Real Crime: Australian Detectives: Recent Episodes
LiSTNR
Real Crime investigative journalist Adam Shand speaks to Australian detectives about the iconic, true crime cases they have worked on, giving a step-by-step insider’s account of how the crimes were solved and the impact that these investigations had on the officers involved.
For more episodes download the free LiSTNR app.
When former Queensland Police Setective Keith Banks joined the force, he thought he was signing up to fight crime, not work alongside it.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Detectives, Keith takes host Brent Sanders inside the world of outlaw motorcycle gangs, where power, loyalty and fear ruled the streets. But the real danger, he says, was within the Queensland Police itself. During the era of the infamous “Rat Pack,” corruption ran deep, and it took the Fitzgerald Inquiry to finally drag it into the light.
Keith reveals what it was like leading the bikie intelligence unit during Queensland’s most corrupt chapter of policing, the price he paid for speaking out, and how the trauma of policing left him with PTSD.
If this episode raised any issues for you, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever heard of the Australian cult The Family...?
It was led by a woman named Anne Hamilton-Byrne. How did she control her followers? How did the police eventually catch her? And what happened to the dozens of children that were in the 'care' of The Family.
Lex de Man investigated The Family for more than four years, and helped rescue dozens of children from the abuse of Anne Hamilton-Byrne and her followers.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Lex de Man walks host Brent Sanders through the case in exclusive detail, and explains how he and the Victorian Police were able to arrest and charge Anne Hamilton-Byrne.
This episode contains references to the abuse of children. If it affected you, the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the early 1990s, former New Zealand Prime Minister David Lange found himself at the center of a defamation storm in Australia.
The ABC re-broadcast allegations suggesting he acted improperly while in office. Lange sued, sparking a legal battle that reached the High Court and tested the limits of free political communication under the Constitution. Lange v ABC set a landmark precedent: political speech is protected, but not at the expense of personal reputation.
In this episode, we unpack the courtroom drama, the judgment, and the enduring impact on media, politics, and the law in Australia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The body of 27-year-old mother of two, Samantha Bodsworth, was found in Noosa, surrounded by wattle trees. The killer thinks it’s the perfect crime, but what they underestimated was the power of the tiny, silent witnesses clinging to almost everything they touched – pollen.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Forensics, former host Kathryn Fox talks to Dr Lynne Milne, the scientist at the forefront of forensic palynology. We learn how, for the first time in an Australian criminal case, pollen helped unmask a murderer.
This episode references men's violence against women. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. The number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Atkinson is a former Victorian police officer. In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Andrew discusses his journey from general duties to the Technical Surveillance Unit and his deployments with the United Nations in Timor and Iraq.
He candidly addresses the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder on his life and career, emphasising the importance of mental health awareness and support for police veterans.
Andrew reflects on the physical challenges he faced due to his service, including cancer and multiple surgeries, and highlights the need for open discussions about mental health in law enforcement. He advocates for the creation of supportive networks for current and former officers to help them navigate their experiences and challenges.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A ship is wrecked off the coast of Western Australia. It’s cargo sank with it. Many of those on board perished in the tragedy.
Who owns what remains on board the ship at the bottom of the Ocean?
Back in the 1970s, one man decided to find out.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Would you be able to get away with lying?
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, expert lie detector Steve Van Aperen talks to former host Adam Shand about the clear give aways of liars, how certain criminals have tried to clear a lie detector test and some of the biggest murder cases that have been brought to justice through a simple line of deceptive questioning.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this special bonus episode of Crime Insiders, we go behind the scenes with our Forensics host, Liz Porter to find out what it was about forensics that lured her into her extraordinary career.
Weekend Briefing host Antoinette Lattouf digs deep with Liz about how forensics is not what you see on television and how and why Liz came to be a forensics author and podcast host.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A murder, a conviction and a twenty-year fight to clear your name.
This is the story of Henry James Keogh who was convicted and served twenty years in prison for a murder he didn't commit.
How did he finally receive justice and what can we learn from the botched forensic procedures that led to his wrongful conviction
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More Aussies have tattoos than ever before; 1 in 5 of us have at least 1 tattoo. That number is growing.
Even when removed or burnt, forensic experts can use tattoos to identify offenders and victims of crimes. This is one of many techniques forensic photographers like Karen Byrne use to document everything from crime scenes to autopsies.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Forensics, former host Kathryn Fox talks to Karen about the surprising ways evidence can be captured, the emotional weight of the job, and how forensic photography plays a crucial role in securing justice.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Professor Paul Bleakley is a Gold Coast-born academic based in Kentucky in the United States. He’s an expert on child abuse and investigative developments.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Paul talks us through Queensland’s Strike Force Argos. He also tells host Brent Sanders about the Mr Big operation, the sting that caught Daniel Morcombe's killer, made famous by the TV series The Stranger. We discuss how it happened, the key players AND whether or not it’s legitimate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Police employee Curtis Cheng was shot dead outside Police Headquarters in Parramatta, Sydney, 10 years ago this week. The gunman was a 15-year-old boy radicalised by religious extremists.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Judgements, uncover how a teenager came to be wielding a pistol on a quiet Friday afternoon, and the important role of community leaders in responding to growing concerns about extremism.
This episode contains descriptions of violent crime. If you need assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sydney standover man Tony Hines' body was found strewn against a cliff face in Maroubra in 2003.
How did police begin their investigation, and what contributed to the eventual outcome of the case?
Former NSW Deputy Police Commissioner Dave Owens is one of the state's most respected officers, and has seen some of NSW's most infamous criminal operations unfold.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders Detectives, host Brent Sanders unpacks Dave's illustrious career, and gains an understanding of how Dave took on the notorious Bra Boys gang.
This episode contains descriptions of violent crime. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Five bodies. Three generations. One room. Zero answers.
In 2008, a luxury home in California’s Orange County became the site of an unimaginable discovery. Inside were the decomposed bodies of five family members, spanning three generations. But there was no note, no clear motive, and no sign of struggle. Outwardly, the family seemed perfectly normal.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Forensics, crime scene investigator Kimberlee Guluzian takes host Liz Porter inside the house where silence still echoes, and reveals what she saw, examined, and felt as she searched for answers in one of Orange County’s most haunting mysteries.
This episode contains descriptions of suicide and violent crime. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the 1990s, young women began vanishing from Perth’s wealthy suburb of Claremont. The disappearances sparked fear across the city, and launched Australia’s longest-running homicide investigation.
For nearly two decades, the Claremont Serial Killer remained a mystery. Then, advances in DNA technology cracked the case wide open.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Judgements, we go into the courtroom to hear the judge's determination that saw Bradley Robert Edwards convicted of two murders, but acquitted of the third.
This episode contains descriptions of men's violence against women. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A merciless serial killer terrorised women in the United Kingdom with a spate of brutal attacks, leaving police and forensic experts stumped.
Now, almost 50 years later, forensics has learned, and built more advanced technologies that could've helped catch the killer sooner, and potentially saved lives.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders Forensics, former host Kathryn Fox sits down with Dr Marie Morelato to understand how forensics has evolved from this case, and to unpack the current strategies being employed to catch criminals and save lives.
This episode contains references to sexual violence against women and children. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1986, a car bomb ripped through Melbourne’s Russell Street Police Headquarters, killing one and injuring 21. It was Australia’s first taste of domestic terrorism, a shocking ‘revenge attack’ that turned the heart of the city into a war zone. Among the injured was then-21-year-old Constable Debra Richardson.
Deb spent more than 3 decades in fear of what would happen when the perpetrator, Craig Minogue, was released. So much so, that in 2018, she successfully lobbied the State Government to keep him in jail.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Detectives, Deb shares her harrowing memories of the bombing with host Brent Sanders and takes us inside her fight to keep Minogue behind bars.
This episode contains descriptions of violent crime and mental health. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1992, the High Court handed down a ruling that shattered centuries of denial. Eddie Mabo’s fight for recognition overturned the legal fiction of terra nullius and forever changed Australia’s relationship with its First Peoples. This landmark decision not only rewrote the nation’s story but also paved the way for the Native Title Act, reshaping law, land, and history.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Judgements, we’ll explore the journey of Eddie Mabo, the High Court battle, and its legacy.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are advised that this episode contains the names of people who have passed away.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In March 1991, five violent offenders stole a prison garbage truck and smashed their way through the gates of Brisbane’s notorious Boggo Road Gaol.
The pursuit that followed left the country and those watching live on Channel 7 stunned.
Shaun O'Gorman is one of Queensland's most experienced police dog handlers. He worked in the K9 unit for much of his career, and became one of the state's most effective operators.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, host Brent Sanders learns what it takes to train police dogs and the police that go with them.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2006, underworld figure Lee Patrick Torney vanished without a trace. Nearly a year later, forensic anthropologist Dr. Soren Blau was lowered into an abandoned mineshaft outside the old gold-mining township of Chewton, near Castlemaine, Victoria. Soren pieced together the secret clues hidden on the surface of bones and what they showed about injuries and the circumstances of death.
Soren also revisits another landmark case that reshaped forensic science, with the first ever exhumation of a murder suspect in the United Kingdom.
Host Liz Porter sits down with Soren to find out how her pioneering use offamilial DNA helped unmask a serial killer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2021, a neatly dressed man in his 60s walks into a Sydney Police Station. He looks like a regular guy. But police are stunned - this isn’t just any man. It’s Darko Desic. A fugitive who escaped from Grafton Prison with a hacksaw and bolt cutters three decades earlier. A man who was a prolific weed grower. A man who lived in hiding for 30 years - right under the noses of the police.
How did he do it? How did he evade capture for so long? And why, after all that time, did he finally give himself up?
That’s what journalist Tim Elliot set out to uncover in the latest season of LiSTNR’s documentary series, Secrets We Keep.
If you’re hooked and want more, click here to go straight to episode 2.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two people vanish without a trace from Logan, south of Brisbane in Queensland.
They hadn’t been seen in days. Their phones rang out. Their social media...silent.
Something had happened, but no one could possibly have predicted what was about to unfold…
This episode contains references to violent crime. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It took 37 years, a failed murder trial, and an Australian mathematician to finally prosecute one of Scotland's most infamous serial killers.
Professor David Balding is a pioneer in the field of mathematical computational genetics. In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders Forensics, former host Kathryn Fox learns how David uses tools like probability to calculate the likelihood of DNA belonging to offenders, victims, and crime scenes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The courtroom drama that gripped Australia has finally reached its conclusion. Erin Patterson, the woman at the centre of the nation’s most infamous murder case in recent history, has been sentenced to life for three counts of murder.
Justice Beale did not hold back in his scathing remarks, saying Erin had zero remorse, chilling premeditation, and victims left across generations.
In this special bonus episode from The Briefing podcast, criminologist Xanthe Mallett joins Natarsha Belling to unpack the sentence, the judge’s remarks, and the question that still lingers: why did Erin do it?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr Peter Tickner is a seasoned auditor with over 40 years of experience across the NHS, central government and police.
Peter became Head of Internal Audit of Her Majesty’s Treasury in 1988. In 1995 Peter left to become Director of Internal Audit for the Met Police, a post he held until early retirement in 2009, when he set up his own consultancy and fraud investigation business.
Host Brent Sanders sits down with Peter to discuss his role in high-profile investigations and the challenges of maintaining integrity in the face of institutional resistance.
From the intricacies of the Leveson Inquiry to the unexpected twists in his career, Peter's insights offer a rare glimpse into the world of forensic auditing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A stolen car, a drunken joyride, and a woman left with injuries so severe, she’ll live with them for the rest of her life.
What happens when a crime becomes a civil lawsuit? When the thief becomes the victim and the driver becomes the one left holding the legal wheel?
Miller v Miller is one of Australia's most significant legal challenges, determining if someone is still involved in the committing of a crime if they actively pursue leaving the criminal enterprise.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1997, two young girls from Bega in regional New South Wales were kidnapped, raped and murdered.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, former host Adam Shand talks with former NSW Detective Sergeant Mark Winterflood to sift through the details and process of receiving the first notifications of the missing girls.
He explains the hard reality of not pursuing clues and following them to the end, how important it was to maintain a good relationship with the perpetrator and having to deliver the hard news to the parents.
*A warning – this case details the heinous crime of the Bega school girls, and involves abduction, violence, rape and murder*
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aged just 13, Thomas Carrick was placed under covert surveillance by the Australian Federal Police and lured into online conversations with them, posing as fake ISIS operatives. Ultimately, he was charged with terrorism offences. The most powerful intelligence agencies in the country knew Thomas had a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, and lived with an intellectual disability. Yet undercover operatives continued to engage with him in what a judge later described as ‘grooming’ for terrorist activities.
But was Thomas ever truly dangerous… or simply a vulnerable boy, lost in a make-believe world crafted by highly trained police?
In this episode, counter-terrorism expert Peta Lowe takes us inside the Thomas Carrick case, and reveals what it tells us about the rising threat of youth radicalisation in Australia.
You can also hear Peta in Secrets We Keep: Lone Actor.
This episode references extremist ideology and violent crime. If you need assistance, contact LifeLine on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A woman wakes to a tragic accident on her rural Queensland property. She’s told one of her friends has fallen into a woodchipper. He was clearing trees with two other men at the time, but police soon suspect his deathwas no mishap and a murder investigation commences. They want to find the people responsible, and after the news goes public, members of the community share some theories with the police. Investigative journalist Tara Cassidy has been covering this case for years, and speaks to those who knew the victim, and potential perpetrators.
All people convicted of murder related to this case have lodged their intentions to appeal the outcomes. At the point of publishing this podcast those appeals have not progressed further.
Go straight to episode two here and binge the rest of the series.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Triple murderer Sef Gonzales has been granted the right to appeal against his life sentence. Gonzales was just 23 when he murdered his parents and sister over 20 years ago.
Sef has always maintained his innocence.
Today, the NSW Court of Criminal Appeal granted him the right to appeal because Gonzales successfully argued that he had lived with PTSD after being sexually abused as a child.
Former Crime Insiders Forensics host, Kathryn Fox, spoke about Gonzales with forensic child psychiatrist, Dr John Kasinathan.
We’ve put it back in your feed to provide some background and insight into Gonzales and his horrific crimes….
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Twenty years ago this year, Michael Long set fire to the Palace Backpackers hostel in the regional Queensland town of Childers. Fifteen people were killed, nine men and six women.
Long inititally admitted to the crimes, but later retracted his confession. In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgement we go into his trial and also the Coroner's Inquiry to learn what happened on that fateful night twenty years ago, and if Long is likely to get parole later this year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Richard Bassed is one of Australia's most experienced forensic odontologists. His work is complex and important in solving high profile murders - like that of The Vampire Gigolo - but also, in identifying victims of mass fatalities and mass disasters.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders | Forensics, former host Kathryn Fox discovers how forensic odontology is helping to solve and prevent crime in Australia.
Coming up…Richard’s first case and how he knew he’d made the right decision in moving from dentistry to odontology…
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former QLD Detective Inspector Mal Gundry was head of the Queensland Police Criminal Investigation Bureau at Indooroopilly in Brisbane.
He was integral part of the investigation into Sean Sargent, a 24-year-old Australian Army lieutenant, who disappeared in the early hours of March 20, 1999, after attending a party in St Lucia, Brisbane.
Originally from Mackay, Queensland, Sargent was stationed at Enoggera Barracks and had a promising military career. His sudden disappearance prompted extensive investigations and speculation.
Mal Gundry was also head of the CIB branch that led the investigation into the murder of Allison Baden Clay, that led to the arrest of her husband, Gerard Baden Clay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Karlie Pearce-Stevenson and her daughter Khandalyce Pearce were tragically murdered in 2008 in a case that shocked Australia.
Their deaths remained unsolved for several years, with their identities and the circumstances of their deaths only being uncovered in 2015.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgement we learn how police linked the two deaths and how they tracked down the man responsible.
A WARNING…..THIS PODCAST CONTAINS DESCRIPTIONS OF EVENTS AND SITUATIONS THAT SOME LISTENERS MAY FIND DISTURBING OR DISTRESSING. PLEASE LISTEN WITH CARE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A crime without a motive. A detective who investigated the unthinkable.
On September 2nd, 2001, a father murdered his three children, Jackson (6), Taylah (11 months), and Mikaylah (11 weeks). To this day, his motive remains unknown.
Former Detective Carla Tomadini was on the frontline of the investigation. At the same time, she had two young children of her own. Carla spent nearly two decades in the force before becoming a solicitor with the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Hear about that case and the impact it had on Carla, as she sat down with host Brent Sanders on this episode of Crime Insiders | REWIND.
This content contains references to domestic violence and violence against children. Help is always available, dial 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 131 114.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Reporting a sexual assault is deeply challenging in any context, so what happens when you’re in a war-torn region, where infrastructure has crumbled, and justice systems are non-existent?
Associate Professor David Wells retired as Victoria's top forensic physician in 2013. Since then, his work has taken him to some of the world's most volatile places, including Gaza, the West Bank, and other corners of the globe where conflict has gutted hospitals and justice systems alike. There, he's helped build systems to support survivors of sexual violence, often under near impossible conditions.
In this episode, David takes us to the front lines of forensic medicine in a conflict zone, and reflects on the challenge of treating survivors where hospitals barely exist, and navigating the cultural, legal and ethical landmines that surround violence in war. What does it take to offer care when the world is falling apart? And what role can forensic medicine play, not just in accountability, but in healing?
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114, beyondblue on 1800 512 348, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the dead of night, Friday October 15, 2021, on the rugged coastline of Western Australia, four-year old Cleo Smith is abducted from a tent at a campsite.
Her disappearance sparked a massive police search and captured the nation’s attention with ‘round the clock media coverage.
The child was found 18 days later in what was one of Australia’s most successful police operations.
Who abducted her….and why?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s National Science Week….Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Rewind, we re-visit three episodes of our Forensics series to learn how science helps us better understand how examining the human body contributes to solving crime or even someone being exonerated, and fibre and the role that fibre plays in solving crimes.
We begin with forensic anthropologist Penny McArdle to determine if pigs can actually destroy a body. Then it’s Dr Micah Newland, the Deputy Director at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research to discuss what’s called time since death and finally we’re joined by distinguished Professor Claude Roux -a pivotal figure in Australian Forensic Science. He's the Director of the UTS Centre for Forensic Science and President of the International Association of Forensic Sciences. Claude discusses a case from the mid-90s where fibre was critical in solving a murder….
Please be advised that this episode’s case studies may contain content that some listeners may find distressing. Listener discretion is advised
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kathleen Folbigg is front page of every newspaper and news website this morning after we learned the NSW government had paid her just $2million in compensation after she served twenty years in prison after being wrongfully jailed for the deaths of her four children.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has said Ms Folbigg should sue his government if she wants more compensation. Ms Folbigg told News Ltd the suggestion is a slap in the face.
After her convictions were quashed in 2023, many touted forensics as the saviour for Kathleen Folbigg. But, how did they fail her in the first place, and what led to one of Australia's greatest ever miscarriages of justice?
In 2021, Professor Stephen Cordner was one of 90 eminent scientists who signed a groundbreaking petition calling for the immediate pardon and release of Kathleen Folbigg.
Let’s revisit our interview with Professor Cordner to try to understand the forensics behind Kathleen's final and successful bid for freedom, and unpack why her case was such a gross miscarriage of justice in the first place.
If this content raised issues for you, call Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 807.
Red Nose provides specialised bereavement support free of charge to any person affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or child during pregnancy, birth, infancy or childhood.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, Brent Sanders speaks with former NSW Police officer Justyn Backhouse, who spent 25 years on the front lines of law enforcement. From high-speed pursuits to complex aerial rescues, Justin’s career spanned some of the most intense and demanding roles in policing.
