
14 min
August 23, 2024 Kissimmee Police Clear Jennifer Soto of Charges in Connection with Daughter’s Death; Investigation Continues
The Kissimmee Police Department announced that no charges will be filed against Jennifer Soto, the mother of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, whose tragic death shocked the community earlier this year. Despite an intensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Madeline's disappearance and death, authorities have determined that Jennifer Soto has not committed any criminal acts related to the case.

Madeline Soto was first reported missing on February 26, 2024, after she failed to show up at Hunters Creek Middle School, where she was a student. The alarm was raised by school officials, leading to a search that eventually ended in the grim discovery of her body in rural Osceola County.

During the investigation, Jennifer Soto was interviewed by detectives from the Orange County Sheriff's Office. In a recorded interview conducted late on February 27, Soto explained that she did not see Madeline on the morning of her disappearance, as she assumed her daughter was preparing for school while she attended a doctor’s appointment. Soto’s boyfriend, Stephan Sterns, was supposed to drop Madeline off at school, but he failed to do so. This failure would later lead to chilling revelations.

Stearns was arrested on February 28, initially charged with sexual battery and possession of child sexual abuse material after investigators discovered graphic photos and videos on his phone, believed to involve Madeline. As the investigation progressed, further evidence emerged, leading to Sterns being charged with first-degree murder on April 24.

One of the critical pieces of evidence against Sterns was traffic camera footage showing him driving with what appeared to be Madeline's limp body in the front seat of his car on the morning she was reported missing. Authorities believe Madeline was already dead at this time, possibly for several hours.

In her interview with detectives, Jennifer Soto provided details about the relationship between Sterns and her daughter, which investigators found concerning. When asked about the sleeping arrangements in their household, Soto stated, “Sometimes when I really need a good night’s sleep, I will send them upstairs. But when, I’ll also—a lot of times we will sleep together in the king-sized bed. All three of us. Or sometimes Stephan will go upstairs and share a bed alone. So it just really depends on what’s going on that night with our schedules and what we’re doing.”

Despite these unsettling details, authorities have concluded that there is no evidence to suggest Jennifer Soto was involved in her daughter’s death. “Sources have confirmed that Jennifer Soto has done nothing criminal so far, so she will not face charges,” reported Channel 9’s Shannon Butler.

Madeline’s body was found after a week-long search, bringing a heartbreaking conclusion to a case that has raised many questions about the events leading up to her death. As of now, Sterns remains the only person charged in connection with Madeline’s death. The State Attorney’s Office has stated its intention to seek the death penalty against him.

However, the investigation is not over. During a press conference in April, Homicide Unit Chief Will Jay emphasized, “This is not over. There is an ongoing investigation to uncover more evidence.” Authorities have suggested that others who were close to Madeline remain under scrutiny, with the possibility of additional charges if new evidence comes to light.

Kissimmee Police Chief Betty Holland also commented on the ongoing investigation, saying, “Everyone that was close to Madeline is considered suspect until we have proven otherwise.”

As the community grapples with the loss of a young life, the legal proceedings against Sterns continue. His next court appearance is scheduled for mid-October, where a status hearing will take place. The outcome of this case will be closely watched as investigators work to ensure that justice is fully served for Madeline Soto.

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Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
12 min
August 23, 2024 Former Nevada Politician Robert Telles Testifies, Insists on Innocence in Journalist’s Murder Trial
In a gripping courtroom scene, Robert Telles, a former Clark County Public Administrator, took the stand to assert his innocence in the murder trial of Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter Jeff German. Telles, 47, has been accused of fatally stabbing German in September 2022 following a series of critical articles about Telles' office. He pleaded not guilty to murder with the use of a deadly weapon and has claimed throughout the trial that he was framed.

"I want to say, unequivocally, I am innocent, I didn’t kill Mr. German," Telles told the jury during his testimony, which was marked by frequent interruptions due to objections from the prosecution. Telles, who was not questioned by a defense attorney, repeatedly stated that he was "nervous" and described the ordeal as a "nightmare."

Telles’ defense has argued that he was targeted because he tried to expose corruption in his role as Clark County Public Administrator. “It’d be quite a coincidence, the fact that Mr. German was killed and it was put on me, that they just had a serendipitous benefit from that,” Telles said, suggesting that others had something to gain from framing him for the crime.

