In this week’s episode of Weird True Crime, we dive into the tragic and infuriating case of Mahogany Jaquise Jackson—a young mother working hard to turn her life around when her dreams were violently taken from her. At just 20 years old, Mahogany was betrayed by people she thought she could trust, and her life ended in the most unimaginable way.

Join us as we uncover Mahogany’s story, from her early days of compassion and resilience to the heartbreaking events that led to her untimely death. We discuss the investigation, the key evidence—including shocking video footage—and the fight for justice her family continues to pursue.

This episode examines themes of loyalty, betrayal, and systemic challenges in seeking justice, all while honoring Mahogany’s legacy as a mother, daughter, and friend.

If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence or unsafe relationships, resources are available. Visit National Domestic Violence Hotline or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).

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Resources and Links:

• Learn more about Birmingham’s new crime-fighting technology: AL.com Article on Surveillance Cameras.
• Support victims of domestic violence: National Domestic Violence Hotline.
• Stay updated on Mahogany Jackson’s case through local reporting: Carol Robinson’s AL.com Articles.

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on TikTok & Instagram: @WeirdTrueCrime.
• Got a case you want us to cover? Email us at [email protected].

Support the show and get ad-free episodes on Patreon.

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ABC News, “Mahogany Jackson texted…” Zaru, Deena March 13, 2024
Birmingham Police, “Seven Arrests Made…” Fitzgerald, Truman, Feb. 28, 2024
WBRC Fox 6 News, “Mother of Mahogany Jackson…” Chatman, Bria Oct. 1, 2024
MSN, “8 Suspects Charged in Death…” Pollock, Taylor
WVTM 13, “All 8 suspects charged…” Keenum, Lynn, Oct 2. 2024
Birmingham Police, “Eighth Arrest Made…”
AL.com, “Mahogany Jackson knew…” Robinson, Carol
AL.com, “Family Fears…” Robinson, Carol
AL.com, “Mahogany Jackson…found shot to death” Robinson, Carol
AL.com, “6 detained in kidnapping…” Robinson, Carol, Feb. 27, 2024
AL.com, 7 face kidnapping….” Robinson, Carol, Mar. 01, 2024
AL.com, “8th suspect charged in heinous…” Robinson, Carol, Mar. 04, 2024
AL.com, “Mahogany Jackson’s captors…” Robinson, Carol, Mar. 04 2024
AL.com, “Is Mahogany Jackson’s gruesome…” Johnson, Roy. S, Mar. 15, 2024
AL.com, “Birmingham police want access…” Robinson, Carol
AL.com, “Cases against 2 suspects…” Robinson, Carol
AL.com, “5 suspects indicted for capital murder…” Robinson, Carol
CBS 42, “Mother of Mahogany Jackson…” 
People.com, “Ala. Mom Who Was Tortured…” Palmer, Emily “Mar. 1, 2024
Mahogany Jackson Obituary,

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

In this hilarious and chaotic episode, we dive deep into the weird world of Walmart's unforgettable shopping experiences. From Florida Man's failed shoplifting attempts to bizarre Black Friday brawls, we’ve got some truly ridiculous stories to make you laugh (and cringe). We also explore an unforgettable Thanksgiving knife fight over a parking spot, a man dressed as a cow stealing 26 gallons of milk, and even a family exorcism gone wrong. Join Gina and Amber for outrageous tales of bad decisions and unhinged antics from the aisles of Walmart.
 
Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: https://www.darkcastnetwork.com/

---

Resources:

https://b1039.com/2023/08/10/florida-man-admits-to-police-im-not-good-at-shoplifting/https://www.fitsnews.com/2013/11/29/walmart-stabbing-the-spirit-of-thanksgiving/https://www.businessinsider.com/william-e-golladay-arrested-over-alleged-wal-mart-attack-2014-1https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/texas-woman-arrested-allegedly-trying-buy-another-womans-child-500000-rcna13282https://www.nj.com/cumberland/2014/02/vineland_woman_leaves_infant_in_taxi_cab_while_getting_arrested_for_theft_police_say.htmlhttps://www.wlbt.com/story/24477697/man-arrested-at-ridgeland-walmart-after-stabbing-pharmacist/https://www.fox13news.com/news/pasco-deputies-use-taser-to-chase-shopper-from-walmart-ceilinghttps://www.huffpost.com/entry/man-in-cow-suit-steals-milk_n_855420https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/jerald-newman-bloodied-by-buckeye-cop-in-11-at-walmart-nets-30-000-in-settlement-6658420
https://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-woman-allegedly-kidnapped-forced-exorcism-20131112-story.html


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Kristin Smart’s disappearance in 1996 sparked a decades-long fight for answers. In this episode, we unpack the latest updates, including revelations from the People Magazine Investigates documentary released on November 18, 2024. We explore the groundbreaking role of Your Own Backyard, the failures of the initial investigation, and Paul Flores’s disturbing history.This isn’t just another true crime episode—it’s a tribute to Kristin’s life, her family’s resilience, and the ongoing effort to bring her home. Join us as we dive into the shocking twists, recent developments, and why Kristin’s story continues to inspire justice and change.

Key Takeaways

• Recent updates from the People Magazine Investigates documentary.
• How Your Own Backyard podcast reignited the case.
• Insight into Kristin’s life, dreams, and legacy.
• The systemic failures that delayed justice and why they matter.

Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: https://www.darkcastnetwork.com/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

In this episode of Weird True Crime, Gina and Amber dive into the chilling, bizarre, and fascinating world of clowns. From their ancient origins as comedic entertainers to their dark turns in real-life crimes and pop culture, clowns have both delighted and terrified audiences for centuries.Join us as we explore:

• The history of clowns, from ancient Egypt and Rome to the birth of modern clowns like Joseph Grimaldi.
• The infamous killer clowns of true crime history, including John Wayne Gacy, aka “The Killer Clown,” and Sheila Keen-Warren, the alleged “Killer Clown” of Florida.
• The bizarre and widespread 2016 creepy clown sightings that sent chills through neighborhoods across the world.
• Iconic fictional clowns like Pennywise from It, Art the Clown from Terrifier, and The Joker from DC Comics.
• A lighter look at Ronald McDonald, the surprisingly unsettling mascot of the McDonald’s franchise.

Plus, Amber recounts her own childhood memories of clowns (her grandma was one!), and Gina reflects on why they’re so often nightmare fuel. Don’t miss the day’s riddle, chilling stories, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: https://www.darkcastnetwork.com/

Resources:
https://www.historyofcircus.com/circus-facts/circus-clowns-history-and-facts/#:~:text=World%20clown%20comes%20from%20the,their%20roles%20were%20almost%20inseparable.
https://pointpark.libguides.com/c.php?g=1213847&p=8882410
https://www.wytv.com/home/difference-between-a-clown-and-a-jester/
https://blog.sevenponds.com/cultural-perspectives/funeral-clowns-making-comeback
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/florida-killer-clown-case-sheila-keen-warren-marlene-warren-murder-48-hours/
https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2016/oct/31/the-great-clown-panic-of-2016-a-volatile-mix-of-fear-and-contagion
https://www.crimemuseum.org/crime-library/serial-killers/john-wayne-gacy/
https://www.biography.com/crime/john-wayne-gacy
https://abc7chicago.com/clown-sightings-attacks-creepy/1544319/
https://www.reddit.com/r/stephenking/comments/o7ps81/bill_hader_was_unaware_that_bill_skarsg%C3%A2rd_could/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joker_(character)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joker_in_other_media
https://rmhcswfl.org/rmhc-history/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

In this episode, we uncover the tragic and deeply unsettling case of Leon Laureles, a kind-hearted man from Brownwood, Texas, whose life was brutally cut short in May 1996. Leon, a Hispanic, gay man in a conservative small town, was shot execution-style and left by his burning car on a remote road. His murder shocked the community—but not enough to bring justice.We dive into Leon’s life, his role as a caregiver for his family, and the days leading up to his murder when he shared fears for his safety. From the mishandling of evidence to the deeply flawed investigation riddled with prejudice, this case raises questions about systemic failures that have kept Leon’s murder unsolved for nearly three decades.Through the voice of Leon’s niece, Arlene Harbison, we learn about the family’s enduring fight to keep his memory alive and uncover the truth. Arlene’s strength and dedication remind us that even when the system fails, families like hers refuse to let their loved ones be forgotten.What to Expect in This Episode:

• Leon’s life and legacy: The caregiver, the musician, the family man.
• The night of May 9, 1996: What happened in the hours before Leon’s murder.
• A bungled investigation: Missing evidence, false narratives, and systemic prejudice.
• Arlene’s fight for justice: How one woman refuses to let Leon’s story fade away.
• Why this case matters: A discussion of hate crimes, small-town corruption, and the need for accountability.

