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Almost Fiction

True Crime

Crimes that are so diabolical that they seem like almost fiction. Based on real events, Almost Fiction is a Podcast where we try to imagine what it was like when some of the worst crimes occurred. Using facts, reports, and evidence, we attempt to reconstruct what the crime scenes might have looked like as the crimes were happening. So, join us each week as we peek behind the curtain at some of the worst scenes from some of the worst crimes ever committed. I’m Chase Ellerman, and welcome to… Almost Fiction.

Location:

United States

Description:

Crimes that are so diabolical that they seem like almost fiction. Based on real events, Almost Fiction is a Podcast where we try to imagine what it was like when some of the worst crimes occurred. Using facts, reports, and evidence, we attempt to reconstruct what the crime scenes might have looked like as the crimes were happening. So, join us each week as we peek behind the curtain at some of the worst scenes from some of the worst crimes ever committed. I’m Chase Ellerman, and welcome to… Almost Fiction.

Language:

English


Episodes
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Peter Britton Tobin (Read Description)

12/17/2025
Hello everyone, I fully expected to have the season finale of Almost Fiction ready to go, but sadly that won't be the case. The holidays can be a hectic time of the year and sometimes things happen outside of our control. So, in lieu of releasing a full episode, I will instead make the last episode of Almost Fiction Plus public, so you at least have something. A family event has taken place lately, one that is very serious, so I am putting things aside for a few weeks in order to help out as much as I can. I will try to get the season finale up as fast as I can, but for now family must come first. Thank you so much for your understanding. Description: A restless predator with 60+ addresses, 40+ aliases, and 150+ vehicles. Peter Britton Tobin's decades-long trail of violence across Scotland and England reveals the chilling reality of a serial killer who never stopped moving. From his brutal attacks on wives to the murders of three young women, this episode traces the methodical police investigation that finally caught a monster.

Duration:00:20:22

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Joel Michael Guy Jr.

12/9/2025
When 28-year-old Joel Michael Guy Jr. learned his parents were cutting off his financial support after nearly a decade of funding his lifestyle, he devised a horrifying plan. This deep-dive true crime investigation uncovers how an entitled college dropout meticulously plotted to murder his own parents for a $500,000 insurance payout, only to be caught by his own incompetence and the security cameras he most likely never knew existed. Sources: STATE OF TENNESSEE v. JOEL MICHAEL GUY, JR. Appeal from the Criminal Court for Knox County. No. 110145 Steve Sword, Judge. No. E2021-00560-CCA-R3-CD. November 15, 2022 Session. https://www.wvlt.tv/2020/11/19/live-joel-guy-jr-appears-in-court-for-final-sentencing/ Joel Guy Jr. has a court hearing Thursday morning in Knox County. By John North For WBIR.com. November 18, 2020. Updated November 19, 2020. https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/neworleans/news/press-releases/knoxville-fugitive-arrested-by-fbi-for-the-alleged-murder-of-his-parents Joel Guy Jr. loses his longshot appeal after he was convicted in his parents' murders. By Liz Kellar For Knoxville News Sentinel. May 10, 2023. Joel Guy Jr. asks to be put to death in his parents' murders, but state won't pursue it By Jamie Satterfield. For The Knoxville News Sentinel. “I think about you all the time:” Joel Guy Jr. contacts best friend from jail Joel Guy Jr.'s best friend and roommate reveals details about Guy’s personality. By Megan Sadler. Published: Sep. 30, 2020 at 5:17 PM PDT. Who is Joel Guy Jr.? What do we know about the man accused of killing and dismembering his parents at a Knox County home? By Megan Sadler. Published: Sep. 29, 2020 at 1:51 PM PDT. STATE OF TENNESSEE v. JOEL MICHAEL GUY. No. E2021-00560-CCA-R3-CD. October 2022.

Duration:00:35:30

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Robert Yale Shulman

12/2/2025
Between 1991 and 1995, a seemingly ordinary postal worker living in suburban New York concealed a horrifying secret. Robert Yale Shulman targeted vulnerable sex workers, brutally murdering at least five women before dismembering their bodies and disposing of them in dumpsters across the region. This is the chilling true story of how a shy, introverted mail handler became one of New York's most brutal serial killers, and how dogged detective work finally brought him to justice. This episode examines not just the crimes, but the systemic failures that allowed Shulman to prey on society's most vulnerable for years. From the tragic stories of his victims, including Lori Vasquez, Lisa Ann Warner, and Kelly Sue Bunting, to the controversial sentencing of his brother Barry, who helped cover up the murders. Sources: People v Robert Shulman. Argued September 6, 2005; decided October 25, 2005. Updated March 8, 2006. https://law.justia.com/cases/new-york/court-of-appeals/2005/2005-07827.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Shulman_%28serial_killer%29 https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/13954331/robert-yale-shulman Robert Shulman's Brookhaven Burial: Long Island Killer's Prison Death Marks End of Notorious Case. https://www.factualamerica.com/serial-cuts/robert-shulmans-brookhaven-burial-long-island-killers-prison-death-marks-end-of-notorious-case Brookhaven Butcher: Robert Shulman's Long Island Killing Spree Terrorized Community for Years. https://www.factualamerica.com/serial-cuts/brookhaven-butcher-robert-shulmans-long-island-killing-spree-terrorized-community-for-years

Duration:00:30:40

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Robert Zarinksy Part 2

11/25/2025
When Officer Charles Bernoskie was gunned down during a routine patrol in 1958, his murder went unsolved for decades, protected by a family's deadly silence. This is the conclusion to the story of Robert Zarinsky, a serial killer who terrorized New Jersey communities throughout the 1960s and 70s, leaving behind a trail of young women who simply seemed to just vanish without a trace. This gripping tale reveals how one mother's obsession with appearances and family loyalty created a monster, how DNA evidence finally connected decades-old cold cases, and why some victims' families waited over 40 year Sources: https://murderpedia.org/male.Z/z/zarinsky-robert-deadly-secrets.htm Suspected serial killer Robert Zarinsky dies in prison. By Laura Craven. For The Star Ledger. November 30, 2008. https://www.nj.com/news/ledger/topstories/2008/11/tony_kurdzukthe_starledgerhand.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Zarinsky 50-year-old cold case solved. By Andrew Ford for app.com. February 17, 2016. https://www.app.com/story/news/crime/jersey-mayhem/2016/02/17/serial-killer-accused-another-murder/80513376/ https://web.archive.org/web/20150209235300/http://www.crimelibrary.com/serial_killers/predators/robert_zarinsky/index.html

Duration:00:41:05

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Robert Zarinsky Part 1

11/17/2025
When Officer Charles Bernoskie was gunned down during a routine patrol in 1958, his murder went unsolved for decades, protected by a family's deadly silence. This is the chilling true story of Robert Zarinsky, a serial killer who terrorized New Jersey communities throughout the 1960s and 70s, leaving behind a trail of young women who simply vanished. From the disappearance of 17-year-old Rosemary Calandriello in 1969 to the brutal murders of Jane Durrua, Linda Balabanow, and others, Zarinsky's reign of terror was enabled by a family willing to cover up his darkest crimes. This gripping tale reveals how one mother's obsession with appearances and family loyalty created a monster, how DNA evidence finally connected decades-old cold cases, and why some victims' families waited over 40 years for answers. Sources: https://murderpedia.org/male.Z/z/zarinsky-robert-deadly-secrets.htm Suspected serial killer Robert Zarinsky dies in prison. By Laura Craven. For The Star Ledger. November 30, 2008. https://www.nj.com/news/ledger/topstories/2008/11/tony_kurdzukthe_starledgerhand.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Zarinsky 50-year-old cold case solved. By Andrew Ford for app.com. February 17, 2016. https://www.app.com/story/news/crime/jersey-mayhem/2016/02/17/serial-killer-accused-another-murder/80513376/ https://web.archive.org/web/20150209235300/http://www.crimelibrary.com/serial_killers/predators/robert_zarinsky/index.html

