What the Forensics

In this episode we delve into the harrowing and controversial case of Aileen Wuornos, one of America's most infamous female serial killers. Known for her tumultuous life and violent crimes, Wuornos's story is a complex tapestry of trauma, survival, and vengeance that challenges our understanding of justice and human nature. Aileen Wuornos's life was marked by abuse and instability. By examining he...

George Joseph Smith, robbing & murdering his wives (yes wives, plural) since 1898. He appeared to be a charming and respectable man, luring women into marriage before orchestrating their tragic deaths which became known as the "Brides in the Bath" murders. We follow the investigation led by Detective Inspector Arthur Neil, whose relentless pursuit of justice brought Smith's crimes to light and...

In this episode we delve into the shocking case of Harold Shipman, one of the most prolific serial killers in modern history. Known as the "Doctor of Death," Shipman used his trusted position as a family physician to carry out a chilling campaign of murder that claimed the lives of over 200 patients. Harold Shipman appeared to be a caring and dedicated doctor in the small town of Hyde, England. Bu...

From the dense jungles of the Amazon to the vast savannas of Africa, wildlife forensics experts are on the front lines of the battle to protect endangered species from poaching, illegal trafficking, and habitat destruction. In this episode we discuss the intricacies of what it takes to protect the numerous species on this planet. Rebecca leads us in an amazing conversation about the legislation an...

This week we each found a number of cases with some exceptionally dumb criminals. Alternating through them you get to learn about some dumb cases, dumb alibis, and some relatively successful fingerprint removal techniques. This has got to be our funniest episode so far and we hope you enjoy because we would love to do some more like this. Interested in learning more about when WTF releases new epi...

In this weeks episode, we delve into the disturbing realm of fetish killers, focusing on the heinous crimes of Jerry Brudos and the psychological motivations behind such depraved acts along with when a fetish can turn into a disorder. Jerry Brudos, infamously known as the "Shoe Fetish Slayer" or the "Lust Killer," is our focal point in this episode. Operating in the Pacific Northwest during the la...

In this episode we delve into the clandestine world of contract killers, exploring the chilling tales of Richard Kuklinski and John Wilkes Booth, two figures whose names are synonymous with treachery and assassination. Operating in the shadows of the criminal underworld, Kuklinski gained infamy for his cold-blooded demeanor and ruthless efficiency. With a penchant for violence and a reputation for...

We explore the tragic and complex case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, whose story of deception, abuse, and murder captured the nation's attention and sparked a debate on the ethics of caregiving, the criminal justice system, and the media's portrayal of victims and villains. For years, Gypsy was subjected to unnecessary medical treatments, surgeries, and drugs. She was confined to a wheelchair, her head...

Building upon the case we covered in Part 1, we delve deeper into the haunting legacy of the Atlanta Child Murders, exploring the intersection of behavioral analysis, historical precedent, and the relentless pursuit of justice led by FBI Behavioral Analyst John Douglas. We explore the history of Behavioural Analysis through famous case studies such as Jack the Ripper and the Mad Bomber. We don't d...

We delve into the chilling saga of the Atlanta Child Murders, exploring the intricate web of terror that gripped the city and the relentless pursuit of justice led by FBI Behavioral Analyst John Douglas. Join us as we unravel the harrowing tale of innocence lost, forensic investigation, and the enigmatic figure at the center of it all, Wayne Williams. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, Atlanta...

In this episode, Dr. Meredith Tise discusses the groundbreaking forensic work that has unveiled the truth about the Dozier School, including the discovery of unmarked graves and the identification of long-lost remains. Drawing on her experience, she walks us through the challenges of piecing together a historical crime scene and the importance of forensic science in bringing justice to those who w...

In this episode we delve into the chilling crimes of Anthony Kirkland, a name that has sent shivers down the spines of many. But that's not all – our episode takes a fascinating turn as we dive into the intricate topic of burnt bones and how experts piece together the puzzle of charred remains, unlocking critical information that could hold the key to solving crimes. As we unravel the layers of An...