But behind the action was a hidden cost. Diagnosed with PTSD in 2021, Justin turned to writing to process his experiences. The result is Hidden Scars: From Crime Scenes to Crisis – The Price of Service, a powerful memoir that reveals the unseen toll of a life spent in uniform.
This episode makes mention of self-harm. If you or anyone you know needs someone to speak to, call LifeLine on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Here's all the evidence the jury in the mushroom triple murder trial wasn't allowed to hear.
In this special episode, The Briefing's host Tara Cassidy joins us to reveal allegations that murderer Erin Patterson had tried to poison and kill her estranged ex-husband Simon multiple times.
Until today, this information has been under a strict non-publication order by the Victorian Supreme Court.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday January 20, 2017 in Melbourne’s CBD. Bustling Bourke Street became the scene of unspeakable horror.
Six people were killed, 27 others suffered horrific injuries when James Gargasoulas – high on drugs – deliberately drove his car through a crowd of shoppers.
It was one of the worst examples of mass murder in Australian history.
A warning: this episode contains details that may be distressing to some listeners.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A tragedy that rocked Melbourne in the late 80s, and one that left the nation questioning its own attitude towards guns and violence.
Former Commissioner of Victoria Police Kel Glare was just a few months away from getting the top job when an armed gunman killed seven and injured 19 people in Melbourne's inner North. It's a case that stood out to Kel for its violence and senselessness, and one that shook him him despite him being as experienced as he was.
Hear about that case, and others as Kel sat down with host Brent Sanders in this episode of Crime Insiders | Rewind
This content contains references to mens violence against women and child sexual abuse. Help is always available, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David Wells was the Victoria Police Surgeon during one of Australia’s most disturbing unsolved crime sprees - the abductions and assaults of three young girls, and the suspected murder of a fourth, by the predator known only as Mr Cruel.
In this powerful and rare interview, Associate Professor Wells shares what it was like to examine the victims, the moment he returned a girl her parents believed was dead, and the vital evidence he uncovered that could still help unmask the man behind the mask.
This episode contains descriptions of child sex abuse, sexual assault, self-harm and violent crime.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114, beyondblue on 1800 512 348, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In July 1995, sex worker Grace Heathcote was lured to a Cairns motel under the guise of friendship — but what unfolded was a brutal murder. Her body was discovered in a motel room with injuries so severe they shocked experienced forensic pathologists.
Within days, two women — Kerry Catherine Lowrie and Kerri-Leah Michelle Ross — were identified as persons of interest. Both were ultimately charged with murder. Their first trial resulted in convictions, but years later, their appeals were heard anew by the Queensland Court of Appeal.
Each woman sought to shift blame to the other.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114 or the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever watched a movie where police exhume a body? Why does it happen? And what do forensics learn by doing it?
Dr Jo Duflou is a privately practicing forensic pathologist. He's worked across a range of forensic fields and has performed thousands of autopsies, examinations and post mortem analyses.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders with former Crime Insiders Forensics host Kathryn Fox, Dr Duflou talks about exhuming bodies and although he’s done only a handful, the ones he has done, have been fascinating.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David Raymond spent almost 30 years as a QLD Police dog handler. He caught killers, found people reported missing and saved the lives of people who had attempted self harm.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Brent Sanders sits down with David to learn what it's like to spend your life beside a working police dog. It's a fascinating insight into what being a dog handler entails, and what the future holds once your dog is ready to retire.
This episode contains mention of self harm - if you or anyone you know needs to speak to someone, call LifeLine on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2012, Brisbane father and real estate agent Gerard Baden-Clay reported his wife missing.
Ten days later, Allison Baden-Clay’s body was found beneath a bridge, and suspicion turned to her husband.
This is a story of betrayal, an outstanding forensic investigation and a series of red flags that didn’t align with the story Gerard Baden-Clay was telling police and the public.
His clandestine affair and financial difficulties led him to commit an unspeakable crime - murdering his own wife.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114 or the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This Rewind episode tells the story of how the Newcastle Knights superstar was covertly surveilled and arrested for drug trafficking. It threw his career and sport into disrepute - and, gave an insight into the fascinating culture of organised crime and sport in Australia.
As well as arresting high profile sports stars, Former NSW Detective Sergeant Craig Semple has tackled some of Australia's most vicious, and high profile outlaw motorcycle gangs. Craig's career takes some incredible turns - including a high profile murder case in Yamba which shocked almost all of the NSW police department, and several high intensity bikie operations which ended Craig's career, and almost his life.
Some of the stories you’ll hear from Craig today are just extraordinary. His honesty, candour and emotional vulnerability goes beyond what we expect from our guests, it shows the type of character he is now, and was in the force.
Unpack it all with host Brent Sanders, and understand the ups and downs of policing in NSW and Australia as a whole.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a husband died after a long illness, and under suspicious circumstances, it was this episode's guest, Forensic Chemist Maggie Baron, who was tasked with searching for traces of poison with a suspected killer looking over her shoulder.
All before her 25th birthday, Maggie had held the hands of killers, armed robbers, and violent offenders…not in comfort, but in the name of science.
In this episode, Maggie reveals to host Liz Porter what it’s like to be alone in a room with someone who’s just ended another person's life, and unpacks an arsenic poisoning investigation that reads more like fiction than fact.
This episode contains descriptions of family violence and suicide. If you or someone you know is experiencing family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT. org.au. In an emergency, call 000.
Men who are concerned about their own behaviour can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2019, 51 people were murdered at two mosques in Christchurch. The world was told it was the work of a lone wolf. But what if he wasn’t alone?
In this episode of Crime Insiders, we’re bringing you an important bonus episode - the untold story of Australia’s worst terrorist. It’s from investigative journalist Joey Watson and the LiSTNR Secrets We Keep documentary team.
In Secrets we Keep: Lone Actor, Joey traces the footsteps of the Christchurch terrorist - from the darkest corners of the internet, all the way to the battle-scarred landscapes of Eastern Europe, to uncover what really led to one of the deadliest attacks in modern history.
This is a story about radicalisation, conspiracy, and the growing global threat of right-wing extremism.
Because to stop it from happening again, we need to understand how it happened in the first place.
In this episode of Crime Insiders, we're giving you episode 1 as a bonus, but if you’re hooked and want more, you can keep listening here: https://linktr.ee/secretswekeeppodcast.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does a venue owe you a duty of care if you've had too much to drink?
In Cole v South Tweed Rugby League Football Club, the High Court of Australia considered whether a hotel owed a duty of care to a visibly intoxicated patron.
Rosellie Cole had been drinking at the Rugby Club and became severely intoxicated. Staff offered her a lift home, which she declined. Later, after leaving the premises, she was struck by a car while walking along the highway.
Cole sued the club for negligence, arguing that it should not have served her so much alcohol and should have taken steps to prevent her from leaving while drunk. The trial court initially found in her favour, awarding damages, but this was overturned on appeal.
The High Court held that while licensed venues must take reasonable steps to avoid harm, adults also bear personal responsibility. The majority ruled the club was not liable, as it had taken reasonable steps, including offering her a lift home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heartbreaking was the only word that could be used to describe the death of a 10-month-old baby in Perth. What was less clear cut is the question that was posed to the judge - was the baby boy’s death an accident, or was he murdered by his father?
Judith Fordham has been lauded as one of Western Australia’s most high-profile criminal lawyers, but her dual expertise in law and forensics sets her apart from her colleagues. In this episode with former Crime Insider Forensics host, Kathryn Fox, hear about one of the most divisive areas in both forensic science and the law - "shaken baby syndrome".
This episode references child abuse and infant loss. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. For support relating to infant loss, contact Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 307 or visit rednosegriefandloss.org.au.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr Terry Goldsworthy is a criminologist, former detective inspector, academic, and one of Australia's most respected voices on criminal behaviour.
With over two decades in law enforcement and a deep academic grounding in forensic criminology, Dr Goldsworthy brings a rare dual lens to the world of crime — blending frontline experience with sharp, evidence-based insight.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Brent Sanders takes a deep dive on a gruesome steelyard and we learn if evil is always a factor playing in the mind of criminals.
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114 or the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Jayant Patel, dubbed "Dr. Death," was a U.S.-trained surgeon who worked at Bundaberg Base Hospital in Queensland, Australia, from 2003 to 2005. During his tenure, he performed approximately 1,000 surgeries, many of which were marred by negligence, leading to numerous patient injuries and deaths.
In 2010, Patel was convicted of three counts of manslaughter and one of grievous bodily harm, resulting in a seven-year prison sentence. He appealed all the way to the High Court and the court upheld his appeal. He later pleaded guilty to fraud charges and was released from prison.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements we take a deep dive into the case against Patel, the flaws in the prosecution's case and how he managed to only spend two years behind bars.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A case that started a manhunt, and ended in tragedy. A quiet town in the Blue Mountains, thrown into chaos by a shooting and the police's effort to track down the offender.
Alan Leek is a 35-year veteran of the NSW Police. He spent almost his entire career as a detective. For much of his life, violent crime was on his door step, and it was up to him to take it on - whilst balancing, life, family and more.
In this Rewind episode of Crime Insiders we begin with a horrific double murder in the Blue Mountains….
If you or anyone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 131 114.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the winter of 1988, two gold prospectors were scouring the picturesque Mount Firebrace in Victoria… when their search unearthed something far more chilling than treasure. Inside a disused mine shaft, they found a decomposed, mummified, headless body.
For local police and Melbourne’s elite homicide squad, it was a mystery frozen in time.
Could forensics bring the truth to light?
That's what today’s guest, forensic pathologist Professor David Ranson, set out to uncover.
This episode contains graphic descriptions of crime scenes and violent crime. If you need support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An aspiring rapper, battling drug addiction raided a home in inner Sydney in August 2018.
Armed with a blank-firing pistol and knuckledusters, 30-year-old Jett McKee broke into the home of Blake Davis, a 31-year-old actor and martial arts enthusiast, and Hannah Quinn, a 26-year-old former kindergarten teacher. McKee fled after the robbery and was chased down….with Davis later striking him with a samurai sword killing him.
The ensuing NSW Supreme Court trial, in late 2020, had to consider self-defense, excessive force, and what occurred after the robbery, culminating in a manslaughter conviction for Davis and an accessory conviction for Quinn.
A warning: this episode includes mention of self harm. If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to, call LifeLine on 13 11 14
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of your family members could be missing, and your DNA could help find them.
Associate Professor Jodie Ward is the former Program Lead of the National DNA Program for Unidentified and Missing Persons at the Australian Federal Police. Now completed, the program was funded by the Confiscated Assets Account, in a nationwide effort to find or identify people who are unaccounted for.
In this episode, Jodie takes us through exactly what the program did and how it's helped track down and identify hundreds of missing Australians.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12-year-old Terry Floyd disappeared from the Pyrenees Highway outside Avoca in June 1975. His brother Daryl has spent the last 50 years searching for him.
Daryl has teamed up with renowned Victorian detective Charlie Bezzina to help find his brother and to bring the man they believe was responsible for abducting and murdering Terry, to justice.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives Brent Sanders and Charlie Bezzina take a deep dive on the evidence Charlie has uncovered and why the alleged offender has never been charged.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The team at Crime Insiders is really excited to bring you a new series on LiSTNR. You're going to love it.
Secrets we Keep: Lone Actor is a deep dive on the worst terror attack carried about by an Australian. The Christchurch attack, where 51 people were tragically murdered.
Australia has never carried out an official investigation into who or what led the terrorist to violence. So those of us interested in and concerned by crimes like this, and importantly the victim community in New Zealand, still have questions about how this attack happened.
Secrets we Keep: Lone Actor is a new investigative podcast series that tries to answer those questions, and uncovers new theories and evidence on the Christchurch terrorist’s trajectory to violence.
It’s called Secrets We Keep: Lone Actor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Truro Murders case is one of Australia's most chilling serial murder investigations. It involves the deaths of seven young women in South Australia during the mid-1970s.
The primary perpetrators were Christopher Robin Worrell and James William Miller, whose actions and subsequent trial have left a lasting impact on the Australian criminal landscape.
Worrell died before being brought to justice, Miller was found guilty of six of the seven murders despite claiming he had nothing to do with the deaths of the women.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements, South Australia's Truro Murders.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The AFP and customs intercept hundreds of tonnes of narcotics every year. But, the techniques of criminals and smugglers are becoming more complex, and unfortunately, more effective.
Nigel Phair is a former Australian Federal Police Officer who took on a range of high profile drug importation cases. This saw him intercepting large quantities of drugs, investigating their origin and surveilling their eventual destination in Australia.
Understand this work and hear Nigel walk host Brent Sanders through how the police undertake these investigations and how things have changed over the years.
If this content affected you, the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ned Kelly was executed in 1880, yet he remains one of the most iconic and divisive figures in Australian history.
For more than a century, a question has haunted historians, scientists, and the public alike: What happened to his remains?
In this episode, we follow the high-stakes forensic investigation that set out to uncover the truth.
Professor David Ranson from the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, takes host Liz Porter inside the two-year effort to reconstruct history from fragments of bone, historical news clippings, and long-forgotten medical records, eventually untangling fact from folklore.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
68-year-old Allan Charles Gibson shot his wife at their Traralgon home in the early hours of April 14, 2016. He then tried to take his own life, but failed.
Police arrested Gibson and tried him for murder. His defence team argued he was suffering from dementia and argued the court ought to take his mental condition into consideration.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements, we go into the courtoom to discover if the court believed Gibson's dementia was a contributing factor in the murder of his wife.
A warning: this episode includes mention of self harm. If you need someone to talk to, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do forensic investigators decipher the scene of a violent car crash? Why is the filament in a brake light so important? And what evidence can lead investigators down the wrong path?
Dr Raphael Grzebieta is an expert in car crash analysis, and has worked for decades in the field. His goal is to bring road safety to the fore of transport conversations, and he refuses to acknowledge car crashes as accidents, claiming there is always a reason.
Join former Crime Insiders Forensics host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks the work of Raphael, and uncovers just how he and other investigators come to their forensic conclusions.
If this content raised issues for you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As a child, Craig Doran dreamt of being a policeman. He was obsessed with Sherlock Holmes. Craig ended up working for Queensland Police for 22 years.
In this episode of Crime Insiders, Craig tells us about an investigation into a complex bank loan scam and how he and his team managed to keep the perpetrator in Australia to be convicted.
In the second half of this episode, Craig tells us about Comtrac - a company he founded - that uses AI-enhanced investigation management software to boost productivity by mapping exhibits to key offence elements and generating briefs of evidence. It's saving police hundreds of hours of desk time, enabling more officers to return to the streets.
This episode contains descriptions of men's violence against women. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A quiet suburb. A brutal murder.
What happens when someone kills - but isn’t sane enough to be found guilty?
Marita Cunningham was charged with murdering 81-year-old May Richie in 2016.
A neighbour discovered May dead inside her apartment, her body covered in pillows and shopping bags. An autopsy found she’d died by asphyxiation and had been beaten with her own walking cane.
Marita was arrested trying to flee the scene.
Witnesses described Marita’s unsettling behaviour earlier that day, including outbursts in public, talking to herself, and showing up at her ex’s apartment uninvited.
The court had to decide whether Marita was guilty of murder – or not guilty by virtue of mental illness.
Should someone who kills, but genuinely doesn’t know reality from delusion, be found guilty of murder?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The world's most notorious criminals, unknowingly spilling their secrets on a 'secure' app run by... the cops. That's exactly what happened in Operation Ironside, a covert operation run by the FBI in collaboration with the AFP.
Chris Craner is one of Australia’s most experienced tactical operators. His 30-plus-year career had him at the forefront of some of the country’s most intense and high-stakes investigations, including Ironside and the Lindt Cafe Siege.
In this episode hosted by Brent Sanders, Chris shares exclusive details about the Lindt Cafe Siege, and pulls back the curtain on Ironside. Hear how authorities infiltrated the underbelly of organised crime syndicates, seizing millions in dirty cash, blocking large importations of drugs and intercepting homicide plots.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Bob Chappell vanished from his yacht in Hobart, suspicion quickly turned on his partner, Sue Neill-Fraser, an unassuming woman who soon found herself at the centre of one of Australia’s most controversial murder cases.
But behind the headlines lies a deeper story - one of forensic failure, investigative tunnel vision, and a conviction that may never have happened if all the available avenues had been investigated.
In this episode, former detective Colin McLaren unpacks the crucial DNA evidence, the overlooked clues on the yacht, and the questions raised by a mysterious yellow Ford.
This is a story about how forensics should work, and what happens when it doesn’t.
Note: Sue Neill-Fraser was found guilty by a Supreme Court jury; her appeal was dismissed, and a Coroner’s investigation, which reviewed all the available evidence, supported the findings of the criminal proceedings. Tasmania Police stand by the integrity and thoroughness of the investigation, and the efforts of the investigation team, including the forensic experts, and the prosecution of the case by the office of the DPP.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, rugby league was a code looking to expand nationally after the success of its premier competition in Sydney. Clubs emerged in Brisbane, Newcastle, and the Gold Coast.
Rupert Murdoch's News Corporation took the growth in the sport as an indication it ought to expand even further and plotted a coup, to take the running of the code out of the hands of the establishment - the Australian Rugby League.
What followed was a war that ripped the sport apart with Murdoch on one side and the other, backed by another multi-millionaire media mogul, Kerry Packer. It was mogul against mogul, club against club, and players against players.
In this episode of Judgements we take a deep dive on how and why the war began - and how the game came back together to form what is now the National Rugby League.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Semen is the crack cocaine of the fly world, and while maggots love a corpse, flies feast on live human flesh and fluids. So, could a fly frame you for murder? And how do police differentiate fly 'artifacts' from human biological material at a crime scene?
These are all things forensic biologist, Dr Annalisa Durdle has studied. Join former Crime Insiders Forensics host Kathryn Fox as Annalisa redefines what it means to be a 'fly on the wall'.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2.7 million Australians aged 18 and over have experienced stalking. One in 5 women and over 1 in 15 men.
What are the warning signs, and what should you do if you or someone you know is being stalked?
In this follow-up episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives Brent Sanders talks with Di McDonald, the founder of Stalking Awareness Day Australia - herself a victim of stalking - about what to do if you, a friend or a loved one is being stalked. Di and Brent are also joined by former Victorian police officer Beck Norris to talk about police reponses to complaints and accusations. Is enough being done to address the problem of stalking?
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Andrew Kalajzich was a big-time businessman in Manly, Sydney in the 1980s - a titan of the time. While he portrayed the role of a loving family man, behind the scenes he was plotting to murder his wife.
Kalajzich commissioned a hitman to shoot his wife, Megan. The hitman had six attempts.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements, we learn how and why Kalajzich killed his wife, and what the court heard were the motivations and clandestine plans to carry out the hit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two cousins, both wives to the same man, found dead under mysterious circumstances. Was this the world's unluckiest husband, or a serial wife killer?
Former detective Peter Seymour has dedicated over two decades of his life to the people of Western Sydney, serving in the NSW Police as both a detective and police prosecutor.
In this episode, Brent Sanders talks to Peter about the shockingly bizarre investigation of Thomas Keir, and the life-altering case that pushed Peter to his limits, prompting him to make a critical decision that changed the course of his career.
This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for more information and confidential support. There are also references to pregnancy loss. Contact Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 307 for support for miscarriage, stillbirth, and newborn death. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The 1994 bombing of the Adelaide National Crime Authority sent shockwaves across Australia. It was a brutal act that killed a police officer and seriously injured others, sparking one of the most daring undercover operations in our history.
But this police sting had an unusual weapon - forensics.
With red phosphorus linking the bombs and a drug manufacturing business run by a key suspect, and forensic experts involved in the operation, this was a rare moment where science went on the offensive.
In this episode, host Liz Porter is joined by Colin McLaren, the cop who infiltrated the Australian Mafia, lived a double life, and brought down a group of organised crime kingpins from the inside.
This episode contains graphic descriptions of violent crime. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
23-year-old Celeste Manno had her life brutally taken from her by a man who had relentlessly stalked her, despite Celeste going to great lengths to protect herself legally. Her killer only received a 36-year sentence. A punishment Celeste's family and many others believe is not nearly severe enough given the gravity of his crimes.
Visit justiceforceleste.com to learn more about Celeste's story and how you can support her family's fight for justice.
This episode references violent crime and men's violence against women. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stalking is disturbingly common, yet often misunderstood by wider society.
Professor Troy McEwan from the Swinburne University of Technology is a forensic psychologist specialising in understanding, assessing, and treating stalking behaviour. In this episode with former Crime Insiders Forensics host, Kathryn Fox, hear about the 5 different types of stalkers, and gain insights into their problematic behaviours.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Di McDonald was a victim of a stalker, who terrorised her and her family. She finally re-claimed her life with the help of former Victorian police officer Rebecca Norris.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Brent Sanders talks to Di about how she overcame the fear and torment of her stalker and why she calls Beck Norris, her 'guardian angel'.
Di went on to establish Stalking Awareness Day Australia - May 24.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On August 3, 2011, Paul Douglas Peters, a 50-year-old Australian businessman, entered the Mosman home of 18-year-old Madeleine Pulver on Sydney’s affluent North Shore and strapped what appeared to be a bomb around her neck.
The device, later revealed to be a hoax, was accompanied by an extortion note demanding money from her wealthy family.
What followed was a 10-hour ordeal for Madeleine, an international manhunt, and a legal process that captivated the public and media alike.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2004, outside a pub, Australian Cricket legend David Hookes died. A manslaughter charge was laid, and a trial ensued. But no one was convicted, why? What were the processes that lead to the verdict, and how were the police involved?
As well, what Underbelly doesn't show you. An unprecedented look at the killing of Alphonse Gangitano and the chaos which proceeded it - and, the Frankston Serial Killer Paul Denyer, and how he was caught.
Charlie Bezzina is an unrelenting legend of Victorian Police - the man who helped catch Frankston Serial Killer Paul Denyer, and a key member of the team which fought against organised crime during the Melbourne Gangland wars of the 2000s. In his 35 plus year career, Bezzina has gone up against larger than life figures of the Australian crime world - but, in this chat with host Brent Sanders, understand the man behind the stories, and get an inside look into Bezzina and the world around him.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.
She’s pled not guilty to all charges.
In this special series of The Briefing, Holly Mitchell unpacks day 10of the trial in under two minutes.
For daily updates on the Erin Patterson triple murder trial, follow The Briefing, new episodes drop every evening for the duration of the trial.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Saturday, October 12th, 2002. A warm night in Bali’s bustling Kuta Beach. Bars packed with tourists, music pumping. Then - devastation. Two massive explosions rip through popular Paddy’s Bar and the Sari Club across the road.
202 lives were lost, 88 of them Australians.
In the wreckage, tiny clues told a story. Copper wires, fragments of tartan fabric, the surprising absence of a crater.
Australian Federal Police Forensic chemist David Royds arrived at the scene just 48 hours later. Sifting through the devastation, he began working out what had happened and how it had happened —thereby uncovering essential information that would eventually lead to the arrest of the bombers.
In this episode, he takes host Liz Porter inside the science of that investigation and reveals the lessons learned from it.
This episode contains descriptions of a mass casualty event. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Fine Cotton Scandal of 1984 is a notorious event in Australian horse racing history, where a syndicate attempted to rig a race by substituting a slow horse with a faster one.
The plan, led by John Patrick Gillespie, involved a series of desperate measures that ultimately failed, leading to a national scandal that exposed corruption in the racing industry.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Victoria Police have a new Chief Commissioner - Mike Bush.
Mike is the former New Zealand Commissioner of Police and has had a decorated career. However, his time as a Detective and a lead investigator saw him take on some gruesome and confronting cases - a far stretch from the press conferences and media appearances as commissioner.
Last year, Mike joined Crime Insiders Detectives host, and fellow former NZ cop, Brent Sanders, to talk about some of the most memorable cases from his 40+ year career.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2016, a mum of three and a wannabe serial killer became two of Australia's most calculated female murderers.
Dr Kari Pitts is a forensic chemist and trace evidence expert, who has worked on over 300 criminal cases, including homicides, violent assaults, arson, and fatal hit-and-runs.
In this episode, Kari explains how a dyed blue hair and some carpet helped convict Perth's female thrill kill pair. Kari also tells former Crime Insiders Forensics host Kathryn Fox about an initiative she pioneered with the WA Police, that has so far assisted in over 150 sexual assault investigations.
If you're in Australia, information and support for anyone affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence is available at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nick Kaldas is an Australian law enforcement legend with a career spanning over 40 years. From undercover ops and hostage negotiations, to rebuilding Iraq’s police force post Saddam Hussein, Nick has seen it all.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Detectives, Nick shares jaw-dropping stories from the front lines with host Brent Sanders. He'll reveal the emotional toll of policing, the brutal reality of insurgency, and the silent crisis of veteran mental health.
This episode has descriptions of violent crime and suicide. If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Diane Brimble boarded a cruise in 2002, no one imagined what would come next. This episode of Crime Insiders Judgements unpacks the disturbing case that shook Australia. What really happened that night at sea? And how did a mother’s death spark nationwide outrage and a call for change?
Hear about the events leading up to Diane's death, the subsequent investigation, and the legal proceedings that followed.
This episode contains graphic descriptions of sexual assault, violent crime and men's violence against women. If you or anyone you know needs support, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A 40 hour long raid. Shot 14 times in a mere 5 seconds, and bleeding out on the ground for 3 hours. This was Derrick McManus' day at work in May 1994.
Derrick is a 40-year veteran of the South Australia Police. After joining the force in 1976, he moved up the ranks and was eventually selected for the exclusive STAR Group, an elite tactical special operations unit that took on some of the state's most intense cases.
In this episode, Derrick tells host, Brent Sanders, how an arrest warrant turned into what would become South Australia's largest siege, with the offender firing over 2500 rounds in 40 hours, and how he managed to survive against all odds.
If this content affects you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Document examiner Neil Holland has worked on documents related to investigations into alleged Nazi war criminals, accused killers and dodgy bookies, and resurrected the writing on a document found inside a corpse’s stomach.
In 1985, when Neil was the head of the Victoria Police document examination branch, the National Gallery of Victoria made history - acquiring Pablo Picasso's The Weeping Woman. At $2 million, it was the most expensive artwork ever purchased by a gallery in Australia.
Less than a year later, it was gone. Stolen in a daring heist that left police, the art world, and the media stunned.
Eighteen days after the theft, Neil found himself in the back of a police van in the dead of night - cradling a brown paper package.
Inside? The missing Picasso, taken hostage by a group calling themselves the Australian Cultural Terrorists.
In this episode, he’s here to tell host Liz Porter the story.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aussie band Men at Work's most famous song is arguably Down Under. But what if it wasn't actually their song? This was the claim made by Larrikin Music, who are the copyright holders of the nursery rhyme Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Judgement, go inside the plagiarism battle that remains a cautionary tale in copyright law.
This episode references suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2014, flight MH17 was shot down, and 298 people died. A set of Australian experts were sent to investigate and assist. In the aftermath, victim identification is crucial in not only determining the identity of someone who has died, but also in the matter of a criminal investigation, the cause of death.
Professor David Ranson is a forensic consultant and the former Deputy Head of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. In 2014, David was one of the forensic experts sent to Ukraine to assist in the forensic management of the shooting down of MH17. In conversation with former Crime Insiders Forensics host, Kathryn Fox, understand the role that David played, and go into the detail of what an investigation of that size and political significance involves.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Michael Ashwood was a young detective assigned to help investigate the murder of a neo-Nazi in Sydney. What Michael and his colleagues didn't know was that federal investigators had placed a listening device in the murderer's home. What they heard would make chilling evidence at the murderer's trial.
Michael was also involved in the disappearance of Tegan Lane, the child of Keli Lane, who was convicted and imprisoned for Tegan's murder, despite Tegan's body never being found.
This episode references child loss. For assistance, contact Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 307 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Alan Bond is an Australian businessman known for his rise to fame and subsequent fall from grace. Celebrated for his role in Australia's 1983 America's Cup victory, his involvement in significant corporate fraud mars Bond's legacy, particularly the Bell Resources case, which became a defining moment in Australia's corporate history.
This episode of Crime Insiders Judgements explores Bond's audacious business dealings, legal battles, and the implications of his actions on corporate governance in Australia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Once an admired figure in NSW police, the now disgraced Roger Rogerson left a trail of corruption and death as he moved his way through the force.
Former NSW Detective Deborah Locke was at the centre of Rogerson's grip on the police, and faced horrific consequences for standing up to him and his corruption. Deb sat down with host Brent Sanders, and unpacked the details of her life in the force and how she overcame both Rogerson and the police itself.
This episode features references to suicide, miscarriages and infant loss. If this content affected you, help is always available via Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After the 2002 Bali bombings killed 202 people, 88 of them Australian, Dr. Pamela Craig was sent into the centre of the crisis. As a forensic odontologist, her job was to help identify the victims, many burned beyond recognition.
In this episode, Pam takes host Liz Porter inside the high-stakes world of disaster victim identification, from the Bali mortuary to other mass casualty scenes. Hear how dental forensics brings closure to families, and what it takes to face this kind of devastation again and again.
This episode contains graphic descriptions of mass casualty events, and infant death. If you or anyone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Daniel Miles was already serving a lengthy prison sentence for murdering his girlfriend. While in prison, he befriended and became romantically linked with another woman.
While on a work release program, Miles escaped custody and hunted down his new lover, only to find her with another man. He exploded in rage and murdered her in cold blood.
Daniel Miles will never be released from prison.
This episode contains graphic descriptions of violent crime and men's violence against women. If you or anyone needs help, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The case of the Golden State Killer puzzled police and amateur sleuths for decades. Then, in April 2018, a Sacramento man was arrested and charged. How did police find their man, and what led them to him after years of nothing but cold clues and lack of leads?
Genealogy is a complex, and often misunderstood science. But, according to Professor Dennis McNevin, an expert in the field of forensic genetics, it's a technique police are becoming more and more interested in.
Join former Crime Insiders Forensics host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks Dennis' work and career, and dives into cases like the Golden State Killer and the Somerton man.
This episode references men's violence against women and sexual assault. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The NSW Police Tactical Operations Unit deals with the most extraordinary police operations - terror attacks, sieges, and armed confrontations. For this reason, those wishing to join the command are subject to rigorous selection and training processes, to prepare them for the life-threatening situations they could unexpectedly face.
Ben Besant is best known for being the sniper who stormed the Lindt Cafe. However, he spent most of his 20-year career in the TOU, where he was regularly faced with life-or-death situations. Hear about some of them in this episode.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When wheelchair-bound Helen Dansie drowned in an Adelaide pond in 2017, it looked like a tragic accident. But it wasn’t. Her husband had pushed her in - deliberately.
Why did he do it? And how did the justice system unravel the truth?
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements, dissect the case, the trial, and the appeal. unpacking the motives, the evidence, and the chilling deception behind this disturbing crime.
This episode references men's violence against women. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the 9th of April 1995, a rental truck was unassumingly parked in front of a federal building in Oklahoma City.
Seconds later, the truck exploded. 169 people, including children, were killed. Almost instantly. A massive investigation unfolded.
Jeff Lanza, a seasoned FBI agent, was deeply involved. He immediately got to work acquiring information and starting the hunt for the person responsible.
Jeff joins host Brent Sanders on this episode of Crime Insiders: Detectives to share insight from this case and many others from his time in the FBI.
If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the early 1990s, a serial predator terrorised Melbourne’s inner north, preying on women in their own homes – some elderly, some pregnant, most of them alone. No one felt safe.
He crept in as they slept. And before fleeing, he made them count to 100 before they could call for help. They called him the Ascot Vale Rapist.
As fear gripped the city, a small team of forensic scientists were working around the clock, developing an innovative DNA technique that could help crack the case faster than ever before.
Part of that team was Anna Davey, a pioneer in forensic DNA analysis and now one of Australia’s most respected forensic educators and quality assurance experts.
In this episode with Liz Porter, discover how forensic science not only exposed the Ascot Vale Rapist—but also proved the innocence of a man wrongly imprisoned for the crimes.
This episode references sexual assault and child sex abuse. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Crime Insiders Forensics has a new host - award-winning journalist and true crime author, Dr Liz Porter!
With a PhD on the work of the Victoria Police forensic lab and three books to her name, Liz has spent her career uncovering how cutting-edge science solves the toughest cases. Now, she’s bringing that expertise to Crime Insiders Forensics, sitting down with the world’s top forensic minds to reveal how science convicts the guilty and frees the innocent.
Tune in every Monday for new Forensics and Detectives episodes, Wednesdays for Rewind, and Thursdays for Judgements.
Keep up with Crime Insiders on TikTok & Instagram.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2006, a couple in their young twenties, we’ll call them Gina and Joseph, met at a church dance in New Zealand. But early on, cracks began to appear in their idyllic façade.
As years went on, their marriage was stained with violent altercations, drug use, infidelity, and a suicide attempt.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements we take a deep dive on R v Kennedy, a murder in Sydney's western suburbs that took place after the killer Googled “The five top poisons”, “Executed in error" and “What’s the best way to use a knife, and kill someone? A mate and I are debating”
Hear the full story on the latest episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements.
This episode references interpersonal violence. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do young people become radicalised? Is it nature or nurture? Or something far more complex?
Dr John Kasinathan is a forensic psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents.
In this episode, hear about the science of the developing brain, what drives crime in young people, the realities of being an incarcerated child in Australia, and one of the most shocking acts imaginable - a child killing their entire family.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline (Phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 - 25)
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kenneth Strange Jr served with three US federal agencies pursuing criminals and bad actors.
Those agencies were the FBI, the US Agency for International Development and the Department of Justice. His service to those agencies brought him into conflict with jihadists, the cartels and international perpetrators of fraud. Ken traveled extensively around the world to more than 65 countries; he lived and worked in Saudi Arabia, Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica and El Salvador. Ken worked in the FBI for 21 years.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Brent Sanders learns how and why Ken ended up on the global Jihadi top-ten list and how a border agent sold his soul to the Mexican cartels.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A council worker, a chance encounter, and a brutal murder that horrified Australia. In 1989, four women prowled Brisbane’s streets in search of a victim. What followed was a crime so savage it blurred the line between reality and horror fiction. Who was Tracey Wigginton, the self-proclaimed vampire at the heart of it all? And what drove her to kill?
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements, uncover the chilling truth behind one of Australia’s most bizarre and brutal crimes.
This episode references violent crime. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After an attempted murder left a man brutally injured, one cop decided to change the way police in Queensland respond to violent crimes.
Queensland Police Sergeant Dustin Osborne is one of the best examples of how proactive policing can not only prevent crime, but save lives.
He designed and implemented QPol’s groundbreaking Tactical First Aid Program. An initiative which has received global acclaim for its ability to train first responding police in critical medical intervention techniques.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks how Dustin copes with his role as a first responding police officer, and what is next for the future of police medicine.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A man found dead on an Adelaide beach in 1948—his identity unknown, his past a riddle, and his pocket containing a cryptic phrase: "Tamam Shud"—meaning "it is finished."
But what if it wasn’t finished?
In this episode, hear from Professor Derek Abbott, a man who has spent decades unraveling this enigma. And now, he claims to have the answer.
Using DNA technology, Derek has identified the Somerton Man.
But does this revelation truly close the case? Or does it open even deeper questions about who The Somerton Man was, how he died, and the strange, almost spy-like clues surrounding his final days?
Keep up with Kathy here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two former high-profile NSW Detectives lured a drug dealer to a storage unit in Sydney's southern suburbs and murdered him in what the just called a "cold-blooded execution".
Their trial took a turn when both turned on the other trying to prove they didn't kill Jamie Gao, the 20-year-old drug dealer who had taken 2.8 kilograms of the drug ice to the meeting, expecting to make millions in the deal. He was dead minutes later.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements we go behind the scenes as Roger Rogerson and Glen McNamara prepare their ambush on Gao, and we take you to court to hear how their respective defence teams tried to prove they didn't murder Gao.
This episode references violent crime. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ted Kaczynski terrorised the US for almost 20 years. But, what was it like forensically analysing the letters of a twisted genius?
Max Houck is one of the world's most respected and recognised forensic scientists.
During his time at the FBI, he worked on some of the world's most infamous forensic investigations, including 9/11, D.B Cooper, and The Unabomber.
Understand Max's career with host Kathryn Fox, as we dive into these cases and hear the incredible stories of their forensic investigations.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Behavioural threat assessment is a new area of policing and it's been incredibly successful in helping to solve complex crimes. Former NSW Detective Kris Illingsworth trained with the FBI in behavioural threat assessment.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Brent Sanders discovers how behavioural threat assessment works and how it can be used to reduce the risk of domestic violence.
We also delve into the case of the murder of a health care executive in New York and how profiling helped police arrest the suspect.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Belle Gibson convinced the world she was a wellness warrior—a survivor who beat terminal brain cancer through clean eating and alternative medicine. Her story made her a star, landing deals with Apple and Penguin and amassing a global following. But there was just one problem... she never had cancer.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Judgements, we uncover what happened when the truth caught up with her—the court cases, the fines, the missing thousands, and the staggering deception that left charities and consumers betrayed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sandra Nicholson was at the heart of chaos. Whilst Melbourne was under siege during the Gangland Wars, and bushfires wreaked havoc across Victoria, those at the top of Vic Pol were forced to front the media and take responsibility for the intensity surrounding the city.
Sandra Nicholson was Assistant Commissioner at Victoria Police for 5 years, and steered the ship with Commissioner Christine Nixon. Sandra joined the service in 1975, and rose through the ranks until her retirement almost 40 years later.
Brent Sanders chats with Sandra as she reflects on her career, and the high stakes work that took her from Social Service in NSW, to the second highest-ranking female officer in the history of Victoria Police.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What if a prevention of domestic violence was hiding in plain sight – on four legs?
Research shows that in homes where abuse happens, pets are often victims too. So, could vets be the missing link in identifying and addressing domestic violence? Should they have the same mandatory reporting requirements as doctors and teachers?
Today’s guest, Dr Lydia Marwood, knows just how intertwined abuse of animals and humans is. She’s a forensic veterinary pathologist regularly tasked with performing necropsies of animals or animal remains suspected to be victims of crime.
Lydia led the investigation that unearthed a mass grave of 99 greyhounds in NSW’s Hunter Valley—a discovery that shook the state and contributed to a ban on greyhound racing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australian Police have used a controversial tactic known as the 'Mr Big' technique to elicit confessions from some of the country's worst killers. Perhaps the most famous being child murderer, Brett Peter Cowan.
Please visit Danielmorcombe.com.au and learn about the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
Daniel’s parents, Denise and Bruce launched the foundation to provide personal child safety education to children and young people to prevent abuse and promote lifelong health and wellbeing. They support educators, parents and carers through the provision of resources and education and also directly support young victim-survivors of crime.
This episode references child sex abuse. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A long standing theory, but one ballistics supports, at least in the mind of some of those who worked the case, is that Ivan Milat didn't act alone and that there were multiple shooters at several of his crime scenes.
Host Kathryn Fox sits down with one of Australia's most respected forensic experts, Gerard Dutton to understand why some think there was more than one shooter, and how specific ballistic evidence supports this.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kris Illingsworth is a former New South Wales detective who later trained with the FBI in behavioral threat assessment. In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Kris takes Brent Sanders behind the scenes at two of Australia's most notorious crimes...
When a woman is murdered in the remote community of Norfolk Island, everyone on the island becomes a suspect.
