Hooked on True Crime

This week on HOTC, we continue with the story of Edith Thompson and the murder of her lover, Frederick Bywaters. We cover Edith's Trial and talk about the obfuscation and dissembling used by the prosecution. We also discuss our thoughts on her culpability.Scottish word of the week: Aoanach (actually means a gathering place, not the devil, Ali!!) Use code 'HOOKED' for 10% off your CrimeConUK tickets.https://www.crimecon.co.uk/Sources:Edith Thompson:Hanged woman's case denied pardon bid - BBC NewsEdith Jessie Thompson | A True Story ofInjusticeEdithThompson and Frederick Bywaters – Capital Punishment UKfrederickbywaters– The Hopeful Edwardian    Books Au RevoirNow Darlint : The Letters of Edith ThompsonThompson,Laura MurderMystery and My FamilyKarenFarrington  

This week on Hooked on True Crime, Ali tells the story of the murder of Percy Thompson by Frederick Bywaters (the lover of Percy's wife, Edith). We also discuss what lead Edith into the arms of Frederick, her marriage to Percy and the evidence which would lead her to be charged for her husbands murder, including the letters, which could show a prolonged plot to poison Percy.Scottish word of the week : DrouthUse code 'HOOKED' for 10% off your CrimeConUK ticketsSources:Edith Thompson:Hanged woman's case denied pardon bid - BBC NewsEdith Jessie Thompson | A True Story ofInjusticeEdithThompson and Frederick Bywaters – Capital Punishment UKfrederickbywaters– The Hopeful Edwardian    Books Au RevoirNow Darlint : The Letters of Edith ThompsonThompson,Laura MurderMystery and My FamilyKarenFarrington  

In this episode, Ali and Sarah talk about the death of Racing Driver David Blakely by Ruth Ellis. They also look at what drove Ruth to a place where she decided to murder her lover, by discussing her tragic life, from her childhood abuses at the hands of her father to her entry into the sex trade of 1950s London and her violent relationship with David Blakely. They consider what motivated Ruth to commit her crime and also what motivated her to continue the destructive relationship with Blakely for so long. Finally they question whether this controversial case is actually a miscarriage of justice and why there was such a large public outcry surrounding Ruth's execution.Scottish word of the week: Skiffieuse code 'HOOKED' for 10% off you CrimeConUK ticketsReferences: Web.Ruth Ellis'sgrandchildren seek pardon for last woman hanged - BBC NewsNews “Powerfulstuff”, The Independent reviews The Ruth Ellis Files: A Very British CrimeStoryTheTrue Story Of Ruth Ellis And The Hanging That Rocked Britain | HistoryExtraDavid Blakely 1929-1955 |History, Monuments and Memorials of PennMotorsportMemorial - David Blakely43372a.pdfRuth Ellis | Fred DinenageMurder CasebookRuth Ellis | AlbertPierrepoint interview | The Last woman to hang | 1977The Scandalous and TragicLife of Ruth Ellis - The Last Woman Hanged in Britain (Documentary) BooksPierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)L-705606-057ad5aabe.pdf

Part 2 : The TrialIn this episode we talk about the trial of Derek Bentley and Christopher Craig for the murder of PC Sidney Miles. Looking at the political and judicial pressures of the case. We talk about the evidence which led to their conviction and the interesting differences in their defence strategies and the sentences that each would receive. We also look in detail at the long campaign to overturn Derek's conviction and the reasons why it became one of the most controversial cases of the 20th century.Scottish words of the week : SheuchUse code 'HOOKED' for 10 percent off your CrimeConUK ticket (Birmingham and London)Sources:⁠A-2003-PLAY-Script-A-Matter-of-Profound-Regret.pdf⁠⁠DerekWilliam Bentley – A Victim of British Justice? – Capital Punishment UK⁠⁠Tales from The Hangman'sRecord Episode One Hundred. In The Line of Duty 1925 & 1952 - YouTube⁠⁠Derek Bentley | FredDinenage Murder Casebook - YouTube⁠⁠PoliceRoll of Honour - Metropolitan Police since 1946⁠⁠Derek Bentley Page⁠⁠Bentley: thaHangman's tale⁠⁠Derek Bentley Story - my view⁠⁠MetropolitanPolice officers: gallantry awards and other medals | The Gazette⁠⁠Justiceat last, 45 years too late⁠

