Host Steve “Murph” Murphy (retired DEA Agent, featured in NARCOS on Netflix) takes you inside the most intense and fascinating true crime stories in the world. Real life tales from the most notorious cases everyone knows and some you’ve probably never heard of (until now) from those who broke the law and those who were sworn to enforce it. Murph asks the questions and gets into the true stories from the real life players in the biggest, baddest, most dangerous game of all — the Game of Crimes.
172: : Part 1, Morgan Wright – Army vet, law enforcement, cybersecurity expert, co-founder of Game of Crimes Podcast
Nov 25, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes Morgan Wright back to Game of Crimes. They catch up on each other’s lives and careers since Morgan’s departure from the show in April 2024. They reflect on their law enforcement backgrounds, share insights from their careers, and reminisce about the podcast's journey since its inception. The conversation is filled with humor, anecdotes, and a deep understanding of crime and law enforcement. The conversation highlights the need for community engagement in law enforcement and the future of crime-solving apps that connect citizens with law enforcement efforts. Morgan discusses the innovative approach to solving unsolved cases through technology and real-time connections. He emphasizes the importance of a colorblind justice system that treats all cases equally, regardless of race or gender. The discussion also delves into the challenges of cold cases and the potential of artificial intelligence in generating leads. Morgan talks about his upcoming books, the current cybersecurity landscape, the dangers of deep fakes, and the need for vigilance in verifying information.
171: : Part 2 – John Doe (hidden identity) – USMC veteran, retired DEA undercover agent, and still receiving threats
Nov 19, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes John Doe (not his real name), a veteran of the US Marine Corps, local cop, Massachusetts State Trooper, and retired DEA Special Agent. John worked extensively as an international undercover agent with DEA, and he continues to receive death threats. John shares his experiences in undercover drug enforcement operations, detailing the complexities of international drug trafficking, particularly in relation to Operation Titan. He discusses the challenges faced during undercover meetings, the intricate routes used for drug distribution, and the innovative techniques employed in collaboration with international law enforcement agencies.
171: : Part 1 – John Doe (hidden identity) – USMC veteran, retired DEA undercover agent, and still receiving threats
Nov 18, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes John Doe (not his real name), a veteran of the US Marine Corps, local cop, Massachusetts State Trooper, and retired DEA Special Agent. John worked extensively as an international undercover agent with DEA, and he continues to receive death threats. John shares his experiences in undercover drug enforcement operations, detailing the complexities of international drug trafficking, particularly in relation to Operation Titan. He discusses the challenges faced during undercover meetings, the intricate routes used for drug distribution, and the innovative techniques employed in collaboration with international law enforcement agencies.
170: : Part 2 – Mike Denton – US Army Paratrooper combat vet & Orlando Police Officer
Nov 12, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes Mike Denton, a decorated and wounded military veteran, and Orlando police officer. Mike shares his experiences in the US Army, being a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, Chosen Company, and his 15-month deployment to Afghanistan. They discuss the Battle of Wanat that was covered in the book, “The Chosen Few” by Gregg Zoroya. Mike highlights the complexities of military operations, the importance of leadership, and the emotional toll of war on soldiers. Mike shares harrowing accounts of bravery, loss, and the overwhelming odds faced by his unit, providing a poignant reflection on military service and the sacrifices made by soldiers. Mike talks about his journey into law enforcement, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, the significance of training and development, and the need for community support. He emphasizes that it's okay to seek help and shares personal experiences that shaped his understanding of family and work-life balance.
170: : Part 1 – Mike Denton – US Army Paratrooper combat vet & Orlando Police Officer
Nov 11, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes Mike Denton, a decorated and wounded military veteran, and Orlando police officer. Mike shares his experiences in the US Army, being a member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, Chosen Company, and his 15-month deployment to Afghanistan. They discuss the Battle of Wanat that was covered in the book, “The Chosen Few” by Gregg Zoroya. Mike highlights the complexities of military operations, the importance of leadership, and the emotional toll of war on soldiers. Mike shares harrowing accounts of bravery, loss, and the overwhelming odds faced by his unit, providing a poignant reflection on military service and the sacrifices made by soldiers. Mike talks about his journey into law enforcement, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, the significance of training and development, and the need for community support. He emphasizes that it's okay to seek help and shares personal experiences that shaped his understanding of family and work-life balance.
169: : Part 2 – William “Bill” Matthews – US Navy veteran and retired DEA Agent
Nov 05, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes another old friend, William “Bill” Matthews, to the Game of Crimes. Bill is a US Navy veteran and a retired DEA agent. He discusses how his family history influenced his law enforcement career, highlighting the impact of drug-related issues on his decision. Bill shares his experiences as a new agent working with the Los Angeles Police Department, working in the DEA Special Operations Division, his overseas assignment in Brazil, and returning to the US where he moved up through the ranks. Bill delves into the role of Diversion Investigators and the establishment of Tactical Diversion Squads. He explains DEA’s responsibilities in administering the Diversion Program, highlighting the significance in regulating controlled substances and ensuring compliance within the healthcare sector. And as is typical of most heroes on this show, Bill continues to serve others in retirement.
169: : Part 1 – William “Bill” Matthews – US Navy veteran and retired DEA Agent
Nov 04, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes another old friend, William “Bill” Matthews, to the Game of Crimes. Bill is a US Navy veteran and a retired DEA agent. He discusses how his family history influenced his law enforcement career, highlighting the impact of drug-related issues on his decision. Bill shares his experiences as a new agent working with the Los Angeles Police Department, working in the DEA Special Operations Division, his overseas assignment in Brazil, and returning to the US where he moved up through the ranks. Bill delves into the role of Diversion Investigators and the establishment of Tactical Diversion Squads. He explains DEA’s responsibilities in administering the Diversion Program, highlighting the significance in regulating controlled substances and ensuring compliance within the healthcare sector. And as is typical of most heroes on this show, Bill continues to serve others in retirement.
168: : Part 2, Earl Cowan - Police Chief, Swinomish Indian Tribe
Oct 29, 2024
Show notes
This week, Murph talks with Earl Cowan, a former police officer at the University of Central FL, and now the Chief of Police for the Swinomish Tribe in northern Washington state. While recounting some humorous law enforcement stories, they discuss the complexities of tribal law enforcement, including the authority and jurisdiction of tribal police, the importance of collaboration with local and federal law enforcement agencies, and the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities, particularly regarding substance abuse and mental health. Earl emphasizes the significance of building trust within the community and the need for law enforcement to prioritize their own mental health and wellness.
168: : Part 1, Earl Cowan – Police Chief, Swinomish Indian Tribe
Oct 28, 2024
Show notes
This week, Murph talks with Earl Cowan, a former police officer at the University of Central FL, and now the Chief of Police for the Swinomish Tribe in northern Washington state. While recounting some humorous law enforcement stories, they discuss the complexities of tribal law enforcement, including the authority and jurisdiction of tribal police, the importance of collaboration with local and federal law enforcement agencies, and the unique challenges faced by indigenous communities, particularly regarding substance abuse and mental health. Earl emphasizes the significance of building trust within the community and the need for law enforcement to prioritize their own mental health and wellness.
167: : Part 2, Greg Kading – LAPD cold case homicide Investigator
Oct 22, 2024
Show notes
Murph welcomes Greg Kading, a seasoned Los Angeles law enforcement professional with a 25-year career, to discuss the infamous murders of Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls. They discuss the various theories, the involvement of law enforcement, the role of gangs, the personal toll of the investigations on those involved, and the cultural implications of gangster rap. The episode balances serious topics with humor, showcasing the camaraderie and stories that come from a life in law enforcement.