And in the sleepy NSW town of Wee Waa, a brutal sexual assault on an elderly woman is solved with the help of criminal profiling.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A knife-wielding attacker, a city in chaos, and a chase imprinted in the minds of Sydneysiders.
On August 13, 2019, Mert Ney unleashed a brutal stabbing rampage through Sydney’s CBD—murdering Michaela Dunn and terrorising onlookers before being taken down by fearless bystanders wielding chairs and a milk crate.
When police searched Ney, what they found raised even more disturbing questions.
Step inside the courtroom as we uncover the shocking details of the judgement of R v Ney.
Got a case you want us to cover? Let us know via Instagram or TikTok.
This episode references men's violence against women, suicidal ideation, and violent crime. If you or someone you know needs assistance, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A group of bikies converged on Sydney airport. Within minutes, one was dead and others injured. It was an incident that set off one of the world's most intense and effective gang operations, and led to a plethora of law changes and high profile convictions.
Deborah Wallace is a titan of NSW Police. Retiring in 2019 after 36 years in the force, she became known across Australia as 'The Gangbuster', after successful operations in the intense region of Cabramatta, and then the aforementioned Strike Force Raptor.
The beginning of her career though was much more abstract. She was involved in one of Australia's most horrific cases. The rape and murder of Anita Cobby in 1986.
Understand the impact of that case on Deb, and Australia as a whole as Brent Sanders steps through the career of one of Australia's most decorated police officers.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
DNA has become the gold standard in forensic investigation. As its use is increasing, so is our understanding of its limitations.
Jae Gerhard is the principal forensic scientist at Independent Forensic Services. Starting out as a forensic scientist at the Australian Federal Police in 2002, Jae is an expert in body fluid detection, bloodstain pattern analysis, and DNA analysis and interpretation.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Forensics, Kathryn Fox asks Jae to take us through the process of DNA collection. How accurate it is? How is it processed? And how useful is it for evidence? Jae also tells us about Stain 91, a blood stain pattern that played a part in helping to solve one of Australia's most renowned murder investigations - the Lin Family Murders.
If you're interested in DNA and it's role in forensics, check out Secrets We Keep: Should I Spit?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two young girls shot dead in a town of less than 1000 people. With local law enforcement stumped, they turned to the renowned FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit for answers.
Julia Cowley is a retired FBI criminal profiler with a twist - she's a forensic scientist too.
In this episode with Kathryn Fox, hear about Julia's very first assignment with the BAU, where her unique dual skillset provided insight into the motivations and behavioral traits of an offender who could commit such a crime - ultimately resulting in the conviction of the man responsible for 'The Weleetka Murders'.
This episode contains references to violence against women and children, for support, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Lindt Cafe siege is one of Australia’s most infamous crimes. A terrorist took ten customers and eight employees hostage back in December 2014.
The Sydney siege resulted in a 16-hour standoff, ending when officers from the NSW Police Tactical Operations Unit – or the TOU - stormed the cafe.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Detectives, Brent Sanders sits down with Ben Besant, the police officer who led the police operation storming the cafe.
A warning: this episode contains descriptions of extreme violence and suicidal ideation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Without the internet, police were unable to track offender behaviour, and heavily relied on the testimony of victim-survivors.
These interviews were crucial, and required care and empathy, as one misstep, and evidence could be lost and a victim survivor left unheard.
Former detective Andrew Patterson was part of a special task force investigating paedophiles in Perth, and was the one who spoke to hundreds of victim-survivors... One morning, he received information about a sexual predator, and descriptions of an underground chamber with shiny chrome walls. He and his team set about investigating the offender, and finding survivors.
Andrew sat down with host Brent Sanders to explain this case, and others from his impressive career.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What secrets do documents hide—and how are they uncovered? From forged wills to counterfeit passports, the world of document examination is a high-stakes game of detection and deception.
No one knows this better than Justin Watt, a forensic document examiner with the Department of Home Affairs.
In this episode of Crime Insiders | Forensics, hosted by Kathy Fox, Justin unravels how clues invisible to the naked eye busted a serial bank robber, what your handwriting can and can’t reveal about you, and what it takes to fake a passport.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1995, a deliberately lit fire in Sydney left 8 people dead. But how was it lit? How can forensics tell, and what information do they need to build a case for conviction?
Professor Peter Ellis is a veteran of forensics in Australia and has worked across a number of high profile criminal investigations. He's also worked overseas, in mass grave sites in Kosovo and mass disasters like the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami in Thailand.
In this episode of Crime Insiders Forensics, understand Peter's career, and the toll this type of work takes, as Kathryn Fox takes us through his career and his incredible work.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Graeme Simpfendorfer was a decorated Victorian police officer. He used good old-fashioned policing to convict an arsonist who deliberately lit a fire in a shopping strip on the NSW/Victoria border. His hunch proved right.
Later, Graeme worked in the prestigious Victorian Police Homicide Squad, where he obtained two departmental commendations for solving difficult, high-profile murders.
Graeme tells host Brent Sanders about solving the arson case and how he helped put a man behind bars in relation to an infamous roadside armed hold-up, 27 years after the crime occurred.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The psychology of this policing is like no other, and requires a particular set of skills. For Anthony Macklin, it suited his attention to detail and unrelenting work ethic. He was dedicated to his work, and to the force. But, when bureaucracy and the decisions of those above him meant an offender slipped through the net - he had to rethink his career.
Anthony Macklin is a former Detective Inspector in the NSW Police. He worked tirelessly in the force, and took on several high ranking positions across a number of stations. Now, he works alongside former Crime Insiders guest, Danny Mikati, as a private investigator.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks Anthony's career and gets to know the man behind the badge.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Thousands of people cross Pheasants Nest Bridge on the Hume Highway every day, probably unaware of its haunting past. Beneath this towering structure lies a history shrouded in tragedy—suicide, dismembered remains, mysterious deaths, and dozens of unanswered questions.
In 1989, the bridge became the site of a chilling case: the untimely deaths of two 15-year-old boys, Matthew Kelly and Jaymie Egner, who were discovered inside one of the bridge's 33m high pylons.
Forensic Investigator Esther McKay was brought in to examine the scene—a task that would forever change her life.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An innocent child was charged with the murder of his classmate - becoming Canada's youngest death row inmate. It wasn't until The Innocence Project became involved that Steven Truscott finally had his conviction overturned almost 5 decades later.
Professor Gail Anderson is Canada’s first-ever full-time forensic entomologist and has been working in the field for nearly 35 years. Her work is dedicated to the study of insects, and what they can reveal about miscarriages of justice.
In this discussion with host Kathryn Fox, Gail details her involvement in exonerating Steven Truscott, as well as Kirstin Blaise Lobato, who spent 16 years in prison for a crime she didn't commit.
This episode contains references to sexual violence against women and children. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). The number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dozens of young girls were subjected to years of sexual abuse and trafficking, only to be consistently let down by every institution that was supposed to protect them.
The police response was so poor, Maggie Oliver left her 16-year career with the Greater Manchester Police so she could blow the whistle on the consistent failures of the police.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When victims share their stories, it's often with the hope that no one else will have to endure what they did. It’s about raising awareness, spotting the red flags, and, ensuring that those in power take your concerns seriously.
These themes are also at the heart of every story we share on this podcast.
In this episode, we’re drawing on the expertise of law enforcement professionals who have seen crimes unfold, and unravelled the chain of events that led to them.
This isn't just a conversation about safety—it's a toolkit for empowerment. By learning from these experts, you can be better prepared to recognize threats and take proactive measures to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Crime Insiders is hosted by Brent Sanders and Kathryn Fox. Guests in this episode include Narelle Fraser, Peter Seymour, and Rose MacDonald.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The ripple effects of crime stretch further than we often imagine—touching lives in ways that are raw, profound, and deeply personal. On Crime Insiders, we’re privileged to hear the untold stories of those who face crime's impact head-on.
In this episode, we’ll delve into some of these extraordinary stories.
Crime Insiders is hosted by Brent Sanders and Kathryn Fox. Guests in this episode include Professor David Balding, Jason Semple, Peter Baines and Carla Tomadini.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why? It’s the question that draws so many of us to true crime.
Why would someone kill? What drives a person to stalk? Are some people truly evil? Are good people capable of terrible things?
We grapple with these questions, trying to make sense of the unimaginable.
Is it their childhood? Their biology? Or something more complex? These aren’t just the questions we ask. Detectives, forensic psychologists, and criminal behaviour analysts have spent lifetimes trying to understand the minds of those who commit the unthinkable. In this episode, you'll hear from these experts.
Crime Insiders is hosted by Brent Sanders and Kathryn Fox. Guests in this episode include Ricky Hennessy, Professor Troy McEwan, and Julia Cowley.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10 years ago, Sydney came to a standstill.
A lone gunman took 18 hostages captive inside the Lindt Café, some of whom escaped, others were trapped for 16 harrowing hours.
The siege ended in the deaths of two innocent people—Tori Johnson, executed by the terrorist, and Katrina Dawson, struck by a ricochet from a police bullet when the Tactical Operations Unit stormed the building.
In the aftermath, public outrage boiled over as the government and police were heavily criticised for their handling of the crisis. So what really happened behind the scenes?
In this episode, hear two firsthand accounts from those who lived it.
Crime Insiders is hosted by Brent Sanders and Kathryn Fox. Guests in this episode include Danny Mikati and Chris Craner.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the bodies in the barrels were found, Australia was rocked. A murder investigation was underway, and forensics was set to play a huge part. But where to even begin?
Professor Roger Byard AO had been working in forensics for just two weeks when he got the call. A set of barrels had been found in a bank vault, and he was needed at the scene. The investigation that followed was taxing on Roger, and the community in South Australia, but the work was meaningful and would lead to successful convictions and answers for families.
Unpack this case and more with host Kathryn Fox, as Roger takes her through his career in forensics and beyond.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Over a harrowing 69 minutes on September 2013, 12 people were shot dead and many more wounded in what was Washington DC's deadliest mass shooting.
Navy contractor Aaron Alexis terrorised thousands of workers at the Washington Navy Yard.
Former FBI Agent Timothy Gallagher led the operation at the navy yard, and he describes to host Brent Sanders how hours felt like minutes as he and his colleagues raced against time to find and capture the killer.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A man-hunt that lasted more than 7 years. One of Australia's most wanted men finally caught. But by who? And at what cost?
Ricky Hennessy was an integral member of the NSW Police Force for over 22 years. His skill, and level of focus lead to several high-profile convictions all across Australia. One of his most notable, was the capture of fugitive and convicted killer Malcolm Naden; who was on the run in NSW bushland for more than 7 years.
With host and former police officer Brent Sanders, understand Ricky Hennessy's work - and experience a behind the scenes retelling of the capture of Naden, and the interview and interrogation which lead to a successful conviction.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One night, four crime scenes, 32 gunshot wounds, and eight members of the same family slain in their homes. Two years later, a local family of four was arrested for the murders. These are the events now known as the Piketon Massacre, Ohio's most notorious mass murder.
Dive into the chilling details of this case with forensic investigator, Joseph Scott Morgan. Known for his insights on high-profile cases, Joseph brings his deep expertise to this now infamous investigation.
In this episode, Kathryn Fox and Jospeph explore the forensic intricacies of the Piketon case, the twisted familial connections, and what this case reveals about the impact of violent crime on society.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CTE is surprisingly common - but, it can only be diagnosed post-mortem, and by a forensic expert. So, how is does an examination work? And why is it so hard to have one done?
Dr Linda Iles is a forensic neuropathologist, and someone who performs post-mortem brain examinations on people every single day. What she discovers in these exams is extraordinary, and revealing of the life that person lead.
Understand how someone is diagnosed with CTE post-mortem, and the intricate details of brain examinations with host Kathryn Fox; as she chats with Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine's Dr Linda Iles.
Crime Insiders executive producer Dan Mullins presents a look back at one of our earlier episodes.
For more information on CTE or if anyone you know is showing symptoms and you need support, visit the following resources:
https://www.concussionfoundation.com.au/helpline
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A young cop in England realises whilst chasing a suspect with a rifle that his life will never be the same again. It lead to infiltrating football hooligans as a 17-stone skinhead.
Garry Rogers QPM is a former undercover operative who served 30 years with the Greater Manchester Police.
Garry played a key role in one of the UK's most successful undercover policing operations, targeting the football hooliganism that blighted the domestic and international game. The undercover operation was so successful, that the GMP extended the operation to target serious and violent crime, and it was Garry who gained the trust of armed robbers, drug dealers, and a murderer.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Taskforce Argos was built to catch the worst of the worst - to infiltrate and stop child exploitation material networks.
Its former head, Jon Rouse spent years in the operation, and became entrenched in the world of saving children from abuse and sexual exploitation. Now, he's got some distance from the front-line, but, questions still linger. How does it all affect him? And what is he doing now after leaving the force?
Unpack the incredible career, and the merciless work that Jon Rouse and the team at Taskforce Argos undertook, with host Brent Sanders. From analysing the most disturbing of images, to infiltrating online networks and executing raids. As many heard in the award winning podcast series The Children in the Pictures, Jon's work took him across borders, and down dark roads. Hear him explain the work and the toll it takes on this episodes of Crime Insiders: Detectives.
This episode contains references to child sexual abuse and child exploitation material - please listen with care.
If anyone you know has been affected by this material or you've been affected yourself, please reference the following resources:
https://www.afp.gov.au/what-we-do/operational-support/australian-centre-counter-child-exploitation
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a human body is discovered in the United States, there is a person who takes on the role of eyes and ears of the dead: the death investigator.
There is a whole chain of officials from the police, to forensic pathologists, to families and loved ones that depend on these specialists to unlock stories the dead can no longer tell.
No one knows this role like Joseph Scott Morgan.
In this episode, host Kathryn Fox and Joseph peel back the layers of this hidden world: the science, the secrets, and the sacrifices of those who witness the grim reality of death day in and day out.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What happens when you report a sexual assault? What are the processes and how do they affect the outcome of a case?
In this episode, former GP Kathryn Fox speaks to forensic physician Dr Maaike Moller to demystify and debunk the process of reporting a sexual assault. Maaike will walk us through how and when to report an assault, how evidence and DNA is collected from a survivor, and the autonomy of the survivor throughout the whole process. Maaike also shares her expertise on drug-facilitated assault and stealthing.
Please note, this podcast is not a replacement for professional advice. If you've been assaulted or suspect your drink has been spiked, please contact your local police or seek medical advice from a health professional or local hospital.
Crime Insiders executive producer Dan Mullins presents a look back at one of our earlier episodes.
This episode discusses sexual assault. Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available in Australia at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How did Anne Hamilton-Byrne control her followers? How did the police eventually catch her? And what happened to the dozens of children that were in the 'care' of The Family.
Lex de Man investigated The Family for more than four years, and helped rescue dozens of children from the abuse of Anne Hamilton-Byrne and her followers.
Join Lex as he walks host Brent Sanders through the case in exclusive detail, and explains how he and the Victorian Police were able to arrest and charge Anne Hamilton-Byrne.
This episode contains references to the abuse of children. If it affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When an off-duty officer made a disturbing discovery off a country road in Sheffield, detectives were immediately notified. They rushed to the scene to preserve evidence and begin piecing together clues. For Detective Nigel Donohue though, despite the horrific scene, this case proved much more complex, and more disturbing than what initially appeared.
Former South Yorkshire Detective Inspector Nigel Donohue joins Brent Sanders to walk him through his 31 year plus career, and offers insight into the UK police system and how things are different to Australia.
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does your family have a favourite recipe, a meal that feels like home? For Mario, that was his wife’s famous spaghetti and meatballs. But one evening, what should have been a comforting dish left him feeling... uneasy. And then, it happened again and again. Was it just a bad batch—or something far more sinister?
In this episode, meet John Franceschini, a forensic chemist with over 30 years of experience in private labs. Outside the reach of police or government, he uncovers the truth about what's really on our plates, and in our drugs.
Join host Kathryn Fox and dive into not one, but two cases of alleged food poisoning, the elusive dangers of synthetic drugs, and why independent forensic labs may be the last line of defense in the search for truth.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The murder of Inge Lotz is one of the most controversial homicide investigations in South Africa's history. A lone fingerprint police claim to have lifted from a DVD case led to the acquittal of the alleged murderer, and resulted in accusations of fabricated evidence.
Dr Scott Chadwick is a fingermark detection expert. His research focuses on optimising existing fingermark detection techniques and developing new reagents for revealing fingermarks on the most challenging of surfaces.
In this episode, join host Kathryn Fox, and hear about the science behind the acquittal of Inge Lotz's accused killer, and the importance of transparent and accurate crime scene investigation.
Crime Insiders executive producer Dan Mullins presents a look back at one of our earlier episodes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s July 7th 2005, and it’s a typically busy morning on London’s underground. It’s like any other day. But then, simultaneously, three trains and a double decker bus explode.
Smoke fills the carriages, and panic and devastation takes over London.
Detective Gary Powell was sitting at his desk when he heard what we now know as the 7/7 terrorist attacks.
Gary sits down with host Brent Sanders to talk about this case, and others from his time in the counter terrorism unit of the UK police.
This content contains references to suicide. If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Crime Insiders executive producer Dan Mullins presents a look back at one of our earlier episodes.
A single incident, can lead police down a path, which if they're not taken off, can lead to horrific consequences.
Beth Docksey had an illustrious career in the force, and should be recognised as one of NSW Police's shining lights. However, it took a surge of immense courage and resilience to get to where she is now. After a critical incident at the Eastwood Shopping Centre in Sydney - her husband Glenn began down a path that not many understood, one which culminated in a horrific incident years later.
The Crime Insiders team would like to extend a sincere thanks to Beth Docksey for giving her time and candour for this interview. Brent and the whole team would like to thank her for her service, and her continued work in bringing awareness to the challenges of mental health in policing.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In a quiet English town, 13-year-old Billie Jo Jenkins was brutally murdered on the porch of her foster home.
Her foster father, Sion Jenkins, was convicted of the crime, but after two retrials, he was acquitted in 2006 - leaving one of the UK's most notorious murders unsolved.
Despite his acquittal, the jury never delivered a ‘not guilty’ verdict, making this case even more perplexing.
Professor Adrian Linacre is a forensic blood spatter expert, who’s worked on hundreds of cases across the world, including the Billie Jo Jenkins murder investigation.
In this episode, uncover the twists and turns in this highly controversial case, go inside the courtroom drama, and unravel the delicate balance between forensic science and justice.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Crime Insiders executive producer Dan Mullins presents a look back at one of our earlier episodes.
Comedian Eurydice Dixon and student Aya Maasarwe were both victims of horrific crimes. The first responding forensic expert to those scenes was Jo Glengarry. She facilitated the investigation and performed the forensic tasks which contributed to convictions.
Understand Professor Glengarry's process when being a first responding forensic expert to violent and confronting scenes, and understand the personal and professional toll that these cases had on her.
Host Kathryn Fox talks to Jo about and understands the nature of these crimes and how forensic experts respond and what processes go into facilitating a successful conviction.
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT. (1800 737 732)
For counselling, advice and support for men who have anger, relationship or parenting issues, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
If this content affects you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
For more resources specific to your state or territory, visit www.respect.gov.au/services/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the 3rd of March 2021, 33 year old Sarah Everard was kidnapped and murdered in South London.
A week after her disappearance, police officer Wayne Couzens was arrested and charged. He had used his badge to lure Sarah into his car by lying, and saying she was in breach of Covid Protocols.
The case became a watershed moment in the UK, devastating the community and leaving the nation understandably distrusting of the police. Steve Gaskin, a former Detective, became obsessed with the case and the failings of the MET police that led to Sarah’s murder.
Steve joined host Brent Sanders to discuss this case and the psychology of offending.
