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True Crime Arizona Podcast : SPYKILLER PART 1 – The Spy Shop Disappearance

She enters the store and is immediately drawn to a display of vintage spy gadgets. She picks up a small, silver-colored device that looks like a miniature version of a classic spy camera. She is captivated by its sleek design and the promise of adventure it seemed to hold. She purchases the device, unaware of its true nature.

RECENT EPISODES Backpage – The Tragic Story of the Founders of the Phoenix New Times: Jim Larkin and Michael Lacey made millions, publishing cutting-edge journalism in alternative weekly newspapers across the country. Larkin and Lacey were considered champions of the First Amendment, and their brand of journalism won thousands of awards, including a Pulitzer Prize. But the duo also created Backpage.com, a website that was known for its adult section, and according to federal prosecutors – prostitution. In this episode, Morgan Loew interviews Stephen Lemons, an investigative reporter who worked for Lacey and Larkin for two decades. Lemons details Lacey and Larkins’ rise from college paper publishers, to newspaper moguls, to Backpage, to Larkins’ death by suicide, and Lacey’s conviction in federal court.

The victim, identified as 32-year-old Jennifer Lynn, was found in a room with a broken window and a bloodstained carpet. The scene was chaotic, with a pool of blood and scattered belongings. The police quickly realized that this was no ordinary crime. Jennifer Lynn was a well-known figure in the Phoenix community, a successful businesswoman and philanthropist.

A few days after that, her body was discovered in a nearby park. The case quickly became a local sensation, with the media and public alike captivated by the tragic story. The suspect, a 28-year-old man named Michael Smith, was arrested on July 10th, 2024, and charged with murder. Smith was a former employee of Doris’s employer, a local restaurant.

The investigation quickly turned into a homicide investigation when a body was discovered in a remote area of the Coconino National Forest. The body was identified as Kelly’s, and the cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma to the head. The Flagstaff Police Department, along with the FBI, launched a joint investigation.

Her husband, Michael Hines, vanished shortly after. The disappearance of the couple, who had a history of financial troubles and legal issues, raised eyebrows and sparked a massive investigation. The couple’s disappearance was particularly intriguing because of their connection to a notorious fugitive, Michael “Mikey” Taylor.

The Chad Daybell “Doomsday Prophet” Murder Trial: For nearly two months, the Idaho man known as the “Doomsday Prophet,” Chad Daybell, faced witness after witness as he stood on trial for the murder of his wife Tammy Daybell and the murders of Lori Vallow’s two young kids Tylee Ryan, and JJ Vallow. The killings were all tied to radical religious beliefs that a Second Coming was approaching and that people were “light and dark” spirits. Come with us as we dive into some of the most important, powerful, and emotional testimony during the trial and the moments after the the verdict and sentencing decision on the death penalty were announced.

Upon arrival, officers discover a baby shot in the father’s home. The baby is rushed to the hospital, where he is in critical condition. The incident is being investigated by the Surprise Police Department. The police are also investigating a separate incident in the same city, where a home is on fire and a hostage situation is unfolding.

The report details the events leading up to the discovery of Vega’s body, including the initial 911 calls, the police response, and the investigation that followed. The report also sheds light on the potential suspects and the evidence that was collected. The 911 calls provide a glimpse into the frantic and chaotic scene that unfolded that day.

* **Rachel Hansen’s Background:** A young horse trainer with a passion for horses and a promising future. * **The Incident:** A stranger shot Rachel Hansen in her apartment, leaving her for dead.

A. The Phoenix Suns and the Price of Fame
B. Mr.

The arrest of Mr. ORNG, whose real name is Robert Orn, has sent shockwaves through the Phoenix Suns community and beyond. This arrest is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking beneath the surface of seemingly harmless public figures. Mr. ORNG’s online persona, “Mr. ORNG,” has been a fixture at Suns games for years, captivating fans with his energetic and enthusiastic presence.

