Murder In The Black

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• Predators Don’t Live in Folders | Jesse Matthew Jr. 02.07.2026 53мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, we look at the case of Jesse Leroy Matthew Jr. and the murders of Morgan Harrington and Hannah Graham.This story is not just about how Matthew was eventually caught. It is about the years before that: the college allegations, the DNA that sat without a name attached to it, the missed opportunities, and the systems that treated each warning sign like it belonged in a separate folder.Morgan Harrington disappeared in 2009 after leaving a Metallica concert in Charlottesville, Virginia. Years later, UVA student Hannah Graham disappeared after a night out in the same city. DNA evidence eventually connected Matthew to a 2005 Fairfax assault, Morgan's case, and Hannah's case.The question at the center of this episode is not only what Jesse Matthew did. It is how many times he could have been stopped before another woman was harmed.Because predators do not live in folders.This episode discusses sexual assault allegations, abduction, homicide, missing persons cases, violence against women, and institutional failures around campus safety.Jesse Matthew's early background and college football yearsSexual assault allegations at Liberty University and Christopher Newport UniversityThe 2005 Fairfax assault and unmatched DNA profileMorgan Harrington's disappearance after the 2009 Metallica concertThe search for Morgan and the creation of Help Save the Next GirlHannah Graham's 2014 disappearance in CharlottesvilleHow CCTV helped identify Matthew as a suspectThe DNA links between Fairfax, Morgan, and HannahMatthew's arrest in Texas, guilty pleas, and life sentencesThe larger conversation around campus safety, DNA policy, and missed warning signsAfter the main episode, I also cover two current stories:The death of Nateal Campbell, mother of NFL player Calais Campbell, and the charges against her son Ciarre CampbellThe update in Joniah Walker's case after the Milwaukee teen, missing since 2022, was found safeJesse Matthew was eventually convicted in the murders of Morgan Harrington and Hannah Graham, but this case raises a bigger question: how many times could he have been stopped before another woman was harmed?This episode looks at the college allegations, the 2005 Fairfax assault, the DNA links, the disappearances of Morgan and Hannah, and the institutional gaps that allowed warning signs to stay separated.Because predators do not live in folders.Content warning: sexual assault allegations, abduction, homicide, missing persons cases, and violence against women.If you made it this far, thank you for sitting with these stories with me. Let me know your thoughts on the missed opportunities in this case, because I really want to hear how y'all feel about that.For those of you who are like me and love to binge a story all the way through, episodes 6, 7, and 8 of What I Didn't See drop Sunday on the paid subscription, along with bonus journal entries with behind-the-scenes insight into Christina's thoughts.Thank you for the support, the comments, the shares, and the way y'all continue to show up for this space. Like, follow, and share this episode with someone who follows true crime with care. I'll see y'all in the next one.Research for this episode included public reporting from CNN, NBC News, NBC29, The Washington Post, CBS, WDBJ, and public case summaries related to Morgan Harrington, Hannah Graham, the 2005 Fairfax assault, and Jesse Matthew's convictions.Content WarningIn This EpisodeTrue Crime in Current NewsShort Spotify DescriptionListener CTASource Note For Spotify
• The River Did Not Keep Her | The Murder of Lisa Eatmon 25.06.2026 41мин

  Lisa Eatmon was a Brooklyn mother, Army veteran, and expectant mom preparing to welcome her son, Jaden Marquis. In April 2005, Lisa was found in the Hudson River, and what first seemed unclear soon became a homicide investigation.In this episode of Murder in the Black, we walk through Lisa’s life, the discovery in Manhattan, the evidence left behind at home, and the investigation that led detectives from phone records to a sanitation dock near the Hudson River.We also reflect on warning signs that can appear in relationships when pregnancy, accountability, secrecy, and control collide.Content warning: homicide, pregnancy loss, intimate partner violence, and grief involving a child losing a parent.If you or someone you love feels unsafe, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit thehotline.org. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
• The Lawyer Who Became the Case: Murder of Chiquita Tate 18.06.2026 50мин

