This week, we’re covering the disturbing case of Ruby Franke, the "momfluencer" behind the successful YouTube channel 8 Passengers, and her business partner, Jodi Hildebrandt. Once known for showcasing her family's lives online, Ruby’s picture-perfect image came crashing down when she and Jodi were arrested on serious child abuse charges. How did things get so bad? What warning signs were missed? And how did they keep their dark secrets hidden for so long?

Join us as we break down the case, the shocking details of their arrest, and what we think about family influencer culture.

RESOURCES:

CANADA: If you are under the age of 19, experiencing abuse and want to talk to someone, you can call the Kids Help Phone free of charge at 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. You don’t have to tell them your name.

US: You can visit https://www.childhelphotline.org/ for 24/7 online chat, or call or text HELP to 1-800-422-4453.

Listen to the full 911 call audio here.

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This week, we discuss the case of Amy Lynn Bradley, a vibrant 23-year-old woman who vanished without a trace while on a family cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas in March 1998. Despite extensive searches and investigations, Amy’s whereabouts remain a mystery. This twist-filled story includes several chilling sightings and unanswered questions.

We dive into the eerie timeline of events leading up to her disappearance, witness accounts, and the strange behavior of crew members that raised suspicions. Was Amy a victim of foul play, an accidental tragedy, or part of a darker network involving human trafficking?

If you have any information concerning the disappearance of Amy Lynn Bradley, please contact your local FBI office, the nearest American Embassy or Consulate or, you can submit an anonymous tip online here.

View the photo of "Jaz" that are believed to be Amy here.

View the FBI Kidnapping/Missions Persons File for Amy Lynn Bradley here.

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This week, we discuss the shocking murder of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, who was fatally shot outside the New York Hilton Midtown hotel in December 2024. Thompson, a prominent leader in the health care industry, was in New York for a conference when his life was tragically cut short.

We delve into the life of the alleged perpetrator, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, who was arrested days later in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and now faces multiple charges, including murder as an act of terrorism. What motivated Mangione, and how was he tracked down across state lines?

Listeners will gain insight into the intense manhunt that captivated the nation, the meticulous investigation that led to Mangione’s arrest, and the implications of the charges he faces.

Finally, we explore the cultural resonance of this case, from media coverage to the broader issue of healthcare inequality in America and the public's unexpected support of the alleged suspect.

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In this episode, we explore the infamous case of Erik and Lyle Menendez, who were accused of murdering their affluent parents, José and Kitty Menendez, in their Beverly Hills residence in August 1989 after years of alleged sexual abuse.

Following the release of the recent "The Menendez Brothers," documentary on Netflix, new developments have reignited national discourse regarding the case and we discuss the ongoing debate surrounding the potential revision of their sentences, which could lead to the brothers' release after 35 years behind bars. Additionally, we discuss how a modern understanding of male sexual abuse victims may be fostering increased empathy and insight into the circumstances as well as the defense strategy, the intense media coverage of the trials and the brothers' self-defense argument.

Do you believe the Menendez brothers should be released, and do you think they will be?

**Since the recording of this episode, the upcoming hearings scheduled for Jan 30 & 31 have been postponed due to the LA wildfires. The hearings are now scheduled for March 20 & 21, 2025. **

If you or someone you know is a victim of abuse (sexual or otherwise), just know you are not alone and help is out there.

In Canada, you find help and support at the following resources:

Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 / www.kidshelpphone.ca
Victim Support Line (Ontario Victim Services): 1-888-579-2888
Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse Provincial Crisis and Support Line (Ontario Victim Services): 1-866-887-0015
Assaulted Women’s Help Line: 1-866-863-0511 / TTY 1-866-863-7868 www.awhl.org

In the US, you can find help and support at the following resources:

National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline: 800.656.HOPE (4673)
National Sexual Violence Resource Centre: https://www.nsvrc.org/
National Child Abuse Hotline: Call or text hotline at 800.422.4453

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**In this bonus episode, we are releasing one from the Patreon vault. Originally released on February 23, 2024 for our paid members only, you can now listen to this episode for FREE!**

Suzana Thayer is a grandmother living in Ontario, Canada, who turns to the world of online dating after the sudden death of her husband. Suzana's naivete causes her to fall victim to not only one, but TWO, online romance scams.

