CrimeDoor

Discover Top True Crime News Websites and Mobile Apps

A list of some of the top true crime news websites and mobile apps, known for their coverage of true crime stories, documentaries, podcasts, and related content: Websites and Mobile Apps CrimeOnline: Founded by Nancy Grace, Crime Online ushers in a new era of combatting crime and crime awareness. From the “Most Wanted” across the country to missing people and Amber Alerts, nationwide breaking crime news, sex offender registries, jail breaks, “caught-on-video,” tip lines and the newest, slickest consumer scams, Crime Online arms its audience with need-to-know information that not only allows them to protect themselves but also gather as a community – a crime-busting nation – to fight back. The True Crime Database: This website has a passion for all things True Crime, with a curious and avid interest in cases of unsolved crime, serial murder and war crimes. The purpose of this project is to compile the most comprehensive library of information on different types of criminal cases, from the historic to more contemporary crimes. We have a helpful “Category System” designed to make it easier to search for a specific type of offence from Arson to War Crimes, and “Related Case Files” within each article for those who wish to read more about associated crimes. Oxygen: Watch full episodes of Oxygen true crime shows including Snapped, Killer Couples, and Three Days to Live. Visit Crime Time for breaking crime news and listen to the Martinis & Murder podcast. CrimeDoor: CrimeDoor is the only online platform and mobile app that delivers updated True Crime news 24 hours a day. The CrimeDoor mobile app and website are dedicated platforms for crime enthusiasts to consume accurate information by offering a collection of action crime videos that include criminals caught on camera and police body cam footage, in-depth articles that cover trials, unsolved cases, and crime media from around the world. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive, user-friendly hub where users can explore and learn about everything crime-related. The companion daily TV show, CrimeDoor TV, streams on Roku, Tubi, Vizio and Freevee. CrimeReads: CrimeReads is a culture website for people who believe suspense is the essence of storytelling, questions are as important as answers, and nothing beats the thrill of a good book. It’s a single, trusted source where readers can find the best writing from the worlds of crime, mystery, and thrillers—a literary culture that’s more robust than ever, but diffuse. Murderpedia: This website is a free online encyclopedic dictionary of murderers and the largest database about serial killers and mass murderers around the world. The Lineup: To say we’re fans of everything creepy would be an understatement. Whether it’s the latest Stephen King book, a collection of under-the-radar horror movies, or an unsolved case that’s still haunting us 50 years later, we’re dying to share our latest dark obsessions with fellow enthusiasts. Check back daily as we unearth historical crimes, real ghost stories, and the scariest book recommendations. Wild About Trial: This website offers live streams of trials, updates on criminal cases, and detailed information about various court cases. True Crime Daily: Offers daily news updates on crime stories, investigation details, and legal developments. Investigation Discovery (ID): The website for the ID channel provides articles, videos, and information on true crime TV shows. Realm: Offers serialized crime stories in written and audio formats, including some based on true events. Audible: While primarily an audiobook platform, Audible has a significant collection of true crime audiobooks and podcasts. Dateline NBC: Offers full episodes and clips from the Dateline television series, known for its true crime journalism. Reddit (via True Crime subreddits): The Reddit app provides access to various true crime communities where users discuss cases and share news. Podcast Specific Platforms Apple Podcasts: Offers a vast array of true crime podcasts. Spotify: Alongside music, Spotify hosts numerous popular true crime podcasts. These websites and apps cover a broad spectrum of true crime content, from breaking news and live trial coverage to in-depth analyses and podcasts. Always remember that the nature of true crime content can be intense or disturbing, so it’s important to consume such content responsibly.