911 calls and police report released in the death of Preston Lord: Queen Creek Police released 42 minutes of 911 calls from the Halloween party where 16-year-old Preston Lord was fatally beaten on October 28, 2023, including the desperate call when people on scene were trying to save his life before police arrived. They also released more than 1,100 pages of the police report. True Crime Correspondent Briana Whitney, chief investigative reporter Morgan Loew, and senior producers Mac Colson and Cody Lilich discuss and analyze the new and notable information, including who allegedly hit and stomped on Preston Lord, which suspects incriminated themselves on Snapchat and through text, who bragged about the horrible actions, what witnesses told police they saw, and the actions one family took to try and cover up their son’s involvement. Seven suspects face first degree murder.

Comanche’s confession came after a lengthy investigation by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The investigation revealed that Comanche had been in a relationship with Rodgers, and that he had been seen with her in Las Vegas on the night of her disappearance. The investigation also revealed that Comanche had a history of violence against women, including a previous conviction for domestic violence.

The case remained unsolved for years, until recently, when a suspect was arrested. The suspect, a 38-year-old man named Michael Anthony, was arrested in connection with the murder of the baby girl. Anthony was known to the victim’s family, having been a friend of the baby’s father.

**Breaking Barriers: The Trailblazing Career of Dr. Katherine “Kathy” S.

She’s a pioneer in the field of criminal profiling. This is the story of Dr. Katherine “Kathy” S. Smith, a woman who defied societal expectations and shattered glass ceilings to become a trailblazer in the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit. Dr. Smith’s journey began in the 1970s, a time when women were still largely excluded from the world of law enforcement.

Gilbert Goons, brass knuckles, & families break their silence: Host Briana Whitney and Arizona Family reporters Alexis Dominguez and Casey Torres dive into and analyze the latest string of developments in the East Valley teen violence investigations, including an exclusive interview with the parents of a suspect in multiple assaults, a teen victim’s fight for change in Arizona law, and the community fallout from the Gilbert police chief’s first press conference. New Arrests, Possible Ties to the Gilbert Goons, & Preston Lord Update: True Crime Arizona host Briana Whitney and Arizona’s Family reporter Emma Lockhart break down the details in the five new arrests in East Valley teen violence cases, both admitted and possible ties to the “Gilbert Goons,” and the possible impact these arrests may have on the ongoing Preston Lord murder investigation. We hear from Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell on where the Lord investigation stands with evidence and charges, and hear from the victim’s father in one of these cases after arrests were made.

JoAnn’s disappearance has been shrouded in mystery, with no clear leads or suspects. The case remains open, and authorities are actively investigating. **Key Points:**

* **Disappearance:** JoAnn Dudek vanished without a trace on November 23, 2022, just before Thanksgiving.

The event, which shocked the world, has been the subject of intense scrutiny and debate for decades. While the official narrative, as presented by the Warren Commission, claims that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, many have questioned this explanation, citing inconsistencies and unanswered questions. In recent years, new technologies have emerged that have allowed researchers to analyze evidence in ways that were previously impossible.

The Unsolved Murder of Mercedes Vega: In April 2023, 22-year-old Mercedes Vega was leaving her Tempe, Arizona apartment to meet friends for dinner. The next morning, her body was found burning in a car off the I-10 freeway 60 miles away in the rural desert. Once the autopsy report was released, the details revealed one of the most gruesome murders and causes of death. Now 7 months later, her parents are sitting down for the first time to open up about what they know, the last known surveillance footage of Mercedes, and what the desperately seek as her killer, or killers, still walk free.

The Little Boy Found Dead and the Father Set Free: In 2004, 5-year-old Josh Eberle Martinson was found dead on a bunk bed in his father’s Phoenix apartment, while his father, Jeffrey Martinson, was in the next room passed out from an attempted suicide with prescription drugs and liquor. The medical examiner ruled Josh’s death was from an overdose of prescription meds, and his father was charged with his murder. However, multiple years and trials later, he was set free. It’s something Joshua’s mother has struggled to comprehend. The Jamie Yazzie Murder Verdict: More than four years after Jamie Yazzie disappeared on the Navajo Nation, her boyfriend learned his fate in a federal courtroom after being charged with her murder and assaulting other women.

