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Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast — Personal Journals
Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast

Foggy gaslit streets. A quiet courtroom. And crimes that history tried to bury.

Foul Play is a historical true crime podcast that investigates the most chilling murder cases from the 1800s and early 1900s across the United States and the United Kingdom. Hosted by investigative crime journalists Shane Waters — who pioneered crime podcasting in 2008 — and Wendy Cee, each season unravels one complete criminal case through original research, court records, and primary source material.

This isn't sensationalized true crime. Every season of Foul Play puts victims first — their names, their stories, their humanity — before examining how murder investigations unfolded in an era before modern forensics, when justice was far from guaranteed.

From Victorian poisoners in London to Gilded Age killers in America, Foul Play brings historical true crime to life with cinematic storytelling and relentless accuracy. Every fact is verified. Every claim is sourced. Every story is told with the gravity it deserves.

New seasons of this historical true crime podcast release throughout the year, with episodes dropping weekly on Tuesdays.

Hello, friend. Welcome to Foul Play.

Copyright: © Copyright Black Label Podcasting

Latest Episodes:

California: Herzog's Parole Shock Sep 09, 2020

Show notes

The unexpected release of Loren Herzog leaves communities in shock and grapples with the justice system's... In 'California: Herzog's Parole Shock,' we examine the unexpected and jarring release of Loren Herzog, a move that baffled the public and shook the confidence in the penal system. Despite having led a life marked by unspeakable violence, Herzog's earlier years were unremarkable, a haunting reminder of how ordinary life can spiral into darkness. His parole reopens wounds for the victims' families and raises critical issues about rehabilitation and public safety. The implications of such releases stretch beyond Herzog, challenging the era's notion of reformation amid growing debates over recidivism. Through careful analysis, this episode explores legal reasoning, societal reactions, and the maze of parole board decisions, offering listeners a complete insight into one of California's most controversial cases. Witness the dialogue surrounding justice, tension, and reappraisal of laws designed to protect and serve. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: Unveiling Corruption in The Maps Aug 26, 2020

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Deep-rooted corruption clouds 'The Maps,' examining a web of deceit in law enforcement that the public could... In 'California: Unveiling Corruption in The Maps,' the hard truths of systemic failures within the Sheriff's Office come to light. Hosts Shane and Wendy, with their astute inquiry, expose ethical breaches that complicate justice for victims like those claimed by the Speed Freak Killers. Long before these allegations, the culture within these agencies was marred by complacency, favoritism, and denial. This episode focuses on why understanding these malpractices is vital, as they not only endangered the victims but fundamentally betrayed public trust. The investigation uncovers how deeply embedded corruption influenced case resolution and public perspective. Against a backdrop of societal transformation and rising accountability in law enforcement, learning from past failures helps mold future transparency and efficiency. Join us to hear first-hand accounts and expert analyses that work through through these tangled narratives. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: Paul Holes' Insights into The Maps Aug 12, 2020

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Paul Holes examines chilling insights into 'The Maps,' revealing the investigative depths untapped by the... In 'California: Paul Holes' Insights into The Maps,' the expertise of renowned investigator Paul Holes takes center stage, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the mind of a man who has dedicated his career to solving the unsolvable. Holes' journey into investigation began long before the notoriety the 'Golden State Killer' case would later bring him. His insights peel back the layers of the Speed Freak Killers' case, illuminating techniques and thought processes that have defined his success. This episode highlights the importance of relentless pursuit and innovative forensics at a time when conventional methods faced daunting limitations. examine into his methods, hear the critical analyses, and understand how law enforcement evolved through cases filled with sinister complexities. Discover what makes an effective investigator through a conversation that intertwines theory with practice, revolutionary concepts with tried techniques. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: Herzog's Judgment Day Jul 29, 2020

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As Loren Herzog faces the judgment day that will decide his fate, the true depths of his involvement in the... In 'California: Herzog's Judgment Day,' we plunge into the heart of a complex trial. The Speed Freak Killers left a trail of terror, and in this gripping case, we follow the other half, Loren Herzog, through his intense trial. Herzog's life before the crimes was one overshadowed by a tumultuous mixture of influence and rebellion, setting the stage for the unspeakable acts to follow. His trial is not just about avenging victims; it reflects the broader law and order dynamics in California during a time where serial killers haunted the nerves of society. The case details reveal Herzog's legal maneuvers and the relentless pursuit by prosecutors determined to overcome the complex web of evasion and complicity. Set against an era noted for its rising crime rates and the public's growing demand for justice, Herzog's trial signifies a critical moment in forensic and criminal justice history. We dissect court testimonies, explore witness accounts, and unveil the strategies that determined the trial's outcome. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: The Trial Against Shermantine Jul 15, 2020