  In this episode, we revisit the tragic case of Chiquita Tate, a rising Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney whose life was violently taken inside her own law office. Chiquita was brilliant, ambitious, and building a name for herself in the courtroom when her final night at work became the center of a murder investigation.We walk through Chiquita’s life, the timeline of her last hours, the evidence found at the scene, and the courtroom battle that followed. From DNA and hair evidence to the missing wallet, blood evidence, possible staging, and the complicated personal history between Chiquita and her husband, Greg Harris, this case raises difficult questions about violence, control, justice, and legacy.This episode also includes a brief update and reflection on the Alexis Crawford case, another heartbreaking story involving a young woman whose future was stolen.Key TopicsChiquita Tate’s life, career, and rise as a criminal defense attorneyThe timeline of her final night in Baton RougeThe crime scene evidence, including DNA, hair, blood evidence, and the missing walletHow the prosecution and defense interpreted the same evidence differentlyThe role of marriage, motive, life insurance, and possible separation plansGreg Harris’s trial, manslaughter conviction, sentencing, and appealsThe lasting impact of workplace and intimate-partner violenceChiquita’s legacy beyond the crime sceneTimestamps00:00 - Introduction and factual reporting note01:06 - A Baton Rouge law office becomes a crime scene02:04 - The murder of Chiquita Tate03:02 - Chiquita’s background, ambition, and legal career04:29 - Chiquita’s marriage to Greg Harris09:26 - February 19, 2009: dinner, work, and her final hours13:12 - Crime scene findings and early evidence15:59 - The suspect list and growing focus on Greg Harris17:31 - The discovery of Chiquita’s wallet19:37 - Evidence from Greg and Chiquita’s home22:17 - Possible motives: separation, control, and life insurance24:03 - A tip that redirected investigators26:41 - Sunglasses, DNA profiles, and forensic questions29:18 - Court proceedings and trial strategy36:16 - The verdict: manslaughter, not second-degree murder37:20 - Sentencing, appeals, and legal aftermath39:52 - Reflection on Chiquita’s life and legacy42:51 - Update and reflection on the Alexis Crawford case47:14 - Closing message and listener gratitudeResources MentionedDNA evidence and forensic interpretationLouisiana second-degree murder and manslaughter lawCriminal appeals and post-conviction challengesThe Alexis Crawford caseIntimate-partner violence and workplace violence awarenessConnect With the HostFollow and connect on social media for case updates, episode discussions, and behind-the-scenes content.Final ReflectionThe heart of this story is not only the evidence. It is Chiquita Tate herself: a first-generation college graduate, a determined attorney, and a woman whose future was still unfolding. Her legacy reminds us to honor the lives behind the headlines and to keep speaking about violence that too often begins behind familiar doors.
• Latasha Harlins, Karmelo Anthony, and the Question of Black Childhood 11.06.2026 47мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, the host reflects on Latasha Harlins’ life, death, and legacy while connecting her story to racial violence, community grief, policing, and justice in America. She also shares her firsthand experience attending the Karmelo Anthony trial and examines how Black youth are viewed in courtrooms, media, and public opinion.Key TopicsLatasha Harlins’ life, family, and tragic deathSouth Central LA in the 1980s and 1990sEula Mae Love, Rodney King, and LAPD violenceBlack and Korean community tensions in South CentralThe 1992 LA Uprising and its aftermathThe O.J. Simpson trial and distrust of the LAPDCyrus Carmack-Belton and ongoing racial violenceThe Karmelo Anthony trial and courtroom experienceRace, accountability, grief, and Black childhoodTimestamps00:00 - Witnessing the Karmelo Anthony trial00:23 - Latasha Harlins’ story03:06 - Latasha’s family and move to LA05:42 - Crystal Harlins’ death09:15 - Black grandmothers and survival11:07 - Latasha’s dreams13:14 - Black/Korean tensions in South Central14:19 - Eula Mae Love and LAPD violence17:15 - Rodney King21:34 - Latasha’s murder23:22 - Sentencing and outrage26:21 - 1992 LA Uprising29:32 - O.J. Simpson and the LAPD30:24 - Cyrus Carmack-Belton31:03 - Karmelo Anthony case36:04 - Jury composition37:09 - Verdict impact42:19 - Race, grief, and accountability46:01 - James Baldwin reflectionResourcesLatasha Harlins case, Rodney King beating, 1992 LA Uprising, O.J. Simpson trial, Cyrus Carmack-Belton case, Karmelo Anthony case, James Baldwin quote.
• The Children Behind the Smiles : The Hart Family Murders 04.06.2026 46мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking case of the Hart family murders—a tragedy that exposed serious failures within the child welfare system and challenged the carefully curated image of a family celebrated by many.What appeared to be a picture-perfect family on social media concealed years of abuse, neglect, and unanswered cries for help. Through court records, witness accounts, and investigative findings, we explore how warning signs were repeatedly overlooked and why the voices of six children were not heard until it was too late.This episode is not simply about how the Hart family died—it is about how six children lived, what they endured, and the futures they were denied.The events leading up to the deaths of Jennifer and Sarah Hart and their six adopted childrenRepeated reports of abuse and neglect that failed to result in meaningful interventionThe role social media played in shaping public perception of the familyDevonte Hart's viral image and the complex reality behind the photographThe importance of recognizing and responding to children's disclosuresThe dangers of "savior" narratives and performative activismRace, adoption, and the challenges of transracial family dynamicsSystemic failures within child welfare and protective servicesThe final investigation and evidence supporting an intentional murder-suicideThe lives, personalities, and futures of the children at the center of this caseTime Stamps : 00:00 – Introduction to the Hart family case00:25 – A hungry child seeks help from neighbors00:55 – The family's disappearance and the discovery at the California cliffside01:50 – Public perception versus reality02:29 – Devonte Hart and the image that captivated the nation03:26 – The carefully constructed narrative surrounding the family04:07 – Social media, activism, and image management05:09 – How trauma was used to explain away concerns06:28 – Priscilla Celestine's efforts to keep her family together07:19 – Family separation and contradictions within the system08:16 – Investigations, reports, and missed opportunities09:12 – Adoption history and the creation of a public success story10:33 – When trauma became a shield against accountability11:58 – The 2010 abuse allegations and legal outcomes13:39 – Continued warning signs and institutional failures15:09 – Homeschooling, isolation, and limited oversight16:21 – Narrative control and public image management17:50 – A troubling family visit in Oregon20:18 – Hannah Hart's attempt to seek help22:06 – Devonte's repeated requests for food23:39 – Escalating concerns and failures to intervene26:33 – The crash investigation and evidence of intentional family annihilation28:30 – The final days: sedatives, control, and isolation30:48 – Recovery efforts and the search for Devonte32:00 – Examining years of systemic oversight failures34:45 – The dangers of rescue narratives and public perception37:09 – The futures each child deserved38:09 – The emotional impact of the case39:36 – Looking beyond appearances and curated images40:34 – Final reflections: How many warnings are too many?Topics CoveredChild Welfare and Protective Services ResourcesInformation on Trauma and Child Abuse RecognitionResearch on Transracial Adoption and Child AdvocacyHistorical Context Behind Devonte Hart's Viral PhotographFollow the show for updates, bonus content, and behind-the-scenes discussions:Instagram: @murderintheblackpodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast platform.In Memory of Hannah, Markis, Abigail, Jeremiah, Sierra, and Devonte Hart.Their story reminds us that a carefully crafted image can hide painful realities. Most importantly, it reminds us that children deserve to be heard, believed, and protected.
• Keeshae Jacobs: The Silence Toni Knew Was Wrong 28.05.2026 40мин

