Australian True Crime

This episode features a conversation with journalist Jeremy Pudney regarding the Snowtown murders, exploring the psychological manipulation used by John Bunting to exploit vulnerable individuals through a false persona of a protector. The discussion details the investigation and discovery of the crimes, focusing on the roles of Bunting and Robert Wagner, and how police uncovered the true scale of the violence through missing persons reviews. The episode further examines the investigation and subsequent arrests of those involved, including Bunting, Wagner, Hayden, and Vlasakis. It explores the legal outcomes for each perpetrator, the psychological impact of the crimes, and the importance of providing visibility to the victims to honor their legacy.

This episode of Australian True Crime explores the chilling details of the Snowtown murders, a case involving the discovery of dismembered remains in barrels of acid within a disused bank. The discussion focuses on the release on parole of Jamie Vlasakis, the youngest member of the gang, and features an interview with journalist Jeremy Pudney, author of the definitive book on the subject. The narrative delves into the psychological manipulation used by gang leader John Bunting to coerce vulnerable individuals into a circle of violence. The conversation examines the systemic failures that allowed these crimes to go undetected for so long, the complex backgrounds of both the perpetrators and the victims, and the investigative breakthroughs that eventually uncovered the true scale of the killings.

The hosts of True Crime Tonight explore the cultural impact of the podcast 'Serial' and its role in driving the true crime phenomenon. Guest Michael Adams from 'Forgotten Australia' recounts the 1928 murder of schoolteacher Jack Mulholland in New South Wales. The episode also features former prosecutor Margaret MacLean discussing the Lindsay Clancy case. The conversation delves into the tragic deaths of three children and examines the legal and medical distinctions between postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, as well as the implications for mental health treatment following high-profile trials.

Maggie Dawkins recounts her experience in 1985 while working in Katanning, where she was approached by young men disclosing sexual abuse at St Andrew's Hostel. She describes the lack of language for such crimes at the time and the intense community backlash she faced when attempting to report the allegations to local authorities. The episode further details her confrontation with Dennis McKenna, which resulted in her being transferred out of town after he threatened her with his connections. The narrative explores the broader pattern of systemic failure and sexual abuse in Katanning involving various institutions, the ongoing struggle for justice through memorials, and the devastating intergenerational trauma experienced by families like Kay Anderson's.

Neste episódio de Australian True Crime with Michelle Laurie, Maggie Dawkins compartilha sua jornada de décadas na luta contra o abuso institucional infantil em Katanning, Austrália Ocidental. A narrativa detalha como a descoberta de abusos cometidos por Dennis McKenna no St. Andrew's Hostel levou Maggie a enfrentar a resistência da comunidade local e do poder político para buscar justiça. A conversa explora as dificuldades de denunciar crimes em cidades pequenas, o impacto das redes de proteção institucional e o processo de investigação que culminou na condenação de McKenna. O episódio aborda também os desdobramentos recentes sobre a liberdade do condenado e a falta de pedidos de desculpas por parte do conselho local.

This episode explores the legal and psychological complexities surrounding the Lindsay Clancy case, where an American mother is accused of killing her three young children in January 2023. The discussion focuses on the recent collapse of her six-week criminal trial after a jury failed to reach a verdict, highlighting the intense debate between viewing her actions as premeditated murder or the result of extreme postpartum psychosis. Featuring legal analysis from former prosecutor Margaret McLean, the episode examines the distinction between postpartum depression and psychosis, the forensic evidence presented during the trial, and the potential legal paths forward for the prosecution. The conversation also touches upon the societal impact of the case regarding mental health awareness and the pursuit of justice for the victims.

This episode examines the criminal trial of Lindsay Clancy, an American woman accused of killing her three children in 2023. Legal expert Margaret McLean analyzes the complexities of the case, including the distinction between postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis, the role of medication, and the conflicting expert testimonies regarding her mental state. The discussion further explores the debate between calculated intent and 'waxing and waning' psychosis, alongside the legal burdens in Massachusetts regarding criminal responsibility. The episode also considers the potential for increased awareness and better medical intervention for postpartum psychosis following this high-profile case, as well as the legal complexities surrounding a possible retrial.

The hosts examine the legal complexities of the Lindsay Clancy case, focusing on how postpartum psychosis intersects with criminal responsibility and the challenges advancements in neuropsychology pose to traditional concepts of agency. The discussion also critiques political proposals in Victoria regarding judicial sentencing oversight and rising incarceration rates. Additionally, the episode covers concerns over the Victorian Police Commissioner's influence on judicial independence and new Tasmanian legislation restricting character references in court. The conversation concludes with a look at the perceived compromise of the US Supreme Court, debates surrounding Australian national identity, and recent political scandals involving Nigel Farage.

Abraham Quoll discusses his upbringing in the Kakuma refugee camp and the challenges of resettling in Australia, highlighting how systemic barriers, media demonization, and a lack of employment opportunities can lead young South Sudanese men toward criminal identities. The conversation explores the historical pattern of demonizing migrant communities in Australia and the importance of early intervention and representation to foster aspirations. The episode further examines the complex risk and protective factors affecting young people in refugee communities, specifically how community support and early exposure to academic settings can mitigate challenges. The discussion concludes with reflections on how experiences with global suffering drive a desire to give back through building lasting community infrastructure.

In this episode of Australian True Crime, host Michelle Laurie interviews Abraham Quoll, a youth mentor, criminology researcher, and Victoria's Young Australian of the Year for 2026. Quoll shares his personal journey from growing up in the Kakuma refugee camp in Kenya to finding community and purpose in Australia. The conversation delves into the complexities of youth crime within South Sudanese communities, exploring themes of identity, labeling theory, and the impact of media demonization. Quoll discusses the importance of early intervention, the role of employment and sport in fostering belonging, and his current PhD research into risk and protective factors for high-harm offending.

The hosts of True Crime Tonight discuss recent developments in the Tupac Shakur murder investigation, specifically regarding the conviction of Keefe D. They also recommend the documentary 'Hey, Beautiful,' which examines how Nigerian 'Yahoo boys' utilize social media for sophisticated romance scams. The episode further explores the emotional manipulation used in these scams and features an interview with Amelia Oberhart about the documentary 'Outback Murder Highway.' This investigation looks into a series of unsolved murders and disappearances along Australia's Flinders Highway during the 1970s.

Investigative journalist Amelia Oberhart examines the dark history of the Flinders Highway, focusing on the 1972 disappearance of Anita and Robin Cunningham. The episode explores how the era's culture of hitchhiking and a lack of police urgency contributed to a series of mysteries, including potential connections to serial killer Ivan Milat. The discussion extends to other cold cases along Australian highways, such as the Spear Creek Killings and the disappearance of Tony Jones. The investigation also covers the case of Jaden Penno-Thompson, highlighting how modern forensics and family advocacy are playing a crucial role in seeking justice for long-unsolved crimes.

This episode of Australian True Crime explores the chilling history of the Flinders Highway, an 800-kilometre stretch of road in Queensland linked to numerous disappearances and murders. Investigative journalist Amelia Oberhart discusses her work on the series Outback Murder Highway, focusing on the 1970s era when hitchhiking was common and police responses were often negligent. The discussion delves into the disappearance of Anita and Robin Cunningham, examining potential connections to notorious serial killer Ivan Milat following a decades-old eyewitness identification. The conversation covers the challenges of investigating crimes in isolated areas lacking CCTV or modern communication, as well as the use of new forensic technologies like ground-penetting radar and cadaver dogs. The episode examines how historical social shifts, such as the 'free love' movement, influenced the perception of missing young women and why certain cases remained unsolved for decades.

