Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

By Hidden Killers PodcastNews True Crime News Commentary

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Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns episodes

August 15, 2023 126: Is Rex Heuermann's Wife Taking Advantage Of Public Sympathy?
The recent episode of "Hidden Killers," a renowned podcast hosted by Tony Brueski and Stacy Cole, focused on the controversial case of the Gilgo Beach murders. As the hosts discussed, the accused murderer, Rex Heuermann, who has been finger-pointed for these horrendous crimes, remains innocent until proven guilty. The hosts, however, made it clear that the opinions presented were those of John Ray, an attorney representing some of the victims' families, and not of the podcast.

John Ray's statements were brought into focus primarily because they sometimes contradict popular opinion. Tony mentioned, "When you see a case like this, you identify immediately, you know, the victims." Often, society marginalizes and denigrates the victims because of their professions. Stacy Cole noted that the world's oldest profession, alluding to prostitution, has been around for a long time. Both hosts firmly believe that no matter the profession, no one ever deserves to be a victim of such heinous acts.

Tony reflected on the societal bias against the victims, which possibly contributed to the prolonged time taken to solve the case. He mentioned that the victims were often seen as "society's lesser", leading their cases to be put on the back burner. Stacy added that unless there are families or loved ones pushing for answers and justice, such cases often go unnoticed.

Enter John Ray. Having represented some of the victim families for nearly a decade, Ray has had significant involvement in this case, even before Rex Heuermann's name surfaced. Ray's current focus, according to the hosts, is on Asa, Rex's wife. Tony stated, "I think they're fair questions to be asked" while discussing potential connections to Rex's alleged crimes.

Tony and Stacy discussed how in many instances, the families of accused individuals are often seen as victims. Drawing parallels with the BTK killer's family, Tony emphasized that just because one family was unaware doesn't mean that's the case for every serial killer's family.

A point of contention was a GoFundMe account for Asa's family. Tony revealed research suggesting that the family's net worth may range between $5 to $7 million, putting into question the need for such a fundraiser. "Is it truly going to a place of good?" Tony questioned.

John Ray's opinion on the matter was that Asa seems to be "playing a con game," implying that there might be hidden motives behind her raising funds. Ray's most controversial point was regarding the possibility that Asa might have had knowledge about Rex's affiliations with sex workers.

Tony wrapped up the discussion by reiterating that these are just opinions and official evidence is still pending. Both hosts were united in their emphasis on caution and the importance of verifying information before concluding.

As the Gilgo Beach murders case continues to unfold, "Hidden Killers" sheds light on various perspectives, ensuring that listeners remain informed from all angles. The podcast serves as a reminder that in a world filled with gray areas, staying informed and open-minded is paramount.

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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, 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 14, 2023 125: The Unsolved Mystery of Timothy Floyd Smith
On a somber day, March 25th, Herbert Swilley, a dedicated Florida handyman, took to social media to reveal a heart-wrenching truth. "My dearest friend and partner," as he fondly called Timothy Floyd Smith, had met an unexpected demise. "This has been one of the most painful revelations I've ever had to convey," he wrote about his husband of close to eight years, with a heart heavy with sorrow.

According to Ocala StarBanner, the tragic discovery of Smith’s lifeless body was made shortly after 11 a.m. on that fateful day. Situated in the tranquil Citrus Park neighborhood of Ocala, deputies from the Marion County Sheriff's Office found Smith, an esteemed executive director of a renowned senior living community. The preliminary investigation painted a grim picture. The Ocala StarBanner reported that Smith "had endured a violent assault" leading up to his untimely death.

In the aftermath of this shocking incident, Swilley, proprietor of a local handyman service, sought community support. Launching a GoFundMe campaign, he aimed to procure funds for Smith’s funeral, a "celebration of life," and to manage impending financial obligations. The campaign managed to secure $2,235, a fraction of the targeted $7,500.

However, the plot thickened when the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, on a subsequent Tuesday, identified Swilley as a potential suspect in Smith’s tragic killing. The revelation was all the more poignant as, on that very day, Swilley had taken to Facebook to express his yearning, noting, “I miss you every day and wish you were beside me.”

A statement from the sheriff's office further illuminated the ongoing investigation. "In the early stages, detectives engaged Mr. Swilley. Despite subsequent attempts to resume this dialogue, his legal counsel has emphasized that he'd only entertain discussions if assured immunity against charges related to Timothy’s death."