  In this episode, we revisit the disappearance of Keeshae Jacobs, a 21-year-old woman from Richmond, Virginia, whose mother, Toni Jacobs, knew from the beginning that something was wrong.Keeshae’s case is not just about one missing person investigation. It is about family intuition, delayed urgency, forensic evidence, unanswered questions, and the pain of a mother forced to keep fighting through unimaginable grief. Toni searched for Keeshae while later having to bury her son, DaeVon, and even after a major break in the case, the justice her family deserved still feels incomplete.We walk through Keeshae’s life, the day she disappeared, the early police response, the evidence connected to Otis Tucker, his later conviction for the murder of Ashley Fowler in Florida, and the 2024 confession that brought answers without full accountability.This episode also looks at the larger issue of missing Black women and the families who are too often left to advocate, investigate, and demand urgency on their own.Key TopicsKeeshae Jacobs’ life, family, and close bond with her mother, ToniWhy Toni knew Keeshae’s silence was not normalThe early police response and misconceptions around missing adultsThe role of family intuition in missing person casesOtis Tucker’s changing timeline and history of violenceForensic evidence recovered from Tucker’s residenceThe emotional impact of DaeVon Jacobs’ murder on Toni and her familyHow misinformation, rumors, and scams affect missing familiesMedia disparities in coverage of missing Black womenTucker’s later murder conviction in Florida for Ashley Fowler’s deathThe 2024 confession, immunity agreement, and why charges were not filedThe difference between answers, closure, and justiceWhat Keeshae’s case reveals about urgency, accountability, and advocacy00:23 - Why Keeshae’s story is being revisited03:00 - Keeshae’s life, family, and bond with Toni08:12 - The night Keeshae was last seen11:21 - Toni’s search and the early police response14:40 - Keeshae’s last known location and Otis Tucker’s timeline17:31 - Forensic evidence and Tucker’s violent history19:54 - Delays, missed urgency, and systemic challenges22:11 - Foul play suspected and barriers to prosecution25:55 - DaeVon Jacobs’ death and Toni’s compounded grief28:38 - Rumors, media coverage, and advocacy for missing Black women29:57 - Tucker’s Florida conviction and Ashley Fowler’s murder30:56 - The immunity agreement and 2024 confession35:24 - Why charges were not filed36:24 - Toni’s fight, grief, and the meaning of justice38:21 - Reflection, listener takeaway, and closing CTAResources & LinksBlack and Missing FoundationNCIC Missing Persons StatisticsRichmond Police DepartmentCBS 6/WTVR reporting on Keeshae JacobsCoverage on Otis Tucker and Ashley Fowler’s caseClosing NoteKeeshae Jacobs was loved, known, and missed from the very beginning. Her story is a reminder to listen when families say something is wrong, to share missing person cases with care, and to keep pressure on the systems responsible for responding with urgency.
• Natise Johnson and Oliver Wendell Munson: The Cost of Doing the Right Thing 21.05.2026 40мин

