Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

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Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers episodes

  • WEEK IN REVIEW-Is Publicity Helping Or Hurting The New BTK Investigation?
    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
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    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
  • WEEK IN REVIEW-How Did Mommy Blogger Get Away With Alleged Abusive Behavior For So Long?
    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
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    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

    12 min
  • How Did Ruby Franke And Jodi Hildebrandt: How Extreme Beliefs And Mental Health Care Don't Mix
    Can the divide between organized religion and personal spirituality give rise to cases of child abuse, and how does accountability fit in?
     
     In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast hosted by Tony Brueski, a riveting conversation with Clinical and Forensic Psychologist & Licensed Private Investigator Joni Johnston sheds light on a case that has gripped many - the troubling tale of Ruby Franke and Jody Hildebrandt, known as the Mormon mommy bloggers. These women have found themselves submerged in allegations of child abuse, a narrative that not only places their lives under scrutiny but also poses questions about the role of organized religion in these actions.
     
     To provide some context, Ruby Franke and her husband, Kevin, according to their attorney, have been separated for roughly 13 months, with Ruby living with Jody Hildebrandt. During this period, one of their children allegedly "escaped" their residence and sought refuge in a neighbor's house. Kevin, as per his lawyer, emphasizes his commitment to "doing what's best for his kids" and aims to rebuild familial bridges.
     
     Brueski probed Johnston on Kevin's awareness of the events transpiring in the Franke household, to which she responded, "It's hard to imagine that he didn't know some of what was going on for sure... Based on the information I have, how much of an active participant he was, but I would be very surprised if he did not know some of what was going on." Johnston speculated that things might have escalated after their separation, but some of their older children have indicated that such behavior has been ongoing for years.
     
     One pressing theme emerged from the dialogue: the link between organized religion, in this case, the Mormon faith, and instances of abuse. Several recent cases involving individuals of the Mormon faith exhibited extreme parental tactics, leading to the question of how much organized religion plays a role in such actions. Johnston observed, "It isn't necessarily the religion's fault if people then distort those religious beliefs or twist them for their own benefit."
     
     This raises an intriguing angle about the juxtaposition between organized religion and personal spirituality. Johnston pointed out how some might misuse religion as a shield, hindering them from seeking professional mental health care because it could be perceived as a "weakness of faith."
     
     The conversation took a deeper turn when Brueski highlighted a concern - the Mormon Church's endorsement of Jody Hildebrandt as a counselor. This endorsement, coupled with the ongoing situation, evoked the question: "Is this a reflection of a greater problem within that church?"
     
     Johnston's perspective on the matter brings up another pivotal point – the uneasy relationship between religion and mental health. She stressed the need for a clear boundary between one's religious beliefs and mental health care, especially when dealing with sensitive cases. "One of the most difficult things about this case for me is that Jody Hildebrand is a mental health professional," said Johnston, adding how unsettling it is to think that a mental health professional could endorse abusive tactics.
     
     Another alarming revelation from the discussion was the multiple alerts Child Protective Services received from concerned neighbors about the Franke children's welfare. Still, it took an extreme situation for proper action to be taken. Johnston shared her experience working with abused kids, highlighting the systemic problems within child welfare agencies, from understaffing to the dilemma of prioritizing family unity over child safety. Brueski and Johnston both championed the need for better resources and systems to protect children genuinely.
     
     In an era where we advocate for children's safety and mental well-being, stories like these force society to reckon with its values and beliefs. The case of Ruby Franke and Jody Hildebrandt presents more than just a story of alleged abuse; it unravels complex webs of religion, societal norms, and accountability.
     