Adding another layer to this enigmatic case is the involvement of Jordan Swilley, Herbert’s offspring. The sheriff's office has earmarked her as a person of interest. Their statement disclosed, "While Jordan provided an initial account, she has since chosen to remain reticent."

To date, no charges have materialized. Efforts to contact the legal representatives of both Herbert and Jordan Swilley remained unsuccessful.
Sheriff Billy Woods, addressing the community, stated, "In light of Herbert and Jordan’s reluctance to further cooperate, we turn to the community, hopeful that someone possesses knowledge instrumental to unraveling this mystery."

Authorities have amplified their plea, urging citizens to recall and report any peculiarities surrounding Smith’s activities or insights into the relationship dynamics between Timothy and Herbert. In an effort to stimulate community involvement, a substantial reward of $14,500 is being offered for leads that pave the way to the perpetrator's apprehension.

Recollections from colleagues depict a regular day for Smith on March 23. As reported by Villages-News.com, he attended his duties at Brookdale Chambrel Pinecastle, a reputable assisted living and memory care establishment in Ocala. Alarm bells rang the following day when he uncharacteristically missed work. This culminated in the tragic discovery on March 25th, instigated by an anonymous welfare check request.

Sheriff Woods, speaking to the relentless dedication of his team, shared, "The relentless pursuit of my detectives paints a theory suggesting that this wasn't a random act. The heinous crime seems to be the handiwork of an acquaintance."

Against the backdrop of this investigation, Swilley’s social media posts reverberate with expressions of his profound love for Smith. On April 2nd, Swilley's message conveyed an invitation to Smith’s memorial, urging attendees to don purple attire, a sentimental nod to their wedding. He reminisced, "Timothy cherished this hue. Our wedding theme revolved around it. He perpetually sported vibrant shades."

Further posts showcased Swilley's poignant commemorations of significant dates. On August 1st, he remembered Smith's would-be 60th birthday, articulating his deep-seated grief and eternal love. By August 8th, he was reminiscing their eight-year journey, expressing hope in Smith's ethereal presence.

Those with insights, even seemingly inconsequential, are encouraged to contact Marion County Crime Stoppers at (352) 368-STOP. The community's hope remains buoyed, awaiting the pivotal tip that could open this complex case.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, 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 14, 2023 125: Kohberger Claims DNA Could Be 'Phantom Match'
"Phantom Matches" in DNA Analysis: A Rare Anomaly or a Legal Red Herring?
The world of forensic science has been revolutionary in transforming our justice system, offering unparalleled precision and clarity when it comes to solving crimes. Central to this revolution is DNA analysis, often lauded as the gold standard of evidence. However, as with any tool of such power and impact, it's open to scrutiny. The latest contention in this field has emerged in the form of "phantom matches." But how pervasive are these anomalies? Are they a genuine cause for concern, or could they be a strategy to confuse and mislead juries?

Unraveling the Science of DNA Matches

Before diving into the debate, it's crucial to understand how DNA matches work. DNA samples from crime scenes are compared to samples in a database. A match indicates a genetic relationship. The degree of certainty of these matches can often be astronomically high, suggesting that the probability of a random match is virtually impossible.

The Rarity of "Phantom Matches"

The term "phantom matches" suggests the presence of DNA matches that are illusory or erroneous. While no system can claim to be 100% foolproof, it's important to underscore that the instances of such mismatches in forensic databases are exceedingly rare. DNA analysis, particularly when conducted by accredited forensic laboratories, follows stringent protocols to ensure accuracy.

Commercial databases, like AncestryDNA or 23andMe, cater to a different audience, primarily individuals curious about their genealogical roots. However, even in these contexts, the likelihood of phantom matches is minimal. It's pivotal to understand that the science behind these tests, while not forensic in intent, still adheres to rigorous scientific principles.

Legal Strategy vs. Scientific Credibility

In high-stakes trials, defense teams will understandably explore every avenue to vindicate their clients. Introducing the idea of "phantom matches" can be a strategy to sow doubt in the minds of jurors. After all, in the legal realm, reasonable doubt can be the line between conviction and acquittal.

But when these claims are held up to scrutiny, do they stand on solid ground? Arguably, in many instances, they do not. Dr. Greg Hamikian's example, cited by the defense, where a suspect was erroneously identified but later exonerated, is more an exception than a rule. It's essential to recognize that while errors can occur, they are the outliers in an otherwise robust system.

Navigating the Murky Waters of Doubt

The defense's responsibility is to challenge the prosecution's narrative, and invoking the possibility of phantom matches does just that. However, presenting these matches as a widespread flaw in DNA analysis can be misleading. It shifts the focus from the overwhelming majority of accurate, reliable results to a minute subset of rare anomalies.

Jurors, who may not be familiar with the intricacies of DNA analysis, could be unduly swayed by the specter of these "phantom matches." It's crucial, then, for the prosecution and expert witnesses to demystify the science, laying out the rarity of these anomalies and reinforcing the reliability of the forensic DNA analysis process.

Conclusion
While the legal system is adversarial by design, with both sides presenting their arguments passionately, it's essential not to let potent terms like "phantom matches" overshadow the robustness and reliability of DNA analysis. While vigilance is vital and questioning is a cornerstone of justice, it's equally crucial to recognize when a term is being used more for its shock value than its genuine scientific relevance. The justice system's integrity relies on evidence-based decisions, and DNA analysis, despite its rare anomalies, remains a stalwart pillar of truth in this pursuit.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, 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 12, 2023 123: WEEK IN REVIEW-When A Beauty Queens Bubble Bursts
Welcome to the "Week In Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week In Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.

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The latest on Chad & Lori Daybell, The Long Island Serial Killer, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
10 min
August 11, 2023 124: Evil Parents: The Disappearance Of Oakley Carlson
A cloud of mystery and suspicion surrounds the case of Oakley Carlson, a 6-year-old girl from Oakville, Washington, who has not been seen since early 2021. As more details about her family's life come to light, serious concerns about the child's safety have intensified.

Oakley Carlson's "last credible sighting" occurred on February 10, 2021. However, her parents, Andrew Carlson and Jordan Bowers, reported to the Grays County Sheriff’s Office that their last encounter with Oakley was much later, on November 30, 2021. By December of that year, she was reported missing. Officials handling the case have labeled her disappearance and the associated details as "suspicious."

Diving deeper, the Grays County Sheriff’s Office has termed the nature of Oakley’s disappearance as "criminal." In the ongoing investigation, both Bowers and Carlson have emerged as the primary persons of interest. Their history presents several troubling allegations.

Among the chief concerns is an alarming claim that Bowers and Carlson allegedly deprived Oakley's sibling of essential medicine for an extended period, around 15 months. According to the Sheriff’s Office, this medicine was imperative for the child's physical well-being, and the lack thereof put her at significant risk, even possibly leading to a fatal outcome.

The recent publication of an opinion by the Washington State Court of Appeals on August 1 has further spotlighted the couple's questionable history with their children. This release followed after the Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office sought the court's permission to access juvenile records connected to Bowers and Carlson's offspring.

The court document revealed that since April 2013, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) has undertaken 11 in-depth investigations into the family. This included eight distinct cases that involved allegations ranging from domestic violence to drug use, abuse, and significant medical neglect.

One particular concern involved Oakley’s sibling, referred to as DC in court documents, who suffers from a rare genetic syndrome resulting in a developmental disability. This condition necessitates daily injections for the child. Past accusations pointed towards Bowers' untreated mental health issues and a neglect to seek services for the child back in June 2017. Despite initial probes by the DCYF, there was no extended investigation as the intake was "screened out."

Matters became more alarming a month later when another report surfaced, alleging the lack of medicine for DC, coupled with allegations of domestic violence and methamphetamine use within the home. Following these revelations, Oakley and DC were separated and put under different care, while another sibling was placed under the custody of his biological father.

In a concerning development from January 2021, officials received inputs about visible scratches and bruises on Oakley's face. When questioned, Bowers and Carlson demonstrated a blatant lack of cooperation. Furthermore, prior to Oakley's disappearance, Bowers reportedly informed Oakley’s school about a fire at their residence, which she alleged Oakley started. Upon school authorities visiting Oakley’s residence, the child was conspicuously absent.

