The True Crime Podcaster

Part two with guests Greg Yelencech and Attorney Sandra Ferguson. 

Just how powerful are state bar associations and are they accountable to anyone? Hear Attorney Sandra Ferguson describe her own difficulties dealing with these powerful organizations. 

As a star quarterback for Ohio State University, Art Schlichter was drafted by the Baltimore Colts and seemed to have the world at his feet. But that would all come crashing down as his severe gambling addiction would cost him his career, friends, family, and ultimately his freedom.

In March of 1989, the Exxon Valdez oil tanker crashed in the Prince William Sound in Alaska. At the time, it was the largest oil spill in history. Countless wildlife were harmed or killed. The economic impact to locals was devastating. What warning signs did Exxon fail to address? Would the criminal justice system seek justice for their crimes?

A review of what we discussed and learned about white-collar crime in 2021.

Not all white-collar crimes happen on Wall Street. Some happen in the sports and entertainments we enjoy. Hear some of the infamous crimes and scandals that happened within the NCAA. 

She built an empire in hotels and real estate. But her cruel and ruthless demeanor would earn her the infamous nickname, “The Queen of Mean.” She treated employees, contractors, and anyone with less money like garbage. Hear how her famous quote, “we don’t pay taxes. Only the little people pay taxes”, would lead to her downfall.

Missouri attorney J Douglas Cassity had been disbarred and served time in federal prison for tax fraud. But prison did not stop him from scamming. Following his release, he would later put together the largest funeral home in American history bilking customers out hundreds of millions of dollars.

Sadly, the elderly populations are often among those most targeted by white-collar criminals. Hear what to watch for and what types of scams are developing in the age of technology we live in.

Zeek Rewards promised big and fast returns on investments they claimed could be made from penny auctions. But as many would find out, if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Owning a home is part of the American dream. But in 2007-2008, that dream became a nightmare for millions as “teaser” rate mortgages expired and higher rates kicked in leaving many unable to pay. Why were so few held accountable for this scandal?

Illinois has a dark history of corrupt governors. The crimes of George Ryan would sadly cost lives of six children in a a highway accident. It was revealed many unqualified truck drivers were receiving licensing for the right bribe. Hear another case of political corruption from the Land of Lincoln

Rita Crundwell was the well-liked and well-respected treasurer of Dixon, Illinois, for many years. But a checking account scam allowed her to enrich herself with the city’s money beyond imagination. The people of Dixon would suffer for her greed.

Dennis Kozlowski lived an extravagant and gluttonous life at the expense of his employees. Hear how his greed ultimately cost him his freedom.  

His story was at first an American success story. The son of immigrants that rose from his working-class background to become the governor of one of the largest states in the country. However, his attempt to sell Barack Obama's vacant senate seat to the highest bidder would lead to his impeachment and ultimate imprisonment. 

You need water to survive. When we drink it, we trust it has been properly treated and is safe. But what happens if it isn’t? What if the very government you trust to provide safe water fails to do so? Unfortunately, the people of Flint, Michigan, would experience this tragedy.

John Hart Crenshaw made a fortune off his salt mines and was one of the richest men in Illinois. But he made his fortune through illegal slave labor and trafficking. Hear how he built an empire running an illegal reverse Underground Railroad of sorts.

You’ve heard of the term Ponzi Scheme and it’s been in the news for years with cases like Bernie Madoff. But do you know the story behind the name? Hear the story of Charles Ponzi- The Man Behind the Scheme.

In 2005, New Orleans was hit with the devastating Hurricane Katrina. The chaos and damage that followed would plague New Orleans for years. The actions of their corrupt mayor would plague them as well. Hear how Mayor Ray Nagin used his position to enrich himself and his cronies.

Purdue Pharma has profited greatly from the current opioid crisis. They have been a driving force behind it. Hear how a recent court settlement will now shield them from any future liability.

A look at the draconian gun-control measures being pushed by Democrats. They threaten the constitutional liberties of us all. Also a discussion on Illinois HB 3961 which will require all new police officers to have at least a Bachelor's degree with a major or minor in social work. Finally, information on how many agencies deceptively use the term "humane society." A presentation of Paisley, our cu...

Sometimes white-collar crimes cause more harm than financial loss. Sometimes the actions of white-collar criminals cause bodily harm and even death to their victims. Is the criminal justice system doing enough to prosecute these crimes?

Big tech, the news media, and the government are working together to restrict civil liberties and censor any kind of dissent against their narrative. Speak out now or lose your freedoms forever! 

Medical fraud is one of the most common and serious forms of white-collar crime. It can have a devastating and even deadly impact on victims. Find out what types are occurring and what can be done to prevent it. 

What defines a white-collar crime or white-collar criminal. This episode takes a look at historical definitions as well as modern approaches. Also a look into how technology and cybercrime will greatly enhance opportunities for white-collar criminals.