El Paso Community Sought to Identify Woman Linked to Credit Card Theft

El Paso Police Department, in collaboration with Crime Stoppers of El Paso, has called upon the local community to aid in the identification of a woman connected to a concerning credit card theft incident. The woman in question was captured on surveillance footage utilizing a stolen credit card at the Murphy USA located on Zaragoza Road. Investigators strongly believe that this credit card was pilfered from a vehicle that fell victim to burglary at the Woodspring Suites on Gateway West on July 25th. Descriptive details of the suspect include multiple tattoos adorning her arms and right leg, which serve as distinguishing features. Additionally, she was seen driving a distinctive green Kia Seltos. The authorities urge anyone who possesses information regarding her identity to promptly contact Crime Stoppers. The El Paso community has always displayed immense resilience and unity when it comes to keeping their city safe. This joint effort between local law enforcement and vigilant citizens plays a vital role in preventing criminal activities and maintaining a secure environment for everyone. By working together, the community can ensure that this woman is brought to justice swiftly. Any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can contribute to the resolution of this case. Let us continue to support the efforts of the El Paso Police Department and Crime Stoppers of El Paso by staying vigilant and sharing any knowledge that could aid in identifying the suspect. Remember, anonymous tips can be shared with Crime Stoppers through their hotline. As always, the protection of the identity of those who provide information is of utmost importance. Let’s work hand in hand with law enforcement to ensure that El Paso remains a safe and tight-knit community for everyone.

From Booze to Bloodshed: The Prohibition Era’s Impact on the Criminal Underworld

The Prohibition era, stretching from 1920 to 1933, remains an unmistakably distinctive chapter in American history. During this span, the ratification of the Eighteenth Amendment and subsequent enactment of the Volstead Act led to the ban on the manufacturing, transportation, and sale of alcohol in the United States. While it was intended to reduce crime, improve health, and enhance societal values, Prohibition spurred a myriad of unintended consequences. A significant repercussion was the explosive growth of organized crime. This article delves into the complexities of the era, its profound impact on American society, and its correlation to the rise of high-profile crimes and criminals. Image Source The Birth of Prohibition: How It All Began Prohibition marked a seismic shift in the American socio-political landscape. The movement gained momentum due to a complex interplay of social, political, and economic factors. The rise of the temperance movement, a dedicated societal push against the consumption of alcoholic beverages, marked a significant departure from the drinking normative. Influential groups like the Anti-Saloon League and the Women’s Christian Temperance Union painted intoxicating liquor as the root of societal ills, such as family breakdown, domestic violence, and health problems. The early 20th century witnessed multiple states jumping on the prohibition wagon, driven by a combination of campaign efforts, religious sentiment, and the desire to conserve grain during World War I. On January 16, 1919, the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, marking the nationwide prohibition of alcohol production, sale, and export. This amendment turned the U.S. into a ‘dry’ nation. While this ‘noble experiment’ intended to instill better moral behavior and reduce crime, the reality it precipitated was far from its idealistic aims. Instead of evaporating away, the ubiquity of alcohol consumption merely shifted from legal to illegal platforms, providing a lucrative opportunity for the expanding underworld. Prohibition has made nothing but trouble. – Al Capone The prohibition era created a perfect breeding ground and served as an accelerator for the rise of organized crime. The legal vacuum around alcohol distribution opened up a profitable black market, which became the centerpiece of the “Roaring Twenties”, a decade that would leave an indelible mark on American history. The Rise of Organized Crime During Prohibition Image Source The enforcement of Prohibition inadvertently paved the way for a crime syndicate revolution. Ordinary individuals, restrained from legal avenues to acquire alcohol, turned to the criminal underworld that quickly adapted to fill this lucrative market gap. This sudden surge in demand for illegal alcohol catalyzed the exponential rise of organized crime groups. Prohibition led to the establishment of powerful criminal gangs such as the Chicago Outfit and the Five Families in New York City. One study from the University of California found Chicago’s organized crime network before the Prohibition era to be 267 individuals with 789 criminal relationships among them. That grew during Prohibition to 937 individuals with 3,250 criminal relationships among them. Statistics from the time reveal the extent of this criminal uprising. During Prohibition, the crime rate in the United States increased by 24%, including a 13% increase in assault and battery, a 12.7% increase in homicide rates, and a 9% increase in burglaries and theft. Perhaps the most potent symbol of this ill-gotten wealth was Chicago Mob boss, Al Capone. His bootlegging operations reportedly yielded profits surpassing $60 million annually, making him one of the richest men in the nation, albeit on the wrong side of the law. Such crime syndicates offered everything from smuggling and production to distribution of illicit alcohol. They financed elaborate operations involving distilleries anchored offshore in international waters and smuggling booze along intricate routes on land and sea, dubbed ‘Rum Row‘ and ‘Whiskey Way‘. Beyond bootlegging, these criminal enterprises diversified into a host of related activities. This era witnessed an upsurge in gambling dens, brothels, and other forms of illicit entertainment, controlled and protected by the same crime families running the alcohol supply networks. Federal efforts to combat this crime wave often proved ineffectual. Gripped by rampant corruption, enforcement agencies struggled with organized crime operations’ sheer scale and sophistication. In the grand socio-political experiment that was Prohibition, the unintended legacy was a burgeoning criminal underworld, the effects of which resonate throughout American history to this day. Infamous Criminal Activities during Prohibition Bootlegging and smuggling operations: Organized crime syndicates capitalized on the public demand for alcohol, turning to illegal manufacturing, importing, and distributing alcohol from hidden breweries and distilleries or smuggling it in from outside the United States. Secret speakeasy bars: These clandestine, underground establishments served illegal alcohol and provided venues for socializing and entertainment away from the prying eyes of the authorities. Concealed behind secret doors or inconspicuous facades, these speakeasies flourished in cities across the country. The number of speakeasies in New York City alone reached an estimated 20,000–100,000. Bloody gang wars: As rival gangs fought for control over lucrative territories and illegal alcohol operations, violence often ensued. Notable incidents include the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre that saw the murder of seven North Side Gang members, fueling further gang-related turbulence. Kidnapping and extortion cases: Organized crime groups saw opportunities to profit from the economic duress facing those involved in the illegal alcohol trade. Kidnapping prospered as a means to extort ransom money, while business owners faced threats of violence if they didn’t pay protection fees to local crime gangs. Notorious Crimes and Criminals Al Capone and the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Image Source Al Capone, also known as “Scarface,” was the infamous boss of the Chicago Outfit during the Prohibition era. His criminal activities generated millions in unlawful profits, primarily from bootlegging and gambling. Capone is perhaps best remembered for the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre in 1929, where seven members of Chicago’s North Side Gang were gunned down on Capone’s orders, although he was never convicted for it. Bugs Moran and North Side Gang Image Source George “Bugs” Moran was Capone’s archrival and the leader of the North Side Gang, which also indulged in bootlegging, gambling, and various illegal activities. The tension between Moran’s gang and […]