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The trial against Shermantine in California unveils chilling truths... In this gripping episode of Foul Play's Season 3, listeners are taken inside the courtroom to experience the intense proceedings against Wesley Shermantine. The trial which held a mirror up to California's judicial processes of 2000, uncovers haunting complexities within one of the state's infamous criminal cases. Known amongst peers for his erratic tendencies, Wesley Shermantine was a subject of speculation long before the trial. Within his town, his presence lingered as a looming shadow; a man whose hobbies and pastimes masked an accumulating darkness that intensified with time. These dynamics played a key role in the state's mounting case against him. Shermantine's trial holds historical significance as it meticulously exposed the justice system's complex set of procedures and confrontations within high-profile criminal trials. It brought light upon the state's methods of perpetrator accountability and underscored evolving concepts of legal retribution. Inside the courtroom, the case against Shermantine unfolded with dramatic flair. Prosecutors meticulously pieced together witness testimonies, forensic evidence, and past behaviors that portrayed Shermantine within an inescapable web of deceit and crime. The defense's counterarguments intertwined stark realities with claims of circumstantial victimhood, creating legal maneuvers that captivated a nation's interest. The invocation of such stark dichotomies under the public microscope demonstrated the immense pressures and unpredictability of courtroom battles. California at the dawn of the new millennium was experiencing shifts, the rise of new crimes, judicial scrutiny, and socio-cultural reckonings shaped its legal narratives. Shermantine's trial stood at the confluence of these shifts, documenting changes in public expectations of justice and jurisprudence over decades. Listeners will hear detailed reconstructions of trial scenes, captivating dialogues, and the intensity of the courtroom interplay that held both legal professionals and the public in suspense. These elements expose a turning point in California's crime chronicles, offering insights into the methodical examining of a heinous figure's story. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: Unraveling Truth in Herzog's Interrogations Jul 01, 2020

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In examining Herzog's interrogations, deeper truths about California's dark secrets emerge... Season 3 of Foul Play continues its thrilling trajectory as we revisit Herzog's haunting interrogations, revealing new investigative insights that challenge prior standings in California's tumultuous crime investigations. Herzog's presence, now enigmatic, was once a familiar visage within his circles, his demeanor unassumingly disguising a more complex persona. Friends and family found his wit endearing, unaware of the darker undertones that would later be sensationalized. Yet, beneath, lay a persona wrapped in inconsistencies and hidden motives. The interrogation moments are important as they represent an era's interrogation methodology evolution, instrumental for today's criminal justice practices. They scrutinize the fine line between psychological placement and human ethics in investigations, fostering today's discourse on reform and justice. From the careful dissection of Herzog's statements to analyzing the investigators' strategies, this episode transports you into the unnerving dance of deceit and truth. Set within the gritty confines of California's police stations, revelations unfurl, draping dark overtones across past unsolved mysteries. The unnerving precision of statements stands diametrically opposite lies that pepper Herzog's confessions, creating narratives rife with complexity. 1990s California was marked by a transformation. Policing tactics were evolving with newfound forensic technologies and evolving societal norms instigating law reforms. Herzog's interrogations serve as a capsule for this change, revealing times of transition and the varied ways truth is extracted under pressure. Listeners will gain privileged access to extensive analysis of deception recognition strategies employed and the layered interactions between Herzog and his interrogators, adding depth to the overarching mystery's vastness. These critical insights beckon a reassessment of past narratives and prompt reflections on evolving justice paradigms. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: The Maps and Herzog's Tapes Decoded Jun 17, 2020

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Herzog's tapes in California could hold secrets to a haunting mystery... examine deep into the enigmatic psyche of Herzog as Foul Play's Season 3 unfolds a riveting narrative through California's notorious interrogation tapes. This episode meticulously deciphers once enigmatic recordings, unlocking truths and dynamics that could alter the course of the longstanding investigation. Before becoming one of the more shadowy figures in crime history, Herzog was an ordinary individual interwoven in communities much like any other, yet whose path diverged into infamy. Known for both mundane routines and elusive tendencies, his life was a puzzle whose pieces held deeper meanings. These tapes offer a rare glimpse into his underlying psyche. Decoding Herzog's tapes is not just an exercise in uncovering the man behind the mystery but examining into the historic implications of interrogation practices during the time. It amplifies discussions surrounding human rights, police procedures, and psychological warfare now even more pronounced in contemporary investigative dialogues. The tapes reveal a chilling portrait, recording the tension-filled exchanges as investigators confront Herzog with evidence intertwining his connection to other disappearances. Scrambled words and cryptic admissions lie laden with clues and deceptions, key for painting the backdrop of this elaborate puzzle. The emotional and mental tug-of-war experienced by both Herzog and his inquisitors transformed these sessions into compelling narratives. The tail end of the 1990s saw California's justice system grappling with ethical quandaries brought about by intense criminal interrogations. These tapes illuminate the confrontational techniques of the era and the burgeoning psychopathological awareness among its enforcers, urging a rethinking of historical judicial frameworks. Listeners will experience firsthand the dominance of verbal strategies here, witnessing the calculated unwrapping of pretenses as Herzog's narrative unfurls. Through in-depth analyses and expert testimonials, we challenge our understanding of truth and fabrication, leading us closer to elusive resolutions. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: The Maps and Bounty Hunters' Trail Jun 02, 2020