Neste episódio de Australian True Crime with Michelle Laurie, o ex-policial infiltrado Jason Somerville compartilha os detalhes de sua vida sob o pseudônimo de Michael Bates. Ele discute as complexidades do trabalho policial disfarçado na Queensland Police, abordando desde o treinamento técnico para identificar diamantes e contar dinheiro até a infiltração em redes de tráfico de heroína. O relato explora o profundo impacto psicológico da vida dupla, os riscos de ser descoberto por gangues e as dificuldades de transição de volta à vida civil. Somerville também aborda temas sensíveis como o estresse pós-traumático, a tentação financeira no submundo do crime e sua jornada de recuperação através da escrita e do podcasting.

Former undercover officer Jason Somerville discusses the training, risks, and psychological complexities of his work in the Queensland Police. He details the difficulty of maintaining a false identity while navigating criminal environments and explores the immense temptation for corruption due to the high profitability of drug trafficking. He also reflects on the challenges of transitioning back to uniformed policing, including the stigma faced by former undercover officers and the long-term impact on mental health. Finally, he discusses the social isolation of retired officers and his transition into filmmaking to document PTSD in emergency services.

The hosts discuss recent violent incidents in the Altona North area, including shootings linked to the tobacco wars and the impact of crime on local families. They also review the classic HBO documentary series 'Paradise Lost', detailing the wrongful conviction of the West Memphis Three and the ongoing search for DNA evidence. The episode further explores the American justice system and the concept of an Alford plea, followed by an introduction to the case of Jason Rigby. Jess Rigby discusses the suspicious circumstances surrounding her brother-in-law's death in Fiji, which authorities initially ruled a suicide but the family disputes.

Jessica Rigby discusses the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of her brother-in-law, Jason Rigby, in Fiji, which authorities initially ruled a suicide. She highlights significant inconsistencies in the official narrative, including a lack of thorough investigation and the suspicious speed at which a cause of death was publicized. The episode details the challenges of seeking justice across international jurisdictions, noting the lack of institutional support from Australian and Fijian authorities. The speakers discuss findings from a private investigation regarding new evidence and the difficulties in holding corporate entities accountable as the family continues their mission to pursue justice.

Australian True Crime explores the mysterious death of Jason Rigby, a hotel manager found dead in his staff apartment at a luxury resort in Fiji. While authorities initially ruled the death a suicide involving self-inflicted stab wounds, his family remains unconvinced, citing inconsistencies in the official narrative, including the lack of a thorough investigation and suspicious details surrounding the crime scene. In this episode, Jason's sister-in-law, Jessica Rigby, discusses the family's ongoing fight for justice, the findings of their private investigator, and the complexities of the case involving potential motives and local connections in Fiji. The discussion covers the discrepancies in toxicology reports, the unusual nature of the wounds, and the family's plea for anyone with information to come forward.

In this episode of Australian True Crime, host Michelle Laurie interviews Greg Barnes, a prominent figure in criminal justice and human rights. Barnes discusses his extensive career, ranging from political campaigning to advising Julian Assange, and explores the systemic issues underlying the Australian prison system, including social disadvantage and the lack of through care for offenders. The conversation delves into the complexities of high-profile legal battles, the nuances of mediation in abuse cases, and the launch of his new podcast, Law The Podcast, with former Supreme Court Judge Lex Lasry.

Greg Barnes discusses the systemic drivers of crime in Australia, focusing on how social disadvantage, school expulsions, and a lack of post-prison support contribute to recidivism. He also reflects on his involvement in the legal battle for Julian Assange and the personal toll of advocating for freedom of speech. The conversation expands into broader Australian political and social issues, including the crisis facing legal aid, the merits of transitioning to a republic, and the impact of migration on the labor market. The episode concludes with reflections on the housing affordability crisis and the shifting nature of modern political discourse.

In this episode of True Crime Tonight, producers Matt and Ruby host in the absence of Michelle Laurie to discuss a listener request regarding the murder of Toya Accordingly. The hosts also explore recent legal developments in the Menendez brothers case and the impact of celebrity advocacy on their parole prospects. The episode further features a discussion between Michelle Laurie and Lyndon Blake regarding the criminal case of American singer-songwriter David Anthony Burke, known as D4VD. The conversation details the allegations surrounding the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, including the timeline of the crime, the alleged cover-up, and the eventual discovery of the body.

This episode examines the legal case against American singer-songwriter David Anthony Burke, known as D4VD, who is charged with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The discussion explores his rise to fame via TikTok and Fortnite, the alleged grooming relationship between him and the victim, and the chilling timeline of the crime occurring around his album release. The episode further details the alleged crime and subsequent cover-up, including how Burke maintained a facade of normalcy while a body remained in his home for months. The discussion covers the investigation's timeline, the discovery of the victim in his Tesla, and the specific legal charges he currently faces.

Este episódio explora o caso criminal de David Anthony Burke, conhecido como D4VD, acusado do assassinato da jovem Celeste. A narrativa detalha os eventos ocorridos em abril, quando a vítima foi atraída para a residência do suspeito em Hollywood Hills, e descreve a descoberta macabra do corpo meses depois no compartimento frontal de um Tesla. A discussão aborda as evidências apresentadas pela acusação, incluindo o uso de ferramentas para ocultar o crime, a existência de DNA no local e as acusações de abuso sexual e mutilação de restos mortais. O relato traz detalhes sobre a cronologia dos fatos, desde o lançamento do álbum do músico até a investigação da polícia de Los Angeles.

Journalist Neil Mercer examines the case of Josephine Greensill, a retired teacher wrongfully convicted of historical child sexual abuse driven by long-held childhood grudges and potential financial motives. The episode explores the devastating psychological and financial aftermath of her conviction and the lasting stigma that remains even after exoneration. The discussion further investigates broader systemic failures in the Australian legal system, highlighting the role of unreliable forensic experts, coerced confessions, and prosecutorial misconduct in high-profile cases such as those involving Henry Keogh, Gene Gibson, and Andrew Mallard. The episode concludes by reflecting on the complexities of seeking legal redress amidst changing political leadership.

In this episode of Australian True Crime, journalist Neil Mercer discusses his book, Falsely Convicted, which explores nine cases of wrongful convictions in Australia. The conversation delves into the systemic failures that allowed individuals to be imprisoned for crimes they did not commit, focusing on the role of unreliable expert testimony and flawed police investigations. The discussion highlights the case of Henry Keogh, whose conviction rested on the discredited evidence of a pathologist acting as a charlatan, and the tragic story of Andrew Mallard, whose conviction was overturned after forensic evidence linked another inmate to the crime. The episode examines the profound human cost of judicial error and the devastating impact these legal failures have on the lives of the exonerated.

The hosts of True Crime Tonight discuss various true crime documentaries, including 'The Cape,' which covers a disappearance in Australia, and 'The Trial,' regarding a Scottish murder case. The episode also features an interview with Stephen Myers, author of 'The Treehouse.' Myers recounts his time as an accomplice to the 'Hollywood Bandit' during a series of 1990s bank robberies. He describes the meticulous planning, use of disguises, and the psychological game played against authorities, concluding with the account of the final robbery and the death of his partner, Scott Scurlock.

Stephen Myers discusses his partnership with Scott Scurlock, the 'Hollywood Bandit,' detailing their meticulous and non-violent approach to bank robberies in the 1990s. He explains how they used psychological tactics, careful research, and the sanctuary of the 'Treehouse' to evade detection while challenging large institutions. The episode covers the intense planning behind their operations and the chaotic final getaway involving a violent police pursuit and an alleged ambush. Myers reflects on the aftermath, including the eventual suicide of Scurlock and the discrepancy between Scurlock's public image as a folk hero and his actual history as a high-level criminal.