Part 1: the CrimeIn this weeks episode we delve into the infamous case of Derek Bentley, a young man executed for the murder of police officer Sidney Miles in 1952. The discussion covers Bentley's troubled upbringing, his relationship with Christopher Craig, and the events leading up to the tragic incident. We explore the complexities of the case, including the legal implications of joint enterprise and the miscarriage of justice that many believe occurred. We also highlight the often-overlooked story of PC Sidney Miles, emphasizing the need to remember the victims in such narratives.Scottish words of the week : CleekUse code 'HOOKED' for 10 percent off your CrimeConUK ticket (Birmingham and London) Sources:A-2003-PLAY-Script-A-Matter-of-Profound-Regret.pdfDerekWilliam Bentley – A Victim of British Justice? – Capital Punishment UKTales from The Hangman'sRecord Episode One Hundred. In The Line of Duty 1925 & 1952 - YouTubeDerek Bentley | FredDinenage Murder Casebook - YouTubePoliceRoll of Honour - Metropolitan Police since 1946Derek Bentley PageBentley: thaHangman's taleDerek Bentley Story - my viewMetropolitanPolice officers: gallantry awards and other medals | The GazetteJusticeat last, 45 years too late

The end of the trilogy in 13 parts ;)This podcast episode delves into the world of true crime, focusing on the life of Albert Pierrepoint, a notorious hangman in the UK, and the tragic case of Sarah Ricketts, who was poisoned by her live-in servants, Louisa and Alfred Merrifield. The hosts explore the complexities of the investigation, the trial, and the societal implications of these events, all while maintaining a light-hearted banter that engages listeners. This conversation delves into the complex case of Louisa Merrifield, who was convicted of murdering Sarah Ricketts through phosphorus poisoning. The discussion covers the medical evidence presented during the trial, the dynamics of the jury's deliberation, and the implications of Louisa's sentencing. It also explores Alfred Merrifield's life post-execution, the reflections on capital punishment, and Albert Pierrepoint's legacy as an executioner. The hosts analyse the societal perceptions of women in crime, the judicial system's biases, and the moral dilemmas surrounding the death penalty.use code 'HOOKED' for 10% off your CrimeConUK ticketsScottish word of the week : Oxtermentioned in this weeks episode: Perplexed Podcast References BooksPierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman) WebTales from The Hangman's RecordEpisode Fifty Seven. Louisa Merrifield – 18th Sept 1953 ManchesterLouisa May Merrifield –The Blackpool Poisoner – Capital Punishment UKThe Chatterbox Killer • Northern LifeThe strange case of LouisaMerrifield: 2 - by Robin JarossiBritish Executions - Execution ofNorman William Green - 1955 murder Wigan - Capital Punishment - Norman WilliamGreenTWO THINGS are surprising about theHome Secretary's last-. minute » 6 Jan 1956 » The Spectator Archive

Sarah overcomes the problems of a paperless society.In this episode of the True Crime podcast, hosts Ali and Sarah Downie explore the historical context of poaching in Scotland, focusing on the Cumnock Poaching Riots of 1833. Talking about the daring actions of a poaching gang in Ayrshire, and the community's response to law enforcement. The episode highlights the tragic death of constable David Reid during the riots and reflects on the nature of justice, compassion, and the moral implications of community support for poachers. The conversation concludes with a poignant story about Sir Walter Scott's empathetic response to a poacher, prompting discussions on restorative justice and the importance of understanding the circumstances behind crimes.Scottish word of the week : Skelp and Bugger Lugs.References.⁠PoachingPrevention Act 1862⁠⁠Black Act:Understanding Its Historical Legal Definition | US Legal FormsDavidReid (1793–1833)Poaching

The 'beat around the bush' episode *thanks @GarronIn this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', Sarah and 'Scottish Batman' Ali explore the complex themes surrounding poaching and the tragic story of George Thirkell, a gamekeeper who was killed while on duty. The episode culminates in a reflection on the impact of crime on families and communities, highlighting the emotional weight of loss and the often overlooked narratives of those involved in the justice system.Scottish word of the week: Daunner and messages.References.PoachingPrevention Act 1862Black Act:Understanding Its Historical Legal Definition | US Legal Forms1723:The first London executions under the Waltham Black Act | Executed TodayGeorgePinnock Thirkell (1822–1867)GeorgePinnock Thirkell - Ancestry®