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On the bounty hunters' trail in California, a pursuit could change everything... In this gripping episode of Foul Play Season 3, we follow the trail paved by tenacious bounty hunters in their quest to uncover hidden truths behind intertwined maps and vanishings. As Roles Rob Dick and Leonard Padilla step into the complex proceedings, their relentless chase reveals the dark shadows lurking behind this convoluted mystery. Rob Dick, a seasoned bounty hunter, was known for his unparalleled determination. His upbringing steeped in fervent dedication to justice, Rob was no stranger to danger and complexity, a trait that amplified his ability to work through through chaotic mysteries. Leonard Padilla, similarly driven and emboldened by a thirst for uncovering secrets, complemented Rob's approach with his strategic mind and unwavering resolve. Together, they symbolized a important link in this haunting tale. Their quest for truth was spotlighted not just for its thrilling nature, but for its significance in showcasing the dynamic and often unrecognized role of bounty hunters in historical justice systems. It highlights the pursuit of justice beyond the officialdom, feeding into contemporary discussions about borders of legal mediation. With California's diverse landscapes serving as their backdrop, the bounty hunters embarked on their mission, weaving through an complex map of twisted truths and hidden connections. Their efforts unveiled hidden caches and patterns that helped the authorities piece together a larger narrative fraught with fear, lies, and unexpected alliances, challenging the credibility of established narratives. This was no small feat, considering the time constraints and mounting public pressures. The story unfolds in an era where California was at the crossroads of digital and analog crime-solving techniques, with law agencies grappling under the weight of evolving criminal methods and expectations for rapid resolution. The era's law enforcement framework was riddled with redundancies and resource constraints, all of which these bounty hunters bravely navigated. Listeners will hear the exchanging strategies between the dedicated hunters, the adrenaline-inducing moments of close encounters, and the eventual breakthroughs that breathed new life into a seemingly stagnant investigation. The importance of unyielding resolve is a resounding theme throughout the narrative. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: The Disappearance of Cyndi and Phillip May 19, 2020

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Cyndi and Phillip's disappearance in California left a community searching for answers... In this chilling installment of Season 3 of Foul Play, we examine into the mysterious case of Cyndi Vanderheiden and Phillip Martin, whose sudden vanishing in Lodi, California, triggered a desperate hunt for clues. Set against the backdrop of 1998, a year marked by its fair share of mysteries, this story is about more than just a disappearance; it's a profound reflection on lives disrupted. Cyndi Vanderheiden, a lively young woman known for her vivacious spirit, was loved by many in her small community. Before her disappearance, she was always the life of gatherings and had dreams as expansive as the Californian landscapes. Phillip Martin, often remembered for his kind heart and adventurous nature, was someone who stood by his friends through thick and thin. Together, their disappearance shook friends, family, and an entire community. The disappearance of Cyndi and Phillip matters greatly in historical contexts, as it shines a light on the glaring issues surrounding missing persons investigations of the time. The case highlighted the systemic challenges detectives faced, limited technology, lack of witnesses, and community fear, making it a critical analysis point for contemporary law enforcement approaches. The investigation into Cyndi and Phillip's disappearance began as a puzzling enigma. With scant evidence to piece together, investigators relied heavily on personal testimonies and the small clues they could unearth. The case took an intriguing turn with rumored connections to local notorious figures, adding layers to the mystery. Despite exhaustive searches across Lodi, the truth seemed evasive until hints of sinister plots began to surface, entwining Cyndi and Phillip's fate with greater criminal activities. In 1998, California was undergoing significant social and political shifts. Issues like the increasing crime rates, the rise of digital technology, and changes in community policing strategies were prevalent, deeply influencing investigative processes. The case of Cyndi and Phillip echoed these growing pains, serving as a microcosm of the broader search for safety and justice in an era transitioning into modernity. listeners will be taken on an emotional journey, where they will hear reconstructions of the night these two youths disappeared and the frantic search that ensued. Through expert narratives and guest insights, we uncover layers of intrigue and disillusionment that marked this period in California's history. Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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California: The Maps and Chevy's Vanishing May 05, 2020

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On a fateful autumn day, a life vanished, leaving behind questions and maps that endless searches try to resolve. In 'Chevy's Vanishing,' we retrace the footsteps and important missteps that led to Chevy Wheeler's disappearance on October 16, 1985. This third installment of Season 3 of The Maps series unveils the details behind the heartache endured by her family, communities, and investigators. Chevy, a young teenager full of dreams, symbolized hope and youthful vibrancy in her Stockton, California neighborhood. Her unexplained vanishing left a profound void, spiraling her loved ones into a relentless pursuit for answers. The context of 1980s California saw rising disparities and technological shifts that posed both challenges and tools for crime-solving agencies. In this milieu, the response to Chevy Wheeler's case reflects the broader dynamics in cold case investigations, the elusiveness of justice, and the enduring hope for resolutions. With we share intimate interviews recounting Chevy's story, reminding listeners of the haunting legacy left by the unresolved, and the unrelenting community efforts to restore a sense of peace. Tune into experts as they discuss the power of resolve and remembrance, painting a picture of communal resilience faced with indescribable loss. --- Support Foul Play: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703 Follow us: Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries Twitter: @foulplaypod
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