Canadian True Crime

Today, we're pleased to share a special episode from another podcast we think you'll enjoy: Crime Story from CBC Podcasts. Each week, award-winning investigative journalist Kathleen Goldhar goes deep into a true crime case with the storyteller who knows it best. In this year-end episode, Kristi Lee joins Kathleen at CBC Studios to talk about what goes into making Canadian True Crime, share behind-the-scenes insights from past cases, and wrap up with some of their favourite true crime podcasts and documentaries. You can listen to more incredible tales of true crime every week on Crime Story. Find more Crime Story episodes in your podcast app, or here: https://link.mgln.ai/CSxCTC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In August 1982, three generations of a family set out for a two week camping trip in the wilds of British Columbia. When the entire family failed to return home, it triggered the most expensive and publicized manhunt in Canadian history — and uncovered a horrific truth that shocked the nation. Additional content warning: this episode includes the murder and sexual assault of a child. Minimal graphic details will be given. Please take care when listening. ________________________________________ SIGN THE PETITION | The Johnson-Bentley family needs your help. The man who murdered six of their loved ones – including two young girls, is again seeking parole in 2026. The family has asked us to share this updated and remastered episode to remind the public of the danger his release could pose. Please read and sign the family’s petition now and show your support. The deadline is fast approaching. Special thanks to Shelley Boden of the Johnson-Bentley family for speaking to us for this updated and remastered episode. The original, titled "The Johnson-Bentley Family Murders" was posted in April 2021. ________________________________________ Let us know what you think. Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and Instagram Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sexual violence and child exploitation trial of Michael Haaima who faces nearly 100 charges. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box. Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we dive into the high-profile, baffling disappearance of six-year-old Lilly Sullivan and her four-year-old brother Jack, who vanished from their rural Nova Scotia home in May 2025. Kristi is joined by Jordan Bonaparte of The Canadian Gothic (formerly Nighttime), who has covered the case extensively from the area. Together, they cut through the speculation and conspiracy theories to focus on the confirmed facts. --------------------- Information about Jack and Lilly Sullivan The Government of Nova Scotia is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information about the disappearance of Lilly and Jack Sullivan. More details and photos. Statements referenced in this episode: Mother Malehya Brooks-Murray Stepfather Daniel Martell Daniel Martell's mother (also lives on the property) --------------------- Let us know what you think! Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and Instagram Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sex trafficking trial of Michael Haaima of Kingston. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box. Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, J.B.’s identity was hidden behind publication ban. Now, she steps forward in her own name to share her story of survival and resilience. We're thrilled to announce the release of Breaking Idol, a powerful new documentary from CBC about "JB” — the survivor at the centre of the first sexual assault trial of Jacob Hoggard. J.B.’s case against the former Canadian Idol finalist and frontman of the multi-platinum band Hedley, captivated the country and divided fans of all ages. Based on part on Canadian True Crime's series about the trial, Breaking Idol explores the collision of fandom, power, and truth, and follows J.B. as she confronts the aftermath of the trial and the culture that protected the man who assaulted her. __________________________________________________ Steam Breaking Idol now on CBC Gem, YouTube, Apple TV __________________________________________________ See media clips on Canadian True Crime Facebook and Instagram Director Tiffany Hsiung Supervising Producer Sally Karam Produced by Frantic Films for CBC’s The Passionate Eye Consulting Producer Kristi Lee Special thanks to J.B. and Kelly Favro, Beyond The Verdict Breaking Idol is based in part on Canadian True Crime’s podcast series The Trial of Hedley’s Jacob Hoggard Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 2 of 2] A decade after the brutal murder of Christine Jessop, a DNA breakthrough completely clears Guy Paul Morin. But it would be another 25 years before the real killer is revealed. In this two-part series, we share the full story of Christine Jessop — the one her family waited decades for the courage to tell – with insight from the documentary filmmaker who spent years earning their trust. Additional content warning: this is about the murder and sexual assault of a child. Minimal graphic details will be given. Please take care when listening. The Christine Jessop Story is a new three-part documentary series available on Crave (this episode is not sponsored). For the first time, Christine’s family gives their unfiltered truth about the case that captivated Canada. It’s a story of corrupt policing, revolutionary forensics, and a family forced to go through the unthinkable. Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast. Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sex trafficking trial of Michael Haaima of Kingston. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box. Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 1 of 2] The brutal murder of nine-year-old Christine Jessop in 1984 shattered her family’s tiny Ontario community. When police arrested her quiet neighbour Guy Paul Morin, the case spiralled into a circus of trials, appeals and outrage, leading to one of Canada’s most notorious wrongful convictions. When the real killer was found in 2020, the memory of the little girl at the centre of the case had been overshadowed by the spectacle. Additional content warning: this is about the murder and sexual assault of a child. Minimal graphic details will be given. Please take care when listening. The Christine Jessop Story is a new documentary series on Crave (our series is not sponsored). For the first time, Christine’s family gives their unfiltered truth about the case that captivated Canada. It’s a story of corrupt policing, revolutionary forensics, and a family forced to go through the unthinkable. Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast. Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sex trafficking trial of Michael Haaima of Kingston. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box. Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special update episode we’re joined by Beverley’s sister Barb Kilpatrick and niece Melanie to mark a milestone in one of the most high-profile cases the province has seen, reflect on the impact, and share new details - including some sad family news and a public plea for information. 25 years ago today, the body of 42 year old mother of two Beverley Rowbotham was found in the family car at an abandoned gas station in Selkirk, Manitoba. Beverley’s political advisor husband, Mark Stobbe, was acquitted of her murder 12 years later. The case has remained unsolved. Beverley’s remaining family members hope to finally get answers and justice for Beverley. -------------------- Public plea to help locate a potential credible lead - “Paul and Ann from Calgary” They are from Calgary, Alberta and drove to Rocky Mountain House in March of 2018 to deliver a handwritten note. See an image of the Paul and Ann note, Paul was very well spoken, Anne had a cane and walked with a bit of a limp. They indicated that they were scared, but needed to share their information in person. If you have information to locate this this couple, please contact Canadian True Crime podcast or find us on Facebook or Instagram and we will connect you. -------------------- More information: Obituary for Beverley’s sister Betty Rowbotham who passed away October 18, 2025. Clinging to hope: Twenty-five years after Beverley Rowbotham was slain, her family believes a mysterious letter could shed light on the case that gripped Manitoba by Chris Kitching for Winnipeg Free Press, October 24, 2025 Canadian True Crime donates monthly to help those facing injustice. This month we have donated in Beverley Rowbotham's name to: The Alpha House Project - Winnipeg Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This FINAL instalment wraps up our coverage and analysis of the Hockey Canada scandal and trial. At the end, Kristi shares her personal opinion about what likely happened in Room 209 that night — and why the verdicts would have remained the same anyway. The difference is in how the judge got there. Thanks for your patience with this deep-dive series and for allowing us the time to give it the attention it deserves! Please note: this series does not dispute the judge’s not guilty verdicts. Our position is that the framing of the evidence in the written decision was unnecessary and damaging, with impact that extends far beyond the trial. Do you have a “fawning” story you’d like to share? Write it or record it and contact us through the website, Facebook or Instagram. Confidentially assured. Beyond The Verdict: www.beyondtheverdict.ca More information and resources: Young men need to be taught what consent looks likeHockey Canada trial outcome a 'crushing day' for sexual assault survivorsMegan Savard for the DefenceHockey Canada trial should put spotlight on morality of societyThe Trial of Jacob HoggardKelly Favro’s Story REES Community Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support Services Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final instalment of this series, we continue to unpack the confusing timeline of Room 209 - including the controversy around crown witness Brett Howden and the alleged slap and “splits” incidents, leading up to the verdicts and how the country reacted to them. At the end, Kristi shares her personal opinion about what likely happened in that hotel room — and why the verdicts would have remained the same anyway. The difference is in how the judge got there. Thanks for your patience with this deep-dive series and for allowing us the time to give it the attention it deserves! (This final part is long and spans two episodes - Part 5 will be available within 24 hours) We’ll also be looking at:  Content Warning: Graphic details of sexual acts. Please note: this series does not dispute the judge’s not guilty verdicts. Our position is that the framing of the evidence in the written decision was unnecessary and damaging, with impact that extends far beyond the trial. More information and resources: WATCH: Team Canada World Junior Trial Verdict w/ Katie Strang | The Steve Dangle PodcastREAD: The Hockey Canada trial could have been a reckoning. It was something else - by Dan Robson and Katie Strang, The Athletic, July 24 2025.The Trial of Jacob HoggardKelly Favro’s Story REES Community Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support Serviceswww.beyondtheverdict.ca Let us know what you think! Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and Instagram Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 3 of 4] In Part 3, w unpack the confusing timeline of Room 209 and the contradictions at the heart of the case. A clear pattern emerges: the five accused players were repeatedly given the benefit of the doubt, while E.M. was scrutinized and cast as unreliable. Thanks for your patience with this deep-dive series and for allowing us the time to give it the attention it deserves. Part 4 will wrap this series up, and then we’ll be back to our usual schedule. Please note: this series does not dispute the judge’s not guilty verdicts. Our position is that the framing of the evidence in the written decision was unnecessary and damaging, with impact that extends far beyond the trial. *Additional content warning: Graphic details of sexual acts. More information and resources: WATCH: Hockey Parents - A profile of Mitch Marner and Michael McLeod's parents from 2009READ:What Was Left Unsaid in the Hockey Canada Trial | The WalrusFYI:The “Junior Hockey Bible” LISTEN: The Trial of Jacob HoggardKelly Favro’s Story REES CommunityEnding Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support Serviceswww.beyondtheverdict.ca Let us know what you think! Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and Instagram Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Hockey Canada verdicts are final, but the story isn’t. In Part 2, Kristi Lee looks closely at the most talked-about evidence, how it was reflected in the written decision, and how that shaped public opinion. Thanks for your patience! In this episode: Content Warning: Details of sexual acts. PLEASE NOTE: This series does not dispute the judge’s verdicts. Instead, it highlights a deeper truth: contradictions and inconsistencies existed on both sides, yet the accused players’ accounts were overwhelmingly accepted while the victim-complainant's was dismissed as “not credible or reliable.” Regardless of verdicts, our position is that this framing was both unnecessary and harmful — and its impact reaches far beyond the trial itself. This is a three part series. Coming up in Part 3: More information and resources: Kelly Favro’s StoryThe Trial of Jacob HoggardSteve Dangle Show on Youtube - Team Canada World Junior Trial Verdict w/ Katie StrangThe Hockey Canada trial could have been a reckoning. It was something else REES Community Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support Serviceswww.beyondtheverdict.ca Let us know what you think! Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and Instagram Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kristi Lee gives an honest and transparent update about why Part 2 of the Hockey Canada trial is taking longer than expected. Thank you so much for your patience and understanding as we take the time to cover this case with the care and thoroughness it deserves. In the meantime: Read JB's Op-Ed in the Globe and Mail, and on our website: "When aggressive tactics are praised as legal strategy, it’s survivors like me who pay the price." Check out Beyond the Verdict - our new survivor-led advocacy group to challenge a justice system that puts sexual assault survivors on trial. www.beyondtheverdict.ca For more information about Canadian True Crime episodes, information sources, credits and music credits: Visit www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Contact us Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two extraordinary guests join Kristi to take you through one of the biggest scandals in Canadian sports history. They know what it means to survive not only sexual assault - but the trial itself. And you probably know their stories: J.B."Ottawa woman"Jacob HoggardKelly Favro survivor and advocate from British Columbia As the country reacts to the Hockey Canada trial verdicts delivered last week, J.B. and Kelly share what they saw unfolding, how it mirrors their own experiences, and what the public needs to understand about what victim-complainant “E.M.” may be living through. They also share eye-opening details about shocking courtroom tactics they've endured, and challenge us to rethink what justice really means. Part 2 will be available in the next few weeks. This is heavy stuff. Content Warning: While not the focus of this episode, there is brief mention of graphic details of sexual assault, and mention of suicidal thoughts. Please take care when listening. More information and resources: Kelly Favro’s StoryThe Trial of Jacob HoggardResources for Sexual Violence and Abuse: REES CommunityEnding Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support Serviceswww.beyondtheverdict.ca Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*This is the final episode before our summer slowdown - thanks so much for listening! ----------------- ONTARIO - It started with a shocking message in a private chat: “I’ve just slaughtered my entire family.” What was first thought of as a grim joke soon became a frantic race to uncover the truth… and prevent a real-life horror from getting worse. The intention of this episode is to take a look back at a shocking crime, how it impacted the community, and how it might have been prevented. Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved. We want to know what you thought about this season! What cases stuck with you the most? Send us your feedback via www.canadiantruecrime.ca, or find us on Facebook or Instagram. Recommended listening: Casefile Case 50: Jennifer Pan Canadian true crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we have donated to Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the creators of the award-winning podcast They Walk Among Us comes The Lost Boys of Wineville—an extended limited series spanning 30 in-depth episodes. This gripping true-crime saga unravels a chilling story that unfolded nearly a century ago in the shadow of the recently erected Hollywoodland sign, and reached its harrowing conclusion on a remote poultry ranch… For more information, visit www.thelostboysofwineville.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR - On a freezing night in Norman’s Cove, a brutal attack leaves the small coastal town shaken to its core. As police investigate, a twisted plot starts to unravel… The intention of this episode is to honour the victim of a harrowing crime that was largely ignored by the media at the time, and resulted in harmful rumours. Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved. Additional content warning: this case contains some details of graphic violence. Please take care when listening. Recommended reading: The Murder of Minnie Callan: A True Newfoundland Crime Story by Tom Gruchy, 2018. Court document: 1987 CanLII 5192 (NL SC) | R. v. Butt | CanLII Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we have donated to the organizations that stage the In Her Name Vigil: First Light St John's Friendship Centre NL Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre St John's Status of Women Council Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast. Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 3 of 3] At trial, Jade Richardson and Jeremy Steinke’s final testimonies are weighed against the forensic evidence, and the picture of what exactly happened inside that house starts to take shape.... leading to the final conclusion. Additional content warning: this episode includes the death of a child. Please take care when listening. The intention of this series is to take a look back at a shocking crime sensationalized through headlines and explore how it impacted the community. Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved. Canadian True Crime donates monthly to help those facing injustice. This month we have donated to the Calgary Homicide Support Society. Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 2 of 3] After three members of the Richardson family are found dead, the police continue to search for the missing 12-year-old girl. But a darker picture has started to emerge involving her 23-year-old boyfriend. * Additional content warning: this episode includes the death of a child. Please take care when listening. The intention of this series is to take a look back at a shocking crime sensationalized through headlines and explore how it impacted the community. Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved. Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: Available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast. Canadian True Crime donates monthly to help those facing injustice. This month we have donated to the Calgary Homicide Support Society. Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

ALBERTA - A two-part series. One Sunday in Medicine Hat, AB, a little boy peered through the window of a neighbour’s home and discovered a scene so horrific it would shock even seasoned police officers. As a frantic search began for a missing 12-year-old girl, the case took an even darker turn. * Additional content warning: this episode includes the death of a child. Please take care when listening. The intention of this series is to take a look back at a shocking crime sensationalized through headlines and explore how it impacted the community. Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved. Part 2 of this series will be released to everyone in a week. Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast. Canadian True Crime donates monthly to help those facing injustice. This month we have donated to the Calgary Homicide Support Society. Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 3 of 3] As the perpetrators of the Bandidos Massacre try to get away with it, a covert police investigation is closing in on them — with the help of a secret police informant. The intention of this series is to take a detailed look back at a shocking crime sensationalized through headlines. Book recommendation: Bandido Massacre: A True Story of Bikers, Brotherhood and Betrayal, 2010, by Peter Edwards Canadian True Crime donates monthly to help those facing injustice. This month we have donated to the Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime. Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits: See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.