If It Bleeds, It Leads

Did you know dentists play a critical role in violent crime reduction?

Dr. Peter Dean, a forensic medical examiner and former coroner, joins us as we explore the world of forensic medicine, forensic medical examiners and coroners. Dr. Dean shares his journey from dentistry to forensics and highlights the importance of remaining independent from the police when working in these roles. We also discuss the Glasgow Violence Reduction Strategy and how dentists are becoming more aware of signs of violence in their patients.

Dr. Dean shares his experience as a coroner, the immense pressure faced by the Ipswich and Suffolk Constabulary in the aftermath of the 2006 murders, and the impact of social media on investigations. We also reflect on the Idaho Moscow murder case and the Duffy case, where the suspects were forensically aware and actively tried to destroy evidence.

Ever wondered how criminals choose their crime locations? What does this say about the perpertrator and how does it help to catch and stop them?

Join us as our guest and friend, Professor Sam Lundrigan takes us on a journey through mental mapping, criminal decision-making, and fascinating cases that demonstrate how geography can make or break an investigation.

We discuss the psychological significance behind criminals' chosen locations and how Sam's research has been applied to real-life investigations, including the infamous railway rapists case in London. We also delve into the gender imbalance in the crime genre and the importance of understanding male violence against women.

Do you ever wonder what drives someone to commit the unspeakable crime of child sexual abuse? We sat down with former marine-turned-CID officer Dr. Graham Hill as he shares his experience in interviewing predatory pedophiles.

We also challenge the stereotype that only men can be perpetrators of child sexual abuse, and discuss the crucial need for research on female offenders.

He explains the behavioral models that inform our understanding of how these individuals develop a sexual interest in children. We explore sex offender treatment programs, discuss the role of Circle of Support in helping offenders transition back into the community, and uncover the myths surrounding pedophilia.

Can we really comprehend the complexities of female violence and the societal taboos that surround it? Join us as we explore this fascinating topic with our special guest, Anna Motz, a clinical and forensic psychologist and forensic psychotherapist.

We dissect the emotional turmoil and internalized shame that can drive women to commit heinous acts, as well as the crucial role therapists play in understanding their triggers and fault lines.

Unlock the secrets of soil forensics and its crucial role in solving serious crimes with our fascinating guest, Professor Lorna Dawson CBE, an undisputed expert in the field.

This episode reveals how soil forensics has been instrumental in high-profile cases like the World's End Murders and the Moira Anderson cold case. Learn about the potential of soil to provide evidence in both outdoor and indoor environments, as well as the importance of contextual information when analyzing evidence. Professor Dawson also discusses the implications of secondary transfer of soil in criminal investigations. Don't miss this captivating conversation with a true pioneer in the field of soil forensics!

Could Agatha Christie have been happier if she never entered the public eye? Join us as we welcome our guest Laura Thompson, the author of an Agatha Christie biography and books on the Thompson Bywater's murder case and Lord Lucan. Laura shares her unique upbringing and accidental writing career, as well as the impact of Christie's work in the 21st century.

We examine the fascinating life of Agatha Christie, her marriage to a World War I survivor, and the mysterious disappearance that made her a household name. Then, we switch gears to explore the notorious Thompson Bywaters murder case, delving into the complex relationships between Edith Thompson, her husband Percy, and her lover Freddie. We discuss the role of gender in the case and how Edith Thompson has become a metaphor for a society in transition.

Don't miss this engaging conversation as we uncover the truth behind historical crime and the fascinating lives of those involved. From Agatha Christie's enduring influence to the sensationalized Thompson Bywaters case, this episode will leave you eager to learn more about the captivating stories behind these famous figures.

We sit down with independent journalist Jake Hanrahan, founder of the platform Popular Front, which focuses on reporting on war and conflicts. Jake shares his journey with Popular Front, a platform created for misfits and outcasts that has grown into the fastest-growing independent war reporting platform. We delve into the complexities of war reporting, the importance of honesty in journalism, and the controversial world of 3D-printed guns. We explore anti-Putin activism in Russia and the challenges of reporting on underground activity. Join us as we take a rare and authentic look at the frontlines of war and the personal risks involved in uncovering the realities of war and state crime. Listen on Global Player.

In this episode we delve into the fascinating world of crime history with Professor Julia Laite of Birkbeck University of London. We discuss her book, "The Disappearance of Lydia Harvey: A True Story of Sex, Crime, and the Meaning of Justice," and explore the captivating story of Lydia Harvey, a 16-year-old girl caught up in a sex trafficking ring in 1910. We discuss the criminalization of prostitution, the complexities of sex work and the criminal justice system, and the importance of telling marginal and local stories to shed light on history and the world. Don't forget to rate, subscribe, and listen to "If It Bleeds It Leads" on Global Player!

Joined by our special guest, Jason Wilson, we discuss his unique family background and relationship with his father, a career criminal. We explore the complexity of his father's character, his involvement in both legitimate businesses and criminal activities, and the secret world of organized crime networks in the Midlands. We also examine the age-old question of nature versus nurture in determining criminal behavior, as Jason reflects on his father's choices and his own decisions in life. He talks about the rise and fall of Raj, the first-ever black prison governor in the UK, the impact of an absent father on his son, and the importance of forgiving the flaws of others. This compelling episode that takes you behind the scenes of a criminal family's life and the complex emotions that come with it. Listen now on Global Player

In this episode of If It Bleeds It Leads, we dive into the fascinating and complex world of hate crimes. Joined by Professor Matt Williams, a criminologist at Cardiff University and author of The Science of Hate, we explore why hate crimes happen, the mindset of perpetrators, and the effects on victims and communities. We discuss the role of neuroscience in understanding prejudice and hate, as well as the evolutionary basis for group preferences. From examining hate crime statistics to exploring the responsibilities of Big Tech and social media companies in addressing hate online, this episode sheds light on the challenges faced by minority groups and the potential for a more inclusive future. Join us on this eye-opening journey into the science behind hate and discover how understanding these motivations can lead to a more tolerant and empathetic society. Listen and subscribe on Global Player.