Zone 7 with Sheryl McCollum

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Bravery, Heartbreak, and Forgiveness: The Dawn Smith Jordan Story Jan 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, talks with Dawn Smith Jordan about the tragic loss of her sister, Shari Smith. Sheryl and Dawn discuss Dawn’s journey through unimaginable loss, resilience, and faith. Dawn recounts the horrific events surrounding the tragic abduction and murder of her 17-year-old sister, Shari Smith, in 1985. Ultimately, Dawn gives insight on how her and her family used Shari’s letter to find strength in faith and take each day given as a sign of purpose to live to the fullest, even after the darkest and most unimaginable event.
17-year-old Shari Faye Smith was kidnapped in broad daylight from outside her family's Red Bank home in May 1985. Less than two weeks later, on June 14, the abductor snatched a 9-year-old girl from outside her family's mobile home in Richland County and later killed her.

Dawn Smith Jordan is a speaker, author, singer, and former Miss South Carolina. She is a simple southern woman who is passionate about sharing the message of hope God has written into her life to a world desperate to hear. She considers every opportunity a divine appointment, from the smallest country congregation to the largest auditorium. She uses her platform to share a message of hope and faith, inspiring audiences with her family’s story of resilience.

Learn more about Dawn’s work at her website and on IG @dawndsj

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(0:10) Sheryl introduces Dawn Smith Jordan to the show
(1:00) Dawn's pageant experience
(3:30) The tragic event - Shari's abduction
(7:00) Dawn discusses the efforts of law enforcement, the FBI, and profiling pioneer John Douglas
(16:00) The chilling phone calls
(20:00) ”We couldn't really even grieve the loss of Shari because we were so afraid of where he was, what was he doing, when we knew he was quite capable of doing this to more people.”
(24:00) Shari’s last will and testament
(27:00) The impact of Shari’s last words
(33:00) The impact of forgiveness
(35:30) Living beyond the tragedy
(39:00) “If you ain’t dead, God ain’t done.”
(42:00) Final thoughts
(43:44) ”Some good will come of this.” -Shari Smith
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!

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Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an Emmy Award winning CSI, a writer for CrimeOnLine, Forensic and Crime Scene Expert for Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, and a CSI for a metro Atlanta Police Department. She is the co-author of the textbook., Cold Case: Pathways to Justice. Sheryl is also the founder and director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, a collaboration between universities and colleges that brings researchers, practitioners, students and the criminal justice community together to advance techniques in solving cold cases and assist families and law enforcement with solvability factors for unsolved homicides, missing persons, and kidnapping cases.

Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inside Some of Laura Ingle’s Most Unforgettable Cases | From Tupac to the Long Island Serial Killer Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, welcomes distinguished street-level journalist, Laura Ingle back to Zone 7 to discuss the realities of “boots on the ground” reporting. Laura shares stories from her career covering high-profile cases like the Scott Peterson trial, the Long Island Serial Killer, and the Miracle on the Hudson. Sheryl and Laura also tease her upcoming podcast, The Ingle Edit, a platform to share untold stories and in-depth reporting from her decades-long career.

Laura Ingle is an investigative reporter who has covered the Peterson case from the beginning. She reports for Fox News and NewsNation. Ingle received an Edward R. Murrow award in 2005 for her 2004 Scott Peterson trial coverage and was awarded four Golden Mikes from the Southern California Association of Television and Radio News Directors.

Listeners can learn more about Laura on X @lauraingle and IG @lauraingletv

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(1:00) Sheryl welcomes Laura Ingle back to Zone 7
(2:00) The challenges of “boots on the ground” reporting
(5:00) Covering the Trump trial
(12:15) Miracle on the Hudson
(14:30) Long Island Serial Killer (LISK)
(20:00) The Ingle Edit: Laura’s new podcast
(24:00) Revisiting the Scott Peterson case
(26:45) Retracing the steps of Rachel Morin
(30:00) Revisiting Tupac’s shooting
(35:00) Power in a support system
(36:00) ”And, you know, sometimes if you, if you doubt yourself and you've got somebody that believes in you, it pushes you on to that next level.”
(36:30) ”The profession of journalism ought to be about telling people what they need to know, not what they want to know.” -Walter Cronkite
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!

