In this episode of Zone 7, Sheryl McCollum dives deep into the instrumental role civilians play in solving crimes.

She opens by examining the famous case of the Zodiac Cipher and segues into the tragic cold case of Ernestine Andridge. Sheryl introduces the powerful community of WebSleuths, headed by Tricia Griffith, which has changed the face of online crime investigation.

Griffith shares how WebSleuths has evolved from a small chaotic forum to a well-structured community of over 200,000 members, aiding in investigations of high-profile cases like those of Abraham Shakespeare and Casey Anthony.

The duo then delve into the pros and cons of social media in crime-solving and how online communities are reshaping the landscape of crime investigation.

Show Notes:

• [00:00:00] Sheryl McCollum introduces the role of civilians in crime-solving, using the example of the Zodiac Cipher.
• [00:01:22] Sheryl shares her realization of civilians' importance in crime-solving.
• [00:03:11] Sheryl reveals the cold case of Ernestine Andridge, noting the challenges faced in its resolution.
• [00:05:17] The role of civilian involvement in solving cold cases is emphasized, introducing Web Sleuths.
• [00:07:50] Tricia Griffith, founder of Web Sleuths, is introduced to the episode.
• [00:08:14] Tricia recounts the growth and transformation of Web Sleuths.
• [00:09:21] Griffith highlights the importance of each Web Sleuths community member in case-solving.
• [00:10:05] Sheryl likens the Web Sleuths community to a prayer group.
• [00:11:06] Griffith explains the indirect, but crucial, role of Web Sleuths in solving cases.
• [00:12:02] Griffith discusses Web Sleuths' contribution to the murder case of lottery winner Abraham Shakespeare.
• [00:14:25] The significant role of Web Sleuths in the Casey Anthony case is discussed.
• [00:16:00] Tricia shares a heart-touching conversation about online defamation.
• [00:17:30] An instance where a Web Sleuths member uncovers crucial missed information is explored.
• [00:18:30] Tricia discusses Web Sleuths' relationship with law enforcement.
• [00:20:00] Griffith recounts the Boston Bomber incident and the importance of not spreading unverified information.
• [00:21:00] Sheryl encourages listeners to consider joining Web Sleuths.
• [00:23:00] Tricia expresses hope in using DNA evidence from Authrin Labs for a challenging case.
• [00:24:10] Tricia invites listeners to join the army of online armchair detectives on WebSleuths.
• [00:26:00] Sheryl discusses the power and potential pitfalls of social media in crime-solving.
• [00:28:30] Griffith shares how WebSleuths helped solve a 23-year-old case.
• [00:30:00] Sheryl acknowledges the efforts of Tricia and her army of WebSleuths.
• [00:31:30] Sheryl praises Tricia Griffith's dedication to solving cold cases, both high-profile and low-profile.

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