     In the face of these revelations, one is left to ponder: Where do personal beliefs end and the need for professional intervention begin?
    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
    11 min
  • How Alex Murdaugh Was Raised To Feel No Shame
    Murders, embezzlements, and shocking accusations - the tale of the Murdaugh family, once regarded as legal royalty in South Carolina, reads more like a crime thriller than real life. The newest revelations from Netflix's documentary, shining a light on the family's darkest secrets, begs the question: Just how deep does the twisted web of deceit run in this seemingly cursed dynasty?
     A recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski, delved into this very topic, engaging with Clinical and Forensic Psychologist and licensed Private Investigator, Joni Johnston.
     One of the newest revelations involves the 'Curtis cutting cousin', Eddie Smith. In the documentary, when Eddie was questioned about the incident where Alex Murdaugh alleged that Smith tried to kill him upon his request, he provided a chilling response. Eddie claimed that Alec had confided in him about his fears: "They're going to be able to prove that I'm responsible for Maggie and Paul." Johnston remarks on this revelation, “It’s the elephant in the room. It absolutely could be true.”
     
     However, the veracity of this claim remains in question, given Eddie Smith's reputation. Brueski highlights the inconsistency, noting, “Eddie’s already kind of proven not to be that credible. It’s like, what do you believe out of Eddie?”
     
     Further complicating the matter is Alec’s recent admittance of guilt, a decision to plead guilty to 22 federal charges, including wire fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering. Johnston contemplates this sudden change in Alec’s stance, suggesting it's more about his self-interest and less about moral awakening. "Either that or he is starting to become more concerned about his reputation...I can promise you there’s a self-interest involved here."
     
     Yet, the family's intricate web of lies and deceit seems to have historical roots. An interview with Paul Murdaugh's former girlfriend in the documentary provides a shocking account of family patriarch, Randolph Murdaugh. During a marital dispute, Randolph went to the extreme of publishing his wife, Miss Libby’s obituary in the local newspaper, despite her being alive – a chilling power play to dissuade her from pursuing a divorce.
     
     When posed with the question about the psychology of such a family, where such actions were normalized, Johnston reflects on the values instilled. “It certainly speaks to this level of self-interest. Narcissism. I’m going to get what I want. No matter who gets hurt.” Johnston elaborates that these behaviors, having been witnessed by their offspring, perpetuates a cycle of values misaligned with societal norms.
     
     Diving deeper into this psychology, Johnston provides a perspective on why such individuals might not feel shame for their actions. “If those are your values, shame wouldn’t come into it at all.” This statement underscores a profound disconnect between personal values and broader societal standards, highlighting the extent of the Murdaugh family's alleged detachment from societal norms.
     
     While the Murdaugh family saga continues to unravel, revealing layers of secrets and manipulation, one can't help but wonder: How did such a prominent family spiral into this abyss? What drove them to these extremes? And most importantly, were they always destined for this grim fate, or was it a product of generational values gone awry?
     
     With the world watching and waiting for the next twist in this riveting saga, one must ask: If the sins of the father are indeed visited upon the son, what legacy does the Murdaugh family leave behind?
    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
    6 min
  • Is It Impossible for Kouri Richins NOT To LIE?
    The case of Kouri Richins, which has taken multiple unexpected turns, leaves many scratching their heads. Recently discussed on the podcast "Hidden Killers," hosts Tony Brueski and clinical and forensic psychologist, Joni Johnston, delved deep into the baffling behaviors and decisions of Richins. As the narrative unfurls, one must ask: Is Kouri Richins living in a world of denial, or does she genuinely believe she's always the smartest person in the room?
     
     "The rollercoaster of Kouri Richins continues...It's a manuscript for a book now," exclaimed Brueski. Richins, who was previously scrutinized for penning a children's book on grief after allegedly murdering her husband, was found with a letter in her prison cell. This letter appeared to contain instructions for witness tampering. However, in a twist nobody saw coming, Richins claims the letter was an excerpt from a fictional book she's working on.
     
     The hosts struggled with the brazenness of Richins' actions. "What baffles me is the fact that she thought she could write this and... pass this off as a manuscript," Brueski expressed in disbelief. Johnston added, "It doesn't look good for her...I can see the jury thinking, well, isn't this somebody who would do the same thing outside of jail?"
     