This week, Ali and Sarah talk about the the beginning of the slow move away from Capital Punishment in the UK with the Criminal Justice Act of 1948 and the following Royal Commission looking at the Death Penalty. Then, they look in detail at the Cameo Cinema Murders of 1949 where Leonard Thomas and John Catterall were killed by a masked gunman. Possible mistakes early in the investigation and public pressure to solve the case lead to an investigation which is at best questionable and at worst corrupt. The resulting conviction of George Kelly and Charles Connolly was a miscarriage of justice which would take more than 50 years to be corrected when in 2003 both men were officially exonerated of the crime by the court of criminal appeal.Scottish words.Greet HaarFor Crime Con Birmingham in April use the code "Hooked" for 10% off ticket price.References. Internet.RoseHeilbron and the Cameo Cinema murders Hodge Jones & AllenCameoCinema Murder – Liverpool City PoliceRoseHeilbron and the Cameo Cinema murders – The Justice GapGeorgeKelly, falsely convicted and quickly hanged. – CrimescribeBALMER, HERBERT Book.CameoConspiracy: The Real Story of the Cameo Cinema Murders—(George Skelly)

In this episode, Ali recounts a chilling tale from the early hours of Guy Fawkes night in 1930. Two young men, William and Al, stumble upon a mysterious fire and a well-dressed stranger with a briefcase. further up the road they find a burning car, which, unfortunately, contains a body. But who's do the burnt remains belong to and who was the well dressed stranger? What happened on November 5th, 1930?Scottish Word of the week: DookitUse the code 'Hooked' for 10% off your CrimeCon UK ticketsReferences:Internet AlfredArthur Rouse | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers THEROUSE CASE. (Hansard, 29 April 1931) Howcold-blooded womanising killer Alfred Rouse faked his own death to avoidjustice | Leicestershire Live Alfred Rouse |Military Wiki | Fandom Youtube TheDark & Horrifying Case of Alfred Rouse | The Blazing Car Murderer - YouTube

Happy New Year 2026! Sarah's New Year Resolution is to be cantankerous, so be warned Ali!In this episode of Hooked on True Crime, we discuss various themes including domestic misdemeanours, rants about skirting boards and airline staff, and delve into the life and cases of Albert Pierrepoint, a notable executioner. We explore the cases of Eliza Wood and Catherine McCluskey, highlighting the trials of their murderers, James Corbett and PC James Robinson, respectively. The conversation is interspersed with humour, personal anecdotes, and reflections on the nature of crime and punishment.Scottish words of the week:Doofer, Footer and Empty.Sources:(6) James Henry Corbitt of “Tish andTosh”... - Capital Punishment UK | FacebookJames Corbitt1950: James Corbitt, the hangman’smate | Executed TodayMurderof Catherine McCluskey – 1950 – Glasgow Police MuseumHangedat Barlinnie: The Gorbals beat cop who drove over his unmarried lover inToryglen | Glasgow TimesJames RolandRobertson | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderersPoliceConstable George Cooke's Murder of Maud Smith - 1893Books Pierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman) YoutubeTalesfrom The Hangman’s Record. Episode Twenty One. James Robertson - 16th December1950 Barlinnie Transcriptt18930626-621 | TheProceedings of the Old Bailey

The episode where we are both guilty of domestic misdemeanours!In this episode of we reflect on our Christmas experiences and our domestic misdemeanours, before delving into the life of Albert Pierrepoint, the UK's most famous executioner. We discuss his personal tragedies, his role in post-war executions in Germany, and the Nuremberg Trials. The conversation then shifts to the case of Daniel Raven, a man accused of murdering his in-laws, exploring the complexities of the case and the evidence presented. We wrap up with a light-hearted discussion about Scottish phrases and a preview of future cases.Scottish words of the week: DingyDinnaeUse code 'Hooked' for 10% off your CrimeCon UK TicketsSources:Web08 Jan 1950 - Her Parents WereKilled, Her Husband Died On The Scaffold, Now... - TroveDaniel Raven | Murderpedia, theencyclopedia of murderersRaven’s End | City JournalTales from TheHangman's Record Episode Seventy Four. Daniel Raven 6th January 1950Pentonville. Books Pierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman) Youtube Tales from The Hangman's RecordEpisode Seventy Four. Daniel Raven 6th January 1950 Pentonville. 