Additional Resources and How You Can Help:

• Learn more about Leon’s story and Arlene’s efforts by listening to her podcast, Box in the Basement and visiting justiceforleon.com.
• Follow us on social media for updates and discussions about this case.

Where to Listen:
You can find this episode and more on [Podcast Platforms], including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and [any other platform you’d like to mention].Engage With Us:
Did this episode resonate with you? Share your thoughts and join the conversation on social media using #JusticeForLeon. Don’t forget to leave us a review to help more people hear Leon’s story.

Sources:

1. “Juan Laureles Obituary” San Angelo Standard-Times, May 13, 1996
2. Box in the Basement Podcast, “Leon in Real Life,” Harbison, Arlene
3. Interview with Arlene Harbison, Monday, Nov. 4, 2024
4. Stacy Stites Autopsy, 
5. Justice for Leon Website

Leon Laureles, Autopsy

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

In this special edition of WTF Wednesday, Gina and Amber dive into the world of funeral-related Am I the Asshole (AITA) Reddit threads, exploring complex family dynamics, questionable etiquette, and some truly outrageous funeral moments. From handling grief and supporting loved ones to hilarious funeral mishaps and unconventional obituaries, this episode covers it all.

NEW MERCH: https://www.weirdtruecrime.com/merch

Join us as we discuss:

• A teenager wrestling with attending their mom’s funeral for closure
• A sibling showdown over “inappropriate” funeral attire
• An unexpected funeral party thrown in honor of a brother’s wishes
• The clash of in-laws and partners at emotionally charged farewells
• And more unforgettable AITA moments tied to family, death, and final goodbyes.

To lighten the mood, we’ve also found a few funny obituaries that’ll make you laugh out loud! You’ll hear about unforgettable characters who left a lasting (and hilarious) mark on those they left behind.

Riddle of the Day:
Stick around until the end for the answer to our riddle! “Two cars were involved in an accident in the center of town. The man in the little green car overtook a big black car, causing it to swerve and crash. When examined, the green car’s occupants were fine, but the black car had one dead man. Yet the driver of the green car wasn’t charged with manslaughter. Why?” (Hint: It’s not what you think!)

Connect with Us:
Email: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: Darkcast Network
Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/weirdtruecrime/
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]

Resources: 
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/search/?q=funeral&cId=20d3e66f-24aa-4f23-8979-f0025db51a64&iId=8270cf89-020c-47ca-a66c-b219214bfc52
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/17rnnxj/aita_for_refusing_to_go_to_my_moms_funeral/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/1bt6c24/aita_for_kicking_out_my_sister_for_her_emo_outfit/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/qj9qep/aita_for_excluding_my_husband_from_my_brothers/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/ydcy8i/aita_for_missing_my_fils_funeral_after_my_mil/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/vunb2b/aita_for_throwing_the_funeral_party_my_late/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/rvsfc2/aita_for_kicking_my_husband_out_of_my_childrens/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/19eze72/aita_for_crashing_my_fathers_funeral/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/jd69eq/aita_for_planning_to_go_to_the_funeral_of_the_man/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/17apina/aita_for_telling_my_sister_if_she_doesnt_go_to/
https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/comments/134d2ll/aita_for_not_going_to_a_funeral_with_my_boyfriend

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

In this episode of Weird True Crime, we dive deep into the mysterious disappearance of Vladek Hasel, a young man who vanished without a trace from Orlando, Florida, in November 2021. With exclusive insights from his sister Bethany and detailed recounts of events leading up to and following his disappearance, we piece together what we know and explore the unanswered questions that remain.
How you can help: The Hasel family urges listeners to share Vladek’s missing person flyer. It might seem simple, but it makes the biggest impact. Eventually, we’ll reach that one person who might know something. With Vladek’s memorable personality, every share counts in the search for answers.