The trial, which has drawn significant attention due to the nature of the crime and the victim’s profession, comes nearly two years after German’s death. Prosecutors have painted a picture of a disgruntled Telles, enraged by German’s reporting, meticulously planning the attack. They allege that Telles disguised himself, hid outside German’s home, and attacked the journalist when he arrived. The prosecution’s case has relied heavily on video and physical evidence, including DNA found under German’s fingernails, linking Telles to the crime.

In contrast, the defense has portrayed Telles as a victim of a conspiracy, insisting that he was framed because he attempted to reform the public administrator's office, upsetting the “Old Guard.” Defense attorney Robert Draskovich argued in his opening statement that “From the get-go, they are concerned with Robert Telles, and Robert Telles alone,” suggesting that the investigation was biased from the start.
Jeff German, 69, was a seasoned investigative reporter known for his hard-hitting stories on Las Vegas’s underworld, including mobsters and corrupt officials. German’s reporting on Telles had focused on allegations of a hostile work environment and an inappropriate relationship Telles allegedly had with a staffer. These reports contributed to Telles’ loss in the Democratic primary for re-election in June 2022. German was reportedly working on another story about Telles at the time of his death.

The prosecution has presented a robust case, including surveillance footage from the morning of German’s murder. The video shows a person dressed in a large sunhat, orange jacket, and gray Nike sneakers—attire that was later found, cut up, in Telles’ home. The person in the video is seen lurking around German’s property, and a maroon SUV, matching one owned by Telles’ family, was captured on video near the scene.

Prosecutors also pointed to the timing of the murder, noting that German had made a public records request just hours before his death, potentially exacerbating tensions between him and Telles. They also revealed that Telles had been searching for information about German online in the days leading up to the murder.

Despite the evidence, Telles’ defense remains firm in their claim of his innocence, questioning the integrity of the police investigation and suggesting that the evidence was planted. Draskovich noted that the items found in Telles’ home had no blood on them, raising doubts about their connection to the crime. “There is no rational explanation as to why the hat and shoes were cut into pieces, except that they would be easier to conceal and plant,” Draskovich argued.

As the trial progresses, the jury will have to weigh the compelling evidence presented by the prosecution against Telles’ testimony and the defense’s theory of a conspiracy. The case has also highlighted broader concerns about the safety of journalists in the United States, with German being one of the few reporters killed while on the job in recent years. The trial is set to continue, with Telles expected to resume his testimony.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
20 min
August 22, 2024 Defense Begins Its Case in High-Profile Trial of Former Clark County Official Accused of Murdering Journalist
The trial of Robert Telles, the former Clark County Public Administrator accused of murdering investigative journalist Jeff German in 2022, entered a new phase as the prosecution rested its case on Monday. The defense is now taking its turn to present evidence and call witnesses in an attempt to establish Telles’ innocence in the high-profile Nevada murder trial.

The defense, led by attorney Robert Draskovich, began its case by calling Mark Chambers, a clinical psychologist, to the stand. Chambers discussed the psychological impact of being accused of a severe crime, such as murder, and how this can lead to extreme stress, including the possibility of suicide attempts.

“It’s clear from the research that the stress of being accused of a crime, particularly a severe crime, can cause people to commit or attempt suicide whether they’re guilty or not,” Chambers explained during his testimony.
Chambers' role in the trial was to shed light on the psychological state of individuals under severe duress, potentially offering an alternative explanation for Telles' behavior.
However, his testimony was closely examined by prosecutor Weckerly, who questioned how much evidence Chambers had reviewed and whether he had independently verified Telles’ claims. Chambers admitted that he had not corroborated Telles' account with other sources and had not recorded his interviews with Telles, leaving some room for doubt about the thoroughness of his analysis.

“What he’s telling you is his factual version, right?” Weckerly asked, to which Chambers responded, “I would assume so.” This exchange highlighted the prosecution's concerns about the reliability of Chambers' testimony.

Following the lunch recess, the defense called its second witness, Tracy Migliore, who testified about seeing a suspect near Bruce Trent Park, close to the time of Jeff German’s murder. Migliore described the individual she saw as having a matching description to the suspect seen in a video released by the police, including walking “like a man” and carrying a duffel bag.

However, Migliore's testimony was challenged during cross-examination. Prosecutor Weckerly asked for details about where exactly Migliore was when she encountered the suspect, and Migliore struggled to provide a clear answer. Additionally, it was revealed that Migliore’s husband had taken notes on her behalf, rather than Migliore herself, which cast further doubt on the accuracy of her recollection.

The court proceedings on Monday ended earlier than expected due to a travel delay with one of the defense's witnesses, resulting in only two witnesses being called for a total of about two hours of testimony. The court is set to reconvene on Wednesday morning, where the defense is expected to continue presenting its case.

As the trial progresses, the defense will aim to create reasonable doubt about Telles’ involvement in the murder, while the prosecution will continue to emphasize the evidence pointing to Telles as the main suspect. The case has garnered significant media attention, with many closely watching how the defense will navigate the serious charges against Telles in the days ahead.

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Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
11 min
August 22, 2024 Pre-Trial Hearings Set for Former Boyfriend Accused in Murder of Madeline Kingsbury
More than a year after the tragic disappearance and murder of Madeline Kingsbury, her former boyfriend, Adam Fravel, is scheduled to appear in court next month for pre-trial hearings. Fravel faces second-degree murder charges in connection with the death of Kingsbury, a 26-year-old mother of two from Winona, Minnesota.

Kingsbury was first reported missing at the end of March 2023, sparking an extensive search effort across the Winona area. For weeks, community members, law enforcement, and volunteers scoured the region, hoping to find any trace of her. The search came to a heartbreaking conclusion in June when Kingsbury's remains were discovered in a concealed location along Highway 43 in Fillmore County, just a short drive from Fravel’s home.

Police in Minnesota identified the remains as those of Madeline Kingsbury shortly after their discovery. The tragic news was followed by the arrest of Adam Fravel, who had been under suspicion since the investigation began. Fravel, 29, was taken into custody "on probable cause in connection to her disappearance," according to the Winona Police Department.

The upcoming pre-trial hearings are scheduled for September 3-4, and will likely take place in Winona, unless a new trial location is announced beforehand. Due to the widespread media attention surrounding the case, a judge has already agreed to move the trial out of Winona County, ensuring a fair legal process.

As the case moves forward, Kingsbury's family has expressed a mix of sorrow and relief. In a statement released following the discovery of her body, Kingsbury's sister, Megan, shared the family’s sentiments. "We’re relieved that Madeline has been found after months of intensive searching and grateful for the extraordinary efforts by law enforcement, other first responders, and volunteers," she said. "We’re certain that the correct person has been arrested, will be appropriately charged, and convicted of his crimes. Things are moving in the right direction there, and we look forward to getting justice for Madeline."

The investigation into Kingsbury's disappearance revealed that her body had been carefully concealed in a wooded area off a gravel road, an area that had been previously searched but not thoroughly enough to uncover her remains initially. "There were efforts made to conceal the location of the body," Fillmore County Sheriff John DeGeorge noted during a press conference, emphasizing the challenges investigators faced in locating Kingsbury.

Winona Police Chief Tom Williams also addressed the discovery, expressing his condolences to Kingsbury’s family. "While this discovery is not what we were hoping for, we are thankful to be able to bring Maddi home to her family," Williams said.

The case has drawn significant public interest, not only because of the tragic loss of a young mother but also due to the extensive community involvement in the search for her. Thousands of searchers assisted law enforcement over the more than two months that Kingsbury was missing, highlighting the deep impact her disappearance had on the local community.

As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes will be on the upcoming pre-trial hearings and the eventual trial of Adam Fravel. The hearings will provide an opportunity for the defense and prosecution to present their cases as the court begins the process of determining Fravel’s guilt or innocence in the murder of Madeline Kingsbury.

The case serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the devastating impact it can have on families and communities. As Kingsbury’s family and the community of Winona await justice, the memory of Madeline Kingsbury will undoubtedly continue to resonate with those who were touched by her story.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
13 min
August 21, 2024 Gilgo Beach Murder Investigation Links Suspect's Planning Document to Former Bronx Sex Worker
Investigators have made a significant connection in the Gilgo Beach murder case, linking one of the phone numbers listed in an alleged planning document belonging to Rex A. Heuermann, the prime suspect, to a former Bronx sex worker. This discovery sheds new light on the case, which has captivated the public for years.

Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney made the phone number public in June 2023, seeking help from the public in identifying a woman who may have been targeted by Heuermann around 2002. The number has now been traced to Danielle Goodling, a former Bronx sex worker who died in 2021 from an apparent drug overdose, according to her family.

Goodling’s involvement in the case highlights the brutal reality of the crimes Heuermann is accused of committing. Goodling worked as a sex worker in New York during the late 1990s and early 2000s, a period when Heuermann is alleged to have been planning his heinous acts. She had multiple arrests, two of which occurred in 2002 near Heuermann's former office, raising questions about whether their paths might have crossed.

