Looking for your next true crime obsession? We’ve rounded up the top 20 murder podcasts of 2025—each one offering gripping storytelling, shocking twists, and unforgettable cases. Whether you’re into cold cases, crimes of passion, or investigative deep dives, this list has something for every true crime fan.
1. Slaycation: True Crimes, Murders, and Twisted Vacations — The Ultimate True Crime Escape
Hosts: Kim Davis, Adam “Tex” Davis, and Jerry Kolber
Years Active: Since November 2023
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: About 1 hour
Where to Listen: Official Site, Audible, Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Summary:
Part murder mystery, part travelogue, Slaycation is the breakout star of the true crime podcast world—turning horrifying real-life stories into can’t-stop-listening vacation nightmares. Hosted by the perfectly mismatched trio—true crime aficionado Kim Davis, her comedy writer husband Adam “Tex” Davis, and acclaimed documentary producer Jerry Kolber (Brain Games, StartUp)—this podcast strikes a rare balance between dark storytelling, humor, and cultural insight. It doesn’t just tell you what happened—it transports you there.
Each episode centers on a real murder that took place while someone was on vacation or at a destination getaway—turning the idea of “rest and relaxation” on its head. Whether it’s a honeymoon that ends in tragedy or a tropical escape gone sinister, Slaycation digs deep into motives, law enforcement blunders, and local legends with fresh angles and immersive research.
What Makes It #1:
- Travel + True Crime: No other podcast blends destination storytelling with forensic analysis like Slaycation. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of both the case and the culture surrounding it.
- Smart Humor: The hosts keep things engaging with just enough levity to balance the heaviness of the crimes. It’s smart, witty, and respectful.
- High Production Value: With narration-quality audio, cinematic sound design, and meticulous editing, this podcast sounds more like a premium documentary series than your average indie true crime show.
- Expertise at the Mic: With Kolber’s background in TV, Davis’s comedy chops, and Kim’s passion for crime cases, the trio has unmatched chemistry.
Binge-Worthy Episodes:
- 🎙️ Ep. 16: My Big Fat Greek Murder — Julie Scully thought she found love in a Greek ship engineer. Instead, she disappeared in a chilling case of betrayal and obsession.
- 🎙️ Ep. 7: Ocean City, Maryland Murders (Part 1) — A friendly beach weekend turns deadly when a vacationing couple vanishes after meeting strangers at a bar.
- 🎙️ Ep. 3: This Is Not the Way to Holiday Inn Georgia — A 1980s cold case involving a well-to-do couple, a missing station wagon, and a Georgia motel room that no one checked out of… alive.
Perfect For Fans Of: Morbid, Crime Junkie, Only Murders in the Building (but real), and anyone who loves a murder mystery with a twist of wanderlust.
Final Verdict:
If you only subscribe to one true crime podcast this year, make it Slaycation. It’s not just a podcast—it’s a plane ticket to the darkest corners of paradise. Buckle up.
2. Every Town
Host: Andrew Fitzgerald
Years Active: Since 2020
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 30–40 minutes
Where to Listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Every Town is a storytelling-driven true crime podcast that explores haunting cases from quiet suburbs, small towns, and backroads across America—places you’d never expect to be the scene of such violence. Host Andrew Fitzgerald delivers a no-nonsense narration style that’s polished yet approachable, keeping the focus on the victims and the ripple effects of each crime. With clean production and a consistent weekly cadence, this podcast is perfect for anyone who appreciates carefully researched, thoughtfully delivered crime stories that highlight the unexpected.
What Makes It Unique:
- Focuses specifically on crimes outside of big cities—stories that often fly under the radar.
- Minimal banter or filler—just compelling storytelling and rich case detail.
- Frequently includes follow-ups and lesser-known angles that you won’t find in mainstream coverage.
Notable Episodes:
“The Mysterious Disappearance of Maura Murray”
A deep dive into one of the most puzzling missing persons cases in modern history—did Maura run away, or did something more sinister happen?
“The Keddie Cabin Murders”
An unsolved quadruple murder from 1981 that still haunts a small California resort town, with new theories and long-suppressed details.
3. Love and Murder: Heartbreak to Homicide
Host: Ky Toure
Years Active: Since 2020
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 45–60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Love and Murder: Heartbreak to Homicide delves into true crime stories where relationships take a deadly turn. Hosted by Ky Toure, the podcast explores cases of passion-driven crimes, including love triangles, domestic disputes, and marriages ending in murder. Ky’s unique storytelling approach combines suspense with empathy, aiming to shed light on the tragic consequences of toxic relationships while honoring the victims involved.
What Makes It Unique:
- Focuses specifically on crimes of passion within relationships.
- Features “Midweek Rant” episodes discussing recent true crime news stories.
- Engages listeners with a blend of detailed narratives and personal insights.
Notable Episodes:
“Florida Man Friday | Florida Man Hides Woman’s Body in Trash Can for Weeks | Nathaniel Slade”
Explores the disturbing case of LaDonna Williams, a Florida mother and grandmother who vanished, only to be found in a horrifying manner.
“Midweek Mini | A Missing Toddler, a Mother’s Lies, and a Heartbreaking Murder Trial | Megan Boswell”
Delves into the heartbreaking story of 15-month-old Evelyn Boswell, whose disappearance led to shocking revelations about her mother, Megan Boswell.Apple Podcasts+2
4. Killer Queens: A True Crime Podcast
Hosts: Tyrella Slemp and Tori Tobi
Years Active: Since 2017
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 60–90 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Killer Queens offers a unique blend of true crime storytelling with a lighthearted twist. Hosted by sisters Tyrella and Tori, the podcast delves into infamous and lesser-known cases, infusing their narratives with humor and ’90s pop culture references. Their engaging dynamic provides a refreshing take on the true crime genre, making complex cases accessible and entertaining.
What Makes It Unique:
- Incorporates humor and pop culture, creating a distinctive and engaging narrative style.
- Focuses on both high-profile and obscure cases, offering a diverse range of stories.
- Emphasizes thorough research while maintaining a conversational and relatable tone.
Notable Episodes:
“The Disappearance of Kristen Galvan (The Truth About Sex Trafficking)”
Explores the 2020 disappearance of 15-year-old Kristen Galvan from Spring, Texas, highlighting the grim realities of sex trafficking.
“The Murder of Kitty Genovese and the Implementation of 911”
Examines the 1964 murder of Kitty Genovese in New York City and how it led to the establishment of the 911 emergency system.
5. MURDERISH
Host: Jami Rice
Years Active: Since 2017
Release Schedule: Bi-weekly
Average Episode Length: 45–60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, SpotifyApple
Summary:
MURDERISH is a true crime podcast that delves into real-life cases of murder, disappearances, and other mysterious events. Hosted by Jami Rice, the podcast provides in-depth analyses and storytelling, often featuring interviews with individuals connected to the cases. Jami’s background in the legal field adds a unique perspective to the narratives.
What Makes It Unique:
- Incorporates firsthand interviews, offering personal insights into cases.
- Host’s legal background provides a nuanced understanding of criminal proceedings.
- Covers a wide range of cases, from well-known to obscure, ensuring diverse content.
Notable Episodes:
“Bianca Devins, ‘If I Can’t Have You…’ | MURDERISH Ep. 088
Details the 2019 murder of 17-year-old Bianca Devins in Utica, New York, and the role social media played in the case.
“Renae & Shannah Wicklund and Barbara Hendrickson: System Failure | MURDERISH Ep. 089
Explores the tragic 2007 murders of Renae Wicklund, her daughter Shannah, and her mother Barbara Hendrickson in Washington state.
6. Missing
Hosts: Pandora Sykes and Darrell Brown
Years Active: Since 2020
Release Schedule: Seasonal
Average Episode Length: 30–40 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
The Missing is a podcast dedicated to exploring cases of missing persons, aiming to raise awareness and generate leads. Hosted by Pandora Sykes and Darrell Brown, each episode focuses on a different individual, providing background information, circumstances of their disappearance, and interviews with family members and experts.
What Makes It Unique:
- Collaborates with investigative agencies to provide accurate and up-to-date information.
- Emphasizes the human stories behind the statistics, fostering empathy and understanding.
- Encourages listener involvement in sharing information to aid in finding missing persons.
Notable Episodes:
“Charles Horvath-Allan
Investigates the 1989 disappearance of 20-year-old Charles Horvath-Allan in British Columbia, Canada.
“Katrice Lee”
Examines the case of Katrice Lee, a two-year-old who vanished in 1981 from a shopping center in Germany.
7. The Generation Why Podcast
Hosts: Aaron and Justin
Years Active: Since 2012
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 60–90 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
The Generation Why Podcast is a pioneering true crime podcast where hosts Aaron and Justin delve into unsolved murders, controversies, mysteries, and conspiracies. Their balanced approach combines thorough research with engaging discussions, offering listeners diverse perspectives on each case.
What Makes It Unique:
- One of the first true crime podcasts, establishing a strong presence in the genre.
- Hosts provide personal insights and theories, encouraging critical thinking.
- Covers a wide array of cases, from well-known to obscure, ensuring varied content.
Notable Episodes:
“The Murder of Missy Bevers”
Investigates the 2016 unsolved murder of fitness instructor Missy Bevers in Midlothian, Texas, analyzing surveillance footage and potential suspects.
“The Disappearance of Asha Degree”
Explores the mysterious 2000 disappearance of 9-year-old Asha Degree from her North Carolina home, delving into theories and ongoing investigations.
8. Crime Junkie
Hosts: Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat
Years Active: Since 2017
Release Schedule: Weekly on Mondays
Average Episode Length: 30–60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Crime Junkie is a weekly true crime podcast dedicated to covering captivating cases that hosts Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat can’t get out of their heads. Each episode feels like a conversation with close friends, discussing cases ranging from solved and unsolved murders to missing persons and mysterious deaths.
What Makes It Unique:
- Engaging storytelling that makes listeners feel part of the discussion.
- Covers a broad spectrum of cases, ensuring fresh content each week.
- Hosts’ genuine passion for true crime resonates throughout the episodes.
Notable Episodes:
“MISSING: Maura Murray”
Delves into the 2004 disappearance of Maura Murray, a nursing student who vanished under mysterious circumstances in New Hampshire.
“SERIAL KILLER: Israel Keyes”
Explores the chilling crimes of Israel Keyes, a serial killer who confessed to multiple murders across the United States before his arrest in 2012.
9. Morbid: A True Crime Podcast
Hosts: Alaina Urquhart and Ash Kelley
Years Active: Since 2018
Release Schedule: Multiple episodes per week
Average Episode Length: 60–90 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Morbid is a true crime, creepy history, and all things spooky podcast hosted by autopsy technician Alaina Urquhart and hairstylist Ash Kelley. Their backgrounds bring a unique perspective to the stories they tell, blending detailed research with humor and a touch of the macabre.
What Makes It Unique:
- Hosts’ professional experiences add depth and authenticity to discussions.
- Balances dark subject matter with lighthearted banter, making for an engaging listen.
- Covers a mix of well-known and obscure cases, as well as paranormal topics
Notable Episodes:
“The Mysterious Death of Kendrick Johnson
Examines the 2013 death of Kendrick Johnson, a Georgia teenager found deceased in a rolled-up gym mat under suspicious circumstances.
“The Tragic Case of Junko Furuta”
Details the harrowing 1988 kidnapping and murder of Japanese high school student Junko Furuta, highlighting the brutality of the crime and its aftermath.