In this episode of Australian True Crime International, host Michelle Laurie interviews Stephen Myers, author of The Treehouse, regarding his involvement in the 1990s bank robbery spree led by Scott Scurlock, known as the Hollywood Bandit. Myers details his transition from a successful sculptor to an accomplice in a series of meticulously planned, non-violent robberies across Seattle. The conversation explores the psychological motivations behind the crimes, the use of elaborate disguises, and the technical challenges of evading police surveillance and electronic ProNet tags. The episode concludes with the dramatic account of their final getaway, the intense police pursuit, and the eventual death of Scurlock.

This episode features an interview with Nicole Morris, founder of the Australian Missing Persons Register, regarding her book 'Lost' and the alarming statistics surrounding missing persons and youth homelessness in Australia. The discussion explores the mysterious disappearance of computer genius Attila Bogar and various theories regarding his vanishing. The conversation further delves into the complexities of missing person investigations, including digital traces, unidentified remains, and the challenges posed by the vast Australian landscape. The speakers also address specific cold cases, potential racial biases in investigation rewards, and the profound psychological impact of 'ambiguous loss' on families.

In this episode of Australian True Crime, host Michelle Laurie interviews Nicole Morris, founder of the Australian Missing Persons Register, regarding her new book, Lost. The conversation explores the staggering statistics surrounding missing persons in Australia, noting that approximately 49,000 people are reported missing annually. The discussion delves into the intersection of homelessness and missing persons, specifically focusing on the vulnerability of young people and the systemic failures in addressing youth displacement. Morris also addresses the profound psychological impact of ambiguous loss on families and the critical importance of DNA technology in identifying remains.

This episode of True Crime Tonight explores several harrowing criminal cases, beginning with the 1973 Australian murder spree led by Archie McCafferty and the legacy of Melbourne crime matriarch Kath Pettingill. The episode also investigates the tragic TikTok-related murder-suicide of Sarah Gilson and Sean Duffy, examining how social media posts regarding alleged misconduct preceded the fatal incident.

This episode explores the tragic murder-suicide of Sarah Gilson by her estranged husband, Jeremiah Sean Duffy, following a period of public tension shared on TikTok. The discussion delves into the investigation regarding allegations of misconduct against Duffy and the devastating impact of the violence on the children present in the home. The hosts also examine the role of social media and potential warning signs in domestic violence cases before shifting to a broader debate on gun violence in America versus Australia, using a recent shooting at an In-N-Out burger chain as a case study for the utility of armed citizens.

In this episode of Australian True Crime International, host Michelle Laurie and investigative journalist Lyndon Blake examine the tragic case of Sarah Gilson. The discussion explores the timeline leading up to a fatal shooting involving Gilson's estranged husband, Jeremiah Sean Duffy, following a viral TikTok post made by Gilson regarding her discovery of his misconduct. The investigation delves into the details of police reports, emergency protective orders, and the devastating impact of domestic violence on family members present during the incident.

Karen McCluskey discusses the transformation of Glasgow from a violent city to a model for violence prevention by adopting a public health approach. She details how addressing root causes like school exclusion, de-industrialization, and trauma through coordinated efforts between police, health, and education sectors led to record lows in homicide and the elimination of under-18s in the prison system. The episode further explores the success of preventative justice and mentoring programs in Scotland. The speaker emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed care in schools and highlights a shift toward rehabilitative sentencing for young people under 25, based on research into brain development and the use of restorative justice.

In this episode of Australian True Crime, producer Matthew Tankard interviews Karen McCluskey, a co-founder of Scotland's Violence Reduction Unit. The discussion explores how Glasgow transformed from one of Europe's most violent cities into an international model for violence prevention by treating crime as a public health issue rather than just a criminal justice problem. McCluskey details the implementation of a multi-agency approach that involved surveillance, identifying risk factors like school exclusion and poverty, and engaging with gang members, healthcare professionals, and families. The episode highlights the importance of long-term commitment, trauma-informed practices, and the success of reducing youth incarceration through preventative interventions.

The hosts of True Crime Tonight introduce 'Law the Podcast' and discuss an upcoming interview with former judge Lex Lasry, covering topics such as mandatory sentencing and his opposition to the death penalty. The episode also explores the impact of police corruption in NSW through the story of whistleblower Sally-Anne Huckstep and reviews David Challen's book 'The Unthinkable,' which examines the devastating effects of coercive control.

Former Supreme Court Judge Lex Lasry discusses his retirement from the bench, reflecting on the emotional toll of presiding over tragic criminal cases and the conflict with the DPP that led to his resignation. He shares personal insights into the weight of sentencing and his transition into podcasting. The conversation further explores Lasry's legal legacy, specifically his opposition to the death penalty and his commitment to defending those without resources. The episode also covers the evolution of courtroom technology, the changing nature of the criminal underworld, and systemic failures regarding Indigenous incarceration rates in the Northern Territory.

In this episode of Australian True Crime, host Michelle Laurie interviews former Supreme Court Judge Lex Lasry about his new project, 'Law the Podcast.' The conversation covers his transition from the judiciary to podcasting, his opposition to the death penalty, and the complexities of sentencing and self-defense within the legal system.

In this episode of Law The Podcast, Lex Lasry and Greg Barnes discuss recent legislative developments in the Northern Territory, specifically focusing on changes to child protection laws. They explore the repeal of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Placement Principle and the potential for systemic racism within the territory's justice system. The speakers also examine the Northern Territory's criminal justice system, addressing compensation caps for unlawful prisoner treatment, the return of spit hoods, and a critical funding crisis in Legal Aid. The discussion concludes with reflections on the disparity in Indigenous incarceration rates and the broader challenges of systemic injustice and political timidity.

Host Michelle Laurie and crime correspondent Kayla Brantley delve into the scandalous Alex Murdaugh case in South Carolina, examining the double murder of his wife and son alongside a web of financial crimes and family secrets. The discussion explores the legal complexities following his overturned conviction, including the controversial role of court clerk Rebecca Hill. The episode also addresses the potential for new DNA evidence in a retrial and the emotional impact of these crimes. Finally, the conversation touches upon the 'The Trial USA' podcast and the public reaction to the Luigi Mangione case.

In this episode of Australian True Crime International, host Michelle Laurie interviews Daily Mail crime correspondent Kayla Brantley regarding the scandalous case of Alex Murdaugh. The discussion explores the complex legal saga involving the South Carolina attorney whose 2023 murder conviction for the deaths of his wife and son was recently overturned. The conversation delves into the alleged financial crimes involving $19 million, the role of Colleton County Clerk of Court Rebecca Hill in influencing the jury, and the potential for a retrial that could lead to the death penalty. The episode examines how a prominent legal family's collapse exposed a pattern of mysterious deaths and systemic corruption within a small-town community.

The hosts of True Crime Tonight introduce the show's lineup, including a review of the documentary 'Predators' and its discussion on the ethics of Chris Hansen's 'To Catch a Predator'. The episode also addresses listener requests regarding relationships formed in prison. In an interview with Kayla Brantley, the episode delves into the Alex Murdaugh murder case. The discussion covers the double murder of his wife and son, potential motives involving financial crimes, and the controversy surrounding court clerk Rebecca Hill's influence on the jury.

Author and journalist Rochelle Jackson discusses her career specializing in true crime, focusing on the complex lives of criminals and their partners. Through case studies like Tanya Marks and Joe Turk, she explores the psychological motivations and varied backgrounds of those connected to notorious figures. The episode further delves into the personal relationships of women such as Jeannie Keiko, Sylvia Bruno, and Georgina Freeman. It examines themes of love, survival, and the loss of innocence within the criminal underworld.