Duration:00:39:00

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The Murder of Peter Aston

11/11/2025
In May 1982, two thirteen-year-old boys skipped school in Queensland, Australia, a decision that led one to his brutal death and the other to a nightmare of survival. When Peter Aston and Terry Ryan accepted a ride from two men, they had no idea they were entering a world of sadistic violence, a world of unimaginable pain. What followed became one of Australia's most disturbing crimes: hours of torture, sexual abuse, and murder that would leave one boy dead and another forever traumatized. This episode explores the shocking details of Peter Aston's murder, the twisted relationship between his killers, the impossible choices Terry Ryan faced to survive, and the aftermath that destroyed lives across decades. A harrowing true crime story about evil, coercion, and trauma that still haunts Australia 40 years later. Sources: Paul Luckman & Robin Reid: Australian Child Killers. by Paul B. Kidd For CrimeLibrary.com. https://murderpedia.org/male.R/r/reid-robin.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Murder_of_Peter_Aston Australia's most sadistic child killer applies for parole, sparking warning from original cop. By Staff. For news.com.au. February 25, 2021. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/australias-most-sadistic-child-killer-applies-for-parole-sparking-warning-from-original-cop/MJAMOW6ZTZXC3LGSRLVIVTNLWY/ Soldiers get life sentences for torture murder of boy. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/130833614 https://alchetron.com/Nicole-Louise-Pearce-(Paul-Luckman) https://alchetron.com/Robin-Reid-(criminal) https://alchetron.com/Murder-of-Peter-Aston

Duration:00:35:33

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Robert R. Reldan

11/4/2025
Robert R. Reldan had everything. Looks, charm, and money from a wealthy aunt who adored him. But in October 1975, two women named Susan disappeared from Bergen County only eight days apart. What followed exposed a decades-long pattern: assaults dismissed, paroles granted, a system that kept giving second chances to someone who shouldn't have gotten them in the first place. It's a story about privilege, the cost of looking the other way, and two families who refused to let their Susans ever be forgotten.

Duration:00:37:32

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Herb Baumeister

10/28/2025
A successful businessman. A perfect suburban address. And a trail of vanished men that led investigators to more than 10,000 human remains. In this episode, we trace Herb Baumeister’s double life—from teenage transgressions to “Brian Smart,” his nights cruising Indianapolis’s gay bars, the discoveries at Fox Hollow Farm, and the investigators who wouldn’t let the case go. We examine what’s known, what’s still conjecture, and why so many families still wait for answers. If you value deep-dive, responsibly told true crime, follow the show on Spotify. For ad-free episodes and bonus content, subscribe to Almost Fiction Plus.

Duration:00:40:55

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George Waterfield Russell

10/21/2025
Dive into the chilling true story of George Waterfield Russell Jr., a man whose repeated rejections fueled a deadly rage against women. From his abandoned childhood in Florida to a string of brutal murders in 1990s Washington State, this episode uncovers the twisted path of a serial killer who staged his victims in horrifying poses. Explore the investigations, key evidence, and trial that brought him to justice. Listen now and subscribe for more gripping tales, as well as ad-free options available on Almost Fiction Plus.

Duration:00:29:44

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Earl Richmond Jr.

10/14/2025
Explore the haunting case of Earl Richmond Jr., a former drill sergeant whose life unraveled through addiction, rape, and murder. From his abusive upbringing in North Carolina to brutal crimes at Fort Dix and beyond, this episode unpacks the evidence, trials, and his execution, while questioning if true redemption is possible after unthinkable evil.

Duration:00:31:35

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LaFonda "Fay" Foster and Tina Marie Hickey Powell

10/7/2025
In this episode, we explore the complexities of friendship, focusing on trust and mutual respect. Highlighting the tragic story of Tina Marie Powell and LaFonda Faye Foster, we illustrate how their bond, rooted in shared trauma and addiction, devolved into toxicity and violence. We recount the harrowing events of April 23, 1986, in Lexington, Kentucky, where a night of drinking led to a devastating crime spree. The episode examines the psychological motives behind their actions and the ripple effects on victims' families. Through their reflections in prison, we capture Tina and Faye's struggle with remorse and identity, serving as a cautionary tale about the fragility of relationships under pressure and the profound consequences of our choices. To hear this episode ad free as well as have access to bonus content, join the subscribers feed right here on Spotify for only 3 dollars a month.