Hate Crime Investigation Underway at Thompson’s Corner Saloon in Fairfield

Authorities are currently investigating a hate crime that occurred at Thompson’s Corner Saloon in unincorporated Fairfield, Solano County. The incident involved vandalism, with swastikas and racial slurs found on the walls of the establishment. The Solano County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) shared details of the incident on their Facebook page, stating that surveillance video obtained by their office shows a person of interest connected to the hate crime. The incident took place on the morning of August 8. Thompson’s Corner Saloon, located at 2147 Cordelia Road near Highway 680, was targeted in this act of racism. The SCSO expressed their deep concern and stated that the crime offends the entire community. They are collaborating with the Fairfield Police Department and community partners to solve this heinous act. The SCSO is seeking assistance from the public in identifying the person of interest. Anyone with information is urged to contact the SCSO’s Investigations Bureau at 707-784-7061.

Inside Wild Crime Season 3: Investigating the National Forest Serial Killings

Wild Crime is a captivating true-crime series from ABC News, highlighting the complexities of investigating crimes that take place in America’s wilderness. A gripping addition to the true crime genre, the docu-series has been enthusiastically received by viewers and critics alike for its in-depth investigations and compelling narratives. The popular show is now returning for a highly-anticipated third season titled Wild Crime: Blood Mountain and it revolves around the case of Meredith Emerson, an experienced hiker who mysteriously vanished on Blood Mountain in Georgia. As investigators unravel her case, they soon identify Gary Hilton as a person of interest. Before long, authorities came to believe Hilton was involved in multiple other disappearances. The current season of Wild Crime promises a compelling exploration of the Emerson case, tracing the trajectory of the investigation and Hilton’s suspected crimes. But, if while you’re watching, you’re looking to learn more – CrimeDoor has compiled all the relevant case details for you right here. Meredith Emerson Case Image Source Meredith’s Background A University of Georgia graduate, Meredith Emerson had an immense love for the outdoors, often choosing to hit the trails with her black Labrador retriever, Ella. The National Forests were her go-to spots, offering solace and a chance to rejuvenate in the arms of nature. Emerson was an avid hiker and was well-equipped for these trails, making it all the more perplexing when she went missing on New Year’s Day in 2008. Details Surrounding Meredith’s Disappearance Emerson set out with Ella for a solo hike on the Appalachian Trail within the Chattahoochee National Forest on January 1, 2008. Fellow hikers later reported seeing her engaged in conversation with a man fitting Hilton’s description, accompanied by his dog. After she didn’t return home, her desperate friends initiated a search that soon ballooned into a full-scale investigation. Investigation Insights The authorities led a comprehensive search. They initially found Emerson’s water bottle and sunglasses, followed by her dog Ella, who was found roaming free in a grocery store parking lot 60 miles from the hiking trail. Later, a bloody fleece top and Emerson’s baton – she was an experienced martial artist – were discovered. Hilton’s van was captured in a security camera footage at a local bank, withdrawing money using Emerson’s ATM card. Compiling this data, the authorities identified key patterns, pieced together the harrowing timeline of events, and zeroed in on Hilton as the prime suspect. Hilton had slipped up when he attempted to clean his van, discarding crucial evidence in a dumpster that was subsequently traced back to him. Hilton’s Arrest & Meredith’s Case Resolution Hilton was arrested on January 4, 2008, and under rigorous interrogation, he confessed to Emerson’s murder. He agreed to lead authorities to her body, concealed in a remote area of the forest, in exchange for taking the death penalty off the table. Although this was a tragic ending, Hilton’s arrest and conviction brought a measure of closure to an agonizing period. The apprehension of Hilton also opened the path to connecting him to similar crimes, painting a chilling picture of a serial killer whose hunting ground was the unsuspecting tranquility of National Forests. Meredith Emerson’s tragedy was a painful wake-up call that initiated a dialogue about safety in outdoor pursuits, and her legacy continues to impact changes in hiking communities across the country. Cheryl Dunlap Case Image Source Cheryl’s Background Cheryl Hodges Dunlap was a beloved nurse and Sunday school teacher at a local Baptist church in Tallahassee, Florida. Known for her generous spirit and devout faith, Cheryl, like Meredith Emerson, had a love for nature. The tranquil environment of the National Forest served as a sanctuary for her, providing comfort and peace from everyday life. Circumstances of Cheryl’s Disappearance Cheryl went on a trip to the Apalachicola National Forest in December 2007, a journey she undertook regularly. However, the seemingly routine trip took a horrifying turn when she suddenly went missing. Friends and family were alarmed when she didn’t show for church services, and they immediately contacted the authorities. Details of the Investigation In the early stages, the investigative team found Cheryl’s car by the roadside just outside the National Forest, intensifying worries about her safety. The search in the dense forest was exhaustive, and investigators were initially unable to identify any concrete leads. Shortly thereafter, security footage from a local bank captured a masked individual attempting to use Cheryl’s ATM card. This became the critical piece of evidence that led law enforcement to uncover Cheryl’s horrifying fate. This footage proved instrumental in the investigative process, facilitating the identification of Hilton as the suspect based on his method of operation. Hilton’s Confession & Cheryl’s Case Resolution Gary Hilton was arrested in January 2008 for the murder of Meredith Emerson. Following that arrest, investigators connected him to Cheryl Dunlap’s case. Under questioning, Hilton confessed to Emerson’s murder.A grand jury indicted Hilton in Florida for her murder later that year. Cheryl’s lifeless body was later discovered by law enforcement in the Apalachicola National Forest. Cheryl Dunlap’s tragic fate served as a stark reminder of the lurking dangers even in places of peace and serenity. Her murder shook her community to the core but also reinforced their commitment to unity and resilience in the face of such an atrocity. John And Irene Bryant Case Image Source Background of the Bryants John and Irene Bryant, hailing from Tecumseh, Michigan, were living their golden years in full bloom. This elderly couple was famous in their circle for their zest for life and love for the great outdoors. Nature enthusiasts and devoted hikers, their retirement was marked by frequent trips exploring America’s beautiful landscapes. Their most poignant expedition was their trip to the Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina in October 2007 – a trip that should have been a joyous encounter with the natural world they loved. The Couple’s Disappearance The Bryant’s immersive journey into the embrace of the wilderness turned horrific as they crossed paths with Gary Hilton. After the Bryants failed to check in with their family, a standard practice during their trips, […]

Vandalism at Historic Salt Lake City Church Investigated as Possible Hate Crime

Salt Lake City police are currently probing an act of vandalism that occurred at the revered Trinity African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, with investigators considering the incident a possible hate crime. Members of the church were left dismayed on Sunday afternoon after discovering that a sign displaying future renovation plans had been maliciously torn down, causing significant damage. Responding to the distress call, officers from the Salt Lake City Police Department arrived at the scene located at 239 E 600 S. A disconcerting message, scrawled in black Sharpie on the sidewalk in front of the church, awaited them. The derogatory message brazenly stated, “Stay off my block, you are not welcome, no cheats and liars here, f*** you.” Investigations have revealed that the abhorrent message was written the previous week but had not been reported until now. Meanwhile, the act of vandalizing the sign was a fresh incident. Police are treating the destruction of the sign as a potential hate crime, although specific details supporting this classification have not been disclosed. Notably, the AME Church holds historical significance as Utah’s first black congregation, as recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding a potential suspect to contact the Salt Lake City Police Department at (801)-799-3000. The Trinity African Methodist Episcopal Church, a bastion of faith and community, has long served its congregation and played a vital role in shaping the course of Salt Lake City’s history. This troubling act of vandalism stands as an affront to the values of inclusivity, respect, and unity that the church upholds. As the investigation unfolds, church members and community leaders are rallying together, determined not to let hate divide them. Together, they stand firm in their commitment to eradicating prejudice, fostering understanding, and promoting harmony. In a city that prides itself on diversity and acceptance, the desecration of this iconic church serves as a stark reminder that there is still work to be done. Salt Lake City refuses to allow acts of intolerance to overshadow its spirit of progress and compassion. Let us come together, Salt Lake City, to condemn hate and embrace love, ensuring that the reverberations from this incident only solidify our resolve to create a more inclusive and harmonious community.