     Both Brueski and Johnston grapple with the audacity of Richins' choices, questioning her mental state. "Is this just someone who just doesn't...make the greatest of decisions?" asked Brueski, highlighting the seemingly naive nature of Richins' actions. Johnston's perspective, given her background in forensic psychology, is particularly poignant: "There is almost this kind of... denial on the one hand that the situation she's really in and also just a real... overestimation of her own abilities."
     
     The hosts further ponder if Richins, emboldened by a lifetime of people buying into her narratives, finds it difficult to accept the reality that her current environment is not as malleable. "She's had an echo chamber around her... And now she's in a place where no one's going to take her seriously," mused Brueski. The consensus between the two? Richins doesn't necessarily believe her own stories but is certain she can persuade others to. As Johnston succinctly put it, "She's convinced herself that she can convince other people that what she says is true."
     
     In an era where true crime fascinates the masses, the case of Kouri Richins stands out not just for its intrigue but for the audacious claims and actions of the alleged perpetrator. Richins’ story, as dissected by Brueski and Johnston, presents a perplexing character study. Is she truly delusional, or does she believe she can outsmart everyone?
     
     With every twist and turn, the mystery deepens, leading us to wonder: In the face of mounting evidence and skepticism, will Kouri Richins finally confront the reality, or will she continue to weave a web of tales, confident in her ability to persuade? Only time will tell.
    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
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    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
  • Decoding The Culture Of Corruption In Murdaugh Country
    Can a justice system's very culture endanger the sanctity of a trial?
    The setting of the trial date for Alex Murdaugh on November 27th, concerning his financial crimes against deceased housekeeper Gloria Satterfield, which is among the 101 state charges against him, has brought up a bevy of questions surrounding courtroom ethics in South Carolina. The "Hidden Killers" podcast, hosted by Tony Brueski and featuring psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott, dug deep into the matter, raising questions about the alleged culture that exists in South Carolina's courtrooms.
     
     Brueski began by questioning the legitimacy of Murdaugh's upcoming trial in light of recent allegations of jury tampering involving the clerk of court. "Can this go to trial on the 27th? If, in fact, does go that far or does everything in this courthouse need to be reexamined?" he inquired, hinting at deeper systemic issues that might plague the justice system in South Carolina.
     
     Scott responded with palpable concern, saying, "It's shocking to hear about the conversations that the court clerk is alleged to have had." She went on to speculate, "And I would doubt that this is the first time; if this is the way that was happening, this probably is the norm of the culture down there."
     
     The culture in question is the "good old boy" system, notorious for its informal, often questionable ways of doing things. This lax attitude, combined with close-knit relationships in a small community, can sometimes lead to the blurring of professional boundaries. As Scott succinctly puts it, "Small community, everybody's friends, and the rules apparently have been not enforced. It's been lax probably for quite some time."
     
     Brueski further probes into the psyche of the alleged court clerk, asking if she might have believed her actions were justified or if she was unaware of the severity of her actions. "Would you assume that she thought that this was okay behavior?"
     
     Scott, pondering the question, concluded, "Yeah it seems so strange and so apart from the norm that one would think this is not the first time it's happened, that this is just the lady's style." She elaborated, mentioning that while many have vouched for the clerk's good character on the news, it's still plausible for someone to be kind-hearted, yet "clueless and dumb."
     
     The discussion naturally circled back to Murdaugh, with both Brueski and Scott concurring that regardless of one's opinion about him, if jury tampering occurred, he is entitled to a fair trial. "He certainly is entitled to a new trial whether you like him or not, or you think he's a horrible human being, which he is if this did take place," Brueski stated.
     
     The revelations discussed on "Hidden Killers" have indeed thrown the spotlight on South Carolina's legal system. The allegations suggest that the judicial structure's very culture might be compromising the sanctity of trials. As the Murdaugh case unfolds, the broader implications will likely continue to unravel.
     
     With such pressing questions raised about the state's legal culture, one can't help but ponder: How many other courtrooms, unscrutinized and unchecked, might operate under similar, questionable cultures?
    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
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    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
    4 min
  • BTK Task Force Member Joni Johnston Talks Next Steps In Investigation
    In the recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski engaged in a chilling conversation with Clinical and forensic psychologist & licensed private investigator Joni Johnston about the notorious BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) murderer, Dennis Rader. As more potential victims and connections to Rader emerge, the question that looms large is: how many secrets does the BTK killer still keep?
     
     The conversation unveiled Johnston's association with a nationwide task force formed to probe deeper into the BTK's unresolved crimes. She revealed, "We all signed nondisclosure agreements... our role is just to look at the evidence... to see if there is any connection between Dennis Rader and some of the crimes that... appear to be potentially connected to him."
     
     Gary Upton, a key informant, had previously pointed out that there might be four potential connections to Rader. The Cynthia Kinney case stands out among them, primarily because of the eerie drawings by Rader that mirror some aspects of the crime scene.
     
     "The challenging thing when you're talking about drawings... is we know that serial killers... will journal or they'll draw, you know, both fantasies that they have as well as potentially crimes they've committed," Johnston said, highlighting the unsettling intersection of fantasy and reality in Rader's drawings and photographs. These artifacts often act as a macabre catalog of a serial killer's conquests, but discerning fact from fiction is no straightforward task.
     
     Diving deeper into the psyche of Rader, Johnston reflected on the duality of his nature: the sadist in him that derived pleasure from torturing his victims, and the side that seemed to derive an equal amount of satisfaction by envisioning himself as the victim. She theorized, "This is somebody who is attempting to... relive the pleasure he experienced at the time by almost acting out his own kind of play or movie."
     
     But why, despite being offered immunity, has Rader not come forward to clarify these potential connections? With his physical health deteriorating but mental faculties still sharp, the motivations behind his silence remain an enigma. While Johnston believes that only Rader can answer that question definitively, Kerry Rawson, Rader’s daughter, has been invaluable in aiding the task force and law enforcement over the years, suggesting she might have some insight.
     
     Johnston further alluded to suspicions about Rader initiating his violent streak during his Navy tenure overseas, a period he hasn’t spoken about. She emphasized, "I don't think we can rule him out, but it does raise a question."
     
     Brueski then brought up an intriguing point about Rader’s current relationship with media attention. It appears Rader has found a renewed interest in the limelight, offering unsolicited insights into various cases. This behavior begs the question: is he genuinely trying to help, or is this another twisted game?
     
     A significant concern raised during the discussion was the role of potential media opportunism, specifically the risk of a reality TV show influencing the investigation. Responding to this, Johnston candidly expressed her hopes that the integrity of the task force remains uncompromised, emphasizing, "The check or the reality check is always going to be the evidence or lack thereof."
     
     The quest for the truth, bolstered by evidence from Wichita's untouched archives, remains the primary objective. Johnston concluded with a heartfelt sentiment, hoping for "directions of closure for some of these families."
     
     But as we reflect on the chilling details discussed in "Hidden Killers", another unsettling question arises: how many more "hidden killers" remain buried in the annals of crime, waiting to be uncovered?
    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
    8 min
  • How Did Mommy Blogger Get Away with Alleged Abusive Behavior for So Long?
    Does the perfect facade crafted for millions on social media hide chilling secrets behind closed doors?  In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," Tony Brueski had an enlightening conversation with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott about the perplexing case of Ruby Frank and Jodie Hildebrandt, two women whose questionable behaviors recently made headlines. The revelations from this story were not just deeply unsettling, but they also shine a spotlight on a concerning trend in the Mormon faith.
     
     Ruby Frank, known for her "curated blonde, attractive appearance" and vast reach on YouTube, gathered over two and a half million subscribers who were torn between admiration and distaste for her parenting approach. On the surface, Frank’s parenting seemed rooted in old-school methods, such as not delivering a forgotten lunch to ensure a lesson is learned. However, as Brueski pointed out, there's a "world of difference developmentally between a six-year-old and a 12-year-old," and perhaps, Frank’s judgments were misplaced or even detrimental.
     
     While many saw her as pious and strict, others were horrified by her on-screen demeanor towards her children. Beyond the camera, darker details began to emerge, hinting at a deeply troubling double life. But it poses a compelling question: "Is this more common than we think of individuals very heavy on social media?" as Brueski inquired. The way Frank presented herself was like a facade, expertly crafted for her online audience, all while hiding disturbing behaviors.
     
     The mystery deepens with Jodie Hildebrandt, described as a mix between a therapist and a cult leader, who shared a dubious business venture with Frank. Their "counseling agency" oddly focused on topics such as preventing masturbation and the dangers of sexuality. Comparing them to the notorious Chad and Lori Daybell, Scott remarked, "when you put nutty people together, it just sort of amplifies and intensifies."
     
     One can't ignore the apparent pattern of alarming incidents emerging from the Mormon or Latter-day Saint (LDS) faith. While both hosts emphasized that their intent wasn't to cast a shadow over the entire religion, there seems to be a growing list of individuals within the faith showcasing detrimental behavior. If such attitudes are increasingly emanating from the community, is it then, as Brueski suggests, "something to be looked at"?
     
     Ruby Frank's daughter's testimony adds another layer to this chilling tale. After Frank's arrest, her 20-year-old daughter took to social media with a single word: "finally." She revealed her unsuccessful attempts to report her mother's actions for years. This points to a wider systemic issue. Scott hinted at a potential failure of Child Protection Services (CPS) due to lack of funding or staff, a plight that's unfortunately familiar in many jurisdictions.
     
     As the discussion veered towards Frank’s husband, a college professor, opinions diverged. While he claimed ignorance regarding the abusive behaviors, Scott found it hard to label him a victim. Was he passive, turning a blind eye to Frank's actions, or complicit in them? If the latter, where does one draw the line between moral and legal responsibility?
     
     The story of Ruby Frank and Jodie Hildebrandt is a distressing reminder of the facades people can build, especially in the age of social media, and the hidden dangers lurking beneath seemingly perfect exteriors. As Brueski and Scott delved deep into this harrowing tale, listeners are left contemplating the complexities of human behavior, societal pressures, and the power dynamics within family units.
     
     In a world where our online selves often differ from reality, how many more secrets remain hidden behind the screens?
    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
    12 min
  • Decoding The Bizarre Behavior of The Heuermann Family
    The world of crime podcasts has been in constant flux with information, conspiracies, and discussions. The recent episode of "Hidden Killers" with Tony Brueski, featuring psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott, was no exception. Their focus? Asa Ellerup, the estranged wife of Rex Heuermann, the suspected Long Island serial killer, and her bizarre recent requests.
     
     "Why would the spouse of an accused serial killer want back nearly 300 guns taken from their home in the middle of an investigation?" This intriguing question was at the heart of the conversation between Brueski and Scott. Asa's behavior post the accusations against her husband is perplexing, to say the least.
     
     Brueski observed, "The optics are totally off. I've never seen anyone, the spouse of someone who's accused of being a horrible person. Acting this way. It seems very tone-deaf." He draws attention to her aloofness amidst serious allegations against her husband. This move, demanding the guns amidst an investigation, further projects an image of nonchalance that's perplexing.
     
     Scott shared her insight on the topic, "It does give a very odd vibe. It seems strange. And the first thought that came into my mind when I heard that is she's desperate for money and wants to sell all these guns." She further hypothesized about Asa's personality traits, suggesting quirks or aloof behavior that might have been characteristic of her long before the allegations against her husband emerged.
     
     Brueski added more to the pot, expressing bewilderment at the police's approach. "The police have said the initially they've said we don't think she's done anything. She's fine. She can there, although there has not as far as we're aware yet been any sort of interviews done directly with her, which I also find very odd." The host seems to suggest that Asa's increasingly eccentric behavior might eventually lead the police to look into her role, if any, more deeply.
     