After first being conned out of her life savings, she enters an online relationship with a second man who offers to fly her on an all-expenses paid vacation to Ethiopia. But, the intentions of this unknown online predator are far more sinister than just stealing her money. This time, he steals her freedom.

Join AJ for this bonus episode, where the world of online scams and the underground drug trade combine- resulting in devastating consequences for Suzana Thayer.

RESOURCES:

W5 Episode "The Cocaine Buttons: Romance scam victim in a Hong Kong prison for drug smuggling"

W5 Episode: "A cocaine smuggling grandmother's fight for freedom"

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In this third and final part of our deep-dive into the opioid epidemic, we reflect on the invaluable insights gained from our guests in Parts 1 and 2. We delve into the complexities of the opioid crisis, sharing our own reflections on the personal and societal challenges that come with addiction.

Together, we explore the importance of building supportive environments for recovery, addressing stigma, and the critical roles that healthcare providers and community initiatives play in this ongoing battle. Join us for an important conversation aimed at raising awareness and driving change in our communities.

RESOURCES:

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you're not alone:
If you're in Canada, you can contact the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction at 1-833-235-4048, or visit the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) website at www.camh.ca.

If you're in the US, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY 1-800-487-4889. Or, visit www.FindTreatment.gov to find services and resources in your local area.

To learn more about Brian Townsend's work visit www.only2mg.com and www.eagle6training.com.

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In part two of our three-part deep-dive on the opioid epidemic, we sit down with Dusty, whose personal journey provides a raw and powerful perspective on the crisis. Dusty shares his experience of growing up with a mother struggling with addiction, shedding light on the lasting emotional and psychological effects of living in a household where opioids ruled.

Through his story, Dusty reflects on how these experiences have shaped his views on drugs, addiction, and the policies that influence recovery and support. His unique insight offers a critical look at the ways we can change the narrative around addiction and work toward more effective solutions, not just for individuals, but for entire communities.

Whether you’re personally affected by addiction or looking to better understand the broader impact of the opioid epidemic, this episode offers a deeply insightful and compassionate perspective. Dusty’s story highlights the importance of awareness, empathy, and the need for change—both at the personal and policy levels.

RESOURCES:

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you're not alone:
If you're in Canada, you can contact the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction at 1-833-235-4048, or visit the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) website at www.camh.ca.

If you're in the US, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY 1-800-487-4889. Or, visit www.FindTreatment.gov to find services and resources in your local area.

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
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Email: crimefamilypodcast@gmail.com

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Welcome back to Crime Family! To kick off our sixth season, we're exploring the opioid crisis in a three-part deep dive.

In the first part, we sit down with former DEA special agent Brian Townsend to uncover the major factors that led to where we're at in the crisis today. Together, we explore the root causes of this devastating crisis, including the role of pharmaceutical companies, the impact of overprescribing, and the flood of illicit opioids into our communities.

Townsend shares his firsthand experiences taking on the major cartels at the border and provides critical insights into what can be done to stem the tide of addiction and overdoses. This episode sets the stage for a deeper understanding of one of the most pressing public health crises of our time.

RESOURCES:

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you're not alone:
If you're in Canada, you can contact the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction at 1-833-235-4048, or visit the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) website at www.camh.ca.

If you're in the US, you can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or TTY 1-800-487-4889. Or, visit www.FindTreatment.gov to find services and resources in your local area.

To learn more about Brian Townsend's work visit www.only2mg.com and www.eagle6training.com.

FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Instagram: @crimefamilypodcast
TikTok: @crimefamilypod
Facebook: Crime Family Podcast
Email: crimefamilypodcast@gmail.com

Get your Crime Family Merch here: https://www.redbubble.com/shop/ap/123775076

Send us a text

Support the show