The parents' narrative has been inconsistent. They have suggested that they simply "lost track" of Oakley, with Carlson eventually reporting her missing in December. Contradicting their account, Oakley’s grandfather claimed he hadn't seen the child since Christmas 2020. Following these murky claims, both Carlson and Bowers were apprehended for obstruction.

Disturbing insights from DC highlighted the severity of the situation. DC disclosed to authorities that Oakley had ignited the house fire using her mother’s torch and was subsequently subjected to physical abuse as punishment. DC's testimony further indicated potential locations for Oakley, suggesting she might have been "under her mother’s bed or in the woods." Furthermore, she voiced fears for Oakley and another sibling, JC, strongly implying they were "not safe in their mother’s care."

Another sibling, referred to as BB-P in legal documents, backed up these claims, suggesting a history of abuse by Bowers towards Oakley and JC. A particularly chilling revelation indicated that Oakley was occasionally confined in a locked 'cell' beneath the staircase.

In an unrelated development, KCPQ-TV confirmed that Bowers was sentenced on August 7 in a separate identity theft case, which has no links to her daughter’s puzzling disappearance.

With layers of complexity, this case is a chilling reminder of the often-unseen troubles lurking beneath the surface in many households. As investigations continue, the primary hope remains the safe discovery and return of Oakley Carlson.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, 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 11, 2023 124: Detailed Reenactment of 2018 Parkland School Shooting: A Look into the Scot Peterson Civil Suit
Last Friday, a thorough reenactment of the tragic 2018 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School was conducted in an unprecedented move. This initiative, which had stirred significant interest and discussion among the public and the media, had been organized as part of a civil lawsuit against the then-deputy Scot Peterson and his employing body, the Broward Sheriff’s Office.

The unfortunate incident in 2018 had seen 17 innocent lives lost and another 17 injured within a mere six minutes. AP News had informed that specialized ballistics experts, engaged by the families of the victims, led the reenactment. A key objective of that exercise was to meticulously record the sound of gunfire from various locations outside the school. This helped simulate the auditory environment Peterson was in, enabling a clearer understanding of what he might have heard during the terrifying ordeal.

Previously, in June, a court verdict had found Scot Peterson not guilty of felony neglect, among other charges related to his perceived inaction during the tragedy. Notably, he had been the first law enforcement officer to be charged with child neglect in the capacity of a “caregiver.” Prosecutors had argued that his role as the school resource officer mandated him to safeguard the school's populace.

Peterson’s defense had centered around the claim that he could not distinctly hear or locate the source of the gunshots due to echoing sounds. He had mentioned that he had approached the building, weapon drawn, but then chose to withdraw. According to him, he had taken cover next to a nearby structure and remained engaged in radio communication for a significant duration of 40 minutes. Peterson had firmly stated that had he been certain of the shooter's location within the building, he would have taken immediate action.

The families behind the civil suit had offered a stark contrast in perspective. They believed that Peterson was well aware of the shooter's whereabouts but chose to retreat, possibly out of fear, thereby neglecting his sworn duty. Tony Montalto, president of Stand with Parkland and a grieving father whose 14-year-old daughter Gina was a victim of the shooting, had stated, “While Peterson might have been cleared of criminal charges, it in no way absolves him of the responsibility to act rightfully.” Montalto had further stressed, “This reenactment aims to challenge and potentially debunk certain statements made during the criminal trial.”

An important development had been the announcement by Circuit Judge Carol-Lisa Phillips on July 12. While she had permitted the attorneys from both sides to produce a video based on the reenactment, she had remained non-committal on its use during the trial. As of then, the trial date had remained undecided.

The reenactment had promised to be precise. Experts were slated to fire up to 139 live rounds within a three-story classroom building, mirroring the shooter's actions using an identical AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle. To ensure complete safety during that exercise, all bullets were captured using a specialized safety apparatus.

However, questions about the audio accuracy had been raised. Robert Maher, an expert from Montana State University, had mentioned to AP News that the reenactment might not capture the true essence of gunfire sounds. According to him, real-life gunfire sounds are piercingly sharp, something that speakers might not have been able to reproduce perfectly. Professor Tamara Lave from the University of Miami Law had offered an insightful observation: the deciding factor for Judge Phillips would be whether the reenactment provided a "fair and accurate" representation of what Peterson might have heard.