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Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum
Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did the FBI Really Capture Dillinger in 1934? Nephews of Dillinger Seek Answers Jan 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, sits down with the nephews of the infamous outlaw John Dillinger, Mike and Travis Thompson. Together, they discuss Dillinger's mysterious legacy, the FBI's involvement, and the family's ongoing quest to uncover the truth about his alleged death. They discuss theories of a possible cover-up, forensic evidence, and a buried map that could hold secrets to Dillinger's alleged death.

Mike Thompson the Nephew of John Dillinger, is actively involved in investigating the true story behind Dillinger's death.

Travis Thompson is the Great-nephew of John Dillinger and a law enforcement officer with experience at federal, state, and local levels.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(0:30) Sheryl introduces guests, Mike and Travis Thompson to the listeners
(3:30) Investigating Dillinger's capture
(6:00) Roadblocks and FBI interference
(10:00) The Little Bohemia Lodge
(15:00) Autopsy inconsistencies
(18:00) Canine search and the buried map
(21:00) The mason jar discovery
(27:00) The map's significance - decoding the past
(36:00) The search continues
(37:00) Significance of an Indiana shell map from 1934
(40:00) ”Three rules I learned from Walter Dietrich. One, never work with people who are desperate. Two, never work with people who aren't the best. Three, never work when you're not ready.” - John Dillinger
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to iTunes and leave a rating and review!

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Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum
Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Decoding Death with Forensic Pathologist, Dr. Priya Banerjee Jan 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator Sheryl McCollum sits down with Forensic Pathologist Dr. Priya Banerjee.

They explore the world of forensic pathology, discussing the difference between cause and manner of death, identifying various types of wounds, and determining whether a death resulted from homicide, suicide, accident, or natural causes. Dr. Banerjee shares her journey, highlights unforgettable cases, and emphasizes the importance of teamwork in solving complex investigations.

Dr. Priya Banerjee is a forensic pathologist with experience in over 3,000 autopsies and involvement in high-profile cases, including the wrongful death of Breonna Taylor. She earned her education at the University of Pennsylvania and Johns Hopkins, and serves as an adjunct professor at Boston University School of Medicine.

Listeners can learn more about Dr. Priya Banerjee on X: @Autopsy_MD.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(00:30) Sheryl introduces Dr. Priya Banerjee to Zone 7
(03:00) The impact of cold cases
(05:30) Dr. Banerjee's impressive credentials
(06:30) Path to Becoming a Forensic Pathologist
(12:00) The role of a Medical Examiner
(16:30) Explaining cause vs. manner of death
(20:00) Challenges of undetermined cases
(24:00) Memorable and impactful cases
(30:00) The value of relationships in Forensics
(33:00) ”We have 62 counties in New York state and each has its own system of death investigation.” -M.B
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!

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Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum
Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tulsa, OK, April 9, 1987 | Help Solve the Tragic Mystery of Marilyn Joi Base Dec 25, 2024

Show notes

On April 9, 1987, 22-year-old Marilyn Joi Base was abducted while doing laundry at the Pepper Ridge Apartments in East Tulsa.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation at 800-522-8017 or email tips@osbi.ok.gov.

Guest Bio and Links:

Charlotte Autry is Marilyn Joi Base's childhood best friend. Charlotte grew up with Joi in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. She has become an advocate for seeking justice in Joi’s case, balancing this mission with her family life, which includes six grandchildren.

Resources:

‘Justice for Joi’ Facebook page

In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, talks with Charlotte Autry, the childhood best friend of Marilyn Joi Base, who was murdered 37 years ago. Charlotte reflects on their shared childhood in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and the impact of Joy’s tragic murder. They explore the details surrounding Joy’s disappearance and death, focusing on the timeline, potential suspects, and the significance of revisiting cold cases. The conversation also touches on the ongoing investigation and possible suspects. Sheryl and Charlotte stress the need for more people to come forward with information and remember Joi's life.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(0:10) Sheryl gives a brief background of Marilyn’s case
(0:30) Sheryl introduces guest, Charlotte Autry
(2:30) Childhood memories and growing up in Broken Arrow
(5:30) The day Joi disappeared
(8:00) Examining potential suspects and motives
(12:00) Sheryl highlights the desolation of Bragg Mountain
(18:00) OSBI’s creative investigation techniques
(21:00) Advocating for a fresh look at Joy’s DNA evidence
(22:00) Revisiting Evidence and Advocating for Justice
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!

---

Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum
Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12.20.24 CRU with Nancy Grace: Does The Robin Hood Comparison Admit Mangione Is The Killer? Dec 20, 2024

Show notes

Today, Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum discuss the recent federal charges against Luigi Mangione, including the potential for the death penalty. They explain Judge Luther Alverson's judicial practices, the low jail count expectations, and Nancy's career journey. Nancy and Sheryl shift the conversation to societal reactions to crime, referencing comparisons to Eric Rudolph and Robin Hood and the effects of media representation. Lastly, they discuss holiday plans and traditions.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome! Nancy and Sheryl introduce this week’s crime roundup
(0:10) Sheryl starts CRU with Luigi Mangione's federal charge
(0:45) Nancy explains Judge Luther Alverson's judicial practices and his jail counts
(4:00) Nancy Grace's career journey
(10:00) Mangione's case and public perception
(12:00) Details from Mangione’s spiral notebook
(17:00) Questioning the back problem - suspicious activities
(22:00) Eric Rudolph and mental health debates
(26:30) “You can’t compare him to Robin Hood without admitting he’s the killer.”
(29:00) Sheryl and Nancy finish CRU with holiday traditions

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Nancy Grace is an outspoken, tireless advocate for victims’ rights and one of television's most respected legal analysts. Nancy Grace had a perfect conviction record during her decade as a prosecutor. She is the founder and publisher of CrimeOnline.com, a crime- fighting digital platform that investigates breaking crime news, spreads awareness of missing people and shines a light on cold cases.

In addition, Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, a daily show hosted by Grace, airs on SIRIUS XM’s Triumph Channel 111 and is downloadable as a podcast on all audio platforms - https://www.crimeonline.com/

Connect with Nancy:

X: @nancygrace

Instagram:@thenancygrace

Facebook: @nancygrace

Connect with Sheryl:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com

X: @ColdCaseTips

Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Behind the Scenes of the Delphi Trial: Haunting Truths, Unbreakable Community, and Justice in Focus Dec 18, 2024

Show notes

On February 13, 2017, teenage friends Liberty German and Abigail Williams went for a walk near Delphi, Indiana, but never returned home. The next day, their bodies were found in a clearing, victims of a brutal murder. Liberty recorded a blurry video of the man approaching them in her final moments, capturing his gruff command: “Down the hill.” The haunting clues sparked public obsession and rampant speculation online, while investigators explored every lead. Despite years of effort, the case remained unsolved, leaving a community searching for answers.

Guest Bio and Links:

Susan Hendricks is a renowned journalist from HLN, podcaster, and author. Áine Cain is a journalist and co-host of Murder Sheet. Kevin Greenlee is an attorney and co-host of Murder Sheet.

Resources:

Murder Sheet Podcast

Shadow of the Bridge: The Delphi Murders and the Dark Side of the American Heartland By Áine Cain and Kevin Greenlee

In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, is joined by journalists Susan Hendricks, Áine Cain, and attorney Kevin Greenlee as they share their powerful experiences from the Delphi trial. They primarily highlight moments of camaraderie, the emotional toll of witnessing evidence, and the struggles of maintaining accuracy amidst misinformation. Áine and Kevin discuss their dynamic approach to covering the trial, while Susan shares personal anecdotes that emphasize the human connection forged through this shared experience. They also reflect on the remarkable grace of the victims’ families and the resilience required to endure the trial's grueling schedule and rules.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(0:15) Sheryl introduces guests, Áine Cain, Kevin Greenlee, and returning guest, Susan Hendricks to the listeners
(1:00) Reminiscing the experience of the true crime community
(2:30) Courtroom experiences and observations
(3:45) Behind the scenes with journalists
(6:00) Áine and Kevin share their teamwork strategy
(14:00) Susan recounts humorous moments waiting outside
(15:00) Áine describes journaling under pressure
(23:00) Condemning sensationalism and misinformation
(28:00) The failures in the defense strategies
(30:00) Legal stunts used in court
(31:30) Jury questions impress Sheryl with their sophistication
(35:00) Áine and Kevin reflect on their favorite parts of Delphi
(41:00) Áine speaks about the emotional toll of the crime scene evidence
(44:00) Journalistic challenges and accuracy
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!