Happy Holidays from HOTC. In this festive episode we explore a series of bizarre Christmas-themed crimes. From the arrest of a man who legally changed his name to Santa Claus for a DUI incident, to the dangerous American tradition of mistletoe hunting, and the chaos of a Christmas parade gone wrong .We also recount a prank that nearly ruined the Canadian postal service's Letters to Santa program , and landed some teenagers on Santa's Naughty list.References.DUI:Christmas Float – Lowering the BarTheStory of the Speeding Float : NPRBondset for driver in Anderson Christmas parade charged with DUICruelletters from Santa prompt Canada Post to take action | CBC NewsAuthorof nasty letters from Santa sought | ReutersHuntOn For Grinch Writing Obscene 'Santa' Letters Through Canada Post'RogueElf' sends nasty letters from Santa - ABC NewsPolicepick up Santa Claus for driving the wrong way | EllingtonSantaClaus arrested for drunk driving in US | Santa Claus gets arrested for drunkdriving

The uncouth episode!In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', we delve into the life of Albert Pierrepoint, the chief executioner, while also sharing our personal anecdotes (maybe too personal this episode). We explore the rise of organized crime in London during the 1940s, culminating in the infamous Palm Beach Club incident. The episode highlights the complexities of crime, justice, and the human experience, all wrapped in a light-hearted yet, hopefully, informative narrative. We delve into the harrowing stories of Karel Richter's execution and the murder of Rachel Dobkin. We explore the complexities of the cases, including the challenges faced by executioner Albert Pierrepoint and the investigative efforts that led to the identification of Dobkin's remains. The discussion highlights the intricacies of the legal system, the emotional weight of the cases, and the historical context surrounding these events.3 Scottish words of the week, and a debate over Jelly!Use code 'hooked' for 10% off your Crimecon UK ticketsJoin us on social media and be part of the HOTC family.References BooksPierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman) WebThe Murders At 10 Rillington PlaceAnd The Demise Of The Death Penalty(5) Antonio Mancini - AlbertPierrepoint’s... - Capital Punishment UK | Facebook04 Nov 1941 - Last British GangsterGoes To Gallows And Ends Reign Of Terror - TroveUnderstanding Burden of Proof inCriminal Law | CoconoteDetails of the mission - The NationalArchivesGerman Spy:Karel Richard Richter |WW2TalkHarry Dobkin | Murderpedia, theencyclopedia of murderers Youtube.Tales from The Hangman's Record.Episode Five. Antonio Mancini - 31st October 1941, Pentonville.Tales from The Hangman's Record.Episode Thirty Three. Harry Dobkin – 27th January 1943 WandsworthWhen Being a WW2 Spy Goes Wrong - ABrief Story about Karel Richter 

Happy Holidays from HOTC!In this festive episode, we delve into the lighter side of crime with stories of 'Bad Santa's' and holiday heists, including a KFC robbery and a helicopter theft. The conversation also touches on the chaotic SantaCon event and concludes with a briefly heart warming , yet shocking tale of a mother who staged a burglary to gain sympathy. The episode is filled with humour, holiday spirit, and intriguing crime stories.References Person dressed as the Grinchtaunts woman who allegedly faked Christmas burglaryCrooks crawl through windowof Lehigh Acres home, steal family’s Christmas gifts - YouTube'Santa' robsDerbyshire KFC at knifepoint - BBC NewsFloridamom arrested by The Grinch after allegedly lying about stolen gifts | New YorkPost'Santa' robsDerbyshire KFC at knifepoint - BBC News'SantaClaus’ in armed robbery of KFC drive-through in Derbyshire | The Independent |The Independent

The Red bull episode!This episode of 'Hooked on True Crime' delves into the life and work of executioners, focusing on Albert Pierrepoint. The conversation begins with light-hearted domestic anecdotes before transitioning into serious discussions about historical crime cases, including the execution of Stanley Hobday and Alberts first female execution, Ethel Major. The hosts explore the economics of execution, the training and professionalism required, and the impact of World War II on the frequency of executions. The episode concludes with a look at Udam Singh's case and Albert's rise to chief executioner, setting the stage for future discussions on wrongful executions and notable cases.Ali takes a cockney quiz and failsScottish word of the week : Filsket and DrooketUse the code 'Hooked' for 10% off your CrimeCon UK tickets.Sources:Books Pierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman) Web Ethel Major- Corned Beef Killer 1934- Crimes Through TimeEthel Lillie Major – The Corned BeefKiller – Capital Punishment UKCorned beef poisoner's tragic lettersto family before her execution | Lincolnshire LiveResults for 'ethel major' | BritishNewspaper Archive Stanley Hobday | Murderpedia, theencyclopedia of murderersStanley Eric Hobday - a homeinvasion... - Capital Punishment UK | FacebookTales from The Hangman's Record.Episode Three. Stanley Eric Hobday - 28th December 1933 BirminghamResults for 'stanley hobday' |British Newspaper Archive 1939-45 Espionage – The History RoomHangmen at War – Chapter 4 – Spies,Traitors and Saboteurs in the UK and Its Colonies – Capital Punishment UK1939-45 Espionage – The History Room

