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

March 05, 2024 Was The Sentence For Paul Ferguson Just or Bust?
This episode of Hidden Killers delves into the case of Paul Ferguson, son of Shanda VanderArk, who was recently sentenced for his role in the torture and death of his younger brother. Host Tony Brueski is joined by forensic psychologist Dr. Joni Johnston to unpack the complex dynamics and psychological factors surrounding the case.

The Debate over Paul's Sentence: The episode explores the 30-100 year sentence given to Paul, raising questions about the balance between accountability and acknowledging his upbringing under an abusive mother.
Mitigating Factors: Dr. Johnston emphasizes the influence of Paul's abusive environment and his loyalty to his mother as significant mitigating factors, arguing that he was shaped by his circumstances rather than being inherently evil.
Public vs. Judge's Perspective: The discussion contrasts the judge's stance, seemingly believing Paul may become like his mother, with the public's view, which often overlooks mitigating factors and emphasizes the severity of the crime.
Mental Health Treatment vs. Prison: While incarceration will likely offer Paul access to mental health treatment, Dr. Johnston questions whether a dedicated mental health facility might have been a more appropriate option.
Nature vs. Nurture Debate: The episode concludes by highlighting the ongoing societal debate regarding the weight given to mitigating factors like Paul's upbringing when determining criminal culpability.
Overall, this episode offers a nuanced look at the complex interplay between abuse, mental health, and the justice system, prompting reflection on how we balance accountability with an understanding of the factors shaping individual behavior.
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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
March 04, 2024 Prosecutors In Delphi Indiana Seem To Live In A Fictional Universe
The tragic and baffling Delphi murders have captivated true crime fans for years. Now, a shocking revelation: key interviews with potential suspects early in the investigation were taped over. Were investigators simply incompetent, or is something more sinister afoot?

In this episode of Hidden Killers, Tony Brueski and psychotherapist/author Shavaun Scott delve into the latest twist in the case of Richard Allen, the man accused of killing two young girls in Delphi, Indiana. They discuss:

The missing evidence: Why were crucial interviews erased? What does this say about the investigation as a whole?
Incompetence vs. coverup: Could this be a pattern of law enforcement mistakes, or is it a deliberate attempt to hide something?
The difficulty of re-interviewing witnesses: How might witnesses' memories and stories change after so many years? Will time hinder or help the search for justice?
The possibility of a conspiracy: Is there more to this case than meets the eye? Could the erased evidence point to something far darker?
Join Tony and Shavaun as they dissect the Delphi murders and the troubling questions surrounding the bungled investigation.
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, 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
7 min
March 03, 2024 Harmony's Law, How We Need To Fix Our Broken Child Welfare System--WEEK IN REVIEW
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
10 min
March 03, 2024 What Does The Future Hold For Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt? -WEEK IN REVIEW
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
March 02, 2024 Psychotherapist Shavaun Scott Tries To Explain The Latest Crazy Behavior of Lori Vallow Daybell -WEEK IN REVIEW
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
5 min
March 01, 2024 Harmony's Law, How We Need To Fix Our Broken Child Welfare System
Why does a shockingly low bar for "good enough" parenting put vulnerable children at risk?

On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott expose deeply flawed assumptions within the child welfare system. They discuss how outdated studies perpetuate the belief that biological parents are always best, even in horrific circumstances.

Shavaun brings up the question of accountability, saying "There is little to no accountability for judges that continue to make these poor decisions over and over..." They examine how underfunding and understaffing of protective agencies severely limits the safety net for children.

The conversation also highlights the dangerous misperception among the public that the system prioritizes child safety, when the reality is very different.

Closing Question: What concrete changes, starting with better agency funding, can be made to finally put the needs and safety of vulnerable children first?
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, 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
February 29, 2024 How Our Broken System Enabled The Abuse And Murder Of Harmony Montgomery
What happens when the system designed to protect children utterly fails them?

On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott dissect the tragic case of Harmony Montgomery. The five-year-old girl's murder at the hands of her father, Adam Montgomery, has exposed shocking flaws in the child welfare system.

Shavaun shares insights from the heartbreaking official report, noting "Harmony's individual needs, wellbeing, and safety were not prioritized..." They discuss how repeated attempts to reunify Harmony with her unfit parents tragically led to her death.

The conversation then shifts to another case where children were horrifically abused: Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt. Shavaun analyzes Ruby's sentencing speech, calling it a "coached response" designed to impress the parole board. They debate whether parole boards can see through such calculated presentations.

Closing Question: Could Jodi Hildebrandt, upon her release, pose a further threat to vulnerable people if allowed to exploit unregulated businesses?

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, 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
February 28, 2024 What Does The Future Hold For Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt?
Is a convincing apology enough to earn early release? Could convicted child abusers Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt manipulate their way out of prison?

On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott dissect the sentencing of Ruby Frankie and Jody Hildebrandt. Sentenced to four to sixty years for their horrific abuse, their ultimate fate rests in the hands of the parole board.

Shavaun analyzes Ruby Frankie's courtroom statement, calling it a "coached response" aimed at manipulating the system. Tony questions if parole boards are easily swayed by such performances, or if genuine remorse can be faked.

The discussion then turns to Jody Hildebrandt's claim that she "sincerely loved these children," a statement Shavaun links to the narcissistic tendencies often found in cult leaders.

With the possibility of release looming, the podcast delves into the chilling question of whether these women pose a continued threat to the public. Could they resurface under new identities, preying on the vulnerable once again?

Closing Question: How do we protect ourselves and our communities from those who mask their monstrous behavior behind a facade of love and concern?
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, 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
February 27, 2024 Psychotherapist Shavaun Scott Tries To Explain The Latest Crazy Behavior of Lori Vallow Daybell
Does Lori Vallow Daybell's courtroom appearance signal a chilling lack of remorse, or the deepening grip of delusion?

In this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski and psychotherapist Shavaun Scott dissect Lori Vallow Daybell's recent court appearance. Shockingly, Lori appeared well-groomed and seemingly confident, leading Tony to remark she looked like "she was walking into a game show."

Shavaun offers a chilling interpretation: "Her narcissism is on display...she has that psychotic glow." Yet, as her attorneys likely grapple with this presentation, more challenges lie ahead for Lori Vallow Daybell.

The discussion then turns to two major upcoming events in the case: the potential psychological impact of her predicted "end of the world" date passing without incident, and the possibility of Chad Daybell using a defense that pins the blame squarely on Lori.

Shavaun offers expert insight, explaining how deeply rooted psychosis allows for the alteration of reality. "When the world doesn't end...they just come up with a reason and...change the date."

Closing Question: Could Chad's expected defense strategy finally break Lori's detachment, or will her delusion shield her from the consequences of her actions?

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, 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
5 min
February 26, 2024 The Legacy Of Gabby Petito On Domestic Abuse
Intriguing Question: When the legal battle is settled, can the wounds of loss and betrayal ever truly heal?

On this episode of "Hidden Killers", Tony Brueski delves into the emotional fallout of the Gabby Petito case with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. They examine the lasting impact of the Laundrie family's actions on Gabby's parents, the Petito family, in the wake of the recent civil lawsuit settlement.

Tony reflects, "I don't think this case was ever about money. It was about emotions, about doing the right thing." Shavaun agrees, adding that likely "they needed to be heard... to express the pain and anger they've been through."

Together, they analyze the possible role of skilled mediation in the resolution, and the importance of acknowledging the deep pain on both sides. "This seemed to be more about the journey than the destination", Tony remarks.

Shifting focus, the discussion turns to Gabby Petito's legacy. Shavaun emphasizes the potential impact of the case, noting that it raises awareness of "the various ways domestic violence is perpetrated."

Closing Question: Could Gabby's tragic story, and the resulting focus on hidden abuse, empower others to find their voice and seek help?
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, 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
7 min

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…