Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

By True Crime TodayNews True Crime News Commentary

Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers episodes

October 12, 2023 How Many Uneducated Child Welfare 'Officials' Have Carte Blanche to Destroy Families?
In a heart-wrenching episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski and guest, Trial Consultant and Body Language Expert, Susan Constantine, dove deep into a haunting tale of misdiagnosis, systemic failures, and profound loss. Their discussion prompts a disturbing question: Are some children being taken away from their loving homes based on misunderstandings and flawed assessments?

Brueski paints a grim picture of the situation, noting, “We have so many issues, it seems with CPS. And things not being taken action on, and children being left in horrific situations. What is going on here where we have kids that literally have good homes...ripped out of their parents arms when they need the most?”

Constantine's connection to this issue is deeply personal. She recounts the story of a close friend whose children were forcibly removed because of a misdiagnosis: Munchausen's by proxy disorder. The disorder, in its essence, is when a caregiver or parent fabricates, exaggerates, or induces illness in a person under their care for attention or other gains. However, as Constantine points out, it was “debunked almost five years ago” and is now referred to as a "fictitious disorder."

This leads to the harrowing account of Maya Kowalski, a child experiencing excruciating pain that baffled medical professionals. As her mother sought answers and treatments both within the United States and beyond, she was met with skepticism and mistrust. Despite the mother's attempts to articulate her daughter's journey and the treatments she'd discovered, it was misconstrued as over-medicalization. Ultimately, it led to a tragic end with Maya's mother succumbing to despair and taking her own life.

One of the most chilling aspects discussed is the potential for a financial incentive in removing children from their homes. Vinnie Politan, as mentioned by Constantine, explored this on Court TV. But beyond financial motives lies the broader issue of trust in so-called "expert" assessments. Constantine expressed her frustration, saying, “it’s mind-blowing to me that we are getting to a place where these authorities that are so-called experts are trained...and diagnosing or to see the symptoms of abuse and how wrong they can be.”

Dr. Chopra, a pain medical doctor who testified in a related trial, painted a picture of the severity of Maya's pain, emphasizing that it surpassed that of childbirth, cancer, or even amputation. How could a parent, desperate for relief for their child, be so grossly misunderstood?

One figure repeatedly mentioned in the podcast is Dr. Sally Smith, who diagnosed several cases as Munchausen's by proxy, including Maya's and a runner-up from American Idol. This, as Constantine states, represents a "real problem" with officials "taking matters into their own hands, causing so much distress, anxiety, endangerment, mental and physical, to these children."

Towards the end of the episode, listeners are reminded of the profound humanity at the heart of this issue. Constantine recounts a moving encounter outside a courtroom with Maya's grieving family. The group, united by shared pain, found solace in praying together, a moment that underscored the very real emotional toll of these systemic issues.

In light of this conversation, we are left to grapple with the complex interplay of medical, societal, and bureaucratic factors that can have devastating impacts on families. Yet, as Brueski and Constantine demonstrate, there is also space for empathy, understanding, and a collective call to action.

As we reflect on the issues discussed, we are left with a haunting question: How many more families must suffer before systemic changes are implemented?
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The latest on 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
8 min
October 12, 2023 YouTuber Ruby Franke’s Off-Camera Drama, A Look into the Abuse Allegations
How can a person, seemingly under the radar of authority, inflict such egregious harm on the vulnerable for an extended period? This is the question that echoes through a recent episode of "Hidden Killers" with Tony Brueski. Psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott, dives deep into the chilling accounts surrounding Jodi Hildebrandt, revealing a tapestry of trauma, manipulation, and institutional oversight.

Jesse Hildebrandt, Jodi's niece, recently recounted her harrowing experiences on Nightline. "She would lock me up in a room... make me write out my sins on paper," she disclosed, further narrating how she was forced to sleep outside in the snow and was restrained with duct tape. But Jesse isn't the lone voice echoing these sentiments. Similar tales, stemming from the children of Ruby Franke, also paint a bleak portrait of Jodi's long standing modus operandi.

Brueski, perplexed by the depth of these allegations, inquired, "How does this... exist, I guess is the question, with no oversight?" For many, the answer seems as elusive as it is chilling. Shavaun Scott's insights on the matter are unequivocal: "The lady is crazy and abusive and inappropriate." This dire assessment leaves many to ponder how the state's licensing board in Utah let Jodi's malevolent practices persist for so long.

Intriguingly, the conversation soon steers toward a controversial nexus - religion. The Latter-day Saint (LDS) church, which once endorsed Jodi, becomes a topic of debate. While Brueski clarified that the intent isn't to denigrate LDS, he raises a poignant question: Can an institution's reputation cloud judgment when allegations emerge? Scott concurs, theorizing that the affirmation from the Mormon faith may have inadvertently empowered Jodi, allowing her to carry on with her unsettling approach, particularly as it meshed with certain conservative views on sexuality.

But Jodi isn't the only character under scrutiny. Kevin Franke, associated with Jodi and Ruby, finds himself at the center of a complex web of relationships and actions. "It's hard, quite frankly, looking at Kevin Franke," states Brueski, baffled by Franke's purported detachment from his children and the inexplicable passivity to the unfolding drama. Franke's seemingly bizarre behavior — from limited contact with his children to accusations against his own daughter — further thickens the plot.

As more details emerge, a larger question looms: who truly is the victim? While Kevin's attorney posits him as one, the narratives from those harmed and the documented evidence may suggest otherwise. Scott provides a clear analysis, stating, "Ruby is not right. Jodi is not right. And I don't think Kevin is quite right either."

In the end, the intricate web spun by Jodi Hildebrandt, Ruby Franke, Kevin Franke, and their intersections with institutional faith expose the fragile balances within societal structures. The alarming ease with which harmful practices can persist, shielded by faith or organizational affiliations, stands as a testament to the need for vigilant oversight and reflection.

In the face of such profound revelations, one is left pondering: In a world where protection should be paramount, how can so many cries go unheard for so long?

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The latest on 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

6 min
October 11, 2023 How Maya Kowalski And The Countless Victims Of Dr. Sally Smith's 'Judgement'
It's every parent's nightmare: a medical institution diagnosing their child, and then a subsequent loss of custody based on questionable claims. But when the institutions you trust begin to make unverifiable assumptions about parents, what remains of justice? On a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast with Tony Brueski, a concerning pattern emerged during a conversation with Trial Consultant and Body Language Expert, Susan Constantine.

Brueski broached a concerning topic regarding Dr. Smith, whose role at Johns Hopkins Children's Hospital appeared to be absent of the checks and balances we often associate with justice. This lack of oversight led Constantine to reveal a startling connection. "Okay. So there is a route to all of this," she began. In Orlando, a psychological firm wrote a book on Munchausen's by proxy disorder. Constantine noted that despite it being a rare condition, there's been a significant influx of women diagnosed in that area.

Contrary to the conventional understanding of Munchausen's by proxy disorder, where a guardian may fake a child's illness, these mothers are accused of the opposite – trying to help their children recover from genuine health issues.

Constantine goes on to claim, "Here is the person that wrote this book that literally removed the children from my dear friend of 40 years." Though she is able to read people well, being a body language expert, she has seen no signs of Munchausen's by proxy disorder in her friend. Instead, she describes an alarming pattern in which women, primarily mothers, are being wrongly diagnosed by a forensic psychologist, now colloquially termed as "Dr. XYZ moms".

This chain of diagnosis and removal of children has extensive implications, particularly in child custody battles. "The courts say you have to go through counseling for co-parenting... and whoever it is that has the biggest, widest pockets," Constantine explains. Those with more financial means, typically fathers, can exploit this diagnosis to gain full custody of their children. With the false diagnosis of Munchausen's by proxy disorder, mothers are effectively removed from their children's lives, permanently.