The case was reopened in 2023, thanks to advancements in DNA technology. The breakthrough came when a new DNA analysis technique was used to compare the DNA found at the crime scene with a database of DNA profiles. This led to the identification of a suspect, who was then arrested and charged with the murder. The suspect, identified as 67-year-old Robert Lee, was convicted in 2024 and sentenced to life in prison.

Barry Jones was a young man, 21 years old at the time of the crime, with no prior criminal record. He was a single father, raising his daughter, and had a stable job. He was also a member of a church community. He was a good person, and his character was well-established in his community.

* Arizona officials are finally taking action to address the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis. * The state is developing a comprehensive plan to address the issue, with a focus on prevention, investigation, and support for victims. * The plan will be implemented in collaboration with tribal governments and other stakeholders.

* Laverada Sorrell, a woman in her 40s, vanished from the Navajo Nation without a trace on the 4th of July in 2002. * Her disappearance led to a massive investigation, but remains unsolved.

A. Justice for the Victims: The Teasley Trial

The trial of the accused, who is facing charges of first-degree murder, is ongoing. The trial is being held in a state court. The victims are Lauren Heike, Angela Brosso, and Melanie Bernas. The accused is Zion Teasley.

THE ZOMBIE HUNTER TRIAL: The Crazy Details You Didn’t Hear in Court: Former Phoenix PD lead detective Stuart Somershoe is revealing unsettling details you didn’t hear during the Zombie Hunter Trial—including a path towards cannibalism and a concerning Amazon Wish List. Bryan Patrick Miller was convicted of the Canal Murders, but this detective shines light on the other girl that can’t be forgotten: 13-year-old Brandy Myers. THE ZOMBIE HUNTER TRIAL: The Verdict: The verdict is in: is Bryan Patrick Miller guilty of the Canal Murders, or not guilty by reason of insanity? Briana and Morgan talk about the moment the verdict was read, and what happens next.

THE ZOMBIE HUNTER TRIAL: Closing Arguments: The prosecutors and defense attorneys make their final pitches to the judge. Briana and Morgan break down the arguments and discuss the defense theory that Bryan Patrick Miller had a split personality. THE ZOMBIE HUNTER TRIAL: The Beginning of the End: Bryan Patrick Miller’s ex-wife continued her testimony with revelations about their sadistic sex life. Briana and Morgan break down why psychologists are arguing both for the prosecution AND defense about whether or not Miller was insane at the time of the Canal Murders. And finally, we learn closing arguments are set for this week after more than six months of trial, which means a verdict is likely coming soon.

Amy Miller, a former nurse, is the latest witness to take the stand in the case. She is expected to shed light on the alleged abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex-husband, Bryan Patrick Miller, and how it may have influenced his actions. The trial is now entering its final stages, with the prosecution and defense teams preparing for their closing arguments.

* The Last Hitman Episode 3 focuses on the trial of the suspected hitman, but the focus shifts to the unexpected person who is ultimately found guilty. * The episode explores the consequences of involvement in the hitman’s world, ranging from death in prison to exoneration. * The episode highlights the complex web of relationships and motivations that drive the characters’ actions.

The men, who were later identified as assassins, opened fire, killing the entire family. The Redmonds were a prominent family in Phoenix, known for their wealth and influence. They were also involved in various business ventures, including real estate and construction.

* The Unsolved Holiday Homicides: A case of two young women, Nicole Glass and Melissa Mason, found murdered in their Phoenix home in December 2010. * The crime scene was devoid of clues, leaving investigators with little to go on. * Technology may hold the key to solving this cold case.