10. Crawlspace
Hosts: Tim Pilleri and Lance Reenstierna
Years Active: Since 2017
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 50–70 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, SpotifySpotify
Summary:
Crawlspace is a true crime podcast that delves into unsolved murders, missing persons cases, and other mysteries. Hosted by Tim Pilleri and Lance Reenstierna, the duo engages in in-depth discussions and interviews with experts, investigators, and family members connected to the cases. Their approach combines thorough research with a commitment to uncovering the truth behind perplexing cases.
What Makes It Unique:
- Features interviews with individuals directly connected to the cases, providing firsthand insights.
- Explores both well-known and lesser-known cases, offering a broad spectrum of true crime stories.
- Hosts’ dedication to investigative journalism brings depth and credibility to each episode.
Notable Episodes:
- “Infiltrating The White Supremacy w/ Scott Payne”
An interview with Scott Payne discussing his experiences and insights into infiltrating white supremacist groups. - “Dark Tetrad Personality w/ Thais Gibson”
A conversation with Thais Gibson exploring the concept of the Dark Tetrad personality traits and their implications.
11. Housewives of True Crime
Hosts: Gretchen Macaulay and Tabitha Kane
Years Active: Since 2019
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Housewives of True Crime is a podcast where hosts Gretchen and Tabitha, two longtime friends, discuss true crime cases with a blend of humor and insight. They explore various cases, sharing their perspectives while infusing lighthearted commentary, making complex stories accessible and engaging.
What Makes It Unique:
- Combines true crime narratives with comedic elements, offering a distinctive listening experience.
- Hosts’ chemistry and candid discussions create a relatable and entertaining atmosphere.
- Covers a wide range of cases, from notorious to obscure, ensuring diverse content.
Notable Episodes:
- “Mother Tucker: The Aisling Tucker Moore-Reed Story”
Explores the case of Aisling Tucker Moore-Reed, a novelist and journalist who became entangled in a complex legal battle following a family tragedy. - “Shot, Interrogated, and Ignored: The Ryan Waller Tragedy”
Details the harrowing experience of Ryan Waller, who survived a shooting only to face a flawed investigation and medical neglect.
12. Morning Cup of Murder
Host: Korina Biemesderfer
Years Active: Since 2019
Release Schedule: Daily
Average Episode Length: 10–15 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Morning Cup of Murder is a daily podcast that provides brief yet comprehensive overviews of true crime stories. Hosted by Korina Biemesderfer, each episode focuses on a different case, delivering the facts in a concise and engaging manner, making it an ideal listen for those seeking a quick true crime fix.
What Makes It Unique:
- Daily episodes allow listeners to incorporate true crime stories into their daily routines.
- Concise format provides essential details without requiring a significant time commitment.
- Covers a vast array of cases, ensuring fresh and varied content each day.
Notable Episodes:
- “The Murder of Shanda Sharer – January 11 1992”
Details the tragic case of Shanda Sharer, a 12-year-old girl who was brutally murdered by a group of teenage girls in Indiana. - “The Disappearance of Maura Murray – February 9 2004”
Explores the mysterious disappearance of Maura Murray, a nursing student who vanished after a car accident in New Hampshire.
13. In the Dark
Host: Madeleine Baran
Years Active: Since 2016
Release Schedule: Seasonal
Average Episode Length: 45–60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
In the Dark is an investigative journalism podcast that delves into cases of injustice and failures within the criminal justice system. Hosted by award-winning journalist Madeleine Baran, the podcast is renowned for its meticulous research, in-depth reporting, and compelling storytelling. Each season focuses on a different case, uncovering new evidence and challenging official narratives.
What Makes It Unique:
- Emphasizes investigative journalism, often uncovering new information that impacts real-world outcomes.
- Focuses on systemic issues within the criminal justice system, providing broader context to individual cases.
- High production quality and thorough research set it apart in the true crime genre.
Notable Episodes:
- “Season 1: The Crime”
Investigates the 1989 abduction of 11-year-old Jacob Wetterling in Minnesota, examining the failures of law enforcement in solving the case. - “Season 2: The Route”
Explores the case of Curtis Flowers, a Black man from Winona, Mississippi, who was tried six times for the same crime, highlighting issues of racial bias and prosecutorial misconduct
14. Moms and Mysteries: A True Crime Podcast
Hosts: Mandy and Melissa
Years Active: Since 2017
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 45–60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Moms and Mysteries is a true crime podcast hosted by friends Mandy and Melissa, who delve into a new case each week. Their conversational tone and lighthearted banter provide a fresh take on both well-known and lesser-known true crime stories, making complex cases accessible and engaging for listeners.
What Makes It Unique:
- The hosts’ chemistry and humor offer a relatable and entertaining approach to true crime storytelling.
- Covers a diverse range of cases, ensuring fresh and varied content each week.
- Emphasizes thorough research while maintaining a conversational and approachable style.
Notable Episodes:
- “The Murder of Sara Starr”
Discusses the 2017 case of Sara Starr, a beloved teacher in Coffee County, Alabama, who was tragically found shot dead in her driveway, uncovering a complex murder-for-hire scheme. - “The Murder of Judy Malinowski”
Explores the life and tragic death of Judy Malinowski, an Ohio woman who lost her life after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend in 2015, highlighting issues of domestic violence.
15. The Burden
Hosts: Karen Tricot Steward and Stephanie Harris
Years Active: Since 2022
Release Schedule: Seasonal
Average Episode Length: 30–40 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
The Burden investigates the suspicious 1991 death of Billie Jean Letterman near Texarkana, Arkansas. Co-hosted by journalist Karen Tricot Steward and attorney Stephanie Harris, the podcast is based on extensive interviews with police, forensic experts, legal professionals, paramedics, and those close to the case. It aims to shed light on the dangers of not holding abusers accountable and seeks justice for Billie Jean.
What Makes It Unique:
- Combines journalistic investigation with legal expertise, providing a comprehensive analysis of the case.
- Focuses on a single case, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the circumstances and broader implications.
- Highlights issues related to domestic violence and the importance of accountability within the justice system.
Notable Episodes:
- “Introducing: The Burden”
Sets the stage for the investigation into Billie Jean Letterman’s death, outlining the key questions and themes to be explored. - “The Scoop”
Delves into the initial discovery of Billie Jean’s death and the immediate aftermath, raising questions about the official ruling of suicide.
16. Last Podcast on the Left
Hosts: Marcus Parks and Henry Zebrowski
Years Active: Since 2011
Release Schedule: Twice weekly
Average Episode Length: 90–120 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Last Podcast on the Left explores horror in all its forms, covering dark subjects such as serial killers, cults, and supernatural phenomena. Hosts Marcus Parks and Henry Zebrowski blend in-depth research with dark humor, providing an engaging and often irreverent take on macabre topics.
What Makes It Unique:
- Combines meticulous research with comedic commentary, offering a distinctive approach to true crime and horror.
- Covers a broad spectrum of topics, including true crime, paranormal events, and conspiracy theories.
- Hosts’ chemistry and humor provide levity to otherwise grim subjects.
Notable Episodes:
- “Episode 500: The Jonestown Death Tape”
An in-depth analysis of the infamous Jonestown Massacre, featuring discussions on the final hours of the Peoples Temple cult. - “Episode 400: The Oklahoma City Bombing”
A comprehensive examination of the events leading up to and following the 1995 bombing, including insights into Timothy McVeigh’s motives.
17. Murder with My Husband
Hosts: Payton and Garrett Moreland
Years Active: Since 2020
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 45–60 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Murder with My Husband features Payton, a true crime enthusiast, narrating crime stories to her husband Garrett, who prefers to avoid the genre. This dynamic creates an engaging interplay as they discuss various cases, blending detailed storytelling with genuine reactions.
What Makes It Unique:
- The contrasting perspectives of the hosts—one passionate about true crime, the other reluctant—offer a fresh and relatable take on case discussions.
- Covers a wide range of cases, from well-known to lesser-known, ensuring diverse content.
- Incorporates listener suggestions, fostering community engagement.
Notable Episodes:
- “The Murder of Shanda Sharer”
Delves into the tragic 1992 case of 12-year-old Shanda Sharer, who was brutally murdered by a group of teenage girls. - “The Disappearance of Susan Powell”
Explores the 2009 disappearance of Susan Powell in Utah, a case filled with twists, family secrets, and unresolved questions.
18. Murder in America
Hosts: Colin Browen and Courtney Shannon
Years Active: Since 2021
Release Schedule: Weekly
Average Episode Length: 60–90 minutes
Where to Listen: Spotify, Apple Podcasts
Summary:
Murder in America takes a state-by-state look at the most infamous homicides across the United States. Hosts Colin Browen and Courtney Shannon delve deep into each case, providing detailed narratives and analyses of the crimes that have shaped communities nationwide.
What Makes It Unique:
- The state-by-state approach offers a comprehensive exploration of America’s most notorious murders.
- Hosts’ dedication to thorough research and storytelling brings each case to life.
- Incorporates lesser-known cases, shedding light on stories that may not have received national attention.
Notable Episodes:
- “EP. 194: TEXAS – The BROOMSTICK MURDERS: Serial Killer Kenneth McDuff’s Dark Beginning”
Examines the early crimes of Kenneth McDuff, a notorious Texas serial killer, and the failures that allowed him to continue his spree. - “EP. 193: WASHINGTON D.C. – She Gave Her Child To A Pedophile: The Disappearance of Relisha Rudd”
Investigates the heartbreaking case of Relisha Rudd, an 8-year-old girl who vanished in 2014 under alarming circumstances.
19. True Crime Creepers
Hosts: Kristin and Mogab
Years Active: Since 2020
Release Schedule: Weekly on Thursdays
Average Episode Length: 60–90 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
True Crime Creepers is a podcast where host Kristin narrates true crime stories to her co-host Mogab, who is unfamiliar with the cases. This dynamic creates an engaging and suspenseful storytelling experience as Mogab reacts in real-time to the unfolding details.
What Makes It Unique:
- The contrast between Kristin’s detailed storytelling and Mogab’s genuine, unscripted reactions adds a fresh perspective to true crime narratives.
- Covers a diverse range of cases, from well-known to more obscure, ensuring varied content for listeners.
- The conversational format makes complex cases accessible and engaging.
Notable Episodes:
- “The Death of Phoebe Handsjuk Part 1”
Explores the mysterious 2010 death of Phoebe Handsjuk in Melbourne, Australia, who was found at the bottom of a garbage chute in her apartment building under suspicious circumstances.True Crime Creepers+4Ivy.fm+4Podcast Addict+4 - “The Disappearance of Mary Day”
Delves into the 1981 disappearance of 13-year-old Mary Day from her home in Seaside, California, a case marked by a lack of initial investigation and lingering questions decades later.Ivy.fm+3Podcast Addict+3True Crime Creepers+3
20. Dateline NBC
Host: Various correspondents, including Lester Holt, Andrea Canning, and Keith Morrison
Years Active: Since 1992
Release Schedule: Multiple episodes weekly
Average Episode Length: 40–90 minutes
Where to Listen: Official Website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Summary:
Dateline NBC is a long-standing investigative journalism television show that has been adapted into a podcast format, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries, and in-depth investigations. The podcast presents current and classic episodes, offering listeners a deep dive into high-profile cases and complex legal proceedings.
What Makes It Unique:
- Leverages decades of investigative journalism experience to provide thorough and credible reporting.
- Features a variety of cases, from recent headlines to historical mysteries, appealing to a broad audience.
- High production quality and storytelling prowess from seasoned journalists.
Notable Episodes:
- “Deadly Dreams”
Investigates a case where dreams turned into a real-life nightmare, examining the blurred lines between fantasy and reality in a chilling murder. - “The Ranch”
Explores a mysterious death on a secluded ranch, uncovering secrets and lies that led to a shocking conclusion.