The reenactment's announcement had generated mixed reactions. Parkland had informed its residents, with some expressing deep concern about potential trauma, as noted by Newsweek. Sarah Franco, director of Eagles’ Haven, a community wellness center established post the shooting, had emphasized the importance of collective healing. They had offered various activities, such as yoga and tai chi, aimed at providing solace to those affected.
Concluding the reenactment, Broward County Public Schools has announced its plan to dismantle the building, marking the end of a painful chapter in its history.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, 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 10, 2023 122: Mysterious Death: The Rachel Morin Story
In a grim twist of events, the community of Maryland was rocked by the shocking discovery of a local mother's body on the renowned MA & PA Heritage Trail. Rachel Morin, a 37-year-old mother of five, and known fitness aficionado, went missing on Saturday, only to be tragically found dead a day later. As the search for her assailant intensifies, law enforcement and the community join hands, seeking any clues that might provide answers.

The Disappearance and Distressing Discovery
Rachel was last seen embarking on a routine evening trail run, an activity she relished. Richard Tobin, her recently announced boyfriend, reported her missing late Saturday night, revealing to the authorities that she left their home around 6 p.m. for her run but never returned.

Upon investigation, Sheriff Jeffery Gahler of the Harford County Sheriff's Office informed the press that Rachel's car was located, still parked at the trailhead. But there was no sign of Rachel. "Her car was there, but she was not," Sheriff Gahler gravely noted, acknowledging the immediate concern this brought to her family.

The community rallied, with countless volunteers joining the official search parties. It was one of these volunteers who, on Sunday, stumbled upon the chilling sight of Rachel's body off the trail. The scene left detectives with undeniable "indicators" pointing towards murder, leading Sheriff Gahler to sadly declare, "It’s a homicide case."

The Aftermath and Public Plea

In the wake of Rachel's death, law enforcement has intensified their investigation. "Right now, detectives continue to work the case as aggressively as they possibly can. We will leave no stone unturned," assured Sheriff Gahler. The police have maintained a consistent presence along the trail, warning hikers to remain vigilant and cautious as the manhunt continues.

The Harford County Sheriff's Office has been active on social media, urging anyone present on the MA & PA Trail on Saturday, or residents living near the trailhead with external security cameras, to come forward with any photographs or videos. These might offer pivotal insights or clues into the unsolved crime.

Community and Boyfriend Respond

Richard Tobin, who went 'Facebook official' with Rachel at the start of August, addressed the community through social media. He passionately pleaded, "I love Rachel, I would never do anything to her. Let the family and I grieve." Touching upon his past, Tobin highlighted his personal growth, stating he's been "15 months clean" and has evolved as an individual.

The Morin family's plight doesn't end with Rachel's untimely death. A mere week before this incident, Rachel’s niece, baby Lily Beth, tragically passed away due to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The little angel, not even four months old at the time of her demise, left a void in the Morin family's heart, as described in her obituary.

In light of these back-to-back heartbreaks, the Morins, who are grappling with immeasurable grief, have initiated a GoFundMe campaign. The purpose is twofold: to help cover Rachel's funeral costs and to provide financial support for her five children. It's significant to note that Rachel did not have a life insurance policy. On the fundraising platform, Rebekah Morin, Rachel's sister, poignantly penned, "She deserves a funeral worthy of her beauty."

Additionally, Rachel’s sister Rebekah has shared a separate GoFundMe link on her social media, seeking contributions for their brother Nathan, Lily Beth's grieving father.
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14 min
August 10, 2023 122: Thomas Randolph: The Dark History of the "Black Widower"
Las Vegas, NV - Thomas Randolph, notoriously dubbed the "Black Widower" due to the suspicious deaths of four out of his six wives, is once again under the piercing gaze of the legal system. This 65-year-old Nevada resident, previously sentenced to death in 2017, had his conviction reversed. While no longer on death row, Randolph remains in custody as the anticipation for his retrial grows, echoing sentiments from two decades of intertwined love, death, and suspicions.

For many, Randolph's story strikes a chord due to the eerie pattern surrounding his marriages. Four wives met untimely deaths, and life insurance payouts followed two of those tragedies.

In the 2017 trial, prosecutors accused Randolph of orchestrating the death of his sixth wife, Sharon Causse, and a man named Michael James Miller. Allegedly, Randolph paid Miller to murder Causse to claim over $360,000 from a life insurance policy. Randolph consistently rebuts these claims, recounting how he found his wife shot dead by Miller. According to him, he fatally shot Miller in self-defense.

While the jury's skepticism of Randolph's version is clear, their distrust was further fueled by a grim episode from 1986. Randolph's second wife, Becky Gault, was found dead from a gunshot wound to the head. Although acquitted, the court allowed the jury to consider evidence from that case, including a substantial $500,000 life insurance inheritance.

December 9 marked a turning point as the Nevada Supreme Court concluded that the jury should not have been presented with evidence from the 1986 case. Consequently, Randolph's conviction was overturned, paving the way for a new trial.

Reacting with evident glee to the court's decision, Randolph expressed his relief on the "Killer Genes" podcast, stating, "I'm just as happy as can be because as I've told everybody - I didn't do this."

Yet, a closer look at Randolph's marital history unveils a tangled web of relationships marked by death and suspicion:

Kathryn Thomas (Alive): Thomas, his first wife, testified that Randolph threatened her life during their marriage. Despite residing peacefully in Utah, allegations swirled that he once sought a hitman for her assassination.

Becky Gault (Deceased, 1986): While Randolph claims she committed suicide, a witness testified he was approached by Randolph to murder Gault.

Gayna Allmon (Alive): Allmon's testimony against Randolph portrayed him as a looming threat, recounting an instance when a gun discharged while he cleaned it in her presence.

Francis (Deceased, 2004): Francis died under suspicious circumstances. Allegedly, Randolph conspired to murder her in a trailer, a plan that fell through because the would-be accomplice feared Randolph would turn on him. After her death, Randolph immediately cremated her, later receiving settlements from both a hospital and her life insurance policy.

Leona Stapleton (Deceased): Randolph reportedly shared with friends and family that cancer claimed Stapleton's life. The details remain shrouded in mystery.

Sharon Causse (Deceased, 2008): The crux of the upcoming trial. Randolph's account of finding her dead, then shooting the assailant, Michael James Miller, has been met with skepticism, especially given the substantial life insurance payout he received after her death.

Yet, as Randolph revels in the decision, not all share his enthusiasm. Causse's daughter, Colleen Beyer, candidly voiced her frustration, "Everybody needs to know he's guilty... He did it. There is no doubt. I'm really mad, I'm really angry with this system."

Randolph's story is a convoluted tale of love, betrayal, and death, now on the precipice of another trial. With four wives deceased under shadowy circumstances and two insurance payouts, the public and judicial scrutiny will only intensify. The upcoming trial promises new revelations and, perhaps, some semblance of closure for the families affected by Randolph's perplexing marital history.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, 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 09, 2023 121: Susan Smith's Dark Past and Upcoming Parole Review
In the annals of crime, the Susan Smith case from Union, South Carolina, has stood out as one of the most heartbreaking and chilling incidents in recent memory. 1994 the unimaginable occurred when Smith's young sons, three-year-old Michael and one-year-old Alex, met a tragic end.

The Heartbreaking Truth Behind The Tragedy
Initially, Susan Smith spun a harrowing tale, claiming that an unidentified Black man had carjacked her vehicle with her sons inside. The nation was gripped with fear and sympathy. But as the investigation progressed, a more sinister reality surfaced. In a heinous act, Susan had fastened her young children into their car seats and, with cold precision, released her car into a lake, leading to their drowning.

The motive behind such a horrifying act was allegedly an affair gone wrong. Susan's partner at the time ended the relationship, reportedly because he did not desire children. Although Susan vehemently denied the affair being the cause and, in a letter years later, described her actions as unplanned, stating she "was not in her right mind."

The Deception Unveiled
Her deceitfulness didn't end there. After the incident, Susan, alongside her then-husband, David, made televised pleas, requesting their children's return, amplifying the situation's anguish.

After her arrest, her defense argued for leniency, pointing to potential mental health struggles. Susan was saved from the death penalty but was handed a life sentence.

The Controversy of Potential Parole
In November 2024, Susan Smith will become eligible for parole, which has polarized opinions and reignited the emotional wounds of the past. Family members, alongside the general public, largely lean against her release. One relative stated, "She's exactly where she needs to be."

