Canadian True Crime

[Part 3 of 4] One night, a woman living on the Pickton farm witnesses an act so disturbing it prompts repeated warnings to police. A search warrant should have followed, but through another cascade of devastating missed opportunities, Robert Pickton slips through the cracks once again...CONTENT WARNING: this series includes graphic details that will be distressing for many listeners to hear, including mention of sexual assault, residential schools, Indigenous issues, child abuse and suicide. Crisis referral services:Free National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: call 1-866-925-4419 toll freeHope for Wellness free chatline - 1-800-721-0066 or using the chat box on the websiteGovernment of Canada Crisis and Mental Health support  Resources for Sexual assault survivorsCanadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. Proceeds from this series are being donated to the WISH Drop-in Centre Society, supporting street-based sex workers on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside since 1984.Full list of resources, information sources, and more:www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 2 of 4] The Pickton brothers become officially wealthy, and open the infamous party venue known as Piggy’s Palace. There’s an alarming spike in vulnerable women vanishing from the Downtown Eastside - but two would live to tell their stories. Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.CONTENT WARNING: this series includes graphic details that will be distressing for many listeners to hear, including mention of sexual assault, residential schools, Indigenous issues, child abuse and suicide. Crisis referral services:Free National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: call 1-866-925-4419 toll freeHope for Wellness free chatline - 1-800-721-0066 or using the chat box on the websiteGovernment of Canada Crisis and Mental Health support  Resources for Sexual assault survivorsCanadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. Proceeds from this series are being donated to the WISH Drop-in Centre Society, supporting street-based sex workers on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside since 1984.Full list of resources, information sources, and more:www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A brand new four-part series.  In 2024, Canada’s most prolific serial killer was murdered in prison in an act of vigilante justice. The final chapter of Robert Pickton may now be closed, but the story is far from over.  Pickton confessed to murdering 49 women on his pig farm near Vancouver, many of them sex workers and Indigenous women. The evidence suggests he did not act alone.  -----Part 1 begins by tracing a disturbing childhood on the Pickton farm where cruelty was normalized, morality was optional and vulnerable people were exploited and intimidated. It also tracks how that culture escalated after Robert and his brother took over the farm, and the many police failures that followed.This series revisits the entire case to date, moving past the grotesque caricature of a lone monster in buddy boots, and restores the humanity of the women targeted through personal stories of those who loved them. It examines the culture and systems that failed them for so long, leaving their loved ones with many unanswered questions — and a prevailing sense of injustice.This miniseries draws primarily from court records, historical news archives, investigative journalism, personal interviews and the Missing Women Inquiry final report.CONTENT WARNING: this series includes graphic details that will be distressing for many listeners to hear, including mention of sexual assault, residential schools, Indigenous issues, child abuse and suicide. Crisis referral services:Free National Indian Residential School Crisis Line: call 1-866-925-4419 toll freeHope for Wellness free chatline - 1-800-721-0066 or using the chat box on the websiteGovernment of Canada Crisis and Mental Health support  Resources for Sexual assault survivorsCanadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. Proceeds from this series are being donated to the WISH Drop-in Centre Society, supporting street-based sex workers on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside since 1984.Full list of resources, information sources, and more:www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're announcing something special for episode 200. Thank you so much for listening!Launching January 19, Robert Pickton: The Final Chapter is a completely new series that revisits the case to date.In 2024, Canada’s most prolific serial killer was murdered in prison in an act of vigilante justice. Pickton's final chapter may now be closed, but the story is far from over. Pickton confessed to murdering 49 women - many of them sex workers and Indigenous women. The evidence suggests he did not act alone.It's been eight years since we first covered this case, and we've gone back to the beginning with a complete re-write, fresh context, a sharper focus and up-to-date information. This four-part series moves past the grotesque caricature of a lone monster in buddy boots, and restores the humanity of the women targeted through personal stories of those who loved them. Why are they left with so many unanswered questions — and a prevailing sense of injustice?Proceeds are being donated to the WISH Drop-in Centre Society, supporting street-based sex workers on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside since 1984.Don't forget to sign the Johnson-Bently family's petition:Help the Johnson Bentley families prepare for an upcoming Parole hearing - listen to the Wells Gray Park episode.Learn more about Canadian True Crime:www.canadiantruecrime.ca Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we're pleased to share a special episode from another podcast we think you'll enjoy: Crime Story from CBC Podcasts. Each week, award-winning investigative journalist Kathleen Goldhar goes deep into a true crime case with the storyteller who knows it best.In this year-end episode, Kristi Lee joins Kathleen at CBC Studios to talk about what goes into making Canadian True Crime, share behind-the-scenes insights from past cases, and wrap up with some of their favourite true crime podcasts and documentaries.You can listen to more incredible tales of true crime every week on Crime Story.Find more Crime Story episodes in your podcast app, or here: https://link.mgln.ai/CSxCTC Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In August 1982, three generations of a family set out for a two week camping trip in the wilds of British Columbia.When the entire family failed to return home, it triggered the most expensive and publicized manhunt in Canadian history — and uncovered a horrific truth that shocked the nation.Additional content warning: this episode includes the murder and sexual assault of a child. Minimal graphic details will be given. Please take care when listening.________________________________________SIGN THE PETITION | The Johnson-Bentley family needs your help. The man who murdered six of their loved ones – including two young girls, is again seeking parole in 2026. The family has asked us to share this updated and remastered episode to remind the public of the danger his release could pose.Please read and sign the family’s petition now and show your support. The deadline is fast approaching. Special thanks to Shelley Boden of the Johnson-Bentley family for speaking to us for this updated and remastered episode. The original, titled "The Johnson-Bentley Family Murders" was posted in April 2021. ________________________________________Let us know what you think. Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and InstagramCanadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sexual violence and child exploitation trial of Michael Haaima who faces nearly 100 charges. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box.Full list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, we dive into the high-profile, baffling disappearance of six-year-old Lilly Sullivan and her four-year-old brother Jack, who vanished from their rural Nova Scotia home in May 2025.Kristi is joined by Jordan Bonaparte of The Canadian Gothic (formerly Nighttime), who has covered the case extensively from the area. Together, they cut through the speculation and conspiracy theories to focus on the confirmed facts.---------------------Information about Jack and Lilly SullivanThe Government of Nova Scotia is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information about the disappearance of Lilly and Jack Sullivan. More details and photos.Statements referenced in this episode:Mother Malehya Brooks-Murray Stepfather Daniel MartellDaniel Martell's mother (also lives on the property) ---------------------Let us know what you think!Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and InstagramCanadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sex trafficking trial of Michael Haaima of Kingston. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box.Full list of resources, information sources, and more:www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For years, J.B.’s identity was hidden behind publication ban.Now, she steps forward in her own name to share her story of survival and resilience.We're thrilled to announce the release of Breaking Idol, a powerful new documentary from CBC about "J.B.” — a survivor at the centre of the first sexual assault trial of Jacob Hoggard.J.B.’s case against the former Canadian Idol finalist and frontman of the multi-platinum band Hedley, captivated the country and divided fans of all ages. Based on part on Canadian True Crime's series about that 2022 trial, Breaking Idol explores the collision of fandom, power, and truth, and follows J.B. as she confronts the aftermath of the trial and the culture that protected the man who assaulted her. __________________________________________________Stream Breaking Idol now on CBC Gem and YouTube Currently available only in Canada, sorry.__________________________________________________Media clips to come on Canadian True Crime Facebook and InstagramDirector Tiffany HsiungSupervising Producer Sally KaramProduced by Frantic Films for CBC’s The Passionate EyeConsulting Producer Kristi LeeSpecial thanks to J.B. and Kelly Favro, Beyond The VerdictBreaking Idol is based in part on Canadian True Crime’s podcast series The Trial of Hedley’s Jacob Hoggard  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 2 of 2] A decade after the brutal murder of Christine Jessop, a DNA breakthrough completely clears Guy Paul Morin. But it would be another 25 years before the real killer is revealed.In this two-part series, we share the full story of Christine Jessop — the one her family waited decades for the courage to tell – with insight from the documentary filmmaker who spent years earning their trust.Additional content warning: this is about the murder and sexual assault of a child. Minimal graphic details will be given. Please take care when listening.The Christine Jessop Story is a new three-part documentary series available on Crave (this episode is not sponsored). For the first time, Christine’s family gives their unfiltered truth about the case that captivated Canada. It’s a story of corrupt policing, revolutionary forensics, and a family forced to go through the unthinkable.Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sex trafficking trial of Michael Haaima of Kingston. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box.Full list of resources, information sources, and more:www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 1 of 2] The brutal murder of nine-year-old Christine Jessop in 1984 shattered her family’s tiny Ontario community. When police arrested her quiet neighbour Guy Paul Morin, the case spiralled into a circus of trials, appeals and outrage, leading to one of Canada’s most notorious wrongful convictions. When the real killer was found in 2020, the memory of the little girl at the centre of the case had been overshadowed by the spectacle. Additional content warning: this is about the murder and sexual assault of a child. Minimal graphic details will be given. Please take care when listening.The Christine Jessop Story is a new documentary series on Crave (our series is not sponsored). For the first time, Christine’s family gives their unfiltered truth about the case that captivated Canada. It’s a story of corrupt policing, revolutionary forensics, and a family forced to go through the unthinkable.Look out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice. This month we’ve donated to the Sexual Assault Centre of Kingston, who are supporting 28 victim-complainants involved in the ongoing sex trafficking trial of Michael Haaima of Kingston. Donate here and note “Haaima” in the message box.Full list of resources, information sources, and more:www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special update episode we’re joined by Beverley’s sister Barb Kilpatrick and niece Melanie to mark a milestone in one of the most high-profile cases the province has seen, reflect on the impact, and share new details - including some sad family news and a public plea for information.25 years ago today, the body of 42 year old mother of two Beverley Rowbotham was found in the family car at an abandoned gas station in Selkirk, Manitoba. Beverley’s political advisor husband, Mark Stobbe, was acquitted of her murder 12 years later.The case has remained unsolved. Beverley’s remaining family members hope to finally get answers and justice for Beverley.--------------------Public plea to help locate a potential credible lead - “Paul and Ann from Calgary”They are from Calgary, Alberta and drove to Rocky Mountain House in March of 2018 to deliver a handwritten note.See an image of the Paul and Ann note,Paul was very well spoken, Anne had a cane and walked with a bit of a limp. They indicated that they were scared, but needed to share their information in person.If you have information to locate this this couple, please contact Canadian True Crime podcast or find us on Facebook or Instagram and we will connect you.--------------------More information:Listen to episode Remembering Beverley Rowbotham: 23 Years (Released October 24, 2023)Obituary for Beverley’s sister Betty Rowbotham who passed away October 18, 2025.Clinging to hope: Twenty-five years after Beverley Rowbotham was slain, her family believes a mysterious letter could shed light on the case that gripped Manitoba by Chris Kitching for Winnipeg Free Press, October 24, 2025Canadian True Crime donates monthly to help those facing injustice.This month we have donated in Beverley Rowbotham's name to: The Alpha House Project - WinnipegFull list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits:See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 5 of 5] This final instalment wraps up our coverage and analysis of the Hockey Canada scandal and trial. At the end, Kristi shares her personal opinion about what likely happened in Room 209 that night — and why the verdicts would have remained the same anyway. The difference is in how the judge got there. Please note: this series does not dispute the judge’s not guilty verdicts.Our position is that the framing of the evidence in the written decision was unnecessary and damaging, with impact that extends far beyond the trial.Do you have a “fawning” story you’d like to share?Write it or record it and contact us through the website,  Facebook or Instagram. Confidentially assured.Beyond The Verdict: www.beyondtheverdict.caMore information and resources:Young men need to be taught what consent looks like by Elizabeth Renzetti, Toronto StarHockey Canada trial outcome a 'crushing day' for sexual assault survivors featuring Daphne Gilbert, by Sheena Goodyear, CBC Radio Megan Savard for the Defence by Kathrine