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The one where Ali embraces old age and not Sarah :)In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', we begin to explore the early life and legacy of Albert Pierrepoint, a notable executioner in British history. We delve into the Pierrepoint family's history, Albert's upbringing, and his aspirations to follow in his father's footsteps as an executioner. We discuss the emotional weight of Albert's first execution, the complexities of justice as illustrated by the cases of Patrick McDermott and Jeremiah Hanbury, and reflect on the moral implications of capital punishment. The episode concludes with a teaser for future discussions on wrongful convictions and the societal attitudes towards execution.Scottish word of the week: 'Unco' and 'Tammy Noorie'*use the code 'Hooked' for 10% off your Crimecon UK Tickets*Sources:YoutubeTales from The Hangman's RecordEpisode Seventy Eight. Jerry Hanbury 2nd February 1933 Birmingham. WebDD_Family_2014.pdfCapital Crime: 1916 and Death PenaltyDiscourse in Independent Ireland | Century IrelandResults for 'murder jessie payne' |British Newspaper ArchiveWinson Green Prisonin Birmingham – Capital Punishment UK BooksPierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman)

The one where we get side tracked by a horny spider, there's a mini monster and a perpetrator is chased by a bus!In this episode we continue to explore the life and career of Thomas Pierrepoint, the UK's second most prolific hangman. We delve into the history of capital punishment in the UK, discussing the abolition movement and notable cases, including that of Dorothea Nancy Waddingham and Max Mayer Haslam. The conversation highlights the complexities of crime, punishment, and societal attitudes towards execution, culminating in Pierrepoint's final execution in 1946.*contested* Scottish word of the week : middlingBooks Pierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman)Irene Munroand the Beach Murder of 1920,--(Dr Johnathan Oates) Web. Waddingham,Dorothea (1899–1936) | Encyclopedia.comThe Storyof Murderer Dorothea Nancy Waddingham | They Will Kill YouDorotheaWaddingham: English murderer (1899 - 1936) | Biography, Facts, Information,Career, Wiki, LifeNelsonmurder appeal - Red Rose Collections from Lancashire County CouncilTalesfrom The Hangman's Record. Episode Thirty Seven. Max Haslam – 4th February 1937Manchester.Thekiller dwarf who murdered a spinster and hung her beloved dog from the bedpost| Lancs LiveBarlinnie:The men who were hanged and their crimes: Carntyne cop killer John Caldwell |Glasgow TimesWalkingthe fateful eight steps | The HeraldTalesfrom The Hangman's Record Episode Eighty Two. John Caldwell 10th August 1946Glasgow.

In this episode, we continue our focus on the life and actions of executioner Thomas Pierrepoint. This week, we discuss the case of Louie Calvert (murdered her landlady), PC Power (who should never of had any power!) and the tragic murder of PC George William Gutteridge. The tale of these two very different policeman, lets us reflect on bad apples and heros. Thank you to Ali for superb (and difficult) research this week.Shetland word of the week: Mirrie dancers Mentioned : Crochet by NidsJoin our HOTC family on social media.References BritishExecutions - Execution of Louie Calvert - 1926 murder - Capital Punishment -Louie Calvert (Jackson) LouieCalvert – A Boot Fetishist? – Capital Punishment UK LouieCalvert — The Convicted Murderer Who Cried Wolf | by Alexa | Medium Frederick GuyBrowne | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers BritishExecutions - Execution of William Henry Kennedy - 1928 murder StaplefordAbbots, Romford - Capital Punishment - William Henry Kennedy Kenyon StreetPolice Station | The Hockley Flyer James JosephPower | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers TheImposter | Flickr PCGutteridge Killing – Liverpool City Police    Transcript 2015.173616.Trial-Of-Fredric-Guy-Browne-And-William-Henry-Kennedy.pdf Article : David M.Doyle & Ian O'Donnell (2012) The Death Penalty in Post-IndependenceIreland, The Journal of Legal History, 33:1, 65-91, DOI:10.1080/01440365.2012.661141 Books Pierrepoint:A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)TheExecutioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)Executioner:Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)TheHangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman)Irene Munroand the Beach Murder of 1920,--(Dr Johnathan Oates)