* Jason Derek Brown was the suspect in the armored car robbery in Phoenix. * The robbery occurred in 2004. * Brown was a Southern California man in debt.

The video is played for the jury, and the prosecution argues that the video shows Miller’s confession to the murders. The video shows Miller, visibly shaken and distressed, being questioned by police. He is asked about his whereabouts on the night of the murders, and he provides a detailed account of his activities. He also mentions a possible accomplice, but he refuses to name him.

THE ZOMBIE HUNTER TRIAL: The Gruesome Murders: In the first week of the death penalty trial for Bryan Patrick Miller, the prosecution set up their case that DNA at the crime scenes matched Miller’s, he had fantasies about killing people, and nobody but him cut these girls’ lives short. Meanwhile, the defense is arguing for a “not guilty by reason of insanity” verdict, claiming Miller’s autism and dissociative disorders made him insane at the time of the murders. For the first time in nearly 30 years, new details were revealed about the horrific injuries to Angela Brosso and Melanie Bernas when they were killed, and what the killer did with their bodies post-mortem.

Instead, a judge will decide whether to declare him insane or not. The trial is a spectacle, drawing media attention from around the world. The case has captivated the public imagination for decades, and the trial is expected to be a media frenzy.

Finding Robert Fisher Episode 6 – Exactly What He Wanted: Briana and Serjio receive a new, unexpected tip from a former homicide detective that has them investigating more than they anticipated. Everyone interviewed this season reveals where they believe Robert Fisher is, and if he’s dead or alive, based on the new information our team uncovered during their investigation. Finding Robert Fisher Episode 5 – A Dive Bar off the Highway: Herb Greenbeck presents a new theory of where Robert Fisher went and what he did after the murders, based on strange questions he was asking during their camping trip together just weeks prior. Investigators share what they struggle with most trying to solve this case, which leads us back to the Fisher family home and their Scottsdale neighborhood.

A. The Vanishing Act of Robert Fisher
**

Robert Fisher, a 29-year-old man, went missing in the woods near his home in the state of Washington. His car was found abandoned in the woods, but his body was never discovered. The investigation into his disappearance has been ongoing for several years, with no definitive answers. The case remains unsolved.

* The crew is preparing for a search in the woods where Robert Fisher’s car was found. * They are using a metal detector to search for evidence. * The crew encounters a strange and unsettling feeling in the woods.

Robert Fisher, a successful businessman, was known for his philanthropic endeavors and his involvement in the family business. He was also a passionate golfer and a devoted husband and father. The investigation into the murders began with a focus on Robert Fisher’s business dealings. Authorities suspected that his business rivals might have been involved in the murders.

The Art of Interrogation: How do you get a suspect to crack? Is “good cop/bad cop” a real thing? We get those answers and many more in a fascinating in-depth conversation with retired homicide detective Roger Geisler. The Sedona Sweat Lodge Deaths Episode 6 – The Guru is Back: After serving time in prison, James Ray re-emerged in the self-help world again, selling his practices and teachings. He describes in his own words what happened in Sedona and how he feels he’s learned from the tragedy. This doesn’t sit well with the families of the victims. The Sedona Sweat Lodge Deaths Episode 5: Angel Valley: After our first episode release this season, the owner of Angel Valley invited us to the grounds to show us where the sweat lodge tragedy happened. For the first time in a decade, she sat down to answer questions about how James Arthur Ray’s defense team tried to blame her and her husband for the deaths during the trial.

The prosecution argued that Ray had a history of reckless behavior and that his actions during the sweat lodge ceremony were negligent. They presented evidence of Ray’s past behavior, including his history of using drugs and alcohol, and his disregard for safety protocols. The defense argued that Ray was not responsible for the deaths and that the participants were aware of the risks involved in the sweat lodge ceremony.

The episode focuses on the Sedona Sweat Lodge, a popular tourist attraction in Arizona. The sweat lodge is a traditional Native American practice, but it has become a commercialized activity in recent years. The episode explores the dangers of commercializing sacred practices and the importance of respecting cultural sensitivities. The episode also highlights the dangers of extreme heat and dehydration.

Ray, a charismatic and controversial figure, gained a following through his workshops and retreats, promising to help people achieve their highest potential. However, his methods were often criticized for being exploitative and dangerous. Ray’s most infamous event was the Sedona Sweat Lodge, a ceremony designed to cleanse participants of negative energy and promote spiritual growth.

A tangled web of lies. This is the story of a seemingly idyllic African hunting safari that takes a dark and unexpected turn. The narrative unfolds through the emails, letters, and other correspondence between the participants, offering a glimpse into their lives and motivations. The story is told from the perspective of a journalist who is investigating the death of a wealthy businessman, who was found dead in his lodge room.

This leaves much of the story open to interpretation. However, we can glean some information about his home and life from the episode. **The Zombie Hunter’s home is described as a “rustic” and “cozy” space.** This suggests a sense of comfort and familiarity, a stark contrast to the chaos and violence he faces daily.

THE ZOMBIE HUNTER: A Breaking Update: As Bryan Patrick Miller remains in jail facing charges in the deaths of 22-year-old Angela Brosso and 17-year-old Melanie Bernas, a judge just made a significant ruling that will shape how this case will play out. The strange & grisly death of Benjamin Anderson: On December 31, 2021, friends and family of Benjamin Anderson were unable to get ahold of him. A wild series of events, including a dangerous car chase on Phoenix streets, ended with the discovery of a burned car, Benjamin’s body, and a host of unanswered questions. THE ZOMBIE HUNTER Episode 7 – New State, New Victims: In the early 2000s, Bryan Patrick Miller moved to the Pacific Northwest. Three brutal and bloody assaults against three women coincided with Miller’s time in the city of Everett, Washington. Investigative reporter Morgan Loew traveled to Everett to retrace Miller’s steps in an effort to answer the question: Are there more victims?

The episode focuses on the stories of two individuals, a young woman named Sarah and a veteran, named John. Both have had encounters with the undead, but their experiences differ significantly. **Sarah’s Story:** Sarah, a college student, is drawn to the paranormal and has always been fascinated by the supernatural. She believes that the world is full of mysteries and wonders, and she is eager to uncover them.

Bryan Patrick Miller was a suspect in the Brandy Myers case, but he was never charged. The episode explores the impact of Brandy’s disappearance on her family and community. It also delves into the ongoing investigation into the case, highlighting the challenges faced by investigators. The episode examines the possibility of a connection between the Canal Murders and the Brandy Myers case. The episode features interviews with Brandy’s family, friends, and investigators.

The case remains unsolved, and the victims’ families are still searching for answers. The case is considered one of the most baffling and chilling mysteries in Phoenix’s history. The episode focuses on the families of the victims, their struggles, and their relentless pursuit of justice.

His disappearance remains unsolved, a haunting mystery that has captivated the family and the community for over two decades. The case is particularly perplexing because of the lack of any evidence or leads. Despite extensive searches, no trace of Jesse has been found.

He was last seen at a local bar, The Buckeye Saloon, where he was with friends. Robinson’s disappearance has sparked a large-scale search effort, involving local law enforcement, volunteers, and the FBI. The search has been ongoing for over a year, with no leads or evidence to suggest his whereabouts. Despite the extensive efforts, Robinson’s family and friends remain hopeful, clinging to the possibility of his safe return.

A. The Unsolved Mystery of Bumble Bee Road
B.

* **The case:** The murders of a young couple, John and Mary, on Bumble Bee Road in 1998. * **The investigation:** A complex and lengthy investigation, involving multiple agencies and a large team of detectives. * **Key takeaways:**
* The importance of forensic evidence in solving crimes. * The challenges of investigating a crime scene with limited resources.