Duration:00:30:09

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Christopher Robin Worrell and James William Miller

9/30/2025
Dive into the chilling true story of Australia's Truro Murders, where Christopher Robin Worrell and James William Miller's deadly partnership claimed seven young lives in just 52 days. Told through the eyes of accomplice Miller, this episode uncovers a twisted tale of manipulation, obsession, and brutal killings in 1970s Adelaide. Was Miller a reluctant participant or a willing killer? You’ll have to decide. Sources: Green, Ryan. The Truro Murders: The Sex Killing Spree Through the Eyes of an Accomplice (True Crime) (p. 21). (Function). Kindle Edition. https://murderpedia.org/male.W/w/worrell-christopher.htm Christopher Robin Worrell and James William Miller: The Truro Murderers. By Paul B. Kidd for CrimeLibrary.com. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Truro_murders Predatory Killers Who Hunt In Pairs. By Peter Haran For The Sunday Mail. September 10, 2000. Truro Killer James Miller Dies of Cancer. By news.com.au. October 22, 2008.

Duration:00:44:20

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The Murder of Autumn Pasquale

9/23/2025
In 2012, 12-year-old Autumn Pasquale left home in Clayton, New Jersey, to ride her new BMX—and never came back. This episode unpacks the facts of her killing by 15-year-old Justin Robinson, the frantic two-day search, the plea deal and sentencing, and the painful aftermath that split a small town. We also examine the harder question this case raises: how much parental supervision is enough—and what does accountability look like when a child kills? Thoughtful, clear-eyed, and unsensational, this story looks at the people, the evidence, and the consequences. Follow Almost Fiction for new cases, and please consider rating the show to help others find it. Sources: Is it a crime to raise a killer? By Lisa Belkin for YahooNews.com. September 12, 2014. https://www.yahoo.com/news/is-it-a-crime-to-raise-a-killer--190558283.html A killer explains the slaying of a child: 'I didn't kill her for no bike'. By Matt Gray for NJ.com. March 27, 2018. https://www.nj.com/news/2018/03/a_killer_explains_slaying_of_a_child_i_didnt_kill.html Man involved in Autumn Pasquale's death to remain in jail on home invasion charges. By Caitlyn Stulpin for NJ.com. June 07, 2017. https://www.nj.com/camden/2017/06/man_behind_violent_home_invasion_and_2012_murder_o.html Brother of Autumn Pasquale's confessed killer released from jail. By 6ABC. September 25, 2013. https://6abc.com/archive/9261014/ Dante Robinson of Clayton sentenced for role in Sicklerville home invasion. By Jim Walsh for Courier Post. October 23, 2020. https://www.courierpostonline.com/story/news/2020/10/23/dante-robinson-clayton-sicklerville-home-invasion-robbery-autumn-pasquale/6008364002/ Autumn Pasquale's family: 'If you're going to raise a murderer, you're going to take responsibility'. By Carly Q. Romalino for South Jersey Times. October 1, 2013. https://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/2013/10/autumn_pasquales_family_if_youre_going_to_raise_a_murderer_youre_going_to_take_responsibility.html Autumn Pasquale murder: Judge sentences Justin Robinson to 17 years. By South Jersey Times. September 12, 2013. https://www.nj.com/gloucester-county/2013/09/autumn_pasquale_judge_sentences_her_killer_justin_robinson_to_17_years.html Judge dismisses civil lawsuit in death of Autumn Pasquale. By Associated Press. June 15, 2016. https://whyy.org/articles/judge-dismisses-civil-lawsuit-in-death-of-autumn-pasquale/ South Jersey investigators find young girl's body. By ABC11. October 23, 2012. https://abc11.com/archive/8183567/ Parents of slain Autumn Pasquale settle lawsuit. February 28, 2013. https://whyy.org/articles/parents-of-slain-autumn-pasquale-settle-lawsuit/

Duration:00:31:32

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Almost Fiction Plus

9/18/2025
For only $5 a month you can get exclusive access to episodes of Almost Fiction, as well as access to ad free episodes moving forward. Exclusively on Spotify.

Duration:00:01:13

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Edgar Herbert Smith

9/16/2025
Dive into the chilling true crime story of Edgar Herbert Smith, the manipulative killer who charmed his way off death row only to strike again. From the brutal 1957 murder of 15-year-old cheerleader Victoria Zielinski in New Jersey to Smith's bestselling books, celebrity endorsements, and shocking 1976 attack on another victim, this episode uncovers a tale of deception, false redemption, and justice delayed. Explore how a sociopath exploited hope for second chances, fooling intellectuals like William F. Buckley and evading consequences for decades. Perfect for fans of serial killers, wrongful convictions, and dark psychology. Listen now to Almost Fiction Podcast's deep dive into this infamous case of lies, betrayal, and the dangers of misplaced trust. #TrueCrime #MurderMystery #Podcast Sources: The Great Prevaricator. By Lona Manning For Crime Magazine. October 9, 2009. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edgar_Smith_(murderer) Edgar Smith, 1957 killer of Ramsey High School cheerleader, dies at 83. By Keldy Ortiz For NorthJersey.com. September 24, 2017. How Killer Edgar Smith Duped Many, Including William F. Buckley Jr., Into Believing He Was Innocent. By Elena Ferrarin For AETV.com. September 07, 2022. https://murderpedia.org/male.S/s/smith-edgar.htm Archive: Imprisoned killer's former wife is haunted by fear he'll get out. By Mike Kelly For NorthJersey.com. September 24, 2017. Smart Men; Stupid Choices: William F. Buckley, Jr. By Laura Wilkerson For Salon.com. September 23, 2011. Edgar Smith, death row inmate whose release was championed by William F. Buckley Jr., dies at 83. By The Associated Press. Saturday, September 23, 2017.e

Duration:00:54:46

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James Anthony Daveggio and Michelle Lyn Michaud

9/9/2025
Description: Dive into the chilling true crime saga of Michelle Lyn Michaud and James Anthony Daveggio, the infamous killer couple who terrorized California and Nevada in the 1990s. From abductions in a modified "torture van" to brutal rapes, tortures, and the murder of Vanessa Samson, this episode uncovers their meth-fueled rampage, twisted fantasies inspired by other killers, and the shocking assaults on victims including their own family members. Explore Jim's violent youth, Michelle's dark past, and their deadly partnership that led to death row. Perfect for fans of serial killers, couple murderers, true crime podcasts, kidnapping cases, and forensic psychology. #TrueCrime #SerialKillers #DeathRow #MichaudDaveggio #MurderMystery Sources: Parker, RJ. ABDUCTION: The Minivan Murders: Killer Couple Michelle Michaud and James Daveggio. Kindle Edition. IN THE SUPREME COURT OF CALIFORNIA THE PEOPLE, Plaintiff and Respondent, S110294 v. JAMES ANTHONY DAVEGGIO and MICHELLE LYN MICHAUD, Alameda County Defendants and Appellants. Super. Ct. No. 134147. Filed 4/26/18. https://maamodt.asp.radford.edu/psyc%20405/serial%20killers/Daveggio,%20James%20_fall,%202007_.pdf United States of America, Plaintiff-appellee v. Michelle Lyn Michaud, Defendant-appellant, 268 F.3d 728 (9th Cir. 2001). In the Supreme Court of the United States MICHELLE LYN MICHAUD, v. STATE OF CALIFORNIA. No. 18-5079. https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/18/18-5079/55822/20180727182319666_Opposition.pdf Court Upholds Death Sentences In Pleasanton Woman's Murder. For CBS News. April 26, 2018.

Duration:00:55:45

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Paul Frederick Runge

9/3/2025
Description: In this episode, we investigate the case of Paul Frederick Runge, an Illinois predator whose crimes spanned rape, murder, dismemberment, and even arson. From the disappearance of Stacey Frobel to the murders of sisters Džanet and Amila Pagenbegović, and the mother-daughter killings of Yolanda Gutierrez and 10-year-old Jessica Muñiz, we trace how patterns, DNA, and a rare immunity deal finally broke the case. We also examine the overlooked role of his then-wife, Charlene, and how some accounts seem to minimize her involvement. If you find the show valuable, follow and share to help others discover it. Sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2m2UNIEBbg PEOPLE v. RUNGE. Supreme Court of Illinois. No. 103529. Decided: May 21, 2009. 2 Cases Dropped Against Serial Killer Paul Runge. CBS Chicago. August 24, 2011. https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/2-cases-against-serial-killer-paul-runge-to-be-dropped/ Gov. Quinn Commutes Death Sentence of Oak Forest Serial Killer Paul Runge. By Lauren Traut for Patch.com. Posted Wed, Mar 9, 2011 at 6:19 pm CT. https://patch.com/illinois/oakforest/gov-quinn-commutes-death-sentence-of-oak-forest-seriaa98a21589a. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paul_Runge_(serial_killer) https://murderpedia.org/male.R/r/runge-paul.htm

Duration:00:46:30

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The Geronimo Bank Murders

8/26/2025
Dive into one of America's most brutal true crime stories: the 1984 Geronimo Bank Murders. In this gripping episode of Almost Fiction, uncover how two debt-ridden lovers, Jay Wesley Neill and Robert Grady Johnson, turned desperation into a deadly Oklahoma bank robbery, stabbing and shooting innocent victims, including a pregnant woman, in a small-town heist gone horrifically wrong. Explore conflicting confessions, survivor testimonies, and the long fight for justice that ended in execution and life sentences. Perfect for fans of dark history, unsolved mysteries, and chilling true crime podcasts. Follow for daily cases on Instagram @almostfictionpod. Sources: https://www.upi.com/Archives/1985/05/20/A-teenage-survivor-of-a-bloody-bank-robbery-Monday/7006485409600/ Geronimo bank robber put to death. By News on 6. December 12th 2002, 12:00 am. https://murderpedia.org/male.N/n1/neill-jay-wesley.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geronimo_bank_murders Jay Wesley Neill, Plaintiff-appellant, v. Gary Gibson, Warden, Oklahoma State Penitentiary, Respondent-appellee, 278 F.3d 1044 (10th Cir. 2001) December 7, 2001. JAY WESLEY NEILL, APPELLANT v. STATE OF OKLAHOMA, APPELLEE Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. OK CR 69 896 P.2d 537. Case Number: F-92-975. 1994. http://www.clarkprosecutor.org/html/death/US/neill818.htm https://caselaw.findlaw.com/court/us-10th-circuit/1050363.html JOHNSON v. MULLIN. United States Court of Appeals,Tenth Circuit. Robert Grady JOHNSON, Petitioner-Appellant, v. Mike MULLIN, Warden, Respondent-Appellee. No. 06-6260. Decided: October 26, 2007.

Duration:00:33:00

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Frank Athen Walls

8/19/2025
Description: In 1967, Frank Athen Walls was born blue, a medical condition that would mark the beginning of a troubled life. By 19, he became one of America's youngest serial killers, leaving a trail of victims across Florida's beaches and neighborhoods. This episode explores his descent from a struggling teen to death row inmate, through the heartbreaking stories of Tommie Lou Whiddon, Cynthia Condra, Audrey Gygi, and the double homicide of Edward Alger and Ann Peterson. It’s a haunting examination of mental illness, justice, and the lives forever changed by a young man's brutal choices. Welcome back to another episode of Almost Fiction. Sources: Supreme Court of Florida. No. 80,364. Frank A. Walls vs. State of Florida. July 7, 1994. Supreme Court of Florida. No. SC03-633. Frank A. Walls vs. State of Florida. No. SC03-1955. February 9, 2006. Walls admits to three more murders. Author Not Noted for NWFDailyNews.com. October 6, 1994. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_A._Walls Serial killer remains reviled after 30 years. By Tom McLaughlin for NWFDailyNews.com. December 3, 2016. https://archive.ph/20250307213558/https://www.nwfdailynews.com/story/news/crime/2016/12/03/serial-killer-remains-reviled-after-30-years/14802878007/. Remembering Tommie Lou: Thirty year anniversary of death approaching. By Kelly Humphrey for NWFDailyNews.com. March 21, 2015. https://archive.ph/20250308113334/https://www.nwfdailynews.com/story/news/2015/03/21/1-454411/33963039007/. Serial killer Frank Walls ruled smart enough to be held responsible for 1980s-era murders. By Tom McLaughlin for Northwest Florida Daily News. November 30, 2021. Death sentence again upheld for Okaloosa County serial killer. By WEAR staff for WEARNews.com. February 22, 2023. https://archive.ph/20250308114040/https://weartv.com/news/local/death-sentence-again-upheld-for-okaloosa-county-serial-killer.