This content contains references to men's violence against women. If this content affected you, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Life Line on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A shattered glass door, stolen homemade jam, and a fatal encounter... This is the crime scene forensic firearms expert, Dr Eric Warren, was called to in Maury City, Tennessee. Soon, the truth begins to emerge. But who fired the fatal shots, and why?
Join host Kathryn Fox as Eric reveals the complexities of investigating and prosecuting gun-related incidents in the United States, and shares his alienating experience of transitioning from working for law enforcement to private practice.
If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the 9th of April 1995, a rental truck was unassumingly parked in front of a federal building in Oklahoma City.
Seconds later, the truck exploded. 169 people, including children, were killed. Almost instantly. A massive investigation unfolded.
Jeff Lanza, a seasoned FBI agent, was deeply involved. He immediately got to work acquiring information and starting the hunt for the person responsible.
Jeff joins host Brent Sanders on this episode of Crime Insiders: Detectives to share insight from this case and many others from his time in the FBI.
If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The internet changed the world forever, connecting us like never before, allowing unprecedented access to information and people worldwide.
For these reasons, it’s been hijacked by criminals to infiltrate and commit heinous offences, leading to an explosion of organised crime.
Dr. Dennis Desmond is a former FBI special agent and counterintelligence expert who’s seen the darkest corners of the digital world. In this episode, he reveals how the sinister side of cryptocurrency and the dark web is creeping into the lives of ordinary civilians, and how one of the world’s most downloaded phone apps is surveilling its users, putting them at risk of prosecution.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the 1980s in, Canada, unregulated sex work was rampant. Pimps were known to procure young, vulnerable girls in bars and clubs, and offer them ‘work’ in exchange for safety.
However, the safety never came, and quickly turned to threats of violence against the girls and their families.Police identified Tony Provo, a suspected pimp who had been seen trawling local bars.
To catch him, Canadian police used a unique tactic, and assigned young officer Carol Cooke to go undercover as a teenager, and move through the bars to attract Provo.
Carol joined Brent Sanders from the Melbourne studio to share this case and others from her time in the force.
This content contains references to mens violence against women. If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Behind every DNA sample is a person with a story. But when does DNA evidence reveal the truth? And when does it mislead? And in places like Tennessee, where the stakes are life or death, how much should we trust the science presented in court?
Sam Spencer is a forensic biologist who has worked on over 1400 cases and provided expert testimony across the US.
In this episode hosted by Kathryn Fox, hear the chilling reason why Sam chose this career path, what it's like working for the prosecution versus the defense, and unravel a case far more complex than it appears on the surface.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the button was pressed, and the building began to fall, terror spread across the capital.
Former detective Greg Ranse was there that day, and ran the investigation that followed. It was arduous, and unravelled one of Australia’s worst workplace disasters…
Greg joins host Brent Sanders to talk through this case and others on the Crime Insiders: Detectives podcast.
This content contains graphic references to the death of a child. If it affects you, the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For 20 years, Sheree Spencer subjected her husband to horrific physical, emotional, and financial abuse. Similarly, Jordan Worth controlled, beat, stabbed, starved, and tortured her boyfriend, becoming the first woman in UK history to be convicted of coercive control-related offences.
As society grapples with the overwhelming issue of men's violence against women, our understanding of domestic violence is expanding, and we're uncovering the lesser-known reality of female perpetrators and male victims.
In this episode, Dr. Jenny Mackay, a forensic psychology lecturer with expertise in women who commit interpersonal violence, reveals the nuanced differences and similarities between male and female perpetrators, and what these insights mean for tackling domestic abuse in all its forms.
If you or someone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- MensLine (Help, support, referrals & counselling services for men) 1300 78 99 78
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1997, police were on high alert, as gang wars were threatening to take over Sydney. Armed bikies were rampaging through the streets, often in stolen vehicles, wreaking havoc and committing brazen crimes in busy public areas.
On one warm day in November, general duties officer Jeff Garland spotted two men with their hands concealed in heavy trench coats rush into a silver porsche.
Immediately, something seemed off. The coats when it was so warm, the hands in their pockets and the flash car. He could’ve easily let them go, but instead he followed his hunch and pursued the two men.
Join host Brent Sanders as Jeff unpacks this case and a number of others from his time in the force.
If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2012, the body of Federica Mangiapelo was found by a lake in Italy. The coroner declared it a natural death, with the main suspect in the case claiming he was nowhere near the scene. But one tiny organism, invisible to the naked eye, proved otherwise.
Dr Paola Magni is a pioneer in aquatic forensics, a highly specialised and innovative form of criminal investigation. In this episode hosted by Kathryn Fox, discover how everything from plankton to barnacles can help bring criminals to justice and provide crucial answers to grieving families.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Without the internet, police were unable to track offender behaviour, and heavily relied on victim survivor testimony.
These interviews were crucial, and required care and empathy, as one misstep, and evidence could be lost and a victim survivor left unheard.
Former detective Andrew Patterson was part of a special task force investigating paedophiles in Perth, and was the one who spoke to hundreds of victim survivors.. One morning, he received information about a sexual predator, and descriptions of an underground chamber with shiny chrome walls. He and his team set about investigating the offender, and finding survivors.
He sat down with host Brent Sanders to explain this case, and others from his career.
This content contains references to child sexual abuse, if this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The illegal wildlife trade is a multi billion dollar industry, raking in an estimated $24 million globally. And in Australia, our unique reptiles are hotter commodities than ever, with single animals fetching tens of thousands of dollars on the black market. This lucrative trade attracts in criminals from transnational organized crime networks, who exploit wildlife trafficking to test illegal drug importation routes and make a fortune.
Among those entangled in this dangerous business was former NRL star Martin Kennedy, who played for the Sydney Roosters and Brisbane Broncos.
In this episode hosted by Kathryn Fox, hear from Dr. Greta Frankham, a wildlife forensic scientist heading Australia's only accredited animal forensics lab. Uncover how cutting-edge science is helping to crack down on wildlife crime, protect our precious biodiversity and disrupt organised crime.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1980, three friends were travelling on the South Western Highway from Perth to Harvey. They encountered a slight bend in the road and crashed into a tree. One of the friends, Terry, died at the scene, the two others escaped with minor injuries.
Investigations to find who was responsible began, but, both friends denied being the driver.
The case was strange, and investigator Hadyn Green was unable to make an arrest until the appearance of a surprise piece of evidence.
Hadyn sat down with host Brent Sanders to unpack the circumstances around the crash and to explain the crippling reality of delivering death notices to families.
This episode contains graphic references to motor vehicle fatalities and suicide. For support, dial Life Line or if you have lost a loved one on the roads, visit https://ambercommunity.org.au/.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Remember when the internet erupted over whether a viral audio clip was depicting the name ‘Yanny’ or ‘Laurel’? Or did you know over 20% of people are convinced ABBA is singing ‘see that girl, watch her scream, kicking the dancing queen, instead of the actual lyrics ‘see that girl, watch that scene, dig in the dancing in queen’?
These playful debates light up our social media feeds, but what happens when misheard words have far more serious consequences, like in a videotaped murder confession or a panicked emergency call?
Dr Phil Rose, is a speech scientist specializing in forensic voice comparison and disputed utterances. In this episode, discover why no one can say the same word twice in exactly the same way, explore the limitations of ear witness accounts, and delve into the implications of deep fakes on the future of forensic voice identification.
If you or someone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just before midnight on the 6th of December 1994, Elisabeth Membrey arrived home from her shift at the Manhattan Hotel in Melbourne. Police estimated that by 3AM, she was dead, concluding she’d been murdered in her hallway.
16 years later, in 2010, after a tireless investigation, former Detective Tim Peck was able to finally make an arrest. But, as the case went to court - it soon turned from a successful investigation to Tim tragically spiralling into a dark and near fatal place.
Tim sat down with host Brent Sanders to talk about this case, and the dark consequences of policing.
For more of Tim's story, his book The Invisible Obvious is out now.
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
White crosses on unmarked graves, rusted metal bunk beds and ivy-lined concrete halls - that's all that's left of the Dozier School For Boys.
From 1900 to 2011, It was one of the largest juvenile reform institutions in the US. It operated under the guise of 'reforming' wayward boys, but when victim-survivors and families came forth with allegations of horrific abuse and suspicious deaths, its reputation turned sour.
How many children were buried there? In this episode, forensic anthropologist Erin Kimmerle walks host Kathryn Fox through her excavation of the site and what she found lying beneath the grassy pastures.
If you or anyone you know needs help:
- Lifeline (Crisis support and suicide prevention) 13 11 14
- 1800 Respect (National sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line) 1800 737 732
- Men's Referral Service (National counselling, information and referral service for men looking to change their behaviour) 1300 766 491
- Full Stop Australia (National violence and abuse trauma counselling and recovery Service)1800 385 578
- MensLine (help, support, referrals & counselling services for men) 1300 78 99 78
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the latest 90s - NSW was rocked by the disappearance of Kerry Whelan.
She was last seen on May 6th, after being dropped off at the Park Royal Hotel in Parramatta. When she didn’t return home, her husband Bernie quickly notified police.
A search uncovered nothing, and police were stumped. It wasn’t until a day later did they have a lead. A ransom note had appeared.
Paul Grech, who was a junior detective, arrested the person responsible, and can recall the minute detail that helped solve the case.
Paul sits down with Brent Sanders to discuss the case and his career.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do young people become radicalised? Is it nature or nurture? Or something far more complex?
Dr John Kasinathan is a forensic psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents.
In this episode, hear about the science of the developing brain, what drives crime in young people, the realities of being an incarcerated child in Australia, and one of the most shocking acts imaginable - a child killing their entire family.
If the episode affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A dig was completed, but some are saying they didn't dig far enough. On the 26th of January 1966, three young siblings known as the Beaumont children, caught the bus to Glenelg Beach in Adelaide.
They told their mother they'd be back by noon - but the children never returned. 22 years later, detective Bill Hayes took on the case, and to this day, he's still trying to solve the case of the missing Beaumont children.
Brent Sanders sat down with Bill to understand his process and what new revelations are bringing him back to the case.
This episode contains references to violence against children and child sexual abuse. If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the 6th May, 2006, a 45-year-old woman disappeared from California’s San Pablo. Two years later, her skull was discovered 6 kilometers away.
Forensic anthropologist Ryburn Dobbs uncovered evidence that could have cracked the case wide open. But the police ignored him. Why?
In this episode, Ryburn tells host Kathryn Fox about the frustration of dealing with authorities who prioritise certain victims over others, even when presented with compelling forensic evidence.
If the episode affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fire-bombings across suburban Melbourne have been terrorising citizens for the last 18 months. But why are they happening? And what can police do to counter act them?
Former AFP Officer Rohan Pike joins host Brent Sanders to explain how high taxes and opportunistic criminals are leading to catastrophic levels of illegal tobacco being siphoned through Melbourne streets.
As well, a bank note production company - half-owned by the Australian Reserve Bank - allegedly bribed foreign officials in exchange for the right to produce their nation’s currency.
Hear how Rohan was brought in, and how he never would’ve expected the vast, global scale of the investigation.
Bribes worth millions, a string of dramatic Melbourne raids, and tension between Rohan, the AFP and the ever powerful Australian Reserve Bank….
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever been scammed? Chances are you or someone you know has. From fraudulent texts to crypto cons, this type of crime has permeated every aspect of our lives.
But who’s pulling the strings, and where does the money go?
In this episode, forensic financial investigator and former ASIC adviser, Niall Coburn, lifts the lid on financial crime. Learn how scammers manipulate you, and the shocking truths about the organised crime groups behind it all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does an FBI agent convince a Russian spy to defect? What are the tactics that work, and what are the ones that could get you killed?
For decades, the world was paralysed by The Cold War. But, after the cooling of nuclear operations in the US and Russia, governments seemed ready to ease tensions and find a truce.
Beneath the surface though, in the high stakes world of spies and espionage, things were far more dangerous.
In the 1990s, Former FBI agent LaRae Quy was deep in the world of covert operations, taking on multiple identities and trying to convince Russian spies to defect, and join the FBI.
Larae joins host Brent Sanders to explain her career in the FBI and dissect what it takes to work undercover.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Imagine being locked in a police interrogation room for 48 hours straight - you haven't eaten, barely slept, your anxiety levels are at an all-time high, and you’re being intensely questioned about a crime that you haven’t committed. You’re innocent, so the truth will come out, right?
In Australia, it’s estimated that up to a third of wrongful convictions involve a false confession. In the US, of the 258 wrongful convictions overturned by the Innocence Project, 25% involved a false confession.
In this episode, Dr Hayley Cullen reveals the psychology behind what leads to false confessions, and how false memories can be created in the minds of people under interrogation.
If the episode affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On New Years Eve, 1998, in the small town of Wee Waa, a 91 year old woman was horrifically attacked. Incredibly, she survived, and quickly notified police of the attack. But, after months of case work without any leads, the case went cold…
Two years later, then detective Robin Napper was asked to investigate.
He arrived in the town of just 1,900 people with a controversial, new age tactic to catch the offender. But, to use it, he needed internal policing politics to fall his way, and…the undying support of the town…
Host Brent Sanders sits down with Robin Napper to discuss this case, and to hear about how his career evolved through the years.
This episode contains references to men's violence against women. Help is always available on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If it's an emergency and you're in Australia, dial 000.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Businessman Paul Nguyen left Sydney’s Hilton Hotel in May 2014 and was never seen alive again.
A police investigation uncovered secrets that exposed Mr Nguyen’s murky underworld connections, leading authorities to a makeshift grave around an hour’s drive, south of Sydney.
The excavation and identification of Mr Nguyen’s remains was forensic anthropologist, Dr Hayley Green’s, first case. In this episode, hear about the complexities of collecting, analysing and documenting human bones in a murder investigation.
This episode references violent crime. If this content affects you, the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On the 26th of June, 2006, police were notified that a young girl had gone missing in Perth. Moments later, her body was found, and an expansive crime scene was established.
With an unknown, and clearly dangerous offender on the run, police were working against the clock to preserve crucial evidence, and find who was responsible.
Then detective Paul Litherland was too close to the victim’s family to investigate, so was forced to watch on as police began their search for the offender.
Brent Sanders sits down with Paul to hear this story, and understand how Paul went from General Duties Cop to WA's Australian of the Year.
For more on Paul, visit this link.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bikies live in a world where loyalty is fierce and silence is golden. So, when a member of the Gypsy Jokers was killed in outback Western Australia, a deadly game of cat and mouse began. The Gypsy Jokers were convinced the culprit was Don Hancock, a former Police Chief with a colourful past. And, as the investigation heated up, the stakes became deadly.
In this episode, Hadyn Green takes us inside the forensic investigation that followed - a tale of bombings, one of WAs most notorious bikie wars, and what it’s like to come face to face with a ruthless group bent on revenge.
If this content affected you, the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After coercing farmers to plant marijuana crops in their fields, organised crime figures laid the seed for a dominant and violent drug empire across the Victorian borders. But, when police raided the farms, it was the growers who faced the consequences, as mob members threatened them and their families to stay quiet.
Former Victoria Police detective Ray Shuey was at the pointy end of that investigation, and sits down with host Brent Sanders to explain how he helped organise the 50kg drug buy that busted the crooks, and the complexities of protecting the growers whilst pursuing the mafia.
If the episode affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The body of 27-year-old mother of two, Samantha Bodsworth, was found in Noosa, surrounded by wattle trees. The killer thinks it’s the perfect crime, but what they underestimated was the power of the tiny, silent witnesses clinging to almost everything they touched – pollen.
In this episode, Dr Lynne Milne, the scientist at the forefront of forensic palynology, reveals how, for the first time in an Australian criminal case, pollen helped unmask a murderer.
This episode references men's violence against women. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. The number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For decades he was an adored media personality. But, after an iTV documentary exposed him as a sex offender, Jimmy Savile's story turned sinister, and questions were soon asked about the people who enabled his behaviour despite rumours and innuendo.
For many of the children and young people Jimmy Savile offended against, they were finally heard - but, as former Detective Mark Williams-Thomas explains, justice will never be served against the now dead Savile, and the impact of his behaviour will never leave the victim survivors he assaulted.
Hear the story of how Mark constructed and investigated the documentary that helped exposed Saville, and hear host Brent Sanders unpack Mark's career and the incredible story of Exposure: The Other Side of Jimmy.
This episode contains references to child sexual abuse, if this content affects you the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every word leaves a trace. A disgruntled employee's late-night Facebook rant, cryptic messages, riddled with emojis, arranging a drug deal, a threatening letter from a scorned ex. These are more than words to forensic linguist, Professor Georgina Heydon. They’re crucial clues that can act like a phonetic fingerprint, revealing the identity of the culprit - because sometimes the key to solving a crime isn’t what’s said, but how it’s said.
In this episode, hosted by Kathryn Fox, Georgina explains how the scientific study of language can help solve crimes and expose the truth.
This episode references men's violence against women. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. The number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As a door was bashed in, and a very ordinary seeming man was put in cuffs, the heinous crimes of the Claremont Serial Killer were finally brought to light.
Todd Bowler, a former WA Tactical Group member has been on the other side of these investigations for several years, and during his career, was a lead member in several high profile cases.
He sat down with host Brent Sanders to talk through his career and to explain how he was part of the dramatic investigation that caught the Claremont Serial Killer.
To hear more from Todd, visit this link.
This content contains references to sexual violence and violence against children. If this affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For 20 years, Henry Keogh was imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. What was a tragic accident turned into a full-blown murder trial, fueled by dubious evidence from now-discredited forensic pathologist, Dr. Colin Manouk.
In this episode, host Kathryn Fox talks with Forensic Photographer, Professor Gale Spring, one of the key experts who helped overturn Keogh's conviction in 2014. Hear about the intricate complexities of interpreting images and video, the misplaced trust juries often have in CCTV footage, and the human propensity to perceive patterns where none exist.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After finding a fragment of a skull several metres within a toilet plumbing system, police knew they were dealing with something sinister.
Mike Bush is a former commissioner of the New Zealand Police Force and has had a decorated career. However, his time as a Detective and a lead investigator saw him take on some gruesome and confronting cases - a far stretch from the press conferences and media appearance as commissioner.
He sat down with host Brent Sanders to explain some of these cases and to walk us through the way police investigated and finalised some of New Zealand's most high profile cases.
This episode contains references to violence against children. If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A blood-stained cloth was the only evidence police had to work with when Marlene Maria Smith didn't turn up to work in August, 2000. This small clue would soon become part of the huge web of forensic evidence, ultimately leading to the conviction of a killer.
Peter Baines OAM spent over two decades as a specialist forensic crime scene investigator with the NSW Police. In this episode with host Kathryn Fox, hear how a real CSI handles a crime scene, from start to finish.
This episode contains graphic descriptions of men's violence against women. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A man described as "pure evil", understand how police investigated his heinous crimes, caught him in and the process of holding him in prison whilst seeking a confession.
Decorated former Victorian Police Detective Adrian Paterson joins host Brent Sanders to unpack his career, and go deep into how he helped catch some of Australia's most high-profile criminals.
If this content affects you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Drowning is the third-highest cause of death around the world, yet underwater recovery and aquatic forensic investigation remain heavily underresourced and underresearched.
Forensic investigator and scientific diver, Sarah Mormino, is on a mission to change this.
In this episode, host Kathryn Fox and Sarah unravel the fascinating and often perilous process of collecting and preserving evidence underwater. Discover why turtles can be unexpected adversaries for investigators and hear about the case that ignited Sarah's passion for aquatic crime scenes.
If this content affected you, the number LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A tragedy that rocked Melbourne in the late 80s, and one that left the nation questioning its own attitude towards guns and violence.
Former Commissioner of Victoria Police Kel Glare was just a few months away from getting the top job when an armed gunman killed seven and injured 19 people in Melbourne's inner North. It's a case that stood out to Kel for its violence and senselessness, and one that shook him him despite him being as experienced as he was.