  A 21-year-old pregnant woman is murdered inside her father’s Philadelphia home just days before giving birth. A Maryland teacher disappears three days before he is set to testify in court. In this episode of Murder in the Black, we discuss the murder of Natise Johnson and the unsolved disappearance of Oliver Wendell Munson, two cases connected by haunting questions about loyalty, vulnerability, and what it can cost to do the right thing.Natise’s case is a devastating story of obsession, control, and retaliation. Oliver’s disappearance remains one of those deeply unsettling unsolved cases where the timing alone makes it impossible to ignore what may have happened.This episode contains discussions of murder, gun violence, abuse, witness vulnerability, and the death of an unborn child.
• The House in Crescentville 14.05.2026 41мин

  In 2003, a Philadelphia neighborhood was shaken by the murders of Patricia, Nikki, and James inside their own home. What investigators found at the scene — an untouched slice of pizza, an extra Coke can, and victims covered after death — pointed toward something more personal and psychologically unsettling than a random act of violence.In this episode of Murder in the Black, Steph examines the investigation, the behavioral clues uncovered inside the home, and how the case ultimately shifted toward Sean Brown. The episode also explores the role of community observations, family persistence, and evolving forensic evidence in solving violent crimes.Later, Steph discusses ongoing updates in the cases of Vontisha “Sway” Williams and Celeste Hernandez, reflecting on how digital evidence and modern investigative techniques continue reshaping true crime investigations today.Topics CoveredThe murders of Patricia, Nikki, and JamesCrime scene behavioral analysisThe significance of the extra Coke can and covered victimsSean Brown’s arrest and confessionCommunity involvement and investigative breakthroughsPatterns of escalation and warning signs in violent offendersUpdates on Vontisha Williams and Celeste HernandezTimestamps(00:00) — The Philadelphia triple homicide(05:11) — The crime scene details investigators focused on(11:24) — Early theories and suspect developments(17:34) — Fingerprint evidence and Sean Brown(24:31) — Violence disrupting ordinary life(28:22) — Updates on Vontisha Williams and Celeste Hernandez(38:33) — Final reflections + What I Didn’t SeeResources & Further ReadingPhiladelphia homicide investigation archivesPublic court records related to Sean BrownCommunity memorial pages for Vontisha “Sway” WilliamsOngoing public updates surrounding the Celeste Hernandez investigationConnect With Murder in the BlackYouTube: Murder in the BlackTikTok & Instagram: @MurderintheBlackSubstack: Murder in the BlackEmail:murderintheblackpodcast36@gmail.com
• What I Didn’t See, Episode 1: The Life I Thought I Had 10.05.2026 9мин

  Christina believed she understood exactly who she was and the kind of life she was building. But as wedding plans move forward, a quiet conversation and an unexpected new presence begin to disturb the certainty she has spent years protecting.In this first episode of What I Didn’t See, Christina introduces the world she thought was stable, the man she believed made sense of it, and the first subtle crack in the life she thought she wanted.What I Didn’t See is a psychological thriller about love, denial, self-deception, and the truths that begin circling us long before we are ready to name them.In this episode:Christina reflects on the life she thought she was buildingSamson appears as the kind of man who fits the future she has always imaginedJames enters the story as a quiet but unsettling new presenceA simple evening begins to expose the difference between safety and certaintyTo hear the next chapter, subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts for premium episodes, bonus material, and Christina’s private journal entries.Start now with 3-day free access.Episode 1 & 2 AVAILABLE NOW
• A Lie Borrowed In Someone Else Name : Murder of Anna Mae Florence 07.05.2026 37мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking 1987 murder of Anna Mae Florence—a case that remained unsolved for decades before modern forensic technology finally uncovered the truth. What began as a brutal attack investigation evolved into a complex story involving unreliable witnesses, false identities, overlooked evidence, and the persistence of investigators who refused to let the case disappear.This case highlights how one piece of evidence—a bloody handprint—ultimately became the key to solving a murder 25 years later.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: a case where the truth remained buried for decades00:28 – The attack on Anna Mae Florence and the initial police response01:11 – Anna Mae’s life and background in Columbus, Ohio02:13 – The violent attack: 14 stab wounds and her final moments03:32 – Crime scene analysis and evidence of a struggle04:54 – Discovery of the blood-stained purse and bloody handprint05:45 – Fingerprint analysis limitations in 198706:32 – Witness descriptions and the original suspect sketch07:48 – Investigators explore theories of robbery and overkill08:58 – Reports of a frantic woman asking strangers for help09:54 – Early suspects, including a teenage girl and local residents11:25 – The tip involving Odell and emerging inconsistencies12:45 – Odell’s changing stories and sudden disappearance13:41 – Investigators examine Danita’s alibi and hospital records14:28 – Discrepancies in records and evidence of deception15:26 – The plan to use a wire in hopes of gathering more information16:17 – A major setback when fingerprint evidence fails to match the suspect17:42 – The case goes cold in 1988 while Anna Mae’s family continues searching for answers20:01 – The 2012 cold case revival and renewed forensic testing20:59 – Reinvestigating suspects through modern DNA and fingerprint analysis26:34 – The shocking identification of Zina Roberson29:34 – Zina’s arrest, background, and confession31:09 – Why the bloody handprint became the defining piece of evidence33:02 – Reflections on trust, vulnerability, and the exploitation of kindness34:43 – The lasting impact of Anna Mae Florence’s case35:07 – Closing thoughts, community discussions, and upcoming Murder in the Black projects
• What I Didn’t See: Official Trailer 06.05.2026 2мин

  Christina thought she understood exactly who she was and the life she was supposed to want. But as her wedding approaches, two men force her to confront the parts of herself she has spent years refusing to see.What I Didn’t See is a psychological thriller about love, denial, self-deception, and the truths that circle us long before we are ready to name them.Listen & Subscribe
• Killed By Illusion | The Murder of Carlnell Walker 30.04.2026 38мин

  The Murder of Carlnell Walker | Riverdale, GeorgiaIn 2006, college student Carlnell Walker was found dead under deeply disturbing circumstances—his body discovered in the trunk of a car in Clayton County, Georgia. What initially appeared to be a missing persons case quickly evolved into something far more complex.In this episode, we examine how perception, identity, and image—both online and in real life—intersected with greed and manipulation, ultimately leading to devastating consequences.This case challenges how we think about who people present themselves to be versus who they actually are—and what can happen in the space between those two realities.In This EpisodeThe discovery of Carlnell Walker and the condition of the sceneKey moments in the investigation and how suspicion developedThe role of social media and identity performanceFinancial motives, including insurance and personal gainConfessions, arrests, and case outcomesThe larger questions this case raises about perception and vulnerabilityTimestamps00:00 – Listener discretion advised01:28 – Case introduction: Clayton County, Georgia02:13 – A mother’s concern: Peggy Walker speaks up03:11 – Discovery of Carlnell in the trunk04:55 – Who Carlnell was beyond the headlines05:52 – Evidence of torture and escalation of violence06:49 – Scene analysis and multiple perpetrators08:15 – Insurance and eviction letters raise questions08:44 – Interview with landlord Terry Alexander10:38 – Early inconsistencies in the story13:24 – Witness tip and fear of retaliation14:22 – Ari Brown’s interview15:49 – Social media, image, and perception16:47 – Financial motive and insurance claims18:11 – Forensic findings and cause of death19:05 – Breakthrough lead from cafeteria worker19:58 – Reinvention and identity among suspects21:18 – Confession from Breylon Garland23:45 – The final hours of Carlnell’s life26:49 – Arrests: Miles Allen, Keith Roberts, Theodore Hall
• Corruption with Care: The Murders of Caleb, Gianna and Gloria Short 23.04.2026 37мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the devastating murders of Gloria Short, her son Caleb, and her granddaughter Gianna—a case that forces us to confront what happens when violence comes not from strangers, but from within trusted circles. Through forensic evidence, investigative breakthroughs, and reflection, we explore how care, access, and familiarity were manipulated in one of the most haunting forms of betrayal.--------------------------------------------------------------------Main TopicsThe lives of Gloria, Caleb, and Gianna Short—and the close family bonds at the heart of this tragedyThe crime scene evidence, including staging, forensic clues, and what investigators immediately recognizedHow community tips and social media helped move the investigation forwardThe involvement of young perpetrators and what this case raises about violence, influence, and accountabilityThe investigative trail—from vehicle tracking to identifying accomplice Jervarceay “Weeda” TapleyThe emotional weight of betrayal when harm comes through trusted relationshipsLegal outcomes, life sentences, and the family’s continuing path toward healingBroader reflections on predation, trust, and the corruption of care itself----------------------------------------------------------------------Key InsightsWhy betrayal by someone known can feel more destabilizing than stranger violenceHow forensic evidence helped establish planning, intent, and participationWhat this case reveals about the exploitation of proximity and trustThe difficult questions raised when very young perpetrators are involvedWhy this case challenges assumptions about safety inside familiar relationships-----------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps00:00 — Introduction and listener warning00:31 — The crime scene and early investigative clues00:59 — Betrayal versus stranger violence01:27 — The victims: Gloria, Caleb, and Gianna02:23 — Who they were beyond the headlines
• What Happened to Michael Giles? 16.04.2026 1ч 3мин