Find Bryan "Vladek" Hasel
Orange County Sherriff’s Office Missing Persons Unit: 407-254-7000 (Vlad’s case number is 21-83864)

Follow @findbryanvladekhasel on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok

Sources

https://findvladekhasel.wixsite.com/find-vladek
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ir3AC8aAAAQvD8A6B5xabBCiT1O0w1K2CrytSwzuZQk/edit?tab=t.0
Security Camera Laws In Florida: https://getsafeandsound.com/blog/security-camera-laws-in-florida/
https://getsafeandsound.com/blog/how-long-do-security-cameras-keep-footage/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

October might be winding down, but the spooky vibes are still alive for the final Wicked Wednesday of 2024! In this episode, Gina and Amber dive deep into the chilling plot of the 2008 horror movie The Strangers and uncover the disturbing real-life events and murders that inspired it. From eerie encounters to terrifying home invasions, we’ll break down what makes The Strangers one of the scariest thrillers to date. Join us as we explore why answering the door has never been more terrifying!

Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: https://www.darkcastnetwork.com/
Sources:
https://collider.com/the-strangers-true-story/
https://screenrant.com/strangers-movie-true-story-real-crimes-inspiration-explained/
https://ihorror.com/3-disturbing-real-life-stories-that-inspired-the-strangers/
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/movies/the-strangers-based-true-events-inspiration-behind-film-explained
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Strangers_(2008_film)#cite_note-FOOTNOTESimpson2013187-13
https://istamarahome.net/the-strangers/trivia/
https://istamarahome.net/meet-the-strangers/
https://chud.com/14888/exclusive-interview-bryan-bertino-the-strangers/
https://allthatsinteresting.com/sharon-tate-death
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sharon-Tate
https://people.com/sharon-tate-death-legacy-what-to-know-8666851
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/a28543822/sharon-tate-manson-murders-true-story/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_md_pmx_hybd_mix_us_19597983321&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwpvK4BhDUARIsADHt9sSh5Pv-bdcHXZ4kMSa3xm_1DfOQEwOPMJ3F2rib1r-2TFY8Z8YYvqAaAjI6EALw_wcB


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

October might be winding down, but the spooky vibes are still alive for the final Wicked Wednesday of 2024! In this episode, Gina and Amber dive deep into the chilling plot of the 2008 horror movie The Strangers and uncover the disturbing real-life events and murders that inspired it. From eerie encounters to terrifying home invasions, we’ll break down what makes The Strangers one of the scariest thrillers to date. Join us as we explore why answering the door has never been more terrifying!

Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: https://www.darkcastnetwork.com/
Sources:
https://collider.com/the-strangers-true-story/
https://screenrant.com/strangers-movie-true-story-real-crimes-inspiration-explained/
https://ihorror.com/3-disturbing-real-life-stories-that-inspired-the-strangers/
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/movies/the-strangers-based-true-events-inspiration-behind-film-explained
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Strangers_(2008_film)#cite_note-FOOTNOTESimpson2013187-13
https://istamarahome.net/the-strangers/trivia/
https://istamarahome.net/meet-the-strangers/
https://chud.com/14888/exclusive-interview-bryan-bertino-the-strangers/
https://allthatsinteresting.com/sharon-tate-death
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Sharon-Tate
https://people.com/sharon-tate-death-legacy-what-to-know-8666851
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/entertainment/a28543822/sharon-tate-manson-murders-true-story/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_md_pmx_hybd_mix_us_19597983321&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwpvK4BhDUARIsADHt9sSh5Pv-bdcHXZ4kMSa3xm_1DfOQEwOPMJ3F2rib1r-2TFY8Z8YYvqAaAjI6EALw_wcB

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.

Today we're continuing WICKED WEDNESDAY with the movie THE CONJURING!  Was this one of the scariest movies of all time or what???

Website: www.weirdtruecrime.com
Patreon: www.patreon.com/weirdtruecrime
Instagram: www.instagram.com/weirdtruecrime
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@weirdtruecrime
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcAPlqQ1t9nzA9B6kAKifmA
Email: [email protected]
Podcast Production: [email protected]
Member of the Darkcast Network: https://www.darkcastnetwork.com/


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/weird-true-crime--5679751/support.