From Tweets to Leads: How Police Use Social Media to Solve Crimes

Nowadays, it’s a shock to find someone who isn’t on any form of social media. Social media now seems woven into our lives and our society. As a result, social media is now also woven into our justice system. Social media has become an invaluable tool for law enforcement agencies in solving criminal cases. A 2016 survey from the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Urban Institute of 539 departments found that 70% used social media to gather intelligence, and 59% contacted a social media company to obtain information to use as evidence. Social media can help police detect potential crimes, gather evidence, capture details of suspect behavior, and even predict future offenses. But as this practice further entrenches itself in crime-fighting protocols, it raises a plethora of questions surrounding legalities and privacy. The Role of Social Media in Modern Crime Investigations Image Source Harnessing these digital breadcrumbs has been hugely beneficial in law enforcement efforts, enabling officers to shed light in previously obscure areas of investigations. Encompassing a broad spectrum of platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, social media has proven to be a treasure trove of information aiding crime investigations. Law enforcement agencies regularly resort to these platforms to source evidence, spotlight suspects, and oversee their activities. Everything, from posts and photos to videos, can potentially serve as pivotal leads aiding in the construction of event timelines and investigative trails. Leveraging Social Media in Crime Investigations: A Specific Breakdown Social media has transformed into a crucial tool for authorities in criminal investigations. Here are specific ways law enforcement agencies leverage these platforms: 1. Identification and Verification of Information: Authorities use social media to identify potential suspects or victims through posts, pictures, and connections. Law enforcement can verify information provided to them by cross-checking it with a suspect’s or a victim’s social media activity. 2. Data Analysis: Investigators analyze large data sets for patterns that match criminal behavior. Predictive analytics tools assist in identifying potential future incidents by examining trends and patterns on these platforms. 3. Communication with the Public: Agencies use social media channels to communicate important alerts or updates related to ongoing investigations. These platforms also allow the public to provide tips or report suspicious activity. 4. Gathering Indirect Evidence: A timeline of a suspect’s or victim’s activities can be constructed based on their social media posts, which can be used as indirect evidence. Any incriminating posts can be collected as potential evidence. 5. Mapping Criminal Networks: By examining connections on platforms like Facebook or Twitter, authorities can map out criminal networks, helping expose large-scale criminal activities. Social-media can reveal links amongst individuals that are not visible in the offline world, shedding light on the entire breadth of criminal operations. 6. Online Surveillance: With a warrant, law enforcement can monitor a suspect’s online activity in real-time, potentially preventing future crimes. Trends or buzzwords can be monitored to track potential unlawful activities in the digital sphere. Case Spotlight: Crimes Solved with Use of Social Media in Investigations Image Source Social media has proved a powerful tool. It has led to a 30% increase in the identification and arrest of suspects and has been instrumental in solving over 50% of missing person cases. Let’s look at 4 different true crimes where social media played an integral role in the investigation: The Gabby Petito Case – The tragic case of Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old travel blogger, captivated global attention due to its significant digital footprint. Gabby and her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, had been documenting their cross-country trip on Instagram and YouTube. After Gabby’s sudden disappearance, social media became a critical evidence pool, with public involvement instrumental in deciphering timelines and locating clues. A fellow travel blogger’s YouTube video showed Gabby’s van in the area where her remains were later found, demonstrating how social media turned every user into a potential detective in this high-profile case. Pittsburgh Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting – One of the darkest incidents of anti-Semitism in American history, the Pittsburgh Tree of Life Synagogue shooting was a clear case where social media played a significant role. Before the perpetrator opened fire, killing 11 people and wounding six others in 2018, he shared virulent anti-Semitic sentiments on Gab, a ‘free speech’ social media network known for its far-right user base. The information shared on this platform became crucial evidence in piecing together the murderer’s motive and establishing his guilt. The Case of Skylar Neese – In 2012, 16-year-old Skylar Neese disappeared from her home in Star City, West Virginia. While the police initially treated this as a case of a runaway teenager, posts on social media platforms by her so-called ‘friends’ raised alarm. Both girls were sharing disturbing and guilty-tinged tweets, which caught the attention of investigators. After rigorous questioning leveraged by these posts, the girls confessed to the premeditated killing. The social media posts had been a silent cry of their guilt and held the key to solving Neese’s horrifying murder. The Arrest of ‘Ross from Friends’ Look-Alike – Social media isn’t just useful for serious and violent crimes; it also aids in identifying less sinister criminals. In 2018, a British thief bearing an uncanny resemblance to David Schwimmer, the actor who portrayed Ross Geller in the popular sitcom ‘Friends’, was caught on CCTV, stealing from a restaurant. After the local police shared the CCTV image on Facebook, the post went viral due to the suspect’s celebrity doppelgänger. As humor boosted the post’s reach, the power of social media shone through when an anonymous tip-off ultimately led to the thief’s arrest. Each case speaks volumes about the undeniable power of social media in modern crime investigations, whether to probe a terrorist’s dark intentions or unmask a thief hiding in plain sight. Predictive Policing: The Shift Towards Proactive Law Enforcement with Social Media Image Source Social media’s role in crime-solving does not simply end with post-crime investigations. While approximately 75% of criminals use social media to plan and execute their crimes, police are using social media to prevent crime from occurring in the first place. It’s called predictive policing, […]

Bugs as Silent Witnesses: The Role of Insects in Crime-Solving

The unlikeliest of detectives are crawling under our very feet. As it turns out, insects play no small role in solving crimes. While many people are familiar with DNA analysis, fingerprinting, and ballistics as key components of forensic investigations, another fascinating field that plays a significant role in crime-solving is forensic entomology. This branch of science is the study of insects and the deceased, offering valuable insights into the timeline and circumstances surrounding a person’s death. Forensic entomologists deal with various cases, from murders and homicides to accidental deaths and suicides. They may be called in to help identify the cause of death when the victim’s body is in an advanced state of decomposition. The profession of forensic entomology is often misunderstood, with many people imagining it as a field where scientists study bugs for the sake of science. However, forensic entomologists work closely with law enforcement agencies and lawyers, using their knowledge of insects to assist in legal cases. They are often called upon to determine the time of death of a victim by studying the insects found on or near the body. This information can be crucial in solving crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice. A Brief History of Entomological Forensics The roots of entomological forensics can be traced back to ancient times when the observation of insects on decomposing bodies was recognized as a means of gathering information about crimes. The Chinese in the 13th century and the Romans in the 2nd century BCE were known to take note of fly activity around corpses. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that the field of forensic entomology began to take shape. One of the pioneering figures in entomological forensics was Jean Pierre Mégnin, a French scientist who conducted extensive research on the insect species associated with human decomposition. His groundbreaking work in the late 19th century laid the foundation for future advancements in the field. Mégnin’s studies led to establishing key principles, such as the predictable succession of insects on a corpse and using insect evidence to estimate the postmortem interval. In 1855, Dr. Bergeret d’Arbois conducted a pioneering criminal investigation in Paris, France, which involved the use of forensic entomology. The discovery of a baby’s body hidden behind a fireplace mantle in a house prompted Dr. d’Arbois to examine the insect infestation on the remains. Through careful analysis, Dr. d’Arbois determined that the baby had been deceased for several years. This revelation shifted the focus of guilt from the current occupants of the house to the previous ones. Since then, the field has continued to evolve with advancements in scientific techniques and technology. Today, forensic entomology is widely recognized as a specialized branch of forensic science, and entomological evidence is routinely used to provide valuable insights into crime scenes, aiding law enforcement agencies and legal professionals in their quest for truth and justice. The Processes and Techniques of Forensic Entomology Crime Scene Collection and Assessment Forensic entomologists carefully collect and examine insect evidence found at crime scenes. They pay attention to details like temperature, humidity, and sunlight, as these affect insect behavior. They observe and document the types of insects and their life stages found near the body. Special tools like small containers and tweezers are used to collect and preserve the insects for further analysis. Insect Identification and Preservation In the laboratory, entomologists use microscopes and reference materials to identify the collected insects based on their physical features. By studying their shape, color, and other characteristics, they can determine the species of insects found at the crime scene. Properly preserving the specimens ensures their integrity for future analysis and potential use as evidence in court. Estimating the Time Since Death Forensic entomologists estimate how long it has been since a person died by studying the insects found on or near the dead body. They consider factors like the types of insects present, the temperature, and the weather conditions. By understanding the life cycle and growth rates of these insects, they can make an educated guess about when the person passed away. Examining Insects for DNA Sometimes, entomologists can extract DNA from insects found at crime scenes. This DNA can be used to identify people involved in the crime. For example, if an insect contains blood from a suspect, the DNA in that blood can be compared to the suspect’s DNA to see if they were at the scene. By following these methods and techniques, forensic entomologists can uncover important information about a crime. Their work helps investigators understand the role insects play in forensic investigations and contributes to solving mysteries. Blowflies: The First Crime Scene Visitors One of the most important groups of insects studied by forensic entomologists is blow flies, which are often the first insects to colonize a decomposing body. These flies are beneficial in estimating the time since death, as their development and behavior are well understood. Blow flies lay eggs on a decomposing body, and their larvae (maggots) feed on the decaying tissue. By studying the age and development of the larvae, forensic entomologists can estimate the time since the eggs were laid, which in turn can provide an estimate of the time of death. Fascinated? Watch entomologists study how bugs affect the decomposition of human remains in this video from National Geographic (viewer discretion is advised). From Beetles to Bees – Other Important Insects in Forensic Entomology In addition to blowflies, other insects play crucial roles in crime investigations. Beetles, such as dermestid and carrion beetles, provide insights into later stages of decomposition, while certain wasp species indicate burial or concealment of remains. Ants can help determine the duration of decomposition, and mites offer valuable information in cases involving long-term decomposition or buried remains. By studying the characteristics, behavior, and life cycles of these insects, forensic entomologists contribute to understanding the timing, location, and circumstances of a crime, enhancing the accuracy of criminal investigations. Crimes Where Insects Were Crucial Evidence Likely the most well-known […]