  The disappearance and murder of Michael Giles is a case built on manipulation, deception, and a trail of circumstantial evidence that couldn’t be ignored.In this episode, we break down how Kwaneta Harris constructed narratives, controlled perceptions, and left behind patterns that investigators couldn’t overlook.From a suspicious backyard slab… to financial records, false alibis, and forged documents—this case forces us to examine how truth is uncovered when nothing is straightforward.We also touch on the mysterious death of Ashlee Jenae, and what it reveals about justice, media coverage, and accountability.Keywordstrue crime podcast, Michael Giles case, Kwaneta Harris, murder investigation, circumstantial evidence, manipulation tactics, false confession, Erica Flores, domestic abuse, true crime stories, Black victims, justice system, crime analysis.What You’ll HearMichael Giles’ disappearance and investigationKwaneta Harris’ role and psychological manipulationBackyard burial site and forensic discoveryFinancial evidence and digital trailFalse confession scheme involving Erica FloresForged documents and deception tacticsPatterns of behavior that built the caseReflections on justice, media, and accountabilityTimestamps00:00 Introduction01:32 Background & relationship timeline08:30 Backyard slab discovery11:13 Last contact with Michael Giles13:24 Financial evidence16:42 Excavation of the property22:33 Discovery of remains23:32 Arrest and interrogation30:30 Erica Flores false confession38:03 Pattern of deception42:28 Plea deal47:05 Final reflections
• Who Do You Believe? The Ciara Ingram Case 09.04.2026 26мин

  This episode explores the case of Ciara Ingram—a mother, nurse, and veteran whose life was cut short just as she was preparing to start over. What begins as a tragic discovery inside her Columbus, Georgia apartment quickly unfolds into a layered investigation marked by conflicting accounts, shifting timelines, and unanswered questions.As the case develops, attention turns to the people closest to Ciara, including her ex-husband, Jared Ingram—the last known person to see her alive. His arrest, the 15 months he spent in jail before making bond, and the years that passed before trial all become part of a larger narrative shaped as much by time as by evidence.This episode takes a closer look at what was presented in court—from witness testimony and alleged motives to the absence of definitive forensic evidence. It also examines the role of child witnesses, exploring how memory can evolve under pressure and how questioning techniques can influence what is later recalled as truth.At its core, this case raises difficult questions about belief, credibility, and the burden of proof. When evidence leaves room for interpretation, how do jurors decide what is reliable? And what does justice look like when certainty is out of reach?More than a recounting of events, this episode sits in the tension between what may have happened and what can actually be proven—leaving listeners to confront not just the outcome, but how they arrived at their own conclusions.Keywordstrue crime, Ciara Ingram, murder case, forensic psychology, court trial, child testimony, DNA evidence, justice system, reasonable doubt, criminal investigationThe timeline of Ciara Ingram’s murder and the events leading up to her deathThe role of child testimony and how memory can be influenced over timeThe evidence presented at trial—and the gaps that raised doubtHow perception, narrative, and interpretation can shape the outcome of a case“Children’s memories can be shaped, even when they believe they’re telling the truth.”“Doubt isn’t a weakness in the system—it’s the standard.”Chapters00:00 — The Complexity of Truth in Family Violence03:30 — Ciara Ingram’s Life and Tragic Death06:35 — The Investigation Begins09:28 — Unraveling Relationships and Motives12:13 — Children as Witnesses: Memory and Influence15:29 — The Trial: Evidence and Doubt18:34 — The Verdict and Its Implications
• Loyalty, Lies & Murder: The Rene Charles Story 02.04.2026 46мин

  Episode Breakdown:What happens when silence isn’t just fear—but culture, history, and survival?In this episode, we unpack the murder of Rene Charles—a case that sat in the shadows not because there were no answers, but because the truth lived inside a community that wasn’t quick to speak. This story forces us to look at how loyalty, fear, and unspoken rules can shape justice—and delay it.This episode explores the life and murder of Rene Charles, and how cultural understanding became just as important as evidence in solving the case.We go beyond the surface to examine how silence—rooted in both Black American and Haitian experiences—can protect, but also prevent accountability.Through the investigation, we uncover how relationships, hidden truths, and community dynamics played a critical role in what happened—and why it took so long to get answers.The shared history of silence across the Black diaspora—and how it shows up differently in communitiesRene Charles’ life, legacy, and role within the Haitian communityThe investigation timeline and why the case stalledHow community trust (or lack of it) impacts justiceThe role of Detective Roxanne Lopez and Officer Ronnie Charles in reopening the caseHidden relationships, secrecy, and the weight of what wasn’t saidThe influence of Haiti’s political history on community interactions with law enforcementThe lasting ripple effects of violence within tight-knit communitiesTimestamps:00:22 – Introduction: culture, silence, and what this case represents02:09 – The murder of Rene Charles03:02 – Rene’s relationship with Philomena and community response05:10 – Silence as survival across the diaspora06:36 – Haitian history and distrust of authority08:17 – Rene’s journey, immigration, and impact09:48 – His generosity, family life, and reputation11:15 – The affair that complicated everything13:22 – Secrets, relationships, and shifting narratives15:03 – Rumors of a love triangle and motive16:37 – Daniel Jean-Baptiste questioned and his alibi19:37 – The case goes cold20:31 – Evidence hidden in plain sight21:31 – Community reaction to reopening the case24:09 – Investigators turn inward toward the community25:54 – Haiti connections and international elements29:44 – Confession and the role of Daniel Jean-Baptiste35:47 – Sentencing and unanswered questions (including Mucchi Toussaint)36:22 – Reflection: trust, loss, and community impact39:08 – The gray areas of relationships and truth40:45 – Silence, secrets, and long-term consequences42:07 – Update: Na'Ziyah Harris case + broader justice reflectionsFull Breakdown of Na'Ziyah Harris Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Jg7pBUeWl64CJA1H9fY1d?si=_m9JvPDiTaWHJ-i0QBnGGAFollow + Support Murder in the Black📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/
• She Was 10 Minutes From Home: The Murder of Dawnia DaCosta 26.03.2026 44мин

  Dawnia DaCosta was just minutes away from where she was supposed to be.What started as a routine night—a late prayer vigil, a familiar drive—turned into something far more unsettling. Within a matter of hours, Dawnia would vanish, leaving behind a trail of questions, conflicting witness accounts, and a case that wouldn’t fully come together until years later.In this episode, we walk through the timeline of that night, the investigation that followed, and the evidence that both helped—and delayed—answers. From the gas station sighting to the composite sketch, to the DNA that ultimately pointed to Lucious Boyd, this case reveals how easily critical details can be missed when they aren’t fully connected.And even now, the story doesn’t end with one victim.The night Dawnia attended a prayer vigil aloneThe gas station encounter and witness descriptionsThe church van theory and early investigative focusThe discovery of Dawnia’s body and forensic findingsHow DNA evidence led to Lucious BoydThe 2023 breakthrough linking another victim in the same time frameWhat this case reveals about patterns, missed connections, and delayed justiceWhy This Case Stays With YouDawnia didn’t step outside of her routine.She was close to home. Close to safety.And somehow—that still wasn’t enough.Follow + Support Murder in the Black📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/
• When Justice Falls Short: The April Holt Case 19.03.2026 48мин

  Discover the heartbreaking case of April Lynn Holt, a young woman whose life was tragically cut short amid emotional manipulation, unanswered questions, and a justice system that left her family fighting for more.In this episode of Murder in the Black, we walk through April’s story — from her vibrant life as a beauty entrepreneur and social media influencer to the disturbing details surrounding her death, the evidence that raised red flags, and the legal outcome that continues to spark outrage.This is more than a case.It’s a conversation about emotional abuse, missed warning signs, and what justice really looks like when the system falls short.🎧 In This Episode:The life of April Lynn Holt — her ambitions, business, and growing social media presenceHer relationship with Donavan Holt, including on-and-off patterns and signs of emotional manipulationThe final moments before her hospitalization, including bruising, petechiae, and conflicting accountsKey evidence uncovered in the case file — including fingerprint analysis and inconsistencies in the sceneDenzel’s account of the argument on July 28 and what he witnessedThe staged crime scene and Donavan’s confession, claiming her death was accidentalThe legal aftermath — charges, plea deals, and how prosecution limitations impacted sentencingThe emotional toll on April’s mother, Jamie, and her relentless fight for truth and justiceA deeper look into emotional abuse and how it can escalate into deadly outcomesSystemic failures in domestic violence cases and what this case reveals⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction to the case of April Lynn Holt00:25 – April’s background, personality, and social media presence01:11 – Her dedication to motherhood and entrepreneurship02:10 – The emotional connection between beauty professionals and clients03:00 – Relationship timeline with Donavan — on-and-off patterns05:00 – Social media and the illusion of “perfect” relationships09:30 – April’s mental health and decision to leave15:00 – Hospitalization, injuries, and conflicting narratives16:55 – Evidence of strangulation and staged scene indicators20:06 – Medical examiner ruling and Jamie’s refusal to accept suicide30:07 – Jamie’s advocacy, TikTok awareness, and gag order32:15 – Evidence pointing to foul play — fingerprints and Denzel’s testimony34:15 – Donavan’s confession and staged scene details37:11 – Legal proceedings, plea deal, and sentencing43:15 – Reflection on emotional abuse and systemic failures44:23 – Jamie’s resilience and fight for justice46:21 – Final thoughts: awareness, advocacy, and accountabilityFollow + Support Murder in the Black📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/
• The Woods Between Them | Nacole Smith + Betty Brown 12.03.2026 36мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, we explore the heartbreaking story of 14-year-old Nacole Smith, a young girl with dreams of becoming a pediatrician who never made it to school on the morning of June 7, 1995.What began as a devastating crime in an Atlanta neighborhood would become a case that stretched across decades. Despite eyewitness descriptions, community efforts to identify a suspect, and early forensic evidence, investigators struggled to identify the man responsible.The case took a critical turn nearly nine years later, when 13-year-old Betty Brown survived a violent assault in East Point, Georgia. Betty’s courage to report the attack and her detailed recollection of the man who assaulted her would ultimately connect the two cases through DNA evidence — revealing that the same offender had been living in the community for years.Through advances in forensic science, including DNA profiling, CODIS, and later genetic genealogy, investigators were eventually able to identify the suspect responsible for both crimes. But the resolution came with its own tragedy when the suspect died before he could face justice.In this episode we also introduce our True Crime in Current News segment, where we highlight cases currently unfolding that listeners have brought to our attention. In this episode we discuss several developing stories, including the disturbing discovery of two young girls found in suitcases in Cleveland, a Bronx double homicide connected to a domestic dispute, and a shocking case involving a former NFL player accused of killing his girlfriend and allegedly using ChatGPT in an attempt to research ways to cover up the crime.The life and dreams of Nacole SmithThe events of June 7, 1995, and the discovery of her murderEarly investigative leads and eyewitness descriptionsCommunity involvement and the circulation of the composite sketchSuspicion surrounding Jamar Hendrix and why resemblance to a sketch alone is not evidenceDNA evidence collected from the crime scene and its entry into CODISWhy CODIS searches sometimes return no matchThe 2002 jailhouse informant tip and why investigators ruled it outThe attack on Betty Brown and how her survival connected two crimesThe role of forensic science and genetic genealogy in solving cold casesThe identification of Kelvin Arnold decades laterThe emotional impact of the suspect dying before he could face justiceThe perseverance of investigators and the importance of survivor testimonyTrue Crime in Current News: listener-submitted cases and developing investigations00:00 – Introduction to Nacole Smith’s case02:25 – Nacole’s life, dreams, and family04:07 – The morning of June 7, 199507:26 – Discovery of the crime scene and evidence recovered09:55 – Witness descriptions and early suspect sketches11:42 – Community efforts and the composite sketch13:06 – Jamar Hendrix investigation and why he was ruled out14:37 – DNA evidence, CODIS, and investigative challenges17:31 – The 2002 jailhouse informant lead19:15 – The attack on Betty Brown in 200421:10 – DNA connection between Betty Brown’s case and Nacole’s murder25:20 – Advances in forensic science and genetic genealogy26:32 – Identification of Kelvin Arnold27:24 – Arnold’s death before arrest in 202128:15 – Reflection on justice, persistence, and investigative tenacity35:02 – True Crime in Current News segment36:08 – Final thoughts and episode closeFollow + Support Murder in the Black📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/
• Closer Than Anyone Knew: Kenyadda Patterson 05.03.2026 34мин