The second phone number found in the document, a pager number, remains unverified. Investigators are continuing their efforts to determine its relevance to the case. According to authorities, Heuermann used the planning document between 2000 and 2002, outlining his methods for carrying out his crimes and evading law enforcement. The document included phone numbers associated with individuals identified as "Megan?" and "Target 1," which may refer to Goodling, though her mother, Cindy Fitt, has stated she does not recall her daughter using the name Megan.

The connection between Goodling and Heuermann adds another layer to the complex and disturbing investigation. On July 13, 2023, Heuermann, now 60, was arrested outside his Manhattan office in connection with the 2010 murders of Melissa Barthelemy, 24; Megan Waterman, 22; and Amber Costello, 27, according to reports from Front Page Detectives. These women, along with Maureen Brainard-Barnes, 25, whose remains were found near the others, became known as the "Gilgo Four."

The scope of the case widened as authorities continued their investigation. In June 2024, Heuermann was charged with the alleged murders of Jessica Taylor in 2003 and Sandra Costilla in 1993. These charges brought the total number of alleged victims to six, all of whom were involved in sex work, according to prosecutors. The timeline of the crimes spans three decades, from Costilla's 1993 death to Heuermann's arrest in 2023.

Despite the mounting evidence and the gravity of the charges against him, Heuermann has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges. The ongoing investigation continues to uncover more details about Heuermann's activities and potential victims, as law enforcement works to bring justice to the families of the victims.

The revelation of Goodling's connection to one of the phone numbers in Heuermann's planning document is a critical piece of evidence in the broader case. However, with the second phone number still unverified, the investigation is far from over. Authorities remain committed to piecing together the full scope of Heuermann's alleged crimes, as they work to ensure that no stone is left unturned.

The Gilgo Beach case, which has haunted the community and captured national attention, continues to evolve as new evidence comes to light. The families of the victims, alongside law enforcement, are seeking closure and justice for the lives lost in what has become one of the most chilling serial murder cases in recent history. As the investigation progresses, the public remains watchful, eager for answers in a case that has left so many questions unanswered for so long.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
9 min
August 21, 2024 Former Clark County Politician's Trial Enters Pivotal Stage as Prosecution Rests
The trial of Robert Telles, the former Clark County public administrator accused of murdering Las Vegas journalist Jeff German, entered a critical phase as the prosecution neared the end of its case. This week’s testimony focused on evidence collected during the investigation, particularly the steps taken by law enforcement to tie Telles to the crime.

One of the key pieces of evidence presented was a series of text messages exchanged between Telles and his colleague, Roberta Lee-Kennett, after German’s death. The messages highlighted Telles’ concern about the similarities between his vehicle and the one identified as the suspect vehicle. “I am. Very worried,” Lee-Kennett texted, to which Telles responded, “My car has all matching wheel patterns.” The exchange concluded with Lee-Kennett noting, “[Expletive] … your car is identical.”

The prosecution then called Christie Baxter, a crime scene analyst supervisor for LVMPD. Baxter described the evidence collection process at the scene of German’s murder, including the handling of DNA swabs and blood samples.
She also recounted photographing Telles’ office during the investigation, with these images shown to the jury.

A significant portion of the day’s testimony came from Matthew Hovanec , a digital forensics expert, who discussed the extraction of data from Telles’ Google Pixel smartphone. Hovanec revealed that Telles had repeatedly searched for information related to Jeff German, including viewing his residence on Google Maps and Google Street View. He presented evidence showing that Telles’ phone stored 132 Street View images of German’s home, viewed approximately 20 days before the murder.
During cross-examination, Draskovich questioned the possibility of Telles’ phone being hacked, a theory that Hovanec dismissed due to a lack of supporting evidence. The prosecution emphasized that the search for German’s residence occurred on Telles’ work computer during office hours, indicating a preoccupation with the journalist.

The court then heard from LVMPD homicide detective Justine Gatus, who provided a comprehensive account of the investigation into German’s death.
Gatus detailed how her team followed up on tips, including ones that suggested Telles as a suspect.
She also described the discovery of foreign DNA under German’s fingernails, which eventually led to Telles being stopped for a sample.

The defense sought to undermine the prosecution’s case by pointing out the deletion of a body camera video from Telles’ traffic stop. Draskovich argued that this deletion was significant, but Gatus clarified that it was an automated system process and not a deliberate act by investigators.

After several hours of cross-examination, the prosecution rested its case. The defense is set to begin calling witnesses when the trial resumes on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. The trial’s outcome now rests on the jury’s interpretation of the extensive evidence presented over the past week.

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13 min
August 20, 2024 Tensions Unveiled as Former Politician's Trial in Journalist's Death Continues
The trial of Robert Telles, a former Clark County public administrator accused of fatally stabbing investigative journalist Jeff German in 2022, entered its fifth day with critical evidence and testimony revealing the fraught relationship between the two men.

On Thursday, prosecutors highlighted evidence found at Telles' home, which they believe ties him to the crime. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police detectives testified about the search that uncovered a hat and a pair of shoes matching those seen on the suspect in security footage on the day of German's murder. Notably, the shoes were partially destroyed, and the hat had been cut up, suggesting an attempt to conceal evidence.

Defense attorney Robert Draskovich questioned the integrity of the evidence collection process, arguing that the search was poorly organized and potentially compromised by unauthorized access to key areas. He also scrutinized the amount of blood found at the crime scene, questioning the procedures followed by medical examiners.

Friday’s proceedings opened with forensic scientist Anastasia Barton, who testified about her analysis of fingernail samples from German’s body, confirming they tested positive for blood. However, Barton noted that no DNA samples from Robert Telles were present during her examination. Draskovich’s cross-examination focused on whether the samples were handled properly to ensure their integrity.

Forensic scientist Melanie Koljenovic then took the stand, confirming that blood was found on items recovered from Telles’ residence, including the shoes and the handle of a pair of scissors. However, pieces of the hat tested negative for blood. Draskovich pressed Koljenovic on the potential for false positives in blood tests, to which she acknowledged that substances like rust or animal blood could create misleading results.

Forensic scientist Kimberly Dannenberger provided crucial testimony linking Telles to the crime scene through DNA evidence. She revealed that DNA samples from German's right-hand fingernail contained a mixture of profiles, including one that matched Telles. The prosecution used this evidence to further connect Telles to the murder, but the defense noted that Telles' DNA was not found on German’s clothing or in other critical areas, such as a duffel bag believed to have been used by the suspect.

Testimony from Daniel Kulan, a former colleague of German, shed light on the public records requests that may have exacerbated tensions between Telles and German. Kulan recounted how German had requested communications between Telles and Roberta Lee-Kennett, an estate coordinator in Telles' office, weeks before the killing. Telles was reportedly notified of these requests, which were routine in German’s investigative work.

Roberta Lee-Kennett provided gripping testimony about her interactions with Telles following German's death. She recalled receiving notification of the public information request regarding her communications with Telles but stated she wasn’t initially concerned. However, she was deeply shaken upon learning of German’s death over Labor Day weekend, saying, “That freaked me out.”

Text messages between Lee-Kennett and Telles, shown in court, revealed her growing alarm. In one message, she urged Telles, “Rob … wtf … please do not be driving your Yukon around for awhile [sic].” Telles responded, “Woah. That’s crazy.” When Lee-Kennett asked if his Yukon matched the suspect vehicle, Telles confirmed it was "similar if not the same." Despite her continued concerns, Telles maintained, “It’s fine. I didn’t do it,” but acknowledged that his vehicle closely resembled the one seen in connection with the crime.
The prosecution questioned Lee-Kennett about her installation of the Trillian app, which allows text messages to disappear. She confirmed that Telles had asked her to install the app. The court then took a recess before the defense’s cross-examination.

Upon reconvening, Draskovich questioned Lee-Kennett about the turmoil in the public administrator’s office, focusing on changes Telles had implemented that disrupted existing practices, particularly concerning third-party vendors profiting from deceased individuals' properties. Lee-Kennett agreed that Telles had "upset the apple cart" by challenging these practices. When asked if she was concerned about the public records request filed by German, Lee-Kennett stated she worried primarily about vendors discovering the office’s dissatisfaction with them or that confidential information might be exposed. She also testified that she did not initially identify Telles as the suspect in the police video and did not recognize his gait. Moreover, she emphasized that Telles never admitted to being involved in German’s death.

As the trial continues, more key witnesses are expected to testify, while the defense will likely keep challenging the evidence linking Telles to the crime. The trial, anticipated to last two weeks, is under intense public and media scrutiny as it unfolds.

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The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
15 min

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Hidden Killers Live! is your daily true crime podcast delivering two hours of nonstop coverage every weekday. Hosted by Tony Brueski & Robin Dreeke this show dives into the most compelling stories in the true crime world — from murder trials and cold cases to criminal psychology, investigations, and the dark motives behind real-life crimes.