Oakland’s Crime Rate Surges Amidst Pandemic, Contrasting San Francisco and San Jose

Oakland, a city known for its consistently high crime rate compared to other major cities in the Bay Area, has experienced a surge in crime since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This surge stands in stark contrast to the leveling off of crime rates in San Francisco and San Jose, as revealed by an analysis of California Department of Justice data. The data highlights a concerning trend in crime across the region, prompting statewide support for a November ballot measure aimed at toughening penalties for repeat theft and drug offenses. Examining two decades’ worth of crime data from the state justice department, it becomes evident that Oakland’s reported crime rate per 100,000 people has consistently exceeded that of San Francisco and San Jose. While the overall crime rates, including property crimes, have decreased over the past 20 years, violent crimes have shown an upward trend. The reasons behind Oakland’s divergent crime rate, particularly in recent years, remain unclear. In 2023, Oakland witnessed a staggering increase in car thefts, reaching the highest number in over two decades. The rate of car thefts rose by 114.5 percent from 2022 to 2023, equating to approximately one stolen car for every 27 residents. This divergence in crime rates has had repercussions on the city’s leadership. Mayor Sheng Thao, facing a recall vote in November, and Alameda County’s District Attorney Pamela Price are both under scrutiny. In San Francisco, Mayor London Breed is battling competitive challengers in her bid for re-election, further complicated by a high-profile shooting incident involving a 49ers football player during a daytime robbery in the city’s Union Square shopping district over the Labor Day weekend. In contrast, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan secured an easy re-election in March. The Oakland mayor’s office and police department declined to comment on the recent surge in crime. However, Sgt. Huy Nguyen, president of the Oakland Police Officers’ Association union, attributed the increase to a lack of leadership within the city and the police department. Nguyen pointed to staffing shortages and policies that fail to hold criminals accountable, such as not pursuing stolen vehicles, as contributing factors. It is worth noting that the Oakland Police Department has been under federal court monitoring since 2003 due to civil rights lawsuits against the notorious “Riders” team, resulting in a $10 million settlement. While the blame for Oakland’s crime rate is shared among various entities, an April report by the city auditor highlighted the mayor’s potential role in securing a state retail theft prevention grant. San Francisco, on the other hand, successfully obtained such a grant, allocating $15.3 million to address property crimes that have long plagued the city. San Francisco Police Department’s director of strategic communications, Evan Sernoffsky, emphasized the city’s aggressive approach to reducing property crime, which has yielded positive results. Sernoffsky acknowledged that auto burglaries, often committed by tourists leaving luggage in their vehicles, remain a challenge. In San Jose, the overall crime rate in 2023 is lower than it was 20 years ago when the city was hailed as America’s Safest Big City by a private statistics publisher. This decline is primarily attributed to a decrease in property crimes, although the violent crime rate has increased compared to two decades ago, albeit still lower than San Francisco’s and significantly lower than Oakland’s. San Jose Police Department also received a state retail theft reduction grant amounting to $8.5 million. Mayor Mahan has actively supported the November ballot measure, Proposition 36, aimed at strengthening penalties for repeat property crime and drug offenders. Critics of the initiative argue that declining crime statistics suggest such measures are unnecessary and may lead to an increase in the prison population. Experts offer differing perspectives on the rise in crime rates since 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic, which limited people’s presence on the streets, made criminals more conspicuous and easier to apprehend. Additionally, the nationwide outrage following the police killing of George Floyd in Minnesota in 2020 led to a reluctance among officers to make arrests for minor offenses. However, these factors alone do not explain the significant disparities in crime rates between Oakland, San Francisco, and San Jose.

Search results for: crime