Complicating the matter further is the monetization of this system. This Orlando-based firm, according to Constantine, charges large sums for evaluations, leaving countless families grappling with not only the loss of their children but significant financial burdens as well.

Brueski's probing question about the motive behind such actions illuminates a larger issue. "Is this something where overall there needs to be reform in the entire system?" he asks. Indeed, Constantine points to the formation of collaborative law groups that control a significant portion of these processes. These groups, comprised of forensic psychologists and arbitrators for custody battles, form a tightly-knit community. The implication is clear: expose one, and the whole system might collapse.

It's a sobering realization when those tasked with justice seem entwined in questionable practices. Constantine's revelations, interwoven with personal experiences and ties to those affected, paint a disturbing picture. One where justice isn't just blind; it might also be compromised.

At the heart of this narrative is the issue of training, or rather the lack of it. Constantine describes her experience with training workers in the department of children and families. Their lack of expertise and inadequate training leaves them ill-equipped to handle sensitive family matters, leading to decisions that often rip families apart.

In concluding the interview, Brueski and Constantine shed light on an urgent need for reform and proper training. With families being torn apart based on unverified and often false diagnoses, the question becomes: How many more lives will be shattered before the system rights its wrongs?
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The latest on 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
10 min
October 11, 2023 Jodi Hildebrandt and Ruby Franke, Modern Day Mormon Monsters
How can an individual maintain such a hold over others that even basic human rights are denied?
In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski conversed with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott about the troubling revelations surrounding Jodi Hildebrandt's interactions with Ruby Franke, and the chilling accounts of her past behaviors. The information brought forward, including startling admissions from Jodi’s niece, Jesse Hildebrandt, gives an alarming perspective on the extent of Jodi's manipulation.

"The lady is crazy and abusive and inappropriate," Shavaun remarked, addressing the serious accusations against Jodi. It was Jesse who recounted her traumatic time under Jodi's care, detailing how she was forced to sleep outside in the snow, duct-taped, isolated, and made to write out her 'sins.' This wasn't a singular incident confined to Ruby Franke's children. Jesse’s account indicates a pattern that Jodi had maintained for years.

Concerns arise when one wonders how such actions went unchecked. The issue isn't merely about an individual’s wrongdoing but the system that allowed it. "It makes one wonder about the licensing board in the state of Utah," Shavaun notes, questioning how Jodi was allowed to run a counseling agency despite her history. The deeper connection between Jodi's counseling services and the Mormon faith's endorsement may offer some insight.

"Having the affirmation of the Mormon faith gave her power," Shavaun suggests. This backing, it seems, provided a veil that prevented closer scrutiny of her actions. Notably, even when the Church ceased its official endorsement of Jodi, individual recommendations persisted, shielding her from accountability.

Another figure entangled in this web is Kevin Franke, Ruby's husband. His seemingly passive role raises eyebrows. "It's like these women were running the show and dictating everything to him," Brueski observes. Despite being an educated professional, Kevin’s questionable actions towards his children, especially during a contentious interaction over the retrieval of personal belongings, casts him in a perplexing light. His lawyer's emphasis on his alleged 'victimhood' contrasts sharply with his actions.

The twisted dynamics between Ruby, Jodi, and Kevin brings forward another daunting aspect of this narrative: the ease with which individuals can be manipulated and controlled, especially by someone exhibiting cult-like dominance. Ruby, despite her age and apparent agency, might herself have fallen prey to Jodi's influence. Shavaun parallels this case to the notorious Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow scenario, explaining, "When you have 2 people who are not well, and you put them together, then you get a monster."

This multi-layered tale of control, manipulation, and deranged behavior serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities humans possess, even when they seem most secure. The dangers aren't always from the outside. Sometimes, the most significant threats reside in the trust we place in those closest to us, and the institutions we hold dear.

In a world where trust is paramount, how do we discern genuine guidance from manipulative control?

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The latest on 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

8 min
October 10, 2023 Will The Maya Kowalski Case Strike Reform In Our Broken Child Welfare System?
Is the medical community misusing the Munchausen by proxy diagnosis and causing more harm than good?

In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, Tony Brueski delves into the controversial and distressing topic of the misuse of the Munchausen by proxy diagnosis with guest Susan Constantine, a Trial Consultant and Body Language Expert.

Munchausen by proxy is a mental health disorder where a caregiver, often a parent, either makes up fake symptoms or causes real symptoms to make it look like the child is sick. The diagnosis, while legitimate in some cases, can be used improperly, leading to devastating consequences for families.

Central to the discussion was the disturbing case surrounding a doctor named Sally Smith. Although Dr. Smith recently retired and settled with the family involved, the ramifications of her actions linger. "Look at the damage this person did," Brueski points out, emphasizing the need for systemic changes in the medical community to prevent such misuse in the future.

The alarming revelation from the podcast was the advice given to Brueski and Constantine from an expert in the field: "You need to go after the hospitals, you need to go after the doctors, you need to go after the departments." This insight suggests that the broader medical community may be inadvertently complicit in these tragic cases.

Constantine emphasized the upcoming MAYA trial, which she believes will set a precedent. If Maya's case results in a win, it could pave the way for more lawsuits against medical professionals and institutions. "These guys are going to start hiding, and they're going to start stopping," predicts Constantine. "You got to hit them where it hurts, and that's right in the pocketbook."

The complexities of the Munchausen by proxy diagnosis also came under scrutiny. How does one conclusively diagnose someone with such a disorder? While Constantine acknowledges she isn't a medical professional, she raises valid concerns. She notes signs such as a child repeatedly reported as sick every time they're under their mother's care or excessive protectiveness of the child. However, she suggests a more rigorous approach to diagnosis involving external, unassociated doctors for a balanced opinion.

Drawing parallels to other distressing cases like the Didi Blanchard case in Springfield, Missouri, Constantine highlights the challenges in diagnosing psychological disorders. The reliance on "opinion" rather than fact, coupled with a lack of objective analysis, creates a slippery slope that can lead to incorrect and potentially damaging diagnoses.

The conversation also touched on the possible motivations behind misdiagnoses, pointing to potential ulterior motives like research opportunities. In one anecdote, Constantine speaks of how a child was subjected to manipulative "games" to determine if she was "faking it." Such practices raise significant ethical concerns.

Perhaps most heart-wrenching is the real-world consequences of these misdiagnoses. Constantine recounts how a mother, misdiagnosed with Munchausen by proxy, faced societal judgment and ostracization, despite multiple other doctors asserting she didn't have the disorder. In another case, a misdiagnosis had tragic consequences, with the mother, overwhelmed by the accusations, taking her own life.

Given the gravity of the implications of such diagnoses, both Brueski and Constantine conclude that there needs to be a shift in how these cases are approached. Constantine states, "We're relying on people's opinion. There is no fact to it." This lack of objective evidence combined with potential biases, whether from personal egos or institutional pressures, is a recipe for disaster.

While the conversation raises more questions than it answers, it is evident that there is a need for reform in how the medical community approaches such sensitive cases. Trust in the medical profession is paramount, and when that trust is undermined, it has profound consequences on society.

As the article concludes, it's worth pondering: How many more families need to be torn apart before there is a systemic change in diagnosing Munchausen by proxy?

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The latest on 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
October 10, 2023 The Impact of Dylan Mortensen's Testimony Against Kohberger
Is the internet breeding ground for the worst of human nature? A closer look at the recent online attacks against Dylan Mortensen, a survivor of a harrowing attack, gives us some sobering insights.

The forthcoming book by the parents of Dylan Mortensen, a survivor of a traumatic crime that shook the nation about a year ago, has rekindled interest in the incident. Tony Brueski, the host of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, delves into the heart of the situation in a recent conversation with psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott.

Dylan, according to Brueski's account, was one of the rare few who saw the alleged perpetrator, Brian Kohberger, depart the crime scene. This revelation has caused a lot of stir, and the legal implications of her testimony could be significant. The discussion, however, veers into an alarming trend that the young woman has faced since the incident – online harassment.

Scott states, "...she's been targeted left and right... pain and suffering are certainly what she's going through..." It's a distressing reality that survivors, instead of receiving support and empathy, become the targets of online bullying. Why does this occur, and what compels people to behave in such a manner? Scott ponders, "...why some people get this sense of power when they're behind a keyboard... These are very unhappy people and they're angry about a lot of other things."

The internet's vast expanse and the anonymity it provides seem to be a potent concoction that emboldens many to lash out without fear of consequence. As Brueski succinctly puts it, "We're in a weird place in society right now where everyone has a megaphone and anyone who wants to go and express whatever nonsense is in their mind, they can go and do it." The vicious online attacks on Dylan parallel the conspiracy theories and targeted harassment faced by the families of Sandy Hook, a horrifying incident that still evokes strong emotions.

The larger question here is the future of our digital interactions. With platforms that give everyone a voice, will we see more constructive discussions or destructive harassment? Scott appears rather skeptical about the possibility of change, highlighting the disturbing trend where people, empowered by anonymity, indulge in reckless behavior. She remarks, "...it just seems like people are empowered by anonymity, and they can look for targets, and it's just become a way of life for so many people."

A concerning observation is the increasing number of individuals who seem to derive a perverse pleasure from online trolling and bullying. The grim reality is that, for some, this malicious behavior has evolved into a hobby. The rise of figures like Alex Jones, known for peddling conspiracy theories and falsehoods, only serves to underscore the challenges of the digital age.

Brueski's discussion with Scott is a poignant reminder of the pitfalls of our interconnected world. While technology has ushered in numerous advantages, the unchecked spread of malicious behavior and targeted harassment on digital platforms is a dark aspect that needs addressing.

As we reflect on the ordeal faced by Dylan Mortensen and countless others, we're left with an unsettling question: Is this the new norm for society, or will there be a digital reckoning that curbs such virulent behaviors?
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6 min
October 09, 2023 False Accusations and a Family Torn Apart: Maya Kowalski's Heartrending Story
How does the interplay of medical institutions, Child Protective Services, and desperate parents lead to tragic consequences? A recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast with host Tony Brueski and guest psychotherapist and author, Shavaun Scott, delved deep into this pressing issue, offering some haunting insights that are hard to ignore.

"We often hear stories of children not being served well by CPS. However, this situation is the exact opposite. It's where they went full throttle, isolating the child from their mother without a justified cause," shared Tony Brueski. The case in question concerns a mother, a registered nurse by profession, who was accused of Munchausen by proxy (factitious disorder imposed on another) and subsequently denied any contact with her child by the hospital.

While Munchausen by proxy is a real and alarming concern for medical institutions, Shavaun Scott emphasizes its rarity. She states, "I see it in clients and it happens in hospitals. But there had to be red flags." Scott mentioned the mother's insistence on high doses of ketamine infusion for her child, which is indeed concerning. But she also pointed out that the family had a record of treatment from other reputable hospitals. The situation should have been approached with more consideration and empathy, rather than isolating the child.

"The ideal scenario would have seen the hospital and parents coming together as a team, especially if there were signs of potential child abuse," Shavaun said. Instead, the scenario spiraled into what Brueski termed a "nightmare of a case." The relationship between the hospital and the family became so strained that it resulted in the mother's tragic suicide during the 90 days her child was kept away from her.

Brueski raised poignant questions: "Why did it take so long for everyone to get on the same page? Why did the doctors not consider the comprehensive care records?" One of the significant highlights of the discussion was the emphasis on a parent's desperation. Any parent watching their child suffer immense pain would likely resort to any means necessary to alleviate their child's suffering, even if it means clashing with medical professionals.

The conversation revealed that there was a breaking point where the case evolved into an apparent "adversarial power struggle" between the family and one specific doctor at the hospital. Brueski remarked, "At that juncture, there should have been an intervention, perhaps a change in the medical personnel in charge. Instead, both parties became more entrenched in their positions, leading to dire consequences."

Is the healthcare system designed to serve its patients, or has it become a battleground where egos supersede empathy? This recent podcast episode of "Hidden Killers" underlines the need for a comprehensive review of how medical institutions interact with families, especially when Child Protective Services get involved. The outcome of this case serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of miscommunication, mistrust, and a lack of collaboration.

As we continue to navigate an era where medical expertise is both revered and challenged, the poignant question remains: Can medical institutions and families truly find common ground in the child's best interest?
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The latest on 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
6 min
October 07, 2023 WEEK IN REVIEW-How Did Jodi Hildebrandt's 'ConneXions' Not Get Shut Down Sooner
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 Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, 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
8 min
October 07, 2023 WEEK IN REVIEW-Bizarre Odinist Defense Theory Showing Cracks
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.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, 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
7 min
October 06, 2023 Bizarre Odinist Defense Theory Showing Cracks
In a recent twist to the much-publicized Delphi murder case, Richard Allen's defense attorney submitted a detailed 136-page filing arguing that Odinists, a group following a pagan Norse religion, may have performed a "ritualistic sacrifice" that led to the deaths of Abigail Williams and Liberty German. This claim certainly raised eyebrows, prompting deeper exploration into the credibility of such an assertion.

Tony Brueski, host of the podcast "Hidden Killers," discussed this new angle with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. Scott pointed out that Odinism is neither a structured nor organized religion, emphasizing that it's largely a "hip, young counterculture belief system." Mentioning Viking festivals and pagan festivals, Scott highlighted that it's more about people who enjoy the Viking era and dress up - also known as LARPers (Live Action Role Players).

Quoting Scott, she stated, "So there's zero incidents. Of any kind of violence or human sacrifice associated with the paganistic or odinistic groups. There just hasn't been any precedence for it." She also added that the alternate plot the defense has presented seems "intensely thought out," yet she finds it hard to believe that an organized group would stage a public ritual murder and leave bodies in such a way that would directly implicate them.

Tony Brueski further added that there were initial rumors of Odinist claims, but these never gained traction. Reflecting on Richard Allen's defense strategy, Brueski remarked, "Look, you guys didn't look at any of these things and just kind of pass them off as not being valid." The prosecution's evidence against Richard Allen seems to largely hinge on the confession he made to his wife, which, as the defense claims, might have been made under duress.

Intriguingly, Brueski also highlighted a mysterious 43-second video clip that has garnered a lot of public speculation. While a brief snippet of a man walking on a bridge from that video has been released, the content of the entire video remains undisclosed. Speculation is rife, with some suggesting that more than one voice can be heard in the clip, while others believe that the audio may have been manipulated.

Shavaun Scott posed an interesting query about the defense's approach, wondering if presenting this angle even before the trial starts is a strategy to seed doubt amongst potential jurors. "Let's just throw it out there right now," she remarked, highlighting that creating a shadow of "reasonable doubt" could be the strategy in play.

Brueski further emphasized this point, suggesting that the defense, by presenting such a narrative early on, might be ensuring that it's challenging to retract or change course later. He mentioned, "Once they go down this road as they have been, and they've thrown this out there, it's kind of hard to walk your way back in any way, shape, or form."

The Delphi murder case, with its unexpected turns and shocking revelations, has left many puzzled. While the defense's Odinist angle is undoubtedly a unique strategy, only time will tell how it will play out in court. One can't help but wonder, as Brueski aptly put it, "Is it just the reasonable doubt angle they're going for more than anything else?" But perhaps the most significant question remains: will we ever truly understand what happened on that fateful day in Delphi?

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About Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

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Welcome to Mind Behind The Crime, the authoritative podcast that grants you exclusive access to the profound insights of respected psychologists, psychotherapists, and mental health experts as they…