The woman who once tried to adopt Baby Gabriel: A key player in the missing Baby Gabriel Johnson case is Tammi Smith, who at one point tried to adopt the baby from his maternal mother, Elizabeth Johnson. Throughout the investigation, Tammi and her husband Jack Smith maintained they didn’t know the couple Elizabeth claimed to have given the baby away to, but Elizabeth said the black market adoption was all coordinated through Tammi. Host Briana Whitney has a one-on-one phone conversation about the case with Tammi, the suspicions about her involvement in Gabriel’s disappearance, and what she has to say about her one-time friend Elizabeth Johnson now.

The case remains unsolved, leaving McQueary and the public in a state of uncertainty. The disappearance of Gabriel Johnson is a chilling reminder of the dangers of domestic violence and the importance of child safety. It highlights the complexities of custody battles and the potential for abuse to escalate beyond the initial conflict.

* Mikelle Biggs, an 11-year-old girl, vanished without a trace from her Mesa, Arizona home on a sunny afternoon. * She was last seen waiting for the ice cream truck, a familiar sight in the neighborhood. * The disappearance has been a source of intense public concern and a major investigation.

* The Scottsdale Murder Spree involved a man who killed people one-by-one. * The killer was always one step ahead of the police. * The killer was eventually apprehended.

The bomb was detonated remotely, and the perpetrator was never identified. The incident remains unsolved, a chilling reminder of the potential for violence in everyday life. The bomb that killed Gary Triano: In 1996, well-known businessman Gary Triano was assassinated by a bomb in a country club parking lot.

The case involves a series of murders committed by a serial killer who targeted individuals in a cold storage facility. The killer’s modus operandi was to lure victims into the facility, often using false pretenses, and then kill them. The victims were typically young women, and the killer’s actions were motivated by a desire for power and control. The investigation involved a complex web of interviews, forensic analysis, and surveillance.

Case Q&A: Identifying “Valentine Sally”: In this bonus episode, host Briana Whitney and producer Serjio Hernandez are joined by Kris Pickel to discuss the behind the scenes process of putting the “Valentine Sally” investigation together, including the recent break in the case. Identifying ‘Valentine Sally’ & the 40-year search for answers: In February 1982, a girl’s body was found off a rural highway in Northern Arizona. For nearly 40 years, nobody knew who “Valentine Sally” was. The last person to see her alive speaks out about what she saw, and two weeks after journalist Briana Whitney’s first story aired about the case, officials identified the girl through DNA.

The Sleepwalking Murderer is a chilling true crime case that involves the murders of three people in the 1990s. The victims were all young women, and the killer was a man named Serjio Hernandez. Hernandez was a former police officer who had a history of mental illness. He was eventually convicted of the murders and sentenced to life in prison.

The 1931 ‘Trunk Murderess’: In 1931, Winnie Ruth Judd was accused of killing her two best friends in Phoenix, chopping up one of the bodies, then taking the dead bodies in trunks on a train to LA. But did Winnie Ruth commit the murders on her own? The Cold Storage Killer: In 1994, a body is discovered in a man’s large freezer near Prescott, Arizona three years after a Southern California woman disappears after a concert. Authorities believe she isn’t the only victim. The Sleepwalker Murderer: In 1997, Scott Falater stabbed his wife 44 times at their Phoenix home, before dragging her into their pool then stashing the bloody knife and clothes in his car. But he claimed he remembered none of it because he was sleepwalking.

The case remains unsolved, a chilling reminder of the dangers of the wilderness. The case of the Bumble Bee Road murders is a chilling example of how even seemingly idyllic locations can harbor hidden dangers. The victims, a young couple celebrating their first anniversary, were found dead in their truck, their bodies riddled with bullets. The case remains unsolved, leaving behind a sense of mystery and unanswered questions.

The Murder of Christy Ann Fornoff: In 1984, 13-year-old Christy Ann Fornoff disappeared while on her paper route in Tempe, Arizona. Copyright 2024 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.

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