     Scott weighed in, "It sure seems to be unusual behavior and not a, you know, a person with insight. And of course you can be a very odd person and not have any insight and aloof is a good word." She is clear to clarify that odd behavior doesn't necessarily equate with being involved in the crimes. Her concern mirrors that of Brueski - the absence of an interview between the police and Asa.
     
     In the intricate world of crime and its investigation, the public is often enthralled by the macabre and mysterious. In this case, the spotlight, while majorly on Rex Heuermann, also falls curiously on Asa Ellerup. She appears to be an enigma wrapped in a puzzle, and her latest moves have only increased the public's interest in her.
     
     The podcast episode delves into the peculiarities of behavior and the complexities of human psychology. In a chilling situation involving murder allegations, Asa Ellerup stands out as a character that baffles both experts and enthusiasts alike.
     
     As the episode concludes, Brueski observes, "This seems like it might have been a very bizarre household as well. Yes. And these are just people who are bizarre. Yeah. They just didn't quite fit into normal, polite society, I think."
     
     Indeed, as listeners and readers, we are left pondering: Is it just eccentricity or does the Ellerup household hold more dark secrets than we know?
    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
    5 min
  • Is Publicity Helping or Hurting the New BTK Investigation?
    Has the hunt for a notorious serial killer's additional victims become a media spectacle, sacrificing the emotional well-being of affected families in the process? That's the question weighing heavily on many following the latest revelations regarding the BTK killer, Dennis Rader, in a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers."
     
     Dennis Rader, infamously known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) murderer, is back in the spotlight after journal entries alluded to possible other victims. Among the speculated victims is Cynthia Dawn Kinney, who disappeared in 1976, leaving her aging family desperate for answers.
     
     Tony Brueski, the podcast host, discussed the fervor around potential new evidence with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. The two delved into whether the excitement in potentially linking more victims to Rader is based on genuine evidence or merely sensationalism fueled by a public hungry for resolution.
     
     Brueski highlights the peculiar enthusiasm surrounding the possibility of Rader having more victims: "Maybe there'll be some closure here. That's been the speculation with some of the journal entries that he's had," but quickly juxtaposes this with the poignant reality, saying "at the end of the day, that's who matters more than everybody getting excited because maybe BTK killed more people, which is a weird thing to get excited about."
     
     Scott emphasized that while passionate investigators often make the most significant breakthroughs, the situation with Rader appears different. "Nobody [has] real evidence other than speculation and these horrendous drawings and the things that Dennis Rader has written," she noted. The trauma it causes to the victim's families, especially those like Kinney's, can be immense, with Scott pointing out that sometimes the lack of evidence means that a resolution is never achieved.
     
     Adding another layer of complexity to the story, Brueski shared an exclusive insight into Rader's reaction to recent developments. Following a statement from the District Attorney about the lack of evidence to prosecute Rader, the killer reportedly responded with a cocky retort, hinting at the possibility of him playing a game with authorities and the public.
     
     Scott wasn't surprised by Rader's reaction, noting, "the man loves playing games." Interviews with his daughter suggest she believes he's continually toying with investigators and the media, leading to increased frustration and anguish for families of potential victims.
     
     The overarching concern voiced by Brueski and Scott is the media's potential role in sensationalizing the situation, furthering the emotional torment of families like Kinney's. The pursuit for truth is essential, but there must be a balance between unearthing the truth and not giving perpetrators like Rader more platforms to manipulate and play games.
     
     Brueski summarized the predicament aptly: "I applaud [Osage County Police Department] for somebody digging if they think they found something but at the same point, it also seems like, you better be damn sure that you are looking at something legit and this is not just to get some headlines."
     
     As investigations continue and media interest remains unabated, one has to ponder: How can we balance the relentless quest for truth with the much-needed sensitivity towards families who have been through decades of torment?
     
     In the ongoing saga of the BTK's potential additional victims, the answer remains elusive. One thing is certain: in the quest for truth, the emotional well-being of victims' families must never be compromised.
     
     How many more families must endure this torment before a definitive answer is reached?
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    8 min

About Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

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