Duration:00:34:05

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George Kent Wallace aka The Mad Paddler

8/12/2025
In this gripping true crime episode, we unravel the story of George Kent Wallace, a man infamously known as "The Mad Paddler", whose decades-long trail of violence haunted communities across North Carolina, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Explore how Wallace, hiding in plain sight and exploiting law enforcement failures, preyed on young victims in a chilling pattern of kidnapping, assault, and murder. We delve into his troubled upbringing, the red flags ignored, and the loopholes in the justice system that let him evade capture time and again. Featuring survivor accounts, expert analysis, and a deep dive into court records, this episode provides a sobering look at the enduring impact on victims’ families and the questions that still linger. If you’re searching for true crime podcasts about serial killers, unsolved mysteries, and the failures that let monsters thrive in the shadows, this episode will keep you listening until the very end. Sources: WALLACE v. STATE. 1995 OK CR 19. 893 P.2d 504. Case Number: C-91-309. Decided: 03/27/1995. Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. George Kent Wallace, Petitioner-appellant, v. Ron Ward, Warden, Oklahoma State Penitentiary, Respondent-appellee, 191 F.3d 1235 (10th Cir. 1999). September 10, 1999. George Kent Wallace faces executioner. By Jimmy Tomlin for High Point News Enterprise. May 5, 2016. https://www.swtimes.com/story/news/2016/05/05/george-kent-wallace-faces-executioner/24258309007/. https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/13768431/george_kent-wallace KIDNAPPER CONFESSES TO BOYS' SLAYINGS. By Unknown Author for Greensboro.com. January 5, 1991. https://greensboro.com/kidnapper-confesses-to-boys-slayings/article_a3b660ac-95dd-5e70-816e-7f4abf769be2.html. Killer of two teens set for execution. By Unknown Author for UPI.com. August 10, 2000. https://www.upi.com/Archives/2000/08/10/Killer-of-two-teens-set-for-execution/6696965880000/. Paddler moves on to murder — and to Fort Smith. By Staff Writer for Fort Smith Times Record. May 4, 2016. https://www.swtimes.com/story/news/2016/05/04/paddler-moves-on-to-murder/26314986007/. WALLACE v. STATE (1997). Court of Criminal Appeals of Oklahoma. George Kent WALLACE, Petitioner, v. The STATE of Oklahoma, Respondent. No. PC-95-1246. Decided: March 18, 1997. Man executed in deaths of Arkansas teens. By Unkown Author for NewsOn6.com https://www.newson6.com/story/5e3684f02f69d76f6209a383/man-executed-in-deaths-of-arkansas-teens Escaped victim watches killer's execution. By Bobby Ross Jr. for TheOklahoman.com. August 11, 2000. https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2000/08/11/escaped-victim-watches-killers-execution/62186701007/ true crime podcast, serial killer stories, unsolved crimes, George Kent Wallace, The Mad Paddler, North Carolina crime, Arkansas true crime, Oklahoma murders, kidnapping case, survivor testimony, notorious criminals, infamous murderers, law enforcement failure, 20th century crime, real crime stories, criminal psychology, court transcripts, chilling confessions, justice system flaws, victim stories, dark history podcast, crime investigation, killer documentary, Spotify exclusive true crime, trending true crime, missing persons, crime scene, chilling podcast, disturbing cases, shocking crimes

Duration:00:33:55