Historic NEPA Crimes

This episode explores the life and tragic death of Captain Albert Gleason, a longtime police officer in Scranton who was killed in the line of duty on December 27, 1933. We trace his personal journey from miner to respected lawman and the circumstances surrounding his death. The story also touches on broader, contemporary questions around crime and illegal immigration that echo through today’s headlines, inviting listeners to reflect on how these issues resonate across decades.

She vanished on December 17, 1938. Days later, she was found murdered.

Margaret Martin’s disappearance and killing shocked Northeastern Pennsylvania—and the case remains unsolved more than 80 years later. Today, we remember her and revisit the mystery that still lingers.

#UnsolvedCase #MargaretMartin #TrueCrime #ColdCase #HistoricCrimes #KingstonPA #NEPA #historicNEPAcrimes

December 7, 1978. Scranton, PA.22-year-old Joanne Williams kissed her parents goodbye, hopped into her red Datsun, and vanished into the night.

Her car was found abandoned across town. Purse inside. Glasses inside. No Joanne—ever again.

47 years later, no body, no answers, no closure.

Where is Joanne Williams? 🖤 #Unsolved #TrueCrime #ScrantonMystery

A routine train run into Scranton in 1911 turned into one of the region’s most shocking crimes when 18-year-old express messenger William “Bill” Bishie murdered courier Irvan Borger during the four minutes between Taylor and Scranton.

What followed was a gripping saga: a swift confession, a death sentence, a community divided, multiple appeals, prison drama, a daring escape, seven years on the run, and a surprising capture.

Decades later, Bishie walked free—living an unassuming life far from the tracks where it all began.

This true Pennsylvania crime story spans justice, media influence, redemption, and the long shadow of a single violent moment.

November 1, 1973, two South Scranton boys were reported missing – Paul “PJ” Freach (13) and Edmond “Buddy” Keen (12).
Their bodies were found just days later.
The hunt for the killer terrified Scranton and the surrounding area.
This is the story of William Wright.

A deadly 1875 encounter leaves one man dead and the shooter haunted, sparking a gun control debate 150 years ago.

Scranton's Tenderloin District was alive and well in the early 1900s, and Mary Gregory was one of its more well-known characters. Get to know Mary and how she struggled with addiction and tragedy throughout her life.

Following the trail of my Great Great Grandfather, Robert Harrison Cook, through his first tour with the 8th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry has brought the raw energy of the Civil War’s opening chapter to life. From the bustling muster at Camp Curtin to the gritty marches through Chambersburg, Williamsport, and Martinsburg, Robert and his Scranton Union Volunteers faced the mud, the drills, and the looming threat of Rebel forces with grit and determination. Their 90-day sprint, though short, helped set the stage for the Union’s long fight, fueled by brotherhood and a fierce love for country. Born on the same day as Robert, over a century apart, I feel his spirit urging me to keep these tales of valor and sacrifice alive, honoring the men who marched for freedom and left their mark on our nation’s story.

In 1915, a quiet farmhouse in Chinchilla, PA, hid a dangerous secret: a Black Hand counterfeiting ring cranking out thousands of fake half-dollar coins. Led by Scranton detective John Cartusciello, a daring raid took them down before a bloodbath could erupt. Guns, dynamite, and old-world mob ties — it’s a forgotten slice of American crime history. Listen now to True Crime NEPA on Spotify! 🔥🎧 #TrueCrime #HistoryPodcast #BlackHand #SpotifyPodcasts

This episode is a discussion of Marco Pasco's life and violent death in Scranton, Pennsylvania, in 1928. It details his immigration from Italy, his marriage, and the turbulent events leading up to his murder, including several arrests and violent encounters with others in the community. The source describes the investigation into Pasco's death, noting the police's suspicion of organized crime and highlighting the lack of resolution in the case. Ultimately, Marco Pasco's murder remains unsolved, leaving questions about the motive and identity of his assailants.