In this episode we delve into the sinister world of Black Widow killers, examining the notorious cases of Nannie Doss and Melissa Ann Shepard. These women, seemingly ordinary on the surface, harbored dark secrets that would shatter the lives of those around them. Journey starts this episode off by giving us a brief description of what a Black Widow killer is, what their motivations are, some MOs,...

We decided to switch things up this month and have Erin West & Ashley Church from Gap Science on. They approached us earlier this year about recording and we were finally able to organize 5 peoples schedule and create an episode! it was so awesome to be able to talk with people who have a combined 25 years experience in the forensic field and we hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we d...

Join us this week as Nicole delves into the chilling world of Rodney Alcala, a notorious serial killer who used charm as his deadly weapon. Uncover the shocking details of his crimes, learn about his appearance on the game show ‘The Dating Game’, and the frustrations surrounding his multiple convictions. But it's not all darkness—Journey takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of forensic...

Join us in this spine-tingling episode as we explore the chilling life and crimes of the infamous serial killer, John Wayne Gacy and discover the horrors hidden behind the clown makeup. But that's not all! Stick around as we delve deep into the mind of a psychopath, exploring the details of psychopathy and discussing its impact on culture society. Please note that this discussion of John Wayne Gac...

In the 3rd part of our witch trial miniseries, we delve into one of the most perplexing and haunting chapters in American history - the Salem Witch Trials. Join us as we journey back to 1692, a time when hysteria, superstition, and fear cast a dark shadow over the small town of Salem, Massachusetts. Rebecca guides us through this chilling tale, exploring the events, the individuals involved, and t...

In the 2nd part of our witch trial miniseries, Journey takes us on a captivating journey back in time to a little-known but fascinating chapter of history – the Torsåker Witch Trials. As we navigate through the trials, we introduce you to the key figures that shaped this dark chapter of Swedish history, from the accused witches themselves to the fervent inquisitors seeking to root out evil in thei...

Welcome to a spine-tingling journey through one of England's darkest historical episodes in the 1st part of our witch trial miniseries. Step back in time to 1612, a turbulent era when the Pendle Hill area in Lancashire was shrouded in ominous clouds of suspicion. As your guide, Nicole delves deep into the harrowing stories of the accused witches, the fervent witch-hunters, and the tumultuous event...

In this episode, we dive into the infamous case of Jeffrey MacDonald, a former Green Beret, who was accused of murdering his wife and children. We explore the complex details, from the initial crime scene to possible theories of what happened. We then chat about crime scene processing and the role crime scene reconstructions can have in uncovering the truth. Join us as we delve into how these...

Join your hosts, Journey, Nicole, and Rebecca, as they learn about twin criminals and explore some fascinating cases of those who've baffled law enforcement. Was it Orlando Nembhard who pulled the trigger? Or his twin brother, Brandon? Without any distinguishable differences, how are law enforcement able to tell who did what? As the conversation unfolds, our hosts discuss the challenges that...

Take a step back in time as we dive into the life and crimes of Machine Gun Kelly and the Prohibition! Join us for a Journey through the roaring '20s, where the notorious gangster George 'Machine Gun' Kelly made headlines with his exploits during the era of banned booze. But was he as tough and cunning as history has made him out to be? Rebecca then tells us all about the (1920’s) P...

Join us this bone-chilling episode as we delve into what’s known about the life and crimes of  China's “Monster Killer”, Yang Xinhai, followed by a sparks notes lesson on the different types of physical injuries we can endure. We learn the differences between blunt force trauma and sharp force trauma, and discuss the intersection of the two! Apologies in advance if you can hear Journey’s clot...

Have you got Creed III and/or Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania on your 2023 “To Watch” list? Curious what happens when cameras stop rolling? Let Journey fill you in on the ongoing case of American Actor, Jonathan Majors, whose case hit the news not long after the release of the aforementioned movies. At the time of recording and episode release, Majors has not been charged or sentenced, but follo...

Have you been up to date with the news? Does Lori Vallow ring a bell? Maybe you’ve heard about the ‘Doomsday Killer Mom’ who has been making news titles recently? If not, you’re in the right place! This first part of our two part Ongoing Cases episodes delves into the case and initial trial of doomsday, Mormon mom, Lori Vallow alongside her post-apocalyptic author husband. Listen in to learn about...