Laidlaw, Toronto lifeHockey Canada trial should put spotlight on morality of society by Catherine FordLISTEN: The Trial of Jacob Hoggard (JB’s story) and Kelly Favro’s StoryIf you or anyone you know is experiencing sexual violence and abuse, help is available at REES Community or Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support ServicesFull list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 4 of 5] We continue to unpack the confusing timeline of Room 209 - including the controversy around crown witness Brett Howden and the alleged slap and “splits” incidents, leading up to the verdicts and how the country reacted to them. At the end, Kristi shares her personal opinion about what likely happened in that hotel room — and why the verdicts would have remained the same anyway. The difference is in how the judge got there. We’ll also be looking at: Why the court zeroed in on E.M.’s level of intoxication Her supposed motive to fabricate evidenceThe reasons for the judge’s ultimate conclusion that E.M.’s evidence was “not credible or reliable”Why - despite saying rape myths and stereotypes would be avoided, the judge’s written decision reads like the oppositePublic speculation about why this case went to trial at allThe damaging impact of this trial Content Warning: Graphic details of sexual acts.Please note: this series does not dispute the judge’s not guilty verdicts.Our position is that the framing of the evidence in the written decision was unnecessary and damaging, with impact that extends far beyond the trial.More information and resources:WATCH: Team Canada World Junior Trial Verdict w/ Katie Strang | The Steve Dangle Podcast, Youtube, July 29 2025READ: The Hockey Canada trial could have been a reckoning. It was something else - by Dan Robson and Katie Strang, The Athletic, July 24 2025.LISTEN: The Trial of Jacob Hoggard (JB’s story) and Kelly Favro’s StoryIf you or anyone you know is experiencing sexual violence and abuse, help is available at REES Community or Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support ServicesBeyond The Verdict: www.beyondtheverdict.caLet us know what you think! Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and InstagramFull list of resources, information sources, and more: www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 3 of 5] In Part 3, we unpack the confusing timeline of Room 209 and the contradictions at the heart of the case. A clear pattern emerges: the five accused players were repeatedly given the benefit of the doubt, while E.M. was scrutinized and cast as unreliable. Thanks for your patience with this deep-dive series and for allowing us the time to give it the attention it deserves. Part 4 will wrap this series up, and then we’ll be back to our usual schedule. Please note: this series does not dispute the judge’s not guilty verdicts.Our position is that the framing of the evidence in the written decision was unnecessary and damaging, with impact that extends far beyond the trial.*Additional content warning: Graphic details of sexual acts.More information and resources:WATCH: Hockey Parents - A profile of Mitch Marner and Michael McLeod's parents from 2009, by Peter Wall for CBC via YouTubeREAD: What Was Left Unsaid in the Hockey Canada Trial | The Walrus, by Ariella Garmaise, Sept 10 2025FYI: The “Junior Hockey Bible” via Internet Archive (content warning!)LISTEN:  The Trial of Jacob Hoggard (JB’s story). Kelly Favro’s StoryIf you or anyone you know is experiencing sexual violence and abuse, help is available at REES Community or Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support ServicesBeyond The Verdict: www.beyondtheverdict.caLet us know what you think! Follow Canadian True Crime on Facebook and InstagramFull list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits:See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 2 of 5] The Hockey Canada verdicts are final, but the story isn’t. Kristi Lee looks closely at the most talked-about evidence, how it was reflected in the written decision, and how that shaped public opinion. Thanks for your patience!In this episode:The flaws in the first police investigation - and why it didn't result in chargesMichael McLeod's instagram exchange with EM the day after the hotel room incidentThe "group chat" six days later that appears to show the hockey players trying to get their stories straightThe series of debacles that resulted in this jury trial switching to judge-aloneSurvivors JB and Kelly Favro return to share their perspectives about watching this case unfold not only as survivors — but also as massive hockey fans.*Additional content warning: Details of sexual acts.PLEASE NOTE: This series does not dispute the judge’s verdicts. Instead, it highlights a deeper truth: contradictions and inconsistencies existed on both sides, yet the accused players’ accounts were overwhelmingly accepted while the victim-complainant's was dismissed as “not credible or reliable.” Regardless of verdicts, our position is that this framing was both unnecessary and harmful — and its impact reaches far beyond the trial itself.More information and resources:LISTEN: Kelly Favro’s Story and The Trial of Jacob Hoggard (JB’s story)WATCH: Steve Dangle Show on Youtube - Team Canada World Junior Trial Verdict w/ Katie Strang, July 29 2025READ: The Hockey Canada trial could have been a reckoning. It was something else - by Dan Robson and Katie Strang,The Athletic, July 24 2025If you or anyone you know is experiencing sexual violence and abuse, help is available at REES Community or Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support ServicesBeyond The Verdict:www.beyondtheverdict.caLook out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits:See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kristi Lee gives an honest and transparent update about why Part 2 of the Hockey Canada trial is taking longer than expected. Thank you so much for your patience and understanding as we take the time to cover this case with the care and thoroughness it deserves. In the meantime:Read JB's Op-Ed in the Globe and Mail, and on our website: "When aggressive tactics are praised as legal strategy, it’s survivors like me who pay the price."Check out Beyond the Verdict - our new survivor-led advocacy group to challenge a justice system that puts sexual assault survivors on trial. www.beyondtheverdict.caFor more information about Canadian True Crime episodes, information sources, credits and music credits:Visit www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodesContact us Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

[Part 1 of 5] A special five-part series — Two extraordinary guests join Kristi to take you through one of the biggest scandals in Canadian sports history. They know what it means to survive not only sexual assault - but the trial itself. And you probably know their stories:J.B. - aka the "Ottawa woman" who testified against former Canadian musician Jacob HoggardKelly Favro - survivor and advocate from British Columbia who helped re-write Canada's publication ban laws. As the country reacts to the Hockey Canada trial verdicts delivered last week, J.B. and Kelly share what they saw unfolding, how it mirrors their own experiences, and what the public needs to understand about what victim-complainant “E.M.” may be living through. They also share eye-opening details about shocking courtroom tactics they've endured, and challenge us to rethink what justice really means. *Additional content warning: While not the focus of this episode, there is mention of graphic details of sexual acts, and suicidal thoughts. Please take care when listening. More information and resources:LISTEN: Kelly Favro’s StoryLISTEN: The Trial of Jacob Hoggard (JB)RESOURCES: If you or anyone you know is experiencing sexual violence and abuse, help is available at REES Community or Ending Violence Canada - Sexual Assault Centres, Crisis Lines and Support ServicesBeyond The Verdict: www.beyondtheverdict.caLook out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits:See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It started with a shocking message in a private chat: “I’ve just slaughtered my entire family.” What was first thought of as a grim joke soon became a frantic race to uncover the truth… and prevent a real-life horror from getting worse.The intention of this episode is to take a look back at a shocking crime, how it impacted the community, and how it might have been prevented. Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved.Recommended listening: Casefile Case 50: Jennifer PanCanadian true crime donates monthly to those facing injustice.This month we have donated to Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of CrimeLook out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits:See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From the creators of the award-winning podcast They Walk Among Us comes The Lost Boys of Wineville—an extended limited series spanning 30 in-depth episodes. This gripping true-crime saga unravels a chilling story that unfolded nearly a century ago in the shadow of the recently erected Hollywoodland sign, and reached its harrowing conclusion on a remote poultry ranch…For more information, visit www.thelostboysofwineville.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On a freezing night in Norman’s Cove, a brutal attack leaves the small coastal town shaken to its core. As police investigate, a twisted plot starts to unravel…The intention of this episode is to honour the victim of a harrowing crime that was largely ignored by the media at the time, and resulted in harmful rumours.Some names have been changed to respect the privacy of those involved.*Additional content warning: this case contains some details of graphic violence. Please take care when listening.Recommended reading:The Murder of Minnie Callan: A True Newfoundland Crime Story by Tom Gruchy, 2018. Court document: 1987 CanLII 5192 (NL SC) | R. v. Butt | CanLIICanadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice.This month we have donated to the organizations that stage the In Her Name Vigil:First Light St John's Friendship CentreNL Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention CentreSt John's Status of Women CouncilLook out for early, ad-free release on CTC premium feeds: available on Amazon Music (included with Prime), Apple Podcasts, Patreon and Supercast.Full list of resources, information sources, credits and music credits:See the page for this episode at www.canadiantruecrime.ca/episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.