  In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking murder of Kenyadda Patterson, a 31-year-old mother whose life was taken in Charlotte, North Carolina. When her body was discovered behind a church, investigators were faced with a disturbing crime scene and very few answers.As detectives began piecing together Kenyadda’s final hours, suspicion initially fell on people close to her — including her estranged husband and a man she had recently met. But forensic evidence would ultimately lead investigators in an unexpected direction, revealing that the person responsible for her death had been much closer than anyone realized.This episode explores the investigative process, the role of DNA evidence in identifying the killer, and the unsettling discovery that the suspect had a long history of violent crime. We also reflect on the impact Kenyadda’s death had on her children and community.At the end of the episode, we also highlight the still-unresolved disappearance of Daniel Robinson, a young geologist who vanished in the Arizona desert in 2021, reminding us that while some families receive answers, others are still searching for the truth.TIMELINE00:00 – A crime scene behind a church in Charlotte, North Carolina00:30 – Discovery of Kenyadda Patterson’s body03:00 – Crime scene analysis and evidence collection04:24 – Investigators examine the abandoned vehicle and possible timeline07:04 – Medical examiner findings: strangulation and sexual assault08:02 – Investigators examine Kenyadda’s relationship with her estranged husband09:21 – Interviews with James Patterson and the emergence of another potential suspect12:35 – Johnny Moulton enters the investigation14:36 – Community reaction and the impact on Kenyadda’s children16:58 – Neighbor Thelma Harris contacts investigators with a tip22:38 – Detectives uncover the criminal history of Derrick Harris23:02 – A shocking connection between Derrick Harris and the investigation24:29 – Detectives revisit the neighborhood as suspicion grows25:47 – DNA results identify Derrick Harris as the killer26:31 – Reflection on Kenyadda’s life and the legacy she left behind27:38 – Featured segment: The disappearance of Daniel Robinson31:05 – Why some cases remain unresolved32:36 – Final reflections and call to actionIn the closing segment of this episode, we also discuss the disappearance of Daniel Robinson, a 24-year-old geologist who vanished in the Arizona desert in 2021. Daniel was described by family and friends as intelligent, adventurous, and determined. After weeks of searching, his vehicle was discovered in a remote desert area with many of his personal belongings still inside, but Daniel himself was missing.Human remains later confirmed to belong to Daniel were discovered in the desert, but investigators have been unable to determine the exact cause of death. His father has continued to advocate for answers and further investigation.If you have information related to Daniel Robinson’s disappearance, please contact:Buckeye Police Department Tip Line: 623-349-6411Silent Witness (Anonymous Tips): 480-WITNESS​ Information on criminal investigations and forensic evidence• News coverage and case documentation related to Kenyada Patterson• Resources for families of missing persons• Community organizations supporting victims and families affected by violent crimeFollow + Support Murder in the Black📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/