Hear about that case, and others as Kel sat down with host Brent Sanders in this episode of Crime Insiders: Detectives.
This content contains references to mens violence against women and child sexual abuse. Help is always available, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heartbreaking was the only word that could be used to describe the death of a 10-month-old baby in Perth. What was less clear cut is the question that was posed to the judge - was the baby boy’s death an accident, or was he murdered by his father?
Judith Fordham has been lauded as one of Western Australia’s most high-profile criminal lawyers, but her dual expertise in law and forensics sets her apart from her colleagues. In this episode with host Kathryn Fox, hear about one of the most divisive areas in both forensic science and the law - "shaken baby syndrome".
This episode references child abuse and infant loss. If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services. For support relating to infant loss, contact Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 307 or visit rednosegriefandloss.org.au.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What happens when back up is three hours away, and you're faced with a violent and desperate situation?
Mark Tregellas is one of Victoria's most experienced regional police officers. He's spent decades tackling violent and intense criminal situations, ones that are unique to that of Australia's wild and often unpredictable regional areas.
Join host Brent Sanders as Mark walks him through two cases that stand out to him from his time in the force.
This content contains references to men's violence against women. Help is always available, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Semen is the crack cocaine of the fly world, and while maggots love a corpse, flies feast on live human flesh and fluids. So, could a fly frame you for murder? And how do police differentiate fly 'artifacts' from human biological material at a crime scene?
These are all things forensic biologist, Dr Annalisa Durdle has studied. Join host Kathryn Fox as Annalisa redefines what it means to be a 'fly on the wall'.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The AFP and customs intercept hundreds of tonnes of narcotics every year. But, the techniques of criminals and smugglers are becoming more complex, and unfortunately, more effective.
Nigel Phair is a former Australian Federal Police Officer who took on a range of high profile drug importation cases. This saw him intercepting large quantities of drugs, investigating its origin and surveilling its eventual destination in Australia.
Understand this work and hear Nigel walk host Brent Sanders through how the police undertake these investigations and how things have changed over the years.
If this content affected you, the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It took 37 years, a failed murder trial, and an Australian mathematician to finally prosecute one of Scotland's most infamous serial killers.
Professor David Balding is a pioneer in the field of mathematical computational genetics. Join host Kathryn Fox and hear how using things like probability, David can calculate the likelihood of DNA belonging to offenders, victims and crime scenes.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The gangs of New Zealand are like nothing else, and as an undercover cop, you're forced to prove yourself, demonstrate you're a criminal and show you're capable of committing violent and often deadly crimes.
That was the life of undercover operative Mark Van Lee Warden, who spent years as a covert officer deep inside the underworld of the New Zealand ganglands. He was required to tackle some of the country's most powerful underworld figures, including the infamous convicted murderer Ricki Goodin. Mark sat down with host Brent Sanders to explain how he became an undercover cop, and the impact it had on him in his professional and personal life.
To hear more about Mark's time in the force, his book is available here.
Mark's work post policing at Warden Consulting.
This episode features references to mens violence against women, if this content affects you, help is available via LifeLine on 13 11 14, or, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Victims of stalking are systematically let down. So, how do the police handle reports of stalking? And what does the research tell us about effective intervention?
24-year-old Alice Ruggles was stalked and murdered by her ex-boyfriend. Alice did all the recommended things, reporting his dangerous behaviour to the police multiple times. Unfortunately, Alice's story is not a one-off. It's a typical story illustrating the link between coercive control and stalking.
Join host Kathryn Fox for part 2 of her discussion with forensic psychologist, Professor Troy McEwan from Swinburne University.
This episode is part 2 of 2.
To learn more about Alice's story, and the work of the Alice Ruggles trust, head here.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The consequences of online abuse can be fatal, and in the early 2000s, even experts were naive to the dangers of the online world for us, and our kids.
Yasmin London is a former NSW Police Officer who took on a diverse set of roles in her decade in the force. She tackled the everyday stress of general duties, the diverse crimes of Rosebay in Sydney and the complex and unknown world of cyberbullying in the early days of the internet.
Yasmin joined host Brent Sanders to talk through her career, and to unpack how her time in the force impacted her motivation for the work she does now.
This episode contains references to suicide and mens violence against women, if it affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stalking is disturbingly common, yet often misunderstood by wider society.
Professor Troy McEwan is a forensic psychologist specialising in understanding, assessing, and treating stalking behaviour. In this episode with Kathryn Fox, hear about the 5 different types of stalkers, and gain insights into their problematic behaviours.
This episode is part 1 of 2.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Once an admired figure in NSW police, the now disgraced Roger Rogerson left a trail of corruption and death as he moved his way through the force.
Former NSW Detective Deborah Locke was at the centre of Rogerson's grip on the police, and faced horrific consequences for standing up to him and his corruption. Deb sat down with host Brent Sanders, and unpacked the details of her life in the force and how she overcame both Rogerson and the police itself.
This episode features references to suicide, miscarriages and infant loss. If this content affected you, help is always available via Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Even when removed or burnt, forensic experts can use tattoos to identify offenders and victims of crimes. This is one of many techniques forensic photographers like Karen Byrne use to document everything from crime scenes to autopsies.
Hear about the surprising ways evidence can be captured, the emotional weight of the job, and how forensic photography plays a crucial role in securing justice.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of the country's most effective crime fighting arms, Queensland Police have some of the world's most dedicated officers. Their experience in fighting online child sexual abuse is second to none, and James Maskey was part of that team.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks James' career. From General Duties, to the CPOL team, hear about the cases that defined James and eventually lead to his decision to leave the force.
To learn more about James' work at Fortem visit the link below:
https://fortemaustralia.org.au/
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They say pigs will eat anything. But can they diminish a whole human body? Surprisingly, science didn't have an answer to this question until recently.
Forensic anthropologist, Dr Penny McCardle, has helped police investigate some of the most high-profile crimes in recent history, including the disappearance of William Tyrell and the 1986 murder of Roxlyn Bowie.
In this discussion with Kathryn Fox, hear about the investigation into the murder of Roxlyn, which included the biggest excavation in NSW Police history, and what would become the world's first study into what happens if a human body is fed to pigs.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Matt Newlands is a former NSW Police Officer who undertook general duties for much of his career. His career was well regarded, but was also peppered with difficulties and would end as part of a slippery slope of incidents in Matt's personal life.
We'll understand what lead to that situation with host Brent Sanders, as he unpacks stories and cases from Matt's career and the one mistake which ended it.
If this content affected you, the number LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Technology has become a weapon for perpetrators of abuse. And, in our digitally intertwined lives, cyber forensics has become an essential step in almost all aspects of criminal investigation, particularly cases involving child exploitation and family violence.
Cyber forensic expert, Rose MacDonald, has made it her life's mission to combat this insidious form of abuse. Her work ensures the complex process of evidence preservation of spyware-infested devices and encrypted apps brings these offenders to justice.
To hear more of Rose, you can find her on The Briefing.
This episode contains references to intimate partner violence, coercive control, and child abuse, for support, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A person of interest driving over five days and distributing drugs across the country was finally brought down after a complex sting.
Noel, who's last name has been redacted for operational reasons is one of Victoria's most seasoned detectives, and has seen the state thrashed through a period of uncertainty by Melbourne's high-profile criminal underworld.
He joins Brent Sanders, and talks us through his time in the force and what he's working on post policing.
This episode contains references to child abuse, if this content affected you the number for LifeLine is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heard of a smoking gun? What about a smoking shovel?
Tracking down killers has never been part of the traditional job profile for people who study soils, but when the bodies of two women believed to be murdered could not be located, police gave pedologist, Professor Rob Fitzpatrick a call.
In this episode with Kathryn Fox, Rob reveals how soil has been the key to cracking complex criminal investigations, from unsolved homicides to illegal dinosaur nest smuggling and counter-terrorism operations.
This episode contains descriptions of violence against women and children, for support, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tony Hines' body was found strewn against a cliff face in Maroubra. How did police begin their investigation, and what contributed to the eventual outcome of the case?
Former NSW Police Deputy Police Commissioner Dave Owens is one of the states' most respected officers, and has seen some of NSW's most intense criminal operations unfold.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks Dave's illustrious career, and gains an understanding of how Dave took on the infamous Bra Boys.
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two young girls shot dead in a town of less than 1000 people. With local law enforcement stumped, they turned to the renowned FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit for answers.
Julia Cowley is a retired FBI criminal profiler with a twist - she's a forensic scientist too.
In this episode with Kathryn Fox, hear about Julia's very first assignment with the BAU, where her unique dual skillset provided insight into the motivations and behavioral traits of an offender who could commit such a crime - ultimately resulting in the conviction of the man responsible for 'The Weleetka Murders'.
This episode contains references to violence against women and children, for support, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Detective Brett Lee was told one of his colleagues was a potential sex offender, he took on not only the investigation, but the pressure of prosecuting one of his own.
Brett was a career detective, and was involved in some of QPol's most heinous investigations. Working in child protection has its difficulties, but for Brett, he found the challenges to be rewarding.
Understand his work and what it took to undertake it with host Brent Sanders, as he dives into Brett as an officer and as an educator post policing.
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
If you’re concerned about the thoughts and behaviour of yourself or another adult or child -there is support available.
Stop it Now is an anonymous Australian helpline that aims to support adults who have sexual thoughts about children, to prevent offending.
The helpline is for parents, professionals, family and community members who come across child sexual abuse.
If you’re worried about an adults or child’s behaviour, online or offline, you can call the anonymous helpline on 1800 01 1800 or use a live chat or secure messaging service.
To find out more, head to stopitnow.org.au
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After being arrested for drink driving, how did a hair sample and forensic expertise help save Silverchair lead singer Daniel Johns from a prison sentence?
Dr Michael Robertson has over 20 years of forensic expertise. One of his most common cases is drink driving, and even though it seems black and white - you're either over the limit or you're not, it's actually far more nuanced and complex.
Join host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks Michael's work and the case involving Daniel Johns.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When an off-duty officer made a disturbing discovery off a country road in Sheffield, detectives were immediately notified. They rushed to the scene to preserve evidence and begin piecing together clues. For Detective Nigel Donohue though, despite the horrific scene, this case proved much more complex, and more disturbing than what initially appeared.
Former South Yorkshire Detective Inspector Nigel Donohue joins Brent Sanders to walk him through his 31 year plus career, and offers insight into the UK police system and how things are different to Australia.
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Several shots fired, a body in a driveway, and an abandoned meat cleaver. How does forensics piece together the scene and catch the killer?
Angus Newton is one of Oceania's most respected ballistic experts. His career has seen him take on hundreds of intense and complex cases - spanning from discrete robberies to violent and devastating killings.
Unpack his work with host Kathryn Fox, as Angus walks her through the strange case of Operation Blue.
If this content affected you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A wounded gang member, a set of abandoned shotguns in a playground and a witness who refuses to testify. How do police piece together the case to not only make sense of what happened, but gain a conviction?
Luke Taylor is a 14 year veteran of the force. His time in the police saw him take on unique challenges, and meant he was on the frontline of policing for some of NSW's most violent crimes.
Understand his career with host Brent Sanders, and hear about Luke's post policing endeavours as he takes his law enforcement experience into schools.
For more information about Luke's work now, visit crimestory.com.au/
This episode contains references to violence against women, for support, dial 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After her convictions were quashed, many touted forensics as the saviour for Kathleen Folbigg. But, how did they fail her in the first place, and what led to one of Australia's greatest ever miscarriages of justice?
Host Kathryn Fox is joined by Professor Stephen Cordner, who is one of Australia's most respected forensic experts. In 2021, Stephen was one of 90 eminent scientists who signed a groundbreaking petition calling for the immediate pardon and release of Kathleen Folbigg.
Understand the forensics behind Kathleen's final and successful bid for freedom, and unpack why her case was such a gross miscarriage of justice in the first place.
If this content raised issues for you, call Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 807.
Red Nose provides specialised bereavement support free of charge to any person affected by the sudden and unexpected death of a baby or child during pregnancy, birth, infancy or childhood.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A man brandishing two shotguns brought one of Adelaide's busiest streets to a standstill, with former Chief Superintendent Mick Symons caught in the crossfire.
in this episode, understand Mick Symons' illustrious policing career, from his time in the high-stakes Armed Offenders Apprehension Group to leading gripping homicide investigations, including the tragic case of Samantha O'Reilly. In this discussion with Brent Sanders, Mick delves into the evolution of policing techniques and technology, contrasting the gritty realities of the 70s and 80s with modern-day investigative methods. Explore the intricate relationship between law enforcement and the media, and learn how police leverage this dynamic to their advantage.
If you found this content confronting, dial lifeline on 13 11 14. As well, help is always available by calling 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do forensic investigators decipher the scene of a violent car crash? Why is the filament in a brake light so important? And what evidence can lead investigators down the wrong path?
Dr Raphael Grzebieta is an expert in car crash analysis, and has worked for decades in the field. His goal is to bring road safety to the fore of transport conversations, and refuses to acknowledge car crashes as accidents, claiming there is always a reason.
Join host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks the work of Raphael, and uncovers just how he and other investigators come to their forensic conclusions.
If this content raised issues for you, the number for Life Line is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Countless victims over a 20 year period, only uncovered thanks to the bravery of the victim-survivors who came forward and told their story. In the mid 1990s, Detective Troy Grant received a report from two men who had been sexually abused by Paedophile Priest Vincent Ryan. What followed was an investigation that uncovered decades of horrific and ongoing abuse within the Catholic Church.
Join Brent Sanders as he unpacks this investigation with Former Police Minister Troy Grant, as he walks us through the process of handling an investigation like this and what it means to the victim survivors.
If you found this content confronting, dial lifeline on 13 11 14.
As well, help is always available by calling 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A long standing theory, but one ballistics supports, at least in the mind of some of those who worked the case, is that Ivan Milat didn't act alone and that there were multiple shooters at several of his crime scenes.
Host Kathryn Fox sits down with one of Australia's most respected forensic experts, Gerard Dutton to understand why some think there was more than one shooter, and how specific ballistic evidence supports this.
This episode contains references to violence, if it affects you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Known for its violent, unpredictable atmosphere, and for being a home to Sydney's organised crime kingpins. The Cross is an intense place to be for anyone, especially a cop.
Brett Stevens is a former NSW Police Officer who spent years in the heart of Sydney's inner city, and took on cases that still affect him now, almost 20 years later. Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks Brett's life in the force, and seeks to understand how things are different now that he's left the force.
This episode contains references to suicide, violence against women and sexual assault. For support, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732, or dial Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Forensic data and pattern recognition tell us a lot, but how does it help in the fight against domestic violence? And how are some data points more important than others?
Dr Lyndal Bugeja is the research lead of the Violence Investigation Research and Training Unit at Monash University, and is an expert in interpreting forensic data sets to gain an understanding as to how people are dying/being killed and what can be done to stop it.
Lyndal sits down with host Kathryn Fox to explain how a tragic case in the late 90s proved one of her hypothesis false, but also changed the way she went about research and data recognition.
This episode contains references to violence against women and children. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you're in Australia, and you're in immediate danger, dial 000.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A hefty bribe landed in the hands of a supposedly crooked cop, courtesy of a heroin kingpin's brother. Little did the briber know, this cop was Michael Kennedy, a former detective with an unwavering moral compass.
Michael spent over two decades with the NSW Police, working in the Major Crime Squad, Bureau of Crime Intelligence, and the NSW State Crime Commission. In this episode with Brent Sanders, Michael reflects on his unusual path to policing, which meant he could form and maintain relationships with career criminals, uncovering dark secrets involving international drug trading and political corruption.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a merciless serial killer terrorised the women of Manchester with a spate of brutal attacks, police and forensics were left stumped. Now, almost 50 years later, forensics has learned, and built more advanced technologies that could've helped catch the killer sooner, and saved more lives.
To understand how forensics has learned from this case, and to unpack the current strategies being employed to catch criminals and save lives, host Kathryn Fox sits down with expert Dr Marie Morelato.
This episode contains references to sexual violence against women and children. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you're in Australia, and you're in immediate danger, dial 000.
If you're in the UK, and need assistance, resources are available at the link below:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/domestic-abuse-how-to-get-help#get-help-and-support
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two cousins, both wives to the same man, found dead under mysterious circumstances. Was this the world's unluckiest husband, or a serial wife killer?
Former detective Peter Seymour has dedicated over two decades of his life to the people of Western Sydney, serving in the NSW Police as both a detective and police prosecutor.
In this episode, Brent Sanders talks to Peter about the shockingly bizarre investigation of Thomas Keir, and the life-altering case that pushed Peter to his limits, prompting him to make a critical decision that changed the course of his career.
This episode contains descriptions of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. Contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for more information and confidential support. There are also references to pregnancy loss. Contact Red Nose Grief and Loss on 1300 308 307 for support for miscarriage, stillbirth, and newborn death. If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of Australia's greatest ever miscarriages of justice. For decades, The Crown and much of the Australian public called for Lindy Chamberlain to be gaoled. Then, when she was, it was only until a chance discovery of new evidence was she released.
Uncover the failings of forensics in one of Australia's most infamous criminal matters with expert Mackenzie de la Hunty. Hear as she walks host Kathryn Fox through the case, and gives intricate detail into what was involved in the forensics of the case and how things would be different today.
This content contains graphic descriptions of violence against children, please listen with care.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Working in child protection takes you to the darkest corners of humanity. Former detective Jack Roney, devoted over a decade to Queensland Police's Child Protection Unit, where he not only tackled some of the most heinous offences in the Crimes Act, but also took on the role of guardian for children who had witnessed unimaginable horrors, including homicide.
In this discussion with Brent Sanders, Jack shares the harrowing story of two parents who were murdered in front of their seven children. Hear about the complexities of working in this field, the emotional toll it takes on an officer, and the nuanced challenges of dealing with minors in the aftermath of such traumatic events.
This episode has descriptions of child sexual abuse and SIDS. For further information and support for issues regarding sexual assault, family, and domestic violence, contact 1800 RESPECT. For further information and support regarding SIDS or the loss of a child, contact the Red Nose Foundation. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If it's an emergency, dial 000.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CCTV has helped capture criminals all across the world, but, catching a killer on camera isn't as clear cut as you might think. In fact, what may seem like the smoking gun in a case, forensic photography is actually a complex and often misunderstood field.
Glenn Porter is an expert in forensic photography, and has spent decades taking pictures of crime scenes, presenting evidence and explaining how the science of video and photography works in a forensic investigation.
Join host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks a brutal double murder, and understands how CCTV footage lead to a conviction, but not as immediately as you might suspect.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
100 tactical operators, and lasting for nearly 40 hours. It's one of Australia's most intense, and high profile siege operations.
Brett Pennell is a former NSW Police Officer who spent almost 20 years in the force. As part of the Tactical Operations Unit, Brett was involved in high level raids, drug import intercepts and complex, high profile arrests.
One of those jobs, the Tumut Siege, saw him make a split second decision, that still impacts him to this day. Understand this job and more with host Brent Sanders, as Brett takes us through, in intricate detail, the operationally concepts of the siege.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
If you're a veteran and you found this content affected you, 24-hour free counselling and support for you and your family is available at Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling on 1800 011 046.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An innocent woman was jailed for 16 years for a murder she did not commit. It wasn't until The Innocence Project became involved that Kirstin Blaise Lobato was finally able to walk free.
Professor Gail Anderson is Canada’s first-ever full-time forensic entomologist and has been working in the field for nearly 35 years. Her work is dedicated to the study of insects, and what they can reveal about miscarriages of justice.
In this discussion with host Kathryn Fox, Gail details her involvement in exonerating Blaise Lobato, as well as Steven Truscott, who at age 14 was wrongfully convicted, and sentenced to death for the murder of his classmate.
