Foul Play: Crime Series

In this bonus episode we delve into the chilling events surrounding the mysterious April 1978 letter and the ensuing scandal that rocked the San Francisco Police Department. After a four-year silence, the infamous Zodiac killer seemingly re-emerged, sending a cryptic message to the San Francisco Chronicle that reignited the hunt for the elusive murderer. However, the spotlight soon shifted to Detective Dave Toschi, the lead investigator, when suspicions arose about his potential involvement in fabricating the letter. We explore the intricate web of doubt, the media frenzy, and the impact on Toschi's career as we unravel the layers of this complex case. Join us as we examine the evidence, the accusations, and the legacy of a detective forever haunted by the shadows of the Zodiac. Visit me online at itsfoulplay.com Join me on Patreon at Patreon.com/itsfoulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In Episode 17, we delve into the intricate case against Richard Gaikowski, one of the many suspects in the Zodiac murders. The episode explores the series of letters sent to Detective Ken Narlow by an informant named Blaine Blaine, who claimed Gaikowski, a journalist and editor, was the infamous Zodiac Killer. Despite Blaine's fervent allegations and detailed reports, law enforcement found no substantial evidence linking Gaikowski to the murders. Through a careful examination of Blaine's claims, Gaikowski's background, and the broader context of the Zodiac investigation, we navigate the fine line between suspicion and proof, highlighting the challenges faced by investigators in solving one of America's most notorious cold cases. Visit me online at itsfoulplay.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In Episode 16 we dive into the shadowy world of Richard ‘Rick’ Marshall, a man whose life intersected with the ongoing mystery of the Zodiac killer. The episode unravels the intriguing story that began with an anonymous letter sent to the Sheriff of Napa County in 1976, suggesting Marshall’s involvement in the Zodiac murders. Through the lens of amateur sleuths and dedicated law enforcement officers, we explore how Marshall’s peculiar interests and unsettling hobbies led him to be scrutinized as a potential suspect. Despite some striking coincidences and eerie similarities, the evidence against Marshall remained inconclusive, leaving more questions than answers in the pursuit of the infamous serial killer. Listeners will be captivated by the tale of how journalist Robert Graysmith’s relentless investigation into the Zodiac case brought Marshall back into the spotlight. From anonymous phone calls to clandestine meetings and detailed personal investigations, Graysmith's quest for truth shines a light on the murky waters of the Zodiac investigation. The episode also discusses the broader impact of such unsolved cases on public psyche and the fine line between uncovering hidden truths and fostering unfounded speculation. Tune in as we delve into the complexities and the lingering mysteries surrounding one of the most enigmatic figures linked to the Zodiac killings. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we delve deeper into the life of Arthur Leigh Allen, a key suspect in the Zodiac killer investigation. The spotlight intensified on Allen as his troubling behaviors and circumstantial evidence painted a suspicious picture. The search of his trailer in 1972 yielded no direct links to the Zodiac murders, but his arrest for molestation in 1974 cast a darker shadow over his character. Despite passing a polygraph test about the Zodiac, the question of his guilt remained a haunting possibility. As the years progressed, the scrutiny on Allen didn't wane. The publication of Robert Graysmith's book "Zodiac" in 1986 reignited public interest and speculation about Allen's involvement. Even though Graysmith used a pseudonym for Allen, whispers of his identity spread. Renewed searches and a final interrogation in the early '90s failed to produce conclusive evidence. Allen's death in 1992 left the mystery unresolved, but the debate over his connection to the Zodiac killings endures, highlighting the complexities and enduring intrigue of one of America's most notorious unsolved cases. Visit us online at itsfoulplay.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we delve into the life and suspicions surrounding Arthur Leigh Allen, the most compelling suspect in the infamous Zodiac killer case. From his eerie conversations with Donald Cheney to his disturbing behaviors and connections to the Zodiac's chilling crimes, we unravel the evidence that casts a dark shadow over Allen. Discover how the detectives' relentless pursuit and mounting circumstantial evidence brought Allen into the spotlight, raising the haunting question: was he the elusive Zodiac killer? Join us as we explore the unsettling parallels between Allen's actions and the Zodiac's terrifying spree. From his fascination with the macabre to his ominous statements and peculiar behaviors, this episode paints a vivid portrait of a man whose life and alleged crimes remain shrouded in mystery. Tune in to hear the chilling details and decide for yourself whether Arthur Leigh Allen was the true face behind the Zodiac's mask. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Foul Play, we dive deep into the enigmatic world of the Zodiac Killer, reviewing the evidence and discussing the possible motivations behind his terrifying spree across Northern California in the late 1960s. We explore the chilling details of his crimes, from the cryptic ciphers he sent to newspapers to the psychological games he played with law enforcement. Join us as we dissect the Zodiac’s complex profile, analyzing how he managed to evade capture and instill fear in the public. We also examine the recent breakthroughs and ongoing efforts to unmask this elusive killer. Don’t miss this gripping discussion on one of America’s most infamous unsolved cases. Visit us online at itsmysteryinc.com Contact us at Shane@itsfoulplay.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Foul Play, we delve into the final letters of the Zodiac Killer, exploring his chilling correspondence from 1971 to 1974. Discover the eerie silence that fell over California and the unsettling resurgence of communication that kept the nation on edge. We’ll examine the chilling threats, cryptic ciphers, and the taunting messages that left investigators and the public in a state of constant fear and uncertainty. Join us as we unravel the mysteries behind these cryptic messages, the taunts to law enforcement, and the lingering questions that continue to haunt investigators to this day. We’ll explore the various theories about the Zodiac’s identity, his possible motives, and the enduring impact of his reign of terror. Don’t miss this deep dive into the mind of one of America’s most enigmatic and elusive serial killers. Visit us online at itsfoulplay.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In Episode 11 we delve into the tragic tales of young couples whose lives were cut short in brutal attacks that foreshadow the infamous Zodiac killer's reign of terror. Before the Zodiac became a household name for fear and intrigue, there were eerily similar murders. This episode explores the sunny day in Lompoc, California, in 1963 that ended in darkness for Bobby and Linda, and the heartbreak in San Diego in 1964 for Johnny and Joyce, unveiling the chilling possibility that these violent acts were the early works of the Zodiac. Through detailed investigation and storytelling, the episode paints a vivid picture of the idyllic settings turned crime scenes at Gaviota Beach and Ocean Beach. It meticulously pieces together the victims' final hours and the relentless pursuit for justice that followed. Featuring insights from retired Sheriff’s Investigator Bill Baker, the narrative explores the potential link between these early cases and the Zodiac's notorious killing spree. This episode invites listeners into a haunting reflection on the origins of the Zodiac saga, highlighting the unresolved mysteries and the enduring quest to understand the true scope of the killer's dark journey. Visit us online at itsfoulplay.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we journey back to the haunting night of April 10, 1962, when Oceanside cab driver Ray Davis was found murdered under mysterious circumstances. Discover how this chilling crime left investigators puzzled and locals gripped by fear, following an anonymous phone call that eerily predicted the tragedy. As detectives scrambled to find the elusive killer, a pattern emerged that would later draw striking parallels to the infamous Zodiac murders that terrorized California in the late 1960s. We'll delve into the unsettling similarities between Ray Davis' case and the Zodiac's known victims, exploring how the ominous threats against bus drivers, taunting police phone calls, and the brutal nature of the slaying all hinted at a potential connection. Was Ray Davis the Zodiac Killer’s victim? Or was this just a grim coincidence? Join us as we unravel the chilling details and piece together a story that continues to confound and captivate true crime enthusiasts. Visit us online at itsfoulplay.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we delve into the chilling disappearance of Donna Lass, a 25-year-old nurse who vanished under mysterious circumstances from the Sahara Tahoe Casino Hotel in 1970. As we weave through the sinister trails left by the infamous Zodiac Killer, this episode explores how a cryptic postcard sent to the San Francisco Chronicle might be linked to her disappearance. The card, filled with perplexing symbols and dire messages, hints at the possibility that Lass could have been one of Zodiac’s victims. Our investigation takes us through the eerie details of the postcard, the ongoing Zodiac investigation, and the haunting reality that Lass was never seen again after her shift at the casino. Check out Magic Mind: They have a limited offer you can use now, that gets you up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code FOULPLAY20 at checkout You can claim it at: https://www.magicmind.com/foulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this bonus episode we delve more into the unsolved murder of Cheri Jo Bates. On the night of October 30, 1966, Bates, an 18-year-old college student, met a tragic end on the campus of Riverside College in California. In this episode we discuss the Riverside Suspect and new evidence that came forward. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This bonus episode unfurls the perplexing case of Cheri Jo Bates, murdered in 1966, whose death sparked not only grief but a series of sinister letters that shook the Riverside community. Delve into the dark twists of this case as anonymous letters once believed to be from the infamous Zodiac Killer come to light as a disturbing prank by a troubled teen. Explore how these revelations shift the focus back to the quest for the real killer, reigniting a cold case that refuses to be silenced. Uncover the interplay of fact and fiction in an investigation that spans over five decades. As detectives employ cutting-edge DNA technology to solve the puzzle of the 2016 confession letter, the story takes a startling turn, offering a glimpse into the complexities of human conscience and the shadows of past actions. Join us as we piece together the intricate details of this haunting tale, reminding us that sometimes, truth is stranger than fiction. Tune in to confront the enigma of Cheri Jo Bates's untimely death and the eerie aftermath that continues to echo through the corridors of time. Visit us online at itsfoulplay.com Join our crime community at Patreon.com/itsfoulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Explore the haunting details of Cheri Jo Bates's brutal murder in 1966, set against the backdrop of a society captivated by the likes of the Beatles and the debut of Star Trek. Delve into a meticulously detailed recounting of her last known hours, the gruesome crime scene, and the chilling letters that followed, which stoked the fear and fascination surrounding the Zodiac Killer. This episode takes a deep dive into the complex web of evidence, from the infamous confession letter to the sinister poems left behind, as investigative journalist Paul Avery links the murder to the Zodiac's cryptic messages. Journey through the twists and turns of a case that has perplexed investigators for decades, featuring interviews, forensic analyses, and a look at the prime suspect "Bob Barnett." Tune in to unravel the layers of this cold case and the shadowy figure of the Zodiac, whose taunting games with the police and media continue to intrigue and horrify. Visit me online at itsfoulplay.com Join our Patreon community at Patreon.com/itsfoulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this bonus episode we dive into a haunting chapter of the Zodiac killer saga when the notorious serial killer directly reaches out for help through a dramatic interaction with famed attorney Melvin Belli. On October 22, 1969, in an audacious move, the Zodiac demanded Belli appear on a popular morning TV show, igniting a series of events filled with hope and deception. The episode unravels this bizarre engagement through the lens of Belli and the call-in show, capturing the tense exchanges and the desperate pleas of a caller identifying himself as 'Sam,' claiming to suffer from unbearable headaches since committing his crimes. The narrative takes a darker turn as it explores the aftermath of the televised plea, detailing a planned but failed meeting between Belli and the Zodiac in Daly City, and the investigative twists that followed. This episode sheds light on the complexities of tracing the Zodiac's calls, the skepticism around the authenticity of 'Sam,' and the chilling realization that the Zodiac’s communication might just be another manipulative game in his terrifying spree. In December 1969, a letter arrives at Belli's office, accompanied by a piece of blood-stained clothing from victim Paul Stine, reinforcing the grim reality of the Zodiac's deadly actions and his cryptic interactions with the public figures he drew into his orbit. Visit us online at itsfoulplay.com Join our Patreon and community at Patreon.com/itsfoulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we delve into the cryptic and chilling world of the Zodiac Killer's communications through his letters and the infamous 340 Cipher. This episode unveils the terror that began with a series of menacing letters starting in November 1969, where the Zodiac threatened the lives of school children and baffled authorities with his complex ciphers. We explore how these letters not only continued to instill fear across California but also taunted the police with clues that seemed almost within reach yet remained unsolvable for decades. Further intensifying the narrative, the episode covers the evolution of Zodiac's threats from targeted public taunts to more sinister and broad threats, including a detailed plan to create a "death machine" aimed at a school bus. The capture of this period of terror is complemented by insights from law enforcement officials, cryptologists who later cracked the 340 Cipher, and chilling audio clips from the era. As we dissect the psychological warfare waged by the Zodiac through his communications, listeners are drawn into the complex puzzle that has captivated and horrified the public and investigators for over fifty years. Visit me online at itsfoulplay.com Follow me on Instagram. Join our Patreon community at Patreon.com/itsfoulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode we delve into the haunting narrative of Paul Stine’s murder by the Zodiac Killer. On a seemingly ordinary night in the tranquil neighborhood of Presidio Heights in San Francisco, the silence is broken by a heinous act that propels Stine, a hopeful academic moonlighting as a cab driver, into the midst of a terrifying killing spree. Through detailed reconstructions, firsthand accounts, and police reports, this episode pieces together the events that led to Stine's untimely death, set against the backdrop of the Zodiac's reign of terror over the Bay Area. The investigation into Stine’s murder unveils a series of critical missteps and a chilling correspondence from the Zodiac, mocking the police and threatening further violence. We explore the dispatch error that misdirected the initial search efforts, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement and the deepening mystery of the Zodiac's identity. Archival material enrich our understanding of this complex case, offering a compelling and disturbing glimpse into one of American criminal history's most perplexing unsolved cases. Visit me online at itsfoulplay.com Follow me on Instagram. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we explore the sinister shift in the Zodiac killer's methods during the daylight attack on Bryan Hartnell and Cecelia Shepard beside the tranquil yet foreboding shores of Lake Berryessa. This encounter, marked by the killer's transition to a more personal and horrifying mode of assault, unveils the chilling audacity of a murderer willing to confront his victims face-to-face. As the episode unfolds, the narrative captures the initial bliss of the victims' day out, spiraling into the terror that ensues when they realize they're not alone. The aftermath focuses on Bryan Hartnell's miraculous survival and the critical information he provides, offering a rare insight into the Zodiac's psyche. The episode is further enriched by a haunting anecdote about three young women who unknowingly escaped a potential encounter with the Zodiac earlier that day. Through a blend of suspenseful storytelling and detailed analysis, the episode not only delves into the horror inflicted by the Zodiac but also highlights the eerie courage and calculated preparation behind one of history's most elusive serial killers, leaving listeners pondering the depth of his malice. Visit me online at itsfoulplay.com Follow me on Instagram. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this harrowing episode of Foul Play, we delve into the bone-chilling Lake Berryessa attack by the enigmatic Zodiac Killer. Late September 1969, amidst the serene backdrop of Lake Berryessa's sprawling waters in California, a young couple's peaceful day turns into a nightmare. The Zodiac, craving attention and control, executes one of his most brutal assaults, stabbing and leaving them for dead. The attack sends shockwaves through the local community and law enforcement, escalating the urgency to capture this elusive predator. Our narrative reconstructs the events of that fateful day, drawing from firsthand accounts, police reports, and the Zodiac's own cryptic communications, immersing listeners into the depth of this terrifying mystery. The episode not only recounts the physical aftermath of the attack but also the emotional and societal ripples it created. The detailed investigation, led by determined detectives, unravels amidst a backdrop of fear and fascination with the Zodiac's macabre game of cat and mouse. As the story unfolds, the tragic loss of Cecelia Shepard, the resilience of Bryan Hartnell, and the relentless pursuit of justice by Napa County police paint a vivid picture of a community united in the face of horror. Through meticulous research and gripping storytelling, this episode of Foul Play brings to light the Zodiac's reign of terror at Lake Berryessa, offering insights into the investigation and the lasting impact of these heinous crimes. Visit us online, View photos and additional content that goes along with this series by supporting our show. Join us on Patreon. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dive into the chilling world of The Zodiac, the elusive predator who terrorized Northern California in the late 1960s. With five confirmed victims and a claim of thirty-seven, his taunting letters, cryptic ciphers, and menacing calls left an indelible mark of fear. This season on Foul Play: Crime Series, The Zodiac takes you on a dark journey through the killer's mind and the decades-long quest to uncover his identity. From the detectives on his trail to the cryptographers decoding his messages, we explore every facet of the case that continues to fascinate and horrify. Join us for a season of deep dives into the abyss of one of America's most haunting mysteries. Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this gripping episode we focus on the chilling events surrounding the first Zodiac letters and ciphers sent by this enigmatic murderer. July 1969 marked not just a monumental achievement in human history with the moon landing but also a dark period in California's history as fear gripped the communities of Benicia and Vallejo. The Zodiac's brutal attacks on young couples, his cold and calculated demeanor, and the mysterious phone call to the Vallejo Police Department declaring responsibility for these horrifying acts set the stage for a terrifying game of cat and mouse. As we unravel the twisted mind behind these crimes, the episode takes a deeper look into the killer's desire for attention and control, shedding light on his cryptic messages to the press and the police. Visit us online at Foul Play: Crime Series View photos and additional content that goes along with this series by supporting our show. Join us on Patreon at http://Patreon.com/itsfoulplay Our Sponsors: * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: www.rosettastone.com/today Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foul-play-crime-series/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy