Criminal Motives

*/ ?>

Latest Episodes:

Family Receives Mysterious Warning Message From Missing Man Apr 28, 2025

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary and heartbreaking story of Abraham Shakespeare — a working-class man who won a $30 million Florida lottery jackpot, only to disappear under mysterious circumstances just a few years later.
We dive into the timeline of Shakespeare’s life after his big win, the people who entered his circle, and the chilling events that led to his tragic death.
This story isn’t just about luck gone wrong — it's a sobering look at greed, betrayal, and the dark side of sudden wealth.

Abraham Shakespeare’s life before the lottery: a modest man with simple dreams
How winning $30 million changed everything — and everyone around him
The key figures who entered Abraham’s life post-win
The manipulation, schemes, and financial exploitation he faced
The shocking discovery of his disappearance — and what investigators uncovered
The arrest and trial of Dee Dee Moore, and the shocking details of her deception
Lessons from Abraham's story about trust, vulnerability, and the hidden dangers of overnight wealth

News coverage from The Tampa Bay Times and ABC News
Court documents and trial testimony regarding Dee Dee Moore
Interviews with family members, investigators, and legal experts

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!
For deeper dives into true crime stories and exclusive bonus content, check out my Substack

https://criminalmotives.substack.com/

And remember — navigating life’s highs and lows is never easy, especially when trust is broken. If you’re looking for support, BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your own home.

Visit http://betterhelp.com/mattphifer

What Happened to The Menedez Brothers is Shocking Apr 21, 2025

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Criminal Motives, we revisit one of the most polarizing true crime cases of the 20th century — the Menendez brothers. On the surface, Lyle and Erik Menendez appeared to be two privileged sons who brutally murdered their wealthy parents. But behind the headlines was a darker, more disturbing family history filled with manipulation, deep trauma, and long-buried secrets.

From Beverly Hills opulence to courtroom drama, media manipulation, and a second trial that stripped away key testimony — we walk you through everything. And now, decades later, this case is back in the spotlight as new evidence and evolving views on male victims have society asking: Did justice get it right?

🧠 If You're Struggling With Trauma or Emotional Abuse…

You're not alone. If you’ve experienced emotional abuse, control, or trauma — support is available.

💚 BetterHelp can connect you with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home.
📅 Get 15% off your first month when you visit: http://betterhelp.com/mattphifer

The Dark Truth About the Gabby Petito Case Apr 14, 2025

Episode Summary:
Gabby Petito had a dream — to explore the world and document her journey on YouTube with the person she loved. But her story became a viral tragedy that shocked the world. In this episode of Criminal Motives, we go beyond the headlines to explore the manipulative dynamics between Gabby and her fiancé, Brian Laundrie — from early signs of emotional abuse, to the toxic influence of Brian’s family, to the heartbreaking unraveling that led to a nationwide manhunt.

We dive deep into trauma bonding, isolation, manipulation, and the failure of law enforcement to properly assess danger in toxic relationships. This isn't just a true crime story — it’s a warning, a pattern, and a plea for better support for those in emotionally abusive situations.

If you or someone you know is in a toxic or abusive relationship, you're not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. Healing starts with support.

💚 BetterHelp makes finding a licensed therapist easy and flexible.
🧠 Get 15% off your first month at: http://betterhelp.com/mattphifer

Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt: The Dark Truth Behind 8 Passengers Apr 05, 2025

Ruby Franke & Jodi Hildebrandt: The Dark Truth Behind 8 PassengersJoin my newsletter: https://beacons.ai/mattphifer.coaching/page2Ruby Franke, the former 8 Passengers YouTube mom, has been arrested on shocking child abuse charges alongside therapist Jodi Hildebrandt. Once known for her strict parenting advice, Ruby’s downfall has exposed the dark reality behind family vlogging and social media influencers. How did things go so wrong?Watch this next: https://youtu.be/-Hsc_6YGhAYIn this video, we break down:🔹 Ruby Franke’s controversial parenting and 8 Passengers YouTube channel🔹 Her connection to Jodi Hildebrandt and the disturbing allegations🔹 The role of family vloggers and the dangers of online influence💬 What do you think about this case? Let me know in the comments!👉 If you’re struggling with emotional trauma or toxic relationships, talking to a licensed therapist can help. Try BetterHelp today and get 15% off your first month: http://betterhelp.com/mattphifer🔔 Like & subscribe for more deep dives into trending cases!#RubyFranke #8Passengers #JodiHildebrandt #TrueCrime #ParentingScandal #ChildAbuse

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected