Always True Crime|640 - The Trust That Led To Murder : Episode 560
The UK True Crime Podcast, hosted by me, Adam Lloyd, is a leading true crime podcast, with new episodes released every Tuesday and Friday and Sunday.
Shortlisted for Best True Crime Podcast at the 2026 True Crime Podcast Awards and with over 95 million listens since November 2016, this UK true crime podcast delivers in-depth, well-researched coverage of real-life crime stories from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each episode focuses on true crime cases in the UK, placing victims, families, and communities at the centre of the story.
From serial killers and other murder cases to missing persons cases, fraud, arson and the whole range of other criminal investigations, the podcast examines a wide range of UK crime stories. Alongside lesser-known crimes, it also offers fresh perspectives on well-known UK cases, making it ideal for listeners searching for true crime podcasts, crime stories, and UK investigations.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
The cases discussed in this podcast often represents the worst day in many people’s lives. I always aim to tell these stories with empathy and focus on the victims and their families. All information is sourced from publicly available materials, and every effort is made to ensure accuracy.
This episode explores the 1994 murders of Amy Shepard and Mary Kilbride in Bradford, Yorkshire. While Richard Whelan was convicted for the brutal killing of Mary Kilbride, investigators initially struggled to link him to the murder of Amy Shepard due to a lack of scientific evidence, leading to his acquittal for that specific crime.
The investigation eventually saw a breakthrough decades later through advanced DNA analysis. A single hair recovered from the crime scene provided the necessary forensic link, leading to the 2019 conviction of Raymond Kaye and finally bringing justice to the case of Amy Shepard.
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Highlights
The knife believed to have been used in the attack was recovered at the scene, but it quickly became apparent that this hadn't belonged to Amy, which strongly suggested the killer had brought it with them when they went to her home and that the attack had probably been premeditated.
00:06:29 · This detail highlights the evidence suggesting the murder of Amy Shepard was a planned crime.
In an act of extraordinary brutality, he ran the handle of the mirror through her left eye socket before stamping repeatedly on her head and body.
00:14:00 · The narrator describes the extreme violence used by Richard Whelan during the murder of Mary Kilbride.
The law required that the similarities between the cases must be such that it can properly be upon them that they have the defendant's name written on them. In other words, they bear his signature or his hallmark.
00:18:40 · The speaker explains the specific legal standard used by the judge to acquit Whelan due to a lack of distinctive evidence.
It was a seemingly insignificant piece of evidence, but advances in DNA technology meant it could now be examined in a way that would have been impossible in 1994.
00:21:50 · The narrator highlights how modern forensic science allowed investigators to re-examine a single hair found at the crime scene.
But behind every one of those files is a person, a family, and a life that was taken away.
00:28:38 · The narrator provides a poignant reflection on the human impact behind unsolved murder investigations.
This episode explores the 1994 murders of Amy Shepard and Mary Kilbride in Bradford, Yorkshire. While Richard Whelan was convicted for the brutal killing of Mary Kilbride, investigators initially struggled to link him to the murder of Amy Shepard due to a lack of scientific evidence, leading to his acquittal for that specific crime.
The investigation eventually saw a breakthrough decades later through advanced DNA analysis. A single hair recovered from the crime scene provided the necessary forensic link, leading to the 2019 conviction of Raymond Kaye and finally bringing justice to the case of Amy Shepard.
Published10 Nov 2026
Duration30:01
Episodes
640-
The Trust That Led To Murder : Episode 560
Listened
This episode explores the 1994 murders of Amy Shepard and Mary Kilbride in Bradford, Yorkshire. While Richard Whelan was convicted for the brutal killing of Mary Kilbride, investigators initially struggled to link him to the murder of Amy Shepard due to a lack of scientific evidence, leading to his acquittal for that specific crime.
The investigation eventually saw a breakthrough decades later through advanced DNA analysis. A single hair recovered from the crime scene provided the necessary forensic link, leading to the 2019 conviction of Raymond Kaye and finally bringing justice to the case of Amy Shepard.
10 Nov 2026
639-
War Games : Revisited
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast revisits the tragic sinking of the Scottish fishing boat FV Antares in November 1990, caused by a collision with the Royal Navy submarine HMS Trenchant. The investigation revealed that human error and failures in watchkeeping by the submarine crew were responsible for the disaster.
The narrative further explores the lack of accountability and transparency from the Royal Navy and British government regarding submarine-related maritime incidents. It details a pattern of secrecy involving the Antares tragedy and more recent near-misses with fishing vessels and ferries.
08 Nov 2026
638-
The Man Behind The Messages : Episode 559
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast tells the story of Amanda Playle, who believed she was being cyberstalked by an old boyfriend, Anthony Reynolds. After months of psychological torment and invasive messages, a police investigation into digital evidence and CCTV footage reveals that the perpetrator was actually her husband, Paul, who had been impersonating Anthony to manipulate and control her.
The episode details the investigation and trial of Paul Playle, who was found guilty of stalking and coercive control. The podcast explores how he used his intimate knowledge of Amanda's life to manufacture a campaign of harassment while pretending to comfort her, concluding with reflections on the devastating psychological impact of technology-facilitated abuse within intimate relationships.
06 Nov 2026
637-
The Recording That Witnessed a Murder : Episode 558
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the tragic events surrounding Janie and Andrew Parsons in May 2010. It traces their move from Oklahoma to Bicester, the breakdown of their marriage due to financial strain and Janib's new relationship, and the violent attack by Andrew that was captured on a secret recording device.
The episode covers the harrowing evidence from the hidden recording and the subsequent trial, where Andrew pleaded guilty to manslaughter but was convicted of murder after the jury heard chilling audio regarding his jealous rage.
03 Nov 2026
636-
The Witness - Revisited
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast explores the interconnected tragedies involving Kenneth Noy, who murdered Stephen Cameron in a 1996 road rage incident, and Alan de Cabral, a key witness who was later assassinated. The investigation weighs whether De Cabral's murder was a professional hit related to his testimony or linked to his own involvement in criminal activities.
The narrator investigates various theories regarding De Cabral's underworld connections, including his involvement with the Hells Angels and smuggling operations. The episode examines potential motives ranging from biker gang disputes and illegal trade to personal conflicts.
01 Nov 2026
635-
True Crime Catch Up - October 2026
Listened
The True Crime Catch-Up hosts examine recent news stories, including a fatal tiger attack at Yorkshire Wildlife Park driven by a selfie attempt and a physical altercation in Scotland sparked by a WhatsApp argument. The episode also explores the modern phenomenon of experiencing life through phone screens.
The discussion moves into criminal cases involving the murder of Michael O'Donnell and the 1987 car accident involving Matthew Broderick, reflecting on themes of accountability and justice. Finally, the hosts cover the tragic death of Rhys Radford in Sheffield and a lighter story about Buzz, a police dog in Bradford.
31 Oct 2026
634-
A Short Break Turned to Tragedy | The Cameron House Fire : Episode 557
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the fatal fire at Cameron House in Scotland in December 2017. The narrative traces the timeline of the blaze, from the improper disposal of ash by a night porter to the harrowing experiences of guests trapped in the building, resulting in the tragic deaths of Simon Midgley and Richard Dyson.
The episode further explores the subsequent investigation into the cause of the fire and the legal consequences for Cameron House Resort. Findings revealed that a lack of safety procedures and systemic management failures contributed to the tragedy, leading to a fatal accident inquiry and significant financial penalties for the resort.
30 Oct 2026
633-
A Conspiracy To Murder | Episode 556
Listened
This episode details the escalating violence following the bitter breakup between Jonathan Catchpole and Rebecca Deferia, which included property damage, threats, and harassment. The tension culminated in a 2015 home invasion where three men attacked Jonathan with a shotgun, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
The investigation revealed a conspiracy to murder Jonathan, linked to a planned hit commissioned by Colin Deferia. While detectives successfully secured the sentencing of five conspirators, Rebecca Deferia was eventually acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
27 Oct 2026
632-
An Opportunist Killer - Revisited
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast revisits the 2004 disappearance of Michelle Gunshan, a mother who vanished while working at The Clothes Show Live in Birmingham. The investigation reveals CCTV footage and DNA evidence linking Martin Stafford to the crime, alongside details of his subsequent violent crimes and arrest in Ireland.
The episode further details the criminal history and trial of Stafford, who was convicted of the murder, rape, and false imprisonment of Michelle Gunshan. It explores the devastating impact on Michelle's daughter, Tracy, and concludes with the news of Stafford's death in prison without him ever revealing the location of Michelle's remains.
24 Oct 2026
631-
The Killer Who Escaped Prison : Episode 555
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the prison escape of Sean Wormsley and the backstory of his murder conviction. It describes how Wormsley orchestrated a violent ambush at a hospital to flee custody and recounts the brutal 2014 murder of drug dealer Anthony Duffy, which led to his life sentence.
The episode further covers the trial and sentencing of the killers, as well as Wormsley's dramatic escape and eventual recapture. It concludes with reflections on the devastating impact of the crime on the victim's family and the broader community.
22 Oct 2026
630-
A Hitchhike Home That Ended in Murder : Episode 554
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast examines two major criminal cases from 1980 and 1987, focusing on a kidnapping/assault in Maidenhead and the murder of Rachel Partridge. The narrative explores the investigative challenges of the era, specifically the transition from conventional forensics to the emergence of DNA profiling.
The episode details how the DNA profile of Ronald Cheshire, established following his 1989 conviction for the murder of Rachel Partridge, was later used to solve the decades-old unsolved attack in Maidenhead. Through advancements in forensic technology and the preservation of evidence, investigators were able to link Cheshire to the 1980 crime, leading to his second conviction in 2010.
19 Oct 2026
629-
Wrongly Convicted: The Case of Sam Hallam and the Fight for Justice
Listened
In this episode of the UK True Crime Podcast, host Adam interviews criminal defense solicitor Matt Foote about the systemic difficulties in overturning wrongful convictions and the profound human cost of judicial errors. They delve into the specific case of Sam Hallam, examining how police failures regarding mobile phone evidence and witness identification led to his imprisonment.
The discussion further explores broader systemic issues within the UK justice system, including the investigation into Andrew Malkinson's case and the challenges in obtaining compensation for miscarriages of justice. Foote outlines necessary reforms for the CCRC and Court of Appeal, advocating for legislative changes like 'Trews Law' to ensure accountability and automatic reviews in cases involving corrupt officers.
17 Oct 2026
628-
The Truth Behind Closed Doors : Episode 553
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast explores the harrowing experiences of male survivors of domestic abuse. It details the story of Alex Skeel, who survived extreme physical violence and isolation at the hands of Jordan Worth, leading to a landmark conviction for coercive control. The episode also covers the case of Richard Spencer and reflects on the prevalence of domestic abuse against men, providing resources for those seeking help.
15 Oct 2026
627-
The Rumour Which Led To Murder : Episode 552
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the brutal murder of Barry Saul in Sunderland in December 2004. The investigation led to the arrest and confession of Brian Kearney, who claimed he was motivated by unfounded rumors heard at a social club.
The episode further covers the sentencing of Brian Kearney, highlighting the judge's condemnation of the attack and the victim's innocent background. It explores the broader dangers of vigilantism, citing cases where unfounded accusations led to fatal violence and reflecting on the devastating consequences of mistaking suspicion for guilt.
12 Oct 2026
626-
Interview with Tom Wood: 40 Years as a Senior Detective and Author
Listened
In this episode of the UK True Crime Podcast, host Adam interviews retired senior police officer Tom Wood about his career and significant murder investigations. The conversation details how meticulous evidence preservation, such as a DNA-bearing stain on a Burberry coat, eventually led to convictions in cases like the 1977 World's End murders.
The discussion explores the evolution of policing through advancements in DNA and computerized indexing, specifically referencing the investigations of Angus Sinclair and Robert Black. Tom also discusses his new book, 'Sex, Crimes and Bloody Murder', which examines various criminal cases and provides a nuanced perspective on the economics and safety of the sex industry.
10 Oct 2026
625-
A Bristol Gang : Episode 551
Listened
This episode explores a series of increasingly violent and organized bank, post office, and pawnbroker robberies that terrorized Bristol throughout 1991 and 1992. The gang utilized unique methods, such as infiltrating buildings through roofs, and maintained a calm, calculated presence during their escapes.
In response to the spree, police launched Operation Denominator, a massive-scale operation involving covert surveillance and listening devices that eventually led to the arrest of the four gang members. The episode examines the scale of this unprecedented police effort, the discovery of heavy weaponry, and the lasting psychological trauma inflicted on the victims.
08 Oct 2026
624-
Rough Diamond - A New True Crime Series From Always True Crime
Listened
The podcast 'Rough Diamond' investigates the 1965 theft of the massive Colenso diamond from the Natural History Museum. The episode explores the background of David Knight, a window cleaner whose family lore and criminal associations suggest his involvement in the heist.
Through accounts of post-war London life, the narrative details Knight's charismatic, bohemian lifestyle and his early criminal activities, including the theft of coach lamps. It further examines the serious accusations made by his friend Beanie regarding the successful theft of the world's largest uncut diamond.
07 Oct 2026
623-
The Friend Who Led Him To His Death : Episode 550
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast examines a violent confrontation at Kit Hill in Cornwall during the March 2020 lockdown. What began as an arranged fight between two men escalated into the death of 22-year-old Callum Hill, leaving several others injured.
The investigation details how forensic evidence, including DNA and vehicle damage, was used to reconstruct the events and challenge conflicting accounts. The episode follows the legal proceedings at Plymouth Crown Court, covering the complexities of intent in murder versus manslaughter, and concludes with the murder convictions and sentencing of Andrew Hatchery and Christian Humphreys.
05 Oct 2026
622-
The Solicitor & The Builder - Revisited
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast recounts the 2012 shooting of solicitor James Ward by Michael Chudley. The narrative details how a legal dispute involving building work and fraudulent misrepresentation led to financial ruin for Chudley's former partner, fueling his violent resentment toward the solicitor.
The episode further explores the trial and conviction of Michael Chudley, examining his claims of diminished responsibility and his lack of remorse. It concludes with an account of Chudley's death from natural causes in prison and a final reflection on the senselessness of the crime.
03 Oct 2026
621-
True Crime Catch Up - New Monthly Series
Listened
In this episode of True Crime Catch-Up 2.0, hosts Stuart Blues and Adam Lloyd explore several harrowing cases, beginning with the unexpected resolution of Scott Pritchard's murder and the brutal 1973 killings by David McGreever. The discussion moves into the stalking and murder of Molly McLaren, the disappearance of Jamie Leavis, and the tragic death of David Morley.
The episode also examines the investigation into the disappearance of the Chohan family, driven by a motive to seize a business for a drug empire. Transitioning from heavy subject matter, the hosts conclude with stories of heroic police and rescue dogs and a discussion on the most loyal dog breeds.
02 Oct 2026
620-
The Mystery Of Box Hill: Episode 549
Listened
This episode explores the disappearance of 16-year-old Ruth Wilson in November 1995. It details her final known movements at Box Hill and examines personal stressors, including the discovery regarding the true nature of her biological mother's death.
The investigation into Ruth's disappearance is examined through various theories, including suicide, abduction, and voluntary disappearance. By analyzing evidence found at Box Hill and potential sightings, the episode reflects on how conflicting narratives remain unresolved.
01 Oct 2026
619-
The Secret in the Cellar : Episode 548
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the tragic case of Carol Jarvis, whose health declined significantly while under the care of her husband, Harry. As Harry began a relationship with Rita Hayster and moved her into a garden shed, his children discovered that Carol was being heavily sedated to hasten her death so he could move Rita into the family home.
The investigation into Carol's disappearance led to the discovery of her body in a cellar and revealed the involvement of Harry's lover. The subsequent trial resulted in convictions for both Harry, for murder, and Rita, for obstructing justice. The episode concludes with reflections on the calculated nature of the crime and the eventual deaths of both perpetrators.
28 Sep 2026
618-
The Graveyard - Revisited
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the fatal stabbing of 26-year-old Lee Gillespie in a High Wycombe graveyard in August 2015. The narrative explores a complex web of jealousy and interpersonal conflicts involving his ex-girlfriend, Jodie Willis, and Martin Stanislaus, who ultimately admitted to the stabbing.
The episode further covers the trial and sentencing of Stanislaus, Willis, and Lee Burns. It examines the prosecution's evidence regarding the premeditated nature of the attack, the judge's condemnation of the defendants, and the devastating emotional impact of the crime on the victim's family.
26 Sep 2026
617-
A Festival Tragedy : Episode 547
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the tragic death of 22-year-old Alex Pilkington, who was fatally stabbed during a mountain bike rally in July 1995. Following a night of disorder and heavy drinking at the event, a confrontation involving Jason Mardy led to the fatal attack.
The episode covers the subsequent trial of Jason Mardy, where the prosecution and defense presented conflicting accounts regarding whether the stabbing was deliberate murder or an act of provocation. Ultimately, the jury convicted Mardy of manslaughter rather than murder, resulting in a five-year prison sentence that left Alex's family profoundly disappointed.
24 Sep 2026
616-
Murder At The Wrong House : Episode 546
Listened
This episode explores a brutal true crime case from November 1979 involving the murders of Anne Carrier and Christine Blood at Bordy Barn in Cheshire. The tragedy was the result of a botched kidnapping plot by three men who, intending to target a wealthy businessman's wife, mistakenly targeted the wrong house.
The investigation into the senseless killings was eventually solved through an unrelated inquiry into stolen lead in West Yorkshire. The episode details the investigation, the eventual breakthrough involving a shotgun discovery, and the legal outcomes for the perpetrators, reflecting on the lasting impact of this tragedy on the victims' families.
21 Sep 2026
615-
The Business Partner Who Wasn't Who He Seemed : Bonus Episode
Listened
In this episode of the UK True Crime Podcast, Adam interviews Jim Phillips about his experience being defrauded by his business partner, Tom. Jim describes how Tom transitioned from running a successful marketing company to systematically impersonating high-profile clients and bank officials to cover up financial discrepancies.
The deception escalated into a massive fraud involving hundreds of fake identities and fabricated business deals, even utilizing a fake terminal cancer diagnosis and legal threats to manipulate Jim. Following the aftermath of the fraud and the difficulties in pursuing legal justice, Jim discusses his journey toward healing through writing his book, '108 Psychopaths and Me'.
19 Sep 2026
614-
The Man Behind The Blindfold : Episode 545
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast explores the complex case of Gail Newland, who created a male persona named Kai Fortune to engage in a romantic relationship with a woman. For two years, the victim met Newland while blindfolded, believing she was with a man with physical disfigurements, until the truth was discovered during a sexual encounter.
The discussion details the subsequent legal proceedings and the psychological impact of the case. It explores the legal precedent regarding deception in consent and examines the profound, life-altering consequences for both the victim and the perpetrator.
17 Sep 2026
613-
The Last Journey : Episode 544
Listened
This episode explores the true crime case of 21-year-old Rachel Thacker, a promising occupational therapy graduate murdered in Manchester in August 1996. The investigation began after Rachel disappeared after entering an unidentified red Ford Sierra, leading to the horrific discovery of her body.
The narrative follows the subsequent investigation and trial of Duncan Birmingham. Through forensic breakthroughs involving DNA evidence found under the victim's fingernails and suspicious behavior by the defendant, the prosecution secured a guilty verdict. The episode concludes with reflections on the aftermath of the trial and a tribute to Rachel's vibrant life.
14 Sep 2026
612-
The Murder of an Identical Twin : Bonus Episode
Listened
In this episode of the UK True Crime Podcast, Adam interviews Nick Dawson about the 1998 murder of his identical twin brother, Simon. Nick describes their idyllic childhood in Cumbria and details the tragic series of events where Simon was lured into a trap by two young criminals while walking home from a nightclub.
Nick recounts the harrowing aftermath, including the investigation, the trial of the perpetrators, and the emotional journey of facing the killers during parole hearings. He also discusses his experience with restorative justice and his motivation for writing a book to preserve Simon's memory.
12 Sep 2026
611-
The Murder Behind The Lie : Episode 543
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the tragic murder of Dawn Spencer in Surrey in June 2016. It explores the breakdown of her marriage to Robert Rhodes, highlighting his escalating pattern of controlling behavior, digital stalking, and a premeditated plan to kill her using their child as part of a false self-defense narrative.
After an initial acquittal in 2017, new evidence provided by their grown child allowed the prosecution to overturn the verdict and secure a conviction for murder in 2025. The episode concludes with the sentencing of Robert Rhodes and a reflection on Dawn's true character, contrasting her real life against the false persona created by her killer.
10 Sep 2026
610-
Held Captive By A Stranger : Episode 542
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the harrowing case of Michael Podmore, who imprisoned and tortured a 26-year-old woman in Newport in 2001. The episode covers the investigation, the trial involving similar fact evidence from other victims, and Podmore's eventual conviction on ten charges.
The narrative further explores Podmore's sentencing, his history of violent offenses against women, and the psychological assessment of his behavior. It reflects on the failure of previous convictions to prevent recidivism and discusses the profound impact of sudden loss of freedom on victims.
07 Sep 2026
609-
Interview With Top Crime Reporter Martin Brunt : Bonus Episode
Listened
In this episode of the UK True Crime Podcast, host Adam interviews veteran crime reporter Martin Brunt about his long career in journalism. They discuss the evolution of crime reporting from Fleet Street to Sky News, the impact of the Leveson inquiry on police relationships, and Brunt's firsthand experience covering the infamous Fred and Rose West case.
The conversation explores the harrowing details of the 'House of Horrors,' including clandestine filming at the crime scene, and shifts to high-profile missing persons cases like Sarah Payne and Nicola Bulley. Brunt also reflects on the influence of social media on modern investigations and the changing transparency between the police and the media.
05 Sep 2026
608-
The Killer Next Door : Episode 541
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the brutal 1999 murder of Melanie Sturton in Aberdeen, Scotland. While initial investigations focused on a mysterious man near the scene, police eventually discovered evidence linking Melanie's neighbor, Pamela Gourlay, to the crime.
The episode covers the intense trial and subsequent legal appeals of Pamela Gourlay, including the courtroom drama involving forensic evidence and the defense's attempt to shift blame onto her ex-boyfriend, Chris Taylor. The narrative concludes with the emotional impact on the victim's family and Gourlay's eventual release from prison.
03 Sep 2026
607-
I Wish I Had Stayed In Bed |The Hungerford Tragedy : Episode 340
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the 1987 Hungerford massacre, examining the background and actions of Michael Ryan. It traces his history of social isolation and obsession with firearms, leading through the sequence of violent events that began with the murder of Susan Godfrey.
The narrative follows the chronological progression of the shooting spree, documenting the victims, the chaos within the community, and the eventual standoff at John O'Gaunt's school. The episode concludes with Ryan's death, the subsequent investigation into systemic failures, and the lasting legislative impact of the tragedy through the Firearms Amendment Act of 1988.
31 Aug 2026
606-
Revisited - A Pact With The Devil
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the 2020 murders of sisters Biba Henry and Nicole Smallman in Wembley by Daniel Hussain. The investigation utilized familial DNA to identify the killer, revealing his involvement in a demon cult and ritualistic attempts to use black magic for personal gain.
The episode further covers Hussain's trial and sentencing, where it was revealed he believed he was performing human sacrifices in exchange for lottery winnings. Additionally, the story explores the shocking misconduct of two police officers who took selfies with the victims' bodies and the lasting impact on the family.
29 Aug 2026
605-
The Deadly 40 Year Secret : Episode 539
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This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast explores the 1981 murder of Carol Morgan in her Bedfordshire corner shop. While the original investigation focused on a robbery motive, a cold case review decades later shifted suspicion toward her husband, Alan, and his affair with Margaret Spooner.
The episode details the subsequent investigation, trial, and sentencing for conspiracy to murder. It covers the discovery of a new witness in 2021 and the evidence presented during the 2024 trial regarding financial motives and planned violence, concluding with the verdict where Alan was found guilty while Margaret was acquitted.
27 Aug 2026
604-
The Murder of a Young Footballer : Episode 538
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the tragic death of professional footballer Jordan Sinnott following a violent confrontation in Retford. The narrative covers his football career, the sequence of events leading to the fatal assault, and the subsequent police investigation and legal proceedings against those involved.
The episode also explores the sentencing of the men responsible, noting that Kai Denevan received the longest sentence for instigating the violence. Finally, it examines Jordan's enduring legacy through global football tributes, the establishment of a charity in his name, and the birth of his daughter, Maisie.
24 Aug 2026
603-
Revisited - There Is No Justice In Death
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast recounts the 1995 murder of Vicky Thompson in an Oxfordshire village. It details the initial investigation into Mark Weston, whose acquittal was driven by the inadmissibility of key forensic links and a lack of direct evidence.
The narrative follows Weston's subsequent history of harassment and his violent relationship with Helen Rusher, until advancements in forensic technology allowed for the reopening of the case. The episode concludes with Weston's successful second prosecution, reflections on the impact of changes to double jeopardy laws, and the investigation into the murder of Julie Dunlop.
22 Aug 2026
602-
The Man Who Never Came Back : Episode 537
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the disappearance and murder of Martine Magnussen, a Norwegian student living in London. After being last seen leaving a nightclub with Farooq Abdulhaq, Martine's body was discovered hidden under construction debris in his apartment basement.
The investigation into Abdulhaq faced significant hurdles as he fled to Yemen. Despite forensic evidence linking him to the crime, legal and diplomatic barriers regarding extradition prevented his return to the UK, prompting a long-term campaign for justice by Martine's family.
20 Aug 2026
601-
The Confession That Changed Everything : Episode 536
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This episode investigates the death of 94-year-old Mary Gregory, which was initially ruled an accidental fire. The investigation took a dramatic turn following a confession by her step-grandson, Tianan Danton, to a counselor, leading police to discover forensic evidence and premeditated plans linking him to the scene.
The episode further covers Danton's trial, where conflicting evidence regarding the nature of the fire was presented. Ultimately, Danton was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison, leaving a lasting emotional impact on Mary's family.
17 Aug 2026
600-
Lost Evidence. Unanswered Questions. The Death Of Ed Cornes - The Inquest/Where are we Now? : Episode 4/4
Listened
This final episode investigates the findings of the October 2025 inquest into the death of Ed Corns, where the coroner concluded the death was drug-related rather than an unlawful killing. The investigation reveals significant failures within the Met Police, including the loss of critical CCTV footage, forensic samples, and witness interviews.
The episode explores broader concerns regarding institutional homophobia within the police force and discusses the ongoing IOPC investigation into 91 separate complaints. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the systemic biases that hindered the investigation and calls for greater accountability to maintain public trust in policing.
15 Aug 2026
599-
A Crime of Pure Evil : Episode 535
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This episode details the premeditated murder of Sadie Hartley in January 2016, orchestrated by Sarah Williams and Katrina Walsh. Driven by an obsession with Ian Johnson, the two women spent eighteen months planning the attack, which included tracking the victim's home and acquiring an illegal stun gun.
The episode also covers the subsequent investigation, trial, and sentencing of Williams and Walsh. It explores the forensic evidence that linked the women to the crime, the jury's guilty verdict, and a moving tribute to Sadie's life and legacy.
13 Aug 2026
598-
Hunting The Wrong Killer: Episode 534
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This episode explores the tragic murder of 15-year-old talented footballer Lawrence Haggart in March 1996. After an initial investigation incorrectly focused on his surviving brothers, a new lead investigator revitalized the case, eventually leading to the arrest and conviction of Brian Beattie.
The story further details a later inquiry that uncovered significant police misconduct, including the planting of evidence to implicate Lawrence's brother. The episode concludes by honoring Lawrence's memory through a memorial football tournament.
10 Aug 2026
597-
Lost Evidence. Unanswered Questions. The Death Of Ed Cornes - Stephen Port Investigation : Episode 3/4
Listened
This episode explores how historical and contemporary prejudices, including racism and homophobia, have undermined criminal investigations within policing. It focuses on the case of serial killer Stephen Port, detailing how police failures to investigate suspicious deaths involving marginalized groups allowed him to continue killing.
The narrative examines the investigation into the deaths of Gabriel, Daniel, and Jack, highlighting the failure to connect these cases and the discovery of a forged suicide note used to dismiss Daniel Whitworth's death. The discussion concludes by examining the inquests, drawing parallels to the Ed Corns case, and reflecting on the declining trust in the police among LGBTQ+ communities.
08 Aug 2026
596-
The House Of Lies : Episode 533
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This episode investigates the disappearance of Margaret Fleming, a vulnerable young woman from Scotland who vanished after being placed in the care of her father's trusted friends. The narrative explores the suspicious circumstances at Seacroft and the bizarre claims made by her guardians following her disappearance.
The investigation details the trial and conviction of Eddie Kearney and Avril Jones for Margaret's murder, highlighting the prosecution's reliance on circumstantial evidence and fraudulent benefit claims despite a lack of forensic proof. While the perpetrators were convicted, the death of Eddie Kearney leaves the location of Margaret's remains an enduring mystery.
06 Aug 2026
595-
Introducing...The Surgeon of St Helena
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Hosted by Luke Jones, 'The Surgeon of St Helena' investigates a medical scandal involving Dr. Sergio Villatoro-Bran, an orthopedic surgeon on a remote British territory. The podcast follows investigators Bernard and Sandra McCabe as they uncover evidence of highly incompetent and potentially criminal medical practices that left many members of the isolated community harmed.
The investigation reveals a disturbing lack of oversight that allowed these unauthorized procedures and surgical errors to continue for five years. The episode concludes with an update on Dr. Sergio's arrest and introduces a new true crime case involving the murder of George Wilson.
05 Aug 2026
594-
The Surgeon Who Betrayed His Patients : Episode 532
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This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast explores the medical scandal involving surgeon Ian Patterson, who performed unsanctioned 'cleavage-sparing' mastectomies without patient consent. The investigation revealed a pattern of professional misconduct and negligence driven by financial gain.
The narrative details how Patterson performed unnecessary and incomplete surgeries for profit, leading to his conviction and a 20-year prison sentence. The episode highlights the devastating physical and emotional impact on patients like Barbara Lewis and Deborah Douglas, while examining the systemic failures of institutions that prioritized revenue over patient safety.
03 Aug 2026
593-
Lost Evidence. Unanswered Questions. The Death Of Ed Cornes - Conversations : Episode 2/4
Listened
In this episode, Ed Corns' mother, Miriam, shares memories of her son—a bright and accomplished student at UCL—and recounts the devastating aftermath of his death. She details a police investigation marred by bias, negligence, and discriminatory assumptions, including the loss of critical forensic evidence and the character assassination of Ed during the inquest.
The episode also features an interview with Sam, Ed's best friend, who reflects on their profound bond and the shared struggle for accountability. Together, they discuss the ongoing fight for justice against the Metropolitan Police and the determination to honor Ed's legacy.
01 Aug 2026
592-
Murdered After Night At Local Pub : Episode 531
Listened
This episode of the UK True Crime Podcast details the 2002 murder of sixteen-year-old Gemma Clark in the quiet Somerset village of Martock. After her body was discovered in a ditch, a massive investigation followed, eventually leading to the arrest of Darren Cornelius, a local barman whose car contained incriminating evidence.
The episode covers the investigation, arrest, and sentencing of Cornelius, including the horrific details revealed in court and the discovery of items such as bloodstains and handcuffs in his vehicle. It also explores the profound impact of this tragedy on Gemma's family and the local community.
30 Jul 2026
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Bonus Episode : Inside the Suzy Lamplugh Investigation: Interview With Ex-Detective Mike Barley
Listened
In this episode of the UK True Crime Podcast, host Adam interviews former Detective Chief Inspector Mike Barley about the 40th anniversary of Susie Lampley's disappearance. The discussion covers the initial discovery of her abandoned car, the challenges of conducting a paper-based investigation in 1986, and the enduring mystery surrounding the case.
The episode explores the significance of the 'Mr Kipper' diary entry and how evidence from a separate murder investigation involving Shirley Banks eventually linked suspect John Cannan to the case. The speaker also recounts a high-stakes interview with Cannan, his regrets regarding denied search warrants at Norton Barracks, and the lasting legacy of the Susie Lampley Trust.