This episode contains references to sexual violence against women and children. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you're in Australia, and you're in immediate danger, dial 000.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The world's most notorious criminals, unknowingly spilling their secrets on a 'secure' app run by... the cops. That's exactly what happened in Operation Ironside, a covert operation run by the FBI in collaboration with the AFP.
Chris Craner is one of Australia’s most experienced tactical operators. His 30-plus-year career had him at the forefront of some of the country’s most intense and high-stakes investigations, including Ironside and the Lindt Cafe Seige.
In this episode hosted by Brent Sanders, Chris shares never-before-heard details about the Lindt Cafe Seige, and pulls back the curtain on Ironside. Hear how authorities infiltrated the underbelly of organised crime syndicates, seizing millions in dirty cash, blocking large importations of drugs and intercepting homicide plots.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do you know what a forensic sexual assault examination actually entails? What are the processes and how do they affect the outcome of a case?
In this episode, former GP Kathryn Fox speaks to forensic physician Dr Maaike Moller to demystify and debunk the process of reporting a sexual assault. Maaike will walk us through how and when to report an assault, how evidence and DNA is collected from a survivor, and the autonomy of the survivor throughout the whole process. Maaike also shares her expertise on drug-facilitated assault and stealthing.
Please note, this podcast is not a replacement for professional advice. If you believe you've been assaulted or have had your drink spiked, please contact your local police or seek medical advice from a health professional or local hospital.
This episode discusses sexual assault. Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available in Australia at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you're in Australia and need immediate help, dial 000. If you're outside of Australia, visit this link for a list of support services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After an attempted murder left a man brutally injured, one cop decided to change the way police in Queensland respond to violent crimes.
Queensland Police Sergeant Dustin Osborne is one of the best examples of how proactive policing can not only prevent crime, but save lives.
He designed and implemented QPol’s groundbreaking Tactical First Aid Program. An initiative which has received global acclaim for its ability to train first responding police in critical medical intervention techniques.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks how Dustin copes with his role as a first responding police officer, and what is next for the future of police medicine.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2016, a mum of three and a wannabe serial killer became two of Australia's most calculated female murderers.
Dr Kari Pitts is a forensic chemist and trace evidence expert, who has worked on over 300 criminal cases, including homicides, violent assaults, arson, and fatal hit-and-runs.
In this episode, Kari explains how a dyed blue hair and some carpet helped convict Perth's female thrill kill pair. Kari also tells host Kathryn Fox about an initiative she pioneered with the WA Police, that has so far assisted in over 150 sexual assault investigations.
If you're in Australia, information and support for anyone affected by domestic, family, and sexual violence is available at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.
If you're outside of Australia, visit this link for a list of support services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In March 1991, five violent offenders stole a prison garbage truck and smashed their way through the gates. The pursuit that followed left the country and those watching live on Channel 7 stunned.
Shaun O'Gorman is one of Queensland's most experienced dog handlers. He worked in the K9 unit for much of his career, and became one of the state's most effective operators. Understand his career with host Brent Sanders, and learn about what goes into training police dogs and the cops that go with them.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2000, a violent daylight attack on two children rocked the Netherlands. The fatal event set the stage for the wrongful arrest of an innocent man, and would later go on to radically change the Dutch legal system forever.
In this episode, host Kathryn Fox is joined by Rossanne de Roo, Forensic Advisor to the Dutch Courts, who reveals the shocking details of the bungled police investigation. Hear about the innovative role of forensic advisors, who close the gap between science and the law, to prevent an injustice like that of Schiedam Park from ever occurring again.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A 40 hour long raid. This was Derrick McManus' day at work in May 1994. Shot 14 times in a mere 5 seconds, and bleeding out on the ground for 3 hours.
Derrick is a 40-year veteran of the South Australia Police. After joining the force in 1976, he moved up the ranks and was eventually selected for the exclusive STAR Group, an elite tactical special operations unit that took on some of the state's most intense cases.
In this episode, Derrick tells host, Brent Sanders, how an arrest warrant turned into what would become South Australia's largest siege, with the offender firing over 2500 rounds in 40 hours, and how he managed to survive against all odds.
If this content affects you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How does a single footprint help solve a homicide case?
Dr Paul Bennett is a forensic podiatrist with a particular talent for identifying patterns left behind in footprints.
His knowledge and expertise have assisted police in decoding evidence from crime scenes across Australia, including several high profile cases.
Join host Kathyrn Fox as she unpacks the work Paul has undertaken and what it means to him.
Please visit Danielmorcombe.com.au and learn about the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
Daniel’s parents, Denise and Bruce launched the foundation to provide personal child safety education to children and young people to prevent abuse and promote lifelong health and wellbeing. They support educators, parents and carers through the provision of resources and education and also directly support young victim survivors of crime.
Danielmorcombe.com.au, or dial 1300 326 435
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Buying, selling, and using drugs. Deceiving almost everyone in your life, and watching the horrors of crime unfold, whilst being unable to do anything about it.
Former undercover operative Keith Banks is one of Queensland Police’s most decorated officers. He spent over two years undercover, jumping from identity to identity, dicing his way through drug deals and deceiving his way into friendships and high intensity operations.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks the work of Keith Banks, and understands the traumatic nature of his career and life post policing.
This episode contains references to suicide, if this content effects you, dial lifeline on 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ted Kaczynski terrorised the US for almost 20 years. But, what was it like forensically analysing the letters of a twisted genius?
Max Houck is one of the world's most respected and recognised forensic scientists. During his time at the FBI, he worked on some of the world's most infamous forensic investigations, including 9/11, D.B Cooper, and The Unabomber.
Understand Max's career with host Kathryn Fox, as we dive into these cases and hear the incredible stories of their forensic investigations.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Unraveling the web of child exploitation deeply impacts everyone involved.
In the second instalment of Brent Sanders’ chat with Narelle Fraser, delve deeper into Narelle’s time as a Detective in the Sex Crimes Squad where she investigated child exploitation.
Learn about Narelle's personal approach when working alongside child victim-survivors, understand the delicate process of delivering earth-shattering news to parents and gain insights into what Narelle learned about the type of offenders who commit these crimes.
This episode discusses child sexual abuse. Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available in Australia at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you're in Australia and need immediate help, dial 000. If you're outside of Australia, visit this link for a list of support services.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When two men are found dead off a main road in Honolulu, Hawaii, forensics is called to the scene. The state of the bodies is suspicious by nature, but there's something about one of the decedents that makes them almost impossible to identify.
That's when Dr David Carter is called. David is the Director of Forensic Sciences at the Chaminade University in Hawaii. He's experienced, highly skilled and sought after by police for investigative consulting.
His knowledge is broad, and with host Kathryn Fox, we dig into the world of forensics in the Hawaiian environment, and go granular with understanding how humidity, rain and unique wildlife can affect forensic investigations.
If the content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A 'low-level' break-in is reluctantly reported to police. Only one female officer seems concerned, and it's because of her 'creep radar.' The result, an offender terrorising his home and neighbourhood for months is finally identified and apprehended.
That officer was former Detective Narelle Fraser.
In this candid discussion with host Brent Sanders, hear about Narelle's unique skillset as a female detective, giving her profound insight into the minds and behaviours of perpetrators of sexual crimes, and the advice she has to make sure police take you seriously when you just know something isn't quite right.
This episode is part one of two with Narelle.
This episode discusses sexual assault and stalking. Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available in Australia at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If you're in Australia and need immediate help, dial 000. If you're outside of Australia, visit this link for a list of support services.
If you're concerned about your own, or someone else’s sexual thoughts or behaviours toward children, anonymous support and information is available at Stop It Now (1800 01 1800).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1994, the lifeless body of a likely murdered man known only as 'The Gentleman' was discovered by German Police floating in the North Sea. For 28 years, the case baffled authorities, until a small team of forensic scientists and students in Perth, Australia, made a bombshell discovery no one saw coming.
Brendan Chapman is the Director of Murdoch University’s Cold Case Review group and a senior lecturer in forensic science. In this discussion with Kathryn Fox, Brendan takes us inside the international, multi-jurisdictional cold case investigation of The Gentleman, and shares some exciting research labeled the 'Sexome' project that could change the way sex offenders are identified.
This episode discusses sexual assault. Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available in Australia at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Yvette Erskine spent over a decade with the Tasmanian Police, serving as a Detective in the Criminal Investigation Branch and as an investigator in one of the state's most lucrative covert task forces.
Understand the immense pressure she felt in a hostage situation, and how she was able to escape and control it.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks Yvette's career and life after the force.
If the content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available in Australia at 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the body of Frances Tizzone was found, the only physical evidence located at the scene was several coarse fibres adhering to the soles of her shoes.
Distinguished Professor Claude Roux is the Director of the UTS Centre for Forensic Science and President of the International Association of Forensic Sciences.
In this episode, join host Kathryn Fox, and gain a deeper understanding of how the smallest details can unlock the doors to justice, and how Claude's research, in the middle of a murder trial, led to the conviction of a killer.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A regular night early in his career ended with him stabbed and bleeding out on a Sydney back street. Now, 25 years on, Jason Semple is one of NSW Police's most decorated and experienced operators.
Since that infamous night, he's served overseas with some of the country's most highly trained special operations units, where he tackled some of the world's most high risk and intense situations.
Understand how Jason recovered from that life changing night, where he lost his colleague and friend Peter Forsyth and turned into a ruthless and effective operative.
Host Brent Sanders sits down with Jason in the Sydney studio, as he walks us through his career and his life post police.
If this episode affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of your family members could be missing, and your DNA could help find them. The AFP is putting out a call to the general public to help solve cold cases that have police them for decades.
Associate Professor Jodie Ward is the Program Lead of the National DNA Program for Unidentified and Missing Persons at the Australian Federal Police. Funded by the Confiscated Assets Account, the program is a nationwide effort to find, or identify people who are unaccounted for.
Understand it all with host Kathryn Fox, as Jodie takes her through exactly what the program does and how it's helping track down and identify hundreds of missing Australians.
If you think someone you know is missing, call the police on 000 or visit this link.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The tragedy of a murder investigation never leaves detectives. The scenes, the circumstances, and how confronting it all is remain - it's just a matter of how police deal and cope with what they see, whilst remaining professional.
As a former Victoria Police Homicide Detective, Graeme Simpfendorfer has seen and investigated horrific and tragic cases. He's a 27-year veteran of Victoria Police and was a highly valued member of Vic Pol's prestigious homicide team.
Understand Graeme's career with host Brent Sanders, and learn what led him to where he is now.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The murder of Inge Lotz is one of the most controversial homicide investigations in South Africa's history. A lone fingerprint police claim to have lifted from a DVD case led to the acquittal of the alleged murderer, and resulted in accusations of fabricated evidence.
Dr Scott Chadwick is a fingermark detection expert and leading academic at the UTS Centre for Forensic Science. His research focuses on optimising existing fingermark detection techniques and developing new reagents for revealing fingermarks on the most challenging of surfaces.
In this episode, join host Kathryn Fox, and hear about the science behind the acquittal of Inge Lotz's accused killer, and the importance of transparent and accurate crime scene investigation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of New Zealand's most experienced police negotiators. From suicide prevention to high-intensity prison hostage situations, Lance Burdett has seen it all.
Even though he joined the police late, at 35, Lance was able to blaze a path that led him to the top of New Zealand police. After 22 years, he retired as New Zealand's most skilled hostage negotiator, with a 100% record in suicide-related incidents.
But, it wasn't all smooth sailing for Lance, as he explains to host Brent Sanders.
This episode contains references to infant loss, please listen with care.
If this content affects you, and you’re in need of support, help is available. Visit Sands.org.au, and dial their 24/7 support line on 1300 308 307 - or call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Please listen with care.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A place in the Blue Mountains where scientists perform tests on human remains, train sniffer dogs and understand what happens to the body in strange circumstances.
Professor Maiken Ueland is the Deputy Director at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research, or more commonly known as AFTER. She is a leader in the field of forensic taphonomy, where she uses analytical biochemical and spectroscopic techniques to conduct human post-mortem investigations.
The work she does is fascinating, and host Kathryn Fox is taken through exactly how Maiken is helping solve and prevent crime.
If you're interested in learning more about how you can donate your remains to AFTER, visit the following resource:
https://www.uts.edu.au/about/faculty-science/after-facility/body-donation
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A case that beggars belief. How does a detective cope with such a scene, and complete an investigation when having to take it all in?
On September 2nd, 2001, a father murdered his three children. Jackson, six years old, Taylah, 11 months, and Mikaylah, 11 weeks. Still to this day, police don't have a motive. But what did the investigation look like, and how does a detective cope?
Former Detective Carla Tomadini is an example of exceptional police work, and someone who deserves the recognition she's received. Now lecturing at Charles Sturt University, Carla spent nearly two decades in the police before moving into the DPP as a solicitor.
Her career is immense, and one host Brent Sanders goes through in intricate detail.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's a horror scenario, but more common that you think. If you find remains, what should you do? Situations like this lead to convictions all the time, but if the improper process is followed, evidence can be contaminated and a conviction potentially lost.
Professor Samantha Rowbotham is a forensic anthropologist at VIFM. She sees bones and human remains on a daily basis, and has an intimate understanding of what they tell us and how they can help solve crimes.
Understand it all with host Kathryn Fox, as Sam talks specific cases and the broad world of bones and the deceased.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 44.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2016, Dustin La Mont was found not guilty of murder - but, it was a verdict that split New Zealand. After five hours of deliberation, the jury ruled he had acted in self-defence. But, as he left the courtroom, the family of the deceased swore at La Mont, and called him a 'murderer'.
So why is this case so controversial?
NZ Police Association President Chris Cahill was working that case, and he was part of the prosecuting team that alleged La Mont had pre-medidated his acts, and deliberately stabbed Whangarei man Nathan Pukeroa and Devaray Junior Cole-Kurvaji.
Unpack this case and understand why it had such an impact on New Zealand with host Brent Sanders.
If this content affected you, the number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the bodies in the barrels were found, Australia was rocked. A murder investigation was underway, and forensics was set to play a huge part. But where to even begin?
Roger Byard had been working in forensics for just two weeks when he got the call. A set of barrels had been found in a bank vault, and he was needed at the scene. The investigation that followed was taxing on Roger, and the community in South Australia, but the work was meaningful and would lead to successful convictions and answers for families.
Unpack this case and more with host Kathryn Fox, as Roger takes her through his career in forensics and beyond.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The murder of Boggabilla woman Theresa Binge is still unsolved, more than 20 years later. Why?
On 29 June 2003, Theresa's body was found approximately 10 kilometres south of the Queensland border on Boomi Road. Forensic evidence indicates the crime was committed elsewhere before her body was moved.
Former Detective Greg Lamey will never forget this case, even after having left the force and moved on. This case struck him and gripped him, as it did much of the Queensland and NSW communities.
Greg is an 18 year veteran of the NSW police force, and is now a crime author under the name Greg James. His book, Bordertown can be found at the link below:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44586469-bordertown
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14. If you're in danger, help is available, dial 1800 RESPECT. 1800 737 732.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the 1990s, a deliberately fire in Sydney left 8 people dead. But how was it lit? How can forensics tell, and what information do they need to build a case for conviction?
Professor Peter Ellis is a veteran of forensics in Australia and has worked across a number of high profile criminal investigations. As well, he's worked overseas, in mass grave sites in Kosovo and mass disasters like the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami.
In this episode of Crime Insiders: Forensics, understand Peter's career, and the toll this type of work takes as Kathryn Fox takes us through his career and his incredible work.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A group of bikies converged on Sydney airport. Within minutes, one was dead and others injured. It was an incident that set off one of the world's most intense and effective gang operations, and lead to a plethora of law changes and high profile convictions.
Deborah Wallace is a titan of NSW Police. Retiring in 2019 after 36 years in the force, she became known across Australia as 'The Gangbuster', after successful operations in the intense region of Cabramatta, and then the aforementioned Strike-force Raptor.
The beginning of her career though was much more abstract. She was involved in one of Australia's most horrific cases. The rape and murder of Anita Cobby in 1986. Understand the impact of that case on Deb, and Australia as a whole as Brent Sanders steps through the career of one of Australia's most decorated police officers.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline in 13 11 14.
If you, or someone you know is in danger, help is available. Dial 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732). If it's an emergency, and you're in Australia, dial 000.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
15% of the DNA on your hands isn't even yours. So, could you be found guilty of a crime you didn't commit? Just because your DNA was found at the scene?
Professor Georgina Meakin is an expert in DNA transfer. She studies how DNA is moved from people to things, from things to people, and what it means in the context of crime. She exclusively works in defence, and has worked across an incredibly high profile case in the UK, involving a man named 'Flakey Dave'.
Hear what happened to Flakey Dave, as host Kathryn Fox unpacks Georgina's work, and gets an understanding of how DNA can be used to convict, but also defend.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An exclusive, never before heard retelling of how the Newcastle Knights superstar was covertly surveilled and arrested for drug trafficking. It threw his career and sport into disrepute - and, gave an insight into the fascinating culture of organised crime and sport in Australia.
As well as arresting high profile sports stars, Former NSW Detective Sergeant Craig Semple has tackled some of Australia's most vicious, and high profile outlaw motorcycle gangs. Craig's career takes some incredible turns - including a high profile murder case in Yamba which shocked almost all of the NSW police department, and several high intensity bikie operations which ended Craig's career, and almost his life.
Some of the stories you’ll hear from Craig today are just extraordinary. His honesty, candour and emotional vulnerability goes beyond what we expect from our guests, it shows the type of character he is now, and was in the force.
Unpack it all with host Brent Sanders, and understand the ups and downs of policing in NSW and Australia as a whole.
If this content has affected you, the number for lifeline 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How were the bodies found? What forensic techniques were used to catch Milat? And what findings helped bring closure to families?
Professor Chris Griffiths is one of Australia's most experience forensic experts. In his time, he's helped bring closure to families by identifying victims. As well, his work has contributed to the convictions of some of the country's worst serial killers, including Ivan Milat.
Join host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks Chris' career, and understands the toll this type of work has on him professionally and personally.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The psychology of this policing is like no other, and requires a particular set of skills. For Anthony Macklin, it suited his attention to detail and unrelenting work ethic. He was dedicated to his work, and to the force. But, when bureaucracy and the decisions of those above him meant an offender slipped through the net - he had to rethink his career.
Anthony Macklin is a former Detective Inspector in the NSW Police. He worked tirelessly in the force, and took on several high ranking positions across a number of stations. Now, he works alongside fellow guest Danny Mikati as a private investigator.
It was a distinct pleasure to have Anthony on the show, the whole Crime Insiders team extends a warm thanks to him for his time.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks Anthony's career and gets to know the man behind the badge.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It started with a bite, and ended in a violent shooting. Forensics employed unique techniques to help crack not only the murder, but the complex circumstances that led to it.
Richard Bassed is one of Australia's most experienced forensic odontologists. His work is complex and important in solving high profile murders - like that of The Vampire Gigolo - but also, in identifying victims of mass fatalities and mass disasters.
Unpack his work with host Kathryn Fox, and understand how forensic odontology is helping to solve and prevent crime in Australia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A case that started a manhunt, and ended in tragedy. A quiet town in the Blue Mountains, thrown into chaos by a shooting and the police's effort to track down the offender.
Alan Leek is a 35 year veteran of the NSW Police. He spent almost his entire career as a detective; investigating high stakes and high profile investigations. For much of his life, violent crime was on his door step, and it was up to him to take it on - whilst balancing, life, family and more.
Join host Brent Sanders as he unpacks Alan's career, and gains an understanding of how he had such a long and successful career in the force.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A first hand account of how the GSK case was solved, the science used in Australia to crack similar cases and the ethical complexities that are muddying the waters.
The case of the Golden State Killer puzzled police and amateur sleuths for decades. Then, in April 2018, a Sacramento man was arrested and charged. How did police find their man, and what led them to him after years of nothing but cold clues and lack of leads?
Genealogy is a complex, and often misunderstood science. But, according to Professor Dennis McNevin, an expert in the field of forensic genetics, it's a technique police are becoming more and more interested in, and something we could see used in Australia very soon.
Join host Kathryn Fox as she unpacks Dennis' work and career, and dives into cases like the Golden State Killer and the Somerton man.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A single incident, can lead police down a path, which if they're not taken off, can lead to horrific consequences.
Beth Docksey had an illustrious career in the force, and should be recognised as one of NSW Police's shining lights. However, it took a surge of immense courage and resilience to get to where she is now. After a critical incident at the Eastwood Shopping Centre in Sydney - her husband Glenn began down a path that not many understood, one which culminated in a horrific incident years later.
The Crime Insiders team would like to extend a sincere thanks to Beth Docksey for giving her time and candour for this interview. Brent and the whole team would like to thank her for her service, and her continued work in bringing awareness to the challenges of mental health in policing.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Comedian Eurydice Dixon and student Aya Maasarwe were both victims of horrific crimes. The first responding forensic expert to those scenes was Jo Glengarry. She facilitated the investigation and performed the forensic tasks which contributed to convictions.
Understand Professor Glengarry's process when being a first responding forensic expert to violent and confronting scenes, and understand the personal and professional toll that these cases had on her.
Host Kathryn Fox talks to Jo about and understands the nature of these crimes and how forensic experts respond and what processes go into facilitating a successful conviction.
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT. (1800 737 732)
For counselling, advice and support for men who have anger, relationship or parenting issues, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
If this content affects you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
For more resources specific to your state or territory, visit www.respect.gov.au/services/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's more common than you think - a missing persons report is made every 18 minutes in Australia, and over 2,600 people are missing right now.
Val Smith is a 35 year veteran of Victoria Police and an expert in the elusive field of missing persons. Throughout his time in the force he created a set of rules; engagement techniques that should be used if your loved one is lost or unaccounted for.
After retiring from the force, Val is helping families and police track down those often lost through the system. Through the charity Footsteps in the Wilderness, he investigates cold cases, discarded situations or simply forgotten stories.
Unpack it all with host Brent Sanders, as he talks to Val about his extensive career and those crucial steps to potentially save someone from going missing.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A first hand account of how in a mass shooting, the preservation and storing of bodies is a horrific, but necessary process. It's crucial to ensure no evidence is lost and that they remain in a dignified and respectful state.
Jodie Leditschke is the Manager of Forensic Technical Services at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine - essentially meaning that she manages the mortuary. So she's responsible for the storage and maintenance of remains all across the state and country.
Understand her incredible work, with host Kathryn Fox and hear the first hand account of Jodie's experience at the Broad Arrow Cafe in the aftermath of the Port Arthur Massacre.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A never before heard insight into centre of the siege. From communicating with snipers across the scene, to briefing the Prime Minister. But it's not all as it seems. The public was told a different story.
Danny is a former NSW Police Officer who was a pivotal part of three of Sydney's most high profile criminal investigations. The Bilal Skaf case, also known as the Sydney Gang Rapes saw Danny as part of a search crew - looking for victims and building a case against Skaf and his affiliates.
The Cronulla Riots, where Danny stood guard at the Lakemba Mosque amid an onslaught of violence; and then the Lindt Cafe Siege, arguably Sydney's most notable hostage situation.
Danny goes into intense detail, and outlines beat by beat the details and processes of the investigation and the convictions. Unpack Danny's career in the force and the work he's doing now with host Brent Sanders.
To see more of Danny, he can be found on Tik Tok.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
If this content affected you, the number for lifeline is 13 11 14.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Digging up a body is rare, and it's a strange and complex process. But why does it happen? And what do forensics learn by doing it?
Dr Jo Dufluo is a privately practicing forensic pathologist. He's worked across a range of forensic fields and has performed thousands of autopsies, examinations and post mortem analyses. Throughout his career, he's undertaken only a few exhumations - which is the process of removing a body from it's grave - but, the ones he has done, have been fascinating.
Understand the process of Jo's work with host Kathryn Fox, and learn how the work of forensic experts around Australia and the world are helping solve crime.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sandra Nicholson was at the heart of chaos. Whilst Melbourne was under siege during the Gangland Wars, and bushfires wreaked havoc across Victoria, those at the top of Vic Pol were forced to front the media and take responsibility for the intensity surrounding the city.
Sandra Nicholson was Assistant Commissioner at Victoria Police for 5 years, and steered the ship with Commissioner Christine Nixon. Sandra joined the service in 1975, and rose through the ranks until her retirement almost 40 years later.
Brent Sanders chats with Sandra as she reflects on her career, and the high stakes work that took her from Social Service in NSW, to the second highest ranking female officer in the history of Victoria Police.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A body found wrapped in a carpet, and a species of fly that verified an alibi. The bugs and insects that end up on bodies contribute to a lot more than just decomposition, they can act as evidence for conviction or help prove innocence of a suspect.
Dr Paola Magni is a forensic entomologist is considered the global face of the specialist forensic science that uses insects and other small creatures to help solve murders, suspicious deaths and cold cases.
Unpack the incredible work of Paola with host Kathryn Fox, and understand the intricate nitty gritty details of bugs, insects and dead bodies.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What toll does it take on a detective to investigate a missing persons case for 40 years? What do you tell the family? When do you stop looking, if ever?
David Plumpton is an old school detective. A Tasmanian local, he joined the force because he wanted to make a difference. In his 40+ year career, he did much more than that. Unpack his career with host Brent Sanders, and hear how a double murder in Hobart, changed his career forever and why the case of Lucille Butterworth still stays with him, even now.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2014, flight MH17 was shot down, and 298 people died. A set of Australian experts were sent to investigate and assist. In the aftermath, victim identification is crucial in not only determining the identity of someone who's died, but in the matter of a criminal investigation, the cause of death.
Professor David Ranson is a forensic consultant and the former Deputy Head of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. In 2014, David was one of the forensic experts sent to the Ukraine to assist in the forensic management of the shooting down of MH17. In conversation with host Kathryn Fox, understand the role that David played, and go into the detail of what an investigation of that size and politic significance involves.
For more episodes, down the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Corruption in the police is a sad reality of the job. But for those investigating these coppers, it's especially hard. Often they're mates - but, they're mates who've committed crimes, so there's no holding back.
Chris Coster is Victoria Police's last Chief Inspector. His 45-year career came to an end in 2019, and with it, the rank of Chief Inspector was phased out. During his time at Vic Pol, Chris was the Head of Recruiting - meaning he was the final filter in deciding whether a recruit would be handed a gun and a badge. Then, Chris developed and lead the incredibly successful Neighbourhood Watch Program - and finally, internal investigations; work which saw him investigating his mates, and making some incredibly tough calls.
Unpack his career with host Brent Sanders, and understand how Chris overcame immense challenges to be lauded as one of the greats of Victoria Police.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Toxicology deciphers death like nothing else. Results determine time of death, location, and method. But, how does it work?
Delving into the dark secrets of poisons, toxicology is the ultimate detective. Toxicologists like Dr Dimitri Gerostamoulos analyse hidden clues within biological samples, and help solve cases like murder investigations, unexplained deaths and drug overdoses. Toxicology acts as a window into crime both in time, and space.
Dr Dimitri Gerostamoulos is the Head of Forensic Science and Chief Toxicologist at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. Talking to host Kathryn Fox, Dimitri explains how toxicology works in an Australian context, and goes back to why he entered the world of forensics, and explores cases that have affected him and stayed with him throughout his career.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 2004, outside a pub, Australian Cricket legend David Hookes died. A manslaughter charge was laid, and a trial ensued. But no one was convicted, why? What were the processes that lead to the verdict, and how were the police involved?
As well, what Underbelly doesn't show you. An unprecedented look at the killing of Alphonse Gangitano and the chaos which proceeded it - and, the Frankston Serial Killer Paul Denyer, and how he was caught.
Charlie Bezzina is an unrelenting legend of Victorian Police - the man who helped catch Frankston Serial Killer Paul Denyer, and a key member of the team which fought against organised crime during the Melbourne Gangland wars of the 2000s. In his 35 plus year career, Bezzina has gone up against larger than life figures of the Australian crime world - but, in this chat with host Brent Sanders, understand the man behind the stories, and get an inside look into Bezzina and the world around him.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
CTE is suprisingly common - but, it can only be diagnosed post-mortem, & by a forensic expert. So, how is does an examination work? And why is it so hard to have one done?
Dr Linda Iles is a forensic neuropathologist, and someone who performs post-mortem brain examinations on people every single day. What she discovers in these exams is extraordinary, and telling to the life that person lead.
More recently, CTE has been something she's on the look out for. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy is a progressive degenerative brain disease typically found in individuals with a history of repetitive brain trauma, such as athletes involved in contact sports like AFL, NRL, soccer and martial arts.
Understand how someone is diagnosed post-mortem, and the intricate details of brain examinations with host Kathryn Fox; as she chats with Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine's Dr Linda Iles.
For more information on CTE or if anyone you know is showing symptoms and you need support, visit the following resources:
https://www.concussionfoundation.com.au/helpline
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A man-hunt that lasted more than 7 years. One of Australia's most wanted men finally caught. But by who? And at what cost?
Ricky Hennessy was an integral member of the NSW police force for over 22 years. His skill, and level of focus lead to several high-profile convictions all across Australia. One of his most notable, was the capture of fugitive and convicted killer Malcolm Naden; who was on the run in NSW bushland for more than 7 years.
With host and former police officer Brent Sanders, understand Ricky Hennessy's work - and experience a behind the scenes retelling of the capture of Naden, and the interview and interrogation which lead to a successful conviction.
For more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do the patterns tell us? Why is misting so important? How are blood patterns measured? Who does it?
Blood spatter analysis is at the heart of CSI and other crime shows, but how is it really done? Professor Adrian Linacre is a forensic practitioner who specialises in body fluid dynamics and blood pattern analysis. He's spent years in the field, both in Australia and overseas in Glasgow, and has seen some fascinating cases.
Hear about how forensic experts analyse blood patterns with host, crime author, screenwriter and former general practitioner Kathryn Fox - who will help unpack the unfiltered how and why of forensic investigations.
Fore more episodes, download the LiSTNR app.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Taskforce Argos was built to catch the worst of the worst - to infiltrate and stop child exploitation material networks.
Its former head, Jon Rouse spent years in the operation, and became entrenched in the world of saving children from abuse and sexual exploitation. Now, he's got some distance from the front-line, but, questions still linger. How does it all affect him? And what is he doing now after leaving the force?
Unpack the incredible career, and the merciless work that Jon Rouse and the team at Taskforce Argos undertook, with host Brent Sanders. From analysing the most disturbing of images, to infiltrating online networks and executing raids. As many heard in the award winning podcast series The Children in the Pictures, Jon's work took him across borders, and down dark roads. Hear him explain the work and the toll it takes on this episodes of Crime Insiders: Detectives.
This episode contains references to child sexual abuse and child exploitation material - please listen with care.
If anyone you know has been affected by this material or you've been affected yourself, please reference the following resources:
https://www.afp.gov.au/what-we-do/operational-support/australian-centre-counter-child-exploitation
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A breakthrough new crime series is coming. Forensics, goes under the microscope.
Crime Insiders: Forensics unpacks the work of Australia's most decorated forensic experts, and details the methods and sciences used to help solve complex, high-profile crimes. Hosted by crime author, former medical practitioner and screenwriter Kathryn Fox, these unfiltered conversations go deep, and expel the myths and romanticised mistruths surrounding forensics and criminal science.
Episodes release weekly on Wednesday, starting on July 19th.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A breakthrough new crime series is coming. Real stories, from real detectives.
Hosted by former police officer, Brent Sanders.
You’ll gain an insight into how detectives profile criminals, learn how they find killers, and most importantly rescue victims. This is your chance to dive into the lives of the people who work Australia’s most compelling crime cases, and learn how they solved them, to help give you a greater understanding of the mind of a criminal. And learn the way evil works to help protect yourself against crime, but also the impact that this type of work has on these detectives.
Episodes releasing every Monday, starting on July 17th.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The story you weren’t allowed to hear is finally out in the open. It’s a silent epidemic— and it’s coming for our kids.
Australian documentary-maker Akhim Dev follows the Queensland Police investigation of a notorious child exploitation website. ‘The Love Zone’ hosts thousands of members around the world creating, uploading, and sharing videos and photographic material of unimaginable acts against children.
This dark web network is infiltrated by an elite team of Australian investigators— Taskforce Argos. Argos use their global connections and controversial undercover strategies to take down hands-on abusers in order to save The Children in the Pictures.
This 8 part series is a powerful examination into how child abuse has become endemic online, and what we can all do to fight it.
Search for 'The Children in the Pictures' wherever you get your podcasts.
Warning: what you're about to hear involves crimes against children. Listener discretion is advised.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3 year old Cheryl Grimmer disappeared without a trace from Fairy Meadow beach in 1970. This story has rocked Australia to its core and is covered by BBC's Fairy Meadow Podcast. In this special episode of Australian Detectives, Real Crime investigator Adam Shand speaks with Frank Sanvitale and Damian Loone, the two investigators who dedicated themselves to working the Grimmer case. They found a confession in 2016, but the suspect known as 'Mercury' walked free because the confession was deemed inadmissible. They talk about the lingering affects of watching someone you truly believe is guilty slip through the cracks because of loopholes and poor police processes.
Search BBC's Fairy Meadow podcast on the LiSTNR app to hear the full story.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is Sydney at war? It seems like crooks are dropping like flies at the moment but former Detective Superintendent Deb Wallace says "The more sophisticated the gang the less violence you'll see - they know it's bad for business". Real Crime Investigative Journalist Adam Shand chats with Deb about Bassam Hamzy, the rise of the Brothers 4 Life gang and how they tore themselves apart.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do police investigators get inside information into the underworld? And then what stops those cops from taking a little extra on the side during busts? Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Kos has fought police corruption and then paid the price. Real Crime investigator Adam Shand sits down with Peter to chat through keeping our sources of information secret, and how Peter was tasked with investigating Adam, himself.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Years on from the atrocities that happened on August 9, 1987, which killed 7 people and injured 19 more Real Crime Investigator Adam Shand sits down with Detective Senior Constable Graham Kent to chat about the wanna-be soldier Julian Knight and what it was like for Graham to assess someone like this, as they were taken through a step by step account from Knight himself of the massacre.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In her 36 years on the force, Detective Superintendent Deborah Wallace has taken on bikie, Middle Eastern and Asian gangs, earning herself the nickname 'Gang Buster'. Real Crime Investigative Journalist Adam Shand speaks with Deb about the inner workings of bikie gangs, and how police strategised to keep control and peace of its members.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Corey Allen remembers calling for police help when he was a boy, due to domestic violence issues. These lived experiences created an empathy which he has taken into the police force. Real Crime Investigative Journalist Adam Shand chats with Corey about empathy and understanding for people on the other side of the law.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Caught in the crossfire in a shootout and heavily exposed, David Empey explains the events of a prison escape that led to his team getting ambushed. Real Crime Investigator Adam Shand chats with David about the details of this ambush, including how they were equipped, the reality of bullets flying overhead and the decisions they had to make.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you return to a normal life after working undercover? As a large, heavily tattooed man, Steve Taylor (not his real name) was able to fit in with the crooks, but it was his life after his job where Steve needed help most. Real Crime Investigator Adam Shand chats with Steve about the lingering traumas of a life undercover, losing his identity, dealing with the paranoia of crooks and the incredible things he was tasked with doing.
Trigger warning: Contains graphic details of violence and drug use.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Working a grisly double murder, Tasmanian detective David Plumpton had a story that pointed to one man but he needed evidence to convict his suspect. Real Crime investigative journalist Adam Shand talks with David about forming a rapport with a bikie known to hate the police to get crucial evidence. The retired detective also discusses about the one who got away, the alleged murderer of Hobart woman Lucille Butterworth.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
March 1986, a car bomb goes off outside the Russell Street Police Headquarters. The two officers involved were Angela Taylor and Carl Donadio. Sadly, Angela passed from her injuries that day, becoming the first Australian policewoman killed in action, but Carl survived and served another 15 years on the force. He speaks with Real Crime investigator Adam Shand about the undercover work he has done and what goes into preparing for those roles, and the moments from the day of the bombing cemented in his mind.
Trigger warning: Details of graphic injuries and death.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In 1997, two young girls from Bega were kidnapped, raped and murdered. Mark Winterflood details the process of receiving the first notifications of the missing girls. He chats with Real Crime investigative journalist Adam Shand on the hard reality of not pursuing clues and following them to the end, how important it was to maintain a good relationship with the perpetrator and having to deliver the hard news to the parents.
Trigger warning - this case details the heinous crime of the Bega school girls, and involves abduction, violence, rape and murder.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR App now and listen for free.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chris O'Connor served on the Spectrum task force that pursued a serial child abductor in Victoria, known as Mr. Cruel. He ran Victoria Police's child exploitation unit for a decade and over his career he has had the opportunity to look into the deepest recesses of the human psyche working within sex crimes in Victoria. He speaks with Real Crime Investigator Adam Shand about the kind of toll this work can take on yourself.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Longest serving female police officer, Detective Senior Sergeant Joy Murphy joins Real Crime investigative journalist Adam Shand to discuss the resilience needed as a female officer dealing with horrendous sexual offenders, the issues with dating moving to online apps and how she likes to communicate with criminals.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the first part, Hateley describes training for a special operations unit and gearing up for a huge armed robbery, George Hateley describes the events of the armed robbery in 1992 and the decisions he had to make to try and prevent the robbery. Real crime investigator Adam Shand hears how the death of a villain continued to haunt Hateley, which led him to become the person to introduce the non-lethal taser into Australian forces.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Sons of God were a Special Operations Unit formed back in the 80's and George Hateley was head of operations, including during the shootout at Tullamarine airport in 1992. Real crime investigator Adam Shand chats with George about why more crooks are killed than cops and the training it took to join a newly formed special operations task force and how they geared up for one of the biggest armed robberies in Victoria.
For part 2, download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jeff Maher worked on almost 200 murder investigations in 15 years at the Victoria Police Homicide Squad. Now he trains detectives at the police academy. Maher tells Real Crime's Adam Shand how serial killer Peter Dupas was brought to justice for the murders of Nicole Patterson and Mersina Halvagis. Dupas was brought undone by his modus operandi. Maher says investigators continue to pursue Dupas for other murders with that unique signature.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Would you be able to get away with lying? Real Crime investigator Adam Shand speaks with expert lie detector Steve Van Aperen about the clear give aways of liars, how certain criminals have tried to clear a lie detector test and some of the biggest murder cases that have been brought to justice through a simple line of deceptive questioning.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Retired NSW detective Jim Counsel, head of the 1991 investigation into the murder of heart surgeon Dr Victor Chang talks with Real Crime investigator Adam Shand about how the murderer shot down Chang in a Sydney street. Counsel recalls the hunt to bring Chang's killers to justice which spanned two continents.
For more episodes download the free LiSTNR App
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pavel Marinov - otherwise known as Mad Max, is infamous for his shootout with police in 1986. Real Crime investigator Adam Shand talks to retired Victorian detective Alex Krstic who was on the team that took out Marinov. Krstic reflects on the manhunt and its brutal finale. He was later posted to Broadmeadows CIB and was witness to the start of Melbourne's bloody gangland war.
For more episodes download the LiSTNR app now and listen for free
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Real Crime investigator Adam Shand invites you into his 20-year career reporting on Australia's underworld, a unique insight into Australia's most important and iconic crime stories.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.