Life Behind Bars
Susan's incarceration at the Leath Correctional Institution in Greenwood, South Carolina, hasn't been free from controversies. Originally confined in Columbia's Women's Correctional Center, Susan had to be relocated to Leath following a series of scandals. She's been far from an exemplary inmate, with multiple infractions for self-harm, drug use, and more.

Perhaps more shocking are revelations of Susan's relationships with prison guards. The New York Post reports that Susan's time in prison has been a tumultuous roller coaster of misconduct. In a notorious 2000 incident, a liaison with a 50-year-old guard, Houston Cagle, left her with an STD. Cagle faced a three-month prison term for his involvement. A year later, a prison captain admitted to having intimate relations with Susan, which led to a five-year probation for him.

Susan's troubles inside continued, with disciplinary actions against her in 2010 and 2015 due to drug-related offenses. These indiscretions led to a significant curtailing of her prison privileges.

The Drug Nexus in Prison
Former inmates have spoken out about the internal drug nexus. A past cellmate, Christie Smith, alleged that Susan compensated her for smuggling drugs. Another ex-inmate, Stephanie Hulsey, gave insight into inmates' crafty methods to sneak in pills, often hiding them within their cheeks to elude guards.

The Road Ahead
As Susan Smith's parole date looms, debates rage on her possible reintegration into society. Given the severity of her crimes, coupled with her prison behavior, many argue against her release. Whatever the decision, the tragic story of Michael and Alex serves as a somber reminder of the depths of human deceit and tragedy.
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9 min
August 09, 2023 121: Brueski Law: Make Threat Against A School, Go Away For Life
In the wake of the tragic Uvalde school shooting in 2022, Texas communities are still reeling. The wounds of the past were freshened when news emerged of a potential subsequent threat. Nathan Cruz, a 17-year-old relative of the previous gunman, Salvador Ramos, was apprehended on charges of planning a similarly heinous act.

The heartbreaking event from last year witnessed the loss of 21 innocent lives at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde. Salvador Ramos, the perpetrator of the attack, had used an AR-15-style weapon to fatally injure 19 students and two dedicated educators on May 24, 2022. The community, and indeed the nation, mourned this senseless act of violence, remembering the victims with flowers, candles, and a memorial erected outside the school.

Fast-forward to the present day, and the shadow of the tragedy still lingers. Recent reports indicate that Nathan Cruz, Ramos' own cousin, harbored intentions of mirroring his relative's atrocious crime. The evidence against Cruz, obtained by WOAI, includes a chilling confession to his sister, where he expressed the desire to "do the same thing" as Ramos. Concerned about her brother's intentions, she confided in their mother, who later overheard Cruz attempting to illegally acquire an AR-15, the same style of weapon used in the Uvalde massacre.

In an era where vigilance is paramount, the quick action of Cruz's mother, who alerted the police about her son's alarming intentions, likely averted another catastrophe. Sgt. Washington Moscoso of the San Antonio Police Department expressed his relief to The New York Times, stating, “God knows what could have happened. Because she did the right thing, this individual has been arrested.”

Adding to the community's unease is the revelation that Cruz resides directly opposite a San Antonio elementary school. KSAT brought to light the geographical proximity, deepening concerns over what might have been had his mother not intervened. In response to the emerging situation, Edgewood ISD released a statement highlighting its unwavering commitment to safety: "Edgewood ISD has been made aware a teenager is now in police custody accused of making a threat against a school on the city’s west side. Edgewood ISD is dedicated to the safety and well-being of all students, faculty, and staff. Each campus benefits from an assigned Safety Officer. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity. Our message remains clear: if you see something, say something."

Court documents reveal that Nathan Cruz is facing a felony charge for threatening a public place with terroristic intent. Additionally, he is charged with a misdemeanor for threats made against a family member.

The repercussions of the Uvalde tragedy emphasize the importance of community vigilance, open communication, and the need for preemptive action. It serves as a somber reminder that, while the act may end, the ripples continue to affect those connected to the perpetrator and the broader community. Efforts toward understanding, healing, and prevention are crucial in the wake of such events.

For comprehensive coverage on this and related stories, visit the original article at Star-Telegram.
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13 min

About Hidden Killers Live! Daily True Crime News & Breakdowns

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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.