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Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12.13.24 CRU with Nancy Grace: The Mangione Case | A Heated Debate on Vigilante Justice Dec 13, 2024

Show notes

Today Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum discuss the latest on the Luigi Mangione case. They explain the legal nuances of the charges against him, the premeditation and intent behind his actions, and the implications of his crimes on victims and society. Nancy and Sheryl also examine broader issues, such as the public's controversial support of Mangione, the legal distinctions between murder charges, and the growing concern over ghost guns.

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome! Nancy and Sheryl introduce this week’s crime roundup
(0:10) Sheryl introduces the updates on the Luigi Mangione case
(1:00) Public reaction and outrage
(3:00) Legal breakdown of murder 1 vs. murder 2
(8:00) Human trafficking and poaching routes
(9:30) Evidence and investigation details
(14:00) Connection to past infamous cases
(17:00) Family impact and emotional toll
(23:30) Ghost guns and legal implications
(30:00) Personal reflections and closing thoughts

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Connect with Nancy:

X: @nancygrace

Instagram:@thenancygrace

Facebook: @nancygrace

Connect with Sheryl:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com

X: @ColdCaseTips

Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unsolved Mystery | The West Point Lake Homicide of 1990 Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

In March 8th, 1990, an unidentified homicide victim was discovered at West Point Lake, Georgia, and remains unidentified to this day.
In this episode of Zone 7, Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum, talks with Clay Brant about an unidentified homicide victim discovered at West Point Lake in 1990. They discuss the victim's distinctive tattoos, a unique belt buckle, a commemorative ring from the Missouri Pacific Railroad, and other personal effects. Sheryl and Clay also discuss trackng the victim’s identity through DNA testing, media outreach, and historical labor records. Last but not least, they encourage listeners to take part in the effort to help, highlighting the critical role of media and community involvement in solving cold cases.

Guest Bio and Links:

Clay Bryant is a retired chief of police, author, and cold case expert with decades of experience in law enforcement. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Clay has solved numerous high-profile cases, bringing closure to families and communities.

Clay is the author of three books:

The Cold Case Murder of Fred Wilkerson: Untangling the Black Widow's Web in West Georgia

Solving the West Georgia Murder of Gwendolyn Moore: A Cry From the Well

Solving the Murder of Vieng Phovixay: Evil Dwells in West Georgia (True Crime)

Show Notes:

(0:00) Welcome back to Zone 7 with Crime Scene Investigator, Sheryl McCollum
(0:10) Sheryl introduces the 1990 case
(0:30) Sheryl welcomes returning guest, Clay Brant to the listeners
(2:00) Distinctive tattoos and their significance
(5:00) Investigative leads and challenges
(8:30) Potential connections and theories
(11:45) Efforts to identify the victim
(14:30) Call for Zone 7 listeners
(23:05) “For me, jewelry is a way of keeping memories alive.” -LC
Thanks for listening to another episode! If you’re loving the show and want to help grow the show, please head over to Itunes and leave a rating and review!

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Social Links:

Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com
Twitter: @ColdCaseTips
Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum

Instagram: @officialzone7podcast

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12.06.24 CRU with Nancy Grace: The Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO, Brian Thompson Dec 06, 2024

Show notes

Today on CRU, Nancy Grace and Sheryl McCollum dive deep into the shocking murder of Brian Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, who was killed while attending a conference in New York City. They discuss the latest details of the case, including the unique choice of weapon—a whale rod with a silencer, the killer's odd behavior, and the engraved shell casings with the words 'deny,' 'defend,' and 'depose.' Nancy and Sheryl also discuss potential motives tied to the insurance industry and the suspect's methodical, yet flawed, execution of the crime.

Show Notes: