- Fifty-Two Years
In 1974, a teenage girl vanished into the night, leaving behind a family desperate for answers and a community searching for the truth. Her body would be discovered days later, but the identity of her killer would remain a mystery for more than five decades. Now, advances in forensic science have finally exposed the infamous monster hiding behind a decades-old secret. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Melissa Ann Smith. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Utah teen Melissa Ann Smith killed in 1974 identified as Ted Bundy victim
https://anotherbundyblog.com/2026/05/11/melissa-anne-smith/
Utah cold case closed 52 years later after DNA links Ted Bundy to crime
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E43 - 10m - Nov 10, 2026 - The Invitation
A normal day at home turns into a terrifying fight for survival when a stranger forces his way into a young mother's home, with her children only feet away. But this wasn't a random attack, and the most chilling revelation comes when the intruder claims someone very close to her put the plan in motion. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the attack on Bella Torres. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
https://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/nation-world/national/article317842763.html
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E42 - 10m - Nov 3, 2026 - The Ypsilanti Ripper Pt. 2
A potential suspect finally emerges, but finding him is only the beginning as investigators race to connect the clues, piece together the timelines, and turn scattered evidence into a case that can stand in court. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the conclusion of the Ypsilanti Ripper case: John Norman Collins. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Michigan Murders: 50 years ago, terror reigned in Ypsilanti | FOX 2 Detroit
Hidden In Plain Sight: Terror In Ypsilanti | WEMU-FM
Police Seek Aid in EMU Coed Hunt | Ann Arbor District Library
Murder Suspect Drawing Released | Ann Arbor District Library
City Police Hope Probe Will Clear Up 4 Slayings | Ann Arbor District Library
Weary Detectives Stare At Doll Found On Fence | Ann Arbor District Library
7. The Co-ed Murders | Ann Arbor District Library
Crime: The Rainy Day Murders - TIME
Michigan Murders: 50 years ago, terror in Ypsilanti ends | FOX 2 Detroit
Photos, evidence in Michigan murders case against John Norman Collins
Loretta Collins Outside Trial of her Son, John Norman Collins | Ann Arbor District Library
John Norman Collins: Michigan murder suspect's letters, interviews
MICHIGAN BEGINS COED KILLING CASE - The New York Times
Collins Found Guilty | Ann Arbor District Library
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E41 - 20m - Oct 27, 2026 - The Ypsilanti Ripper Pt. 1
Two college towns. Seven young women. And a killer hiding in plain sight. Between 1967 and 1969, a wave of brutal murders shattered the sense of safety across a once-quiet community, leaving young women afraid to walk alone and investigators racing to stop the bloodshed. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the victims of the Ypsilanti Ripper, John Norman Collins. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Michigan Murders: 50 years ago, terror reigned in Ypsilanti | FOX 2 Detroit
Hidden In Plain Sight: Terror In Ypsilanti | WEMU-FM
Police Seek Aid in EMU Coed Hunt | Ann Arbor District Library
Murder Suspect Drawing Released | Ann Arbor District Library
City Police Hope Probe Will Clear Up 4 Slayings | Ann Arbor District Library
Weary Detectives Stare At Doll Found On Fence | Ann Arbor District Library
7. The Co-ed Murders | Ann Arbor District Library
Crime: The Rainy Day Murders - TIME
Michigan Murders: 50 years ago, terror in Ypsilanti ends | FOX 2 Detroit
Photos, evidence in Michigan murders case against John Norman Collins
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E40 - 19m - Oct 20, 2026 - The Murder of Ashley Flynn
A frantic 911 call reports a deadly home invasion, and a young mother is gone—leaving two daughters without their mom and a community searching for answers. But as investigators dig deeper, the story of a masked intruder begins to unravel. And the truth becomes far more sinister than anyone imagined. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Ashley Flynn. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Who Was Ashley Flynn? The Teacher, Coach, and Mother at the Center of the Caleb Flynn Murder Case
Caleb Flynn's Daughter Condemns Him for Killing Wife to Be with 'Girl Who Was Half Your Age'
Caleb Flynn Trial Day 1: 911 Call + Caleb's Original Story
Caleb Flynn: Road To Hollywood Interviews - AMERICAN IDOL SEASON 12
Caleb Flynn - Richard D Smith & Sons Inc | LinkedIn
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E39 - 17m - Oct 13, 2026 - Remembering Colleen
A teenage romance, a secluded stretch of woods, and a murder so brutal it shocked an entire community. More than three decades later, the woman convicted of the killing found herself at the center of another disturbing chapter when Tennessee attempted to carry out her death sentence—and the execution went terribly wrong. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Colleen Slemmer. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
How Christa Pike Became The Youngest Woman Sentenced To Death In US History
Christa's Story | Mercy for Christa
Where is Tadaryl Shipp now? What to know about Christa Pike's co-defendant | abc10.com
What Happened to Christa Pike’s Friend, Shadolla Peterson, After Being an Accessory to Murder?
Colleen Slemmer Was a Vibrant and Generous Presence, Her Mother Says
The “Satanic Panic” Made Her a True-Crime Obsession. The Truth Is More Haunting.
What Christa Pike did to land on death row
Tadaryl Shipp denied parole after murder in Knoxville, TN
Christa Pike, Child Rape Victim, Faces Execution for Crime She Committed as a Teenager
Tennessee death row inmate Christa Pike receiving medical care after failed execution
https://fox17.com/news/local/why-is-christa-pike-still-on-life-support-despite-her-death-sentence
Remembering Colleen Slemmer, the teenager killed by Christa Pike
https://deathpenaltyinfo.org/policy-issues/policy/costs
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E38 - 23m - Oct 6, 2026 - What Happened to Morgan Pt. 2
When the body of a 19-year-old is discovered at a Georgia home, her killers are arrested quickly. Forced to face their crimes, they reveal secrets that were buried for years. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss part two of the disappearance of Morgan Aryn Bauer. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Seven Years of Silence: The Disappearance and Murder of Morgan Bauer | by Crime Desk | Medium
Thousands Searching for Teen Morgan Bauer Who Disappeared After Moving to Atlanta
Morgan Bauer case: Katelyn Goble found guilty in 2016 killing | FOX 5 Atlanta
Vigil honors Morgan Bauer, whose remains were found 7 years after disappearing
Morgan Bauer case: Katelyn Goble found guilty in 2016 killing | FOX 5 Atlanta
Defense dismisses defendant’s ‘obsession’ with death and murder as ‘cosplay’ | Court TV
‘I think we got away with it’: Accused killer’s ex recounts disturbing conversation | Court TV
Morgan Bauer's Family and Best Friend Face Katelyn Goble With Every Victim Impact Statement
Goble sentenced to life without parole | News | covnews.com
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E37 - 17m - Sep 29, 2026 - What Happened to Morgan Pt. 1
A 19-year-old moves to Atlanta looking for a fresh start. But just weeks later, she suddenly disappears without a trace. Leaving nothing but a trail of unanswered questions and a family searching for answers. What happened after she walked into the night—and why did it take so long to uncover what really happened? Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the disappearance of Morgan Aryn Bauer. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Seven Years of Silence: The Disappearance and Murder of Morgan Bauer | by Crime Desk | Medium
Thousands Searching for Teen Morgan Bauer Who Disappeared After Moving to Atlanta
Morgan Bauer case: Katelyn Goble found guilty in 2016 killing | FOX 5 Atlanta
Vigil honors Morgan Bauer, whose remains were found 7 years after disappearing
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E36 - 17m - Sep 22, 2026 - The Texas Body Snatcher
A killer was hunting women across Texas, leaving behind a trail of murders that investigators believed had nothing to do with one another. With each case going cold, the killer remained free—until years later, a single piece of discarded evidence would finally begin to connect the dots. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the brutal crimes of Faryion Waldrip. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Toni Jean Gibbs (1961-1985) - Find a Grave Memorial
Deep Dive: Faryion Edward Wardrip
https://www.txcourts.gov/All_Archived_Documents/ccaInformation/opinions/73671.htm
Wichita Falls serial killer denied federal relief
Forensic Files - Season 7, EP 19 - Sip of Sins
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E35 - 22m - Sep 15, 2026 - The Man in the Video
An 11-year-old girl takes a shortcut home, unaware that a stranger is about to change everything. When a surveillance camera captures her being led away, the footage launches a desperate search—and eventually becomes the key to uncovering a horrifying truth. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the abduction and murder of Carlie Brucia. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
SMITH v. STATE (2009) | FindLaw
20 years since the Carlie Brucia abduction in Sarasota
The Kidnapping Of Carlie Brucia: What Happened To The Florida 11-Year-Old? | Oxygen
Rose Brucia Educational Foundation
Carlie's Mom: I Want Him Dead - CBS News
Tragic Murder of 11-Year-Old Carlie Brucia | Murdered at First Sight
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E34 - 22m - Sep 1, 2026 - The Long Way Home
An 18-year-old college student heads out for a jog she has done a million times before. But when her dog returns home without her, a frantic search begins—and ends with a discovery that leaves a small Washington community haunted for decades. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Mandy Stavik. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
In 1989, 18-Year-Old Mandy Stavik was Raped and Murdered over Thanksgiving Weekend
'I 100% volunteered to do it': How bakery worker got DNA to crack 30-year-old murder case - ABC News
The Murder of Mandy Stavik | Murdered at First Sight
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E33 - 23m - Aug 25, 2026 - The Last Walk Home
A routine walk home from school turns deadly when a stranger with a rifle suddenly ambushes two teenage friends. One girl survives, but the other is killed—and investigators soon uncover a disturbing obsession, a chilling confession, and a plan that had been set in motion long before the gunfire began. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Lauren Landavazo. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
The Shocking Murder of 13-Year-Old Lauren Landavazo | Murdered at First Sight
Top Story 2018: Kody Lott Trial
His obsession turned a walk home into tragedy
Suspect Who Allegedly Said Devil Told Him To Shoot Two 13-Year-Old-Girls Heads To Trial | Oxygen
Kody Lott sentenced to life plus 20 years for 2016 deadly shooting
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E32 - 22m - Aug 18, 2026 - The Minnesota Mother
A mother is found brutally murdered inside her Minnesota home, and the investigation quickly turns toward the person who was closest to her. A bitter argument, a hammer, and a trail of unsettling clues reveal a family tragedy that leaves investigators questioning what really happened behind closed doors. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Georgina Lee Monk. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Maplewood girl, 17, charged with killing her mother with a hammer
Minn. Teen Allegedly Killed Mom After She Took Away Her Phone: Neighbor
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E31 - 16m - Aug 11, 2026 - Grandmother's House
A 74-year-old woman opened her home to family, never imagining the greatest danger was already inside. After the beloved Kentucky grandmother is beaten to death, investigators uncover a case marked by unimaginable violence and a shocking piece of evidence that would become central to the prosecution. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Cheri Kaye Oliver. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Cheri Kaye Oliver Obituary Oct 8, 2024 - Swindler & Currin Funeral Homes
Erlanger man who beat his grandmother to death sentenced to life in prison
911 caller claims 18-year-old accused of killing grandmother with tumbler was ‘out of control’
19-year-old Northern Kentucky man sentenced for 'barbaric' murder of grandmother
Northern Kentucky man admits to killing his grandmother, was abusing acid at the time
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E30 - 13m - Jul 28, 2026 - Predator In The Park
A family outing at a Portland park turns into every parent's worst nightmare when a stranger allegedly tries to pull a 7-year-old girl away in broad daylight. It takes the child's parents—and courageous bystanders—to stop the attack before police arrive. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss a breaking story in Oregon. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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Audible: Enjoy 30 Days for Free
This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
'I am God!' Would be naked kidnapper blames manic episode and lack of sleep for actions
Naked man allegedly tried to kidnap 7-year-old girl from Oregon park
Man Arrested for Attempted Kidnapping of 7-year-old Girl in Waterfront Park | Portland.gov
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E29 - 11m - Jul 21, 2026 - My Wife, The Devil
When a woman is murdered inside her home, a quiet Tennessee community is left searching for answers. As investigators piece together what happened behind closed doors, the victim's husband is arrested and charged with criminal homicide. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Allison Rawl. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E28 - 14m - Jul 14, 2026 - The Last One Inside
When the 20-year-old college student is found murdered inside her own apartment, investigators must determine whether the killer was someone she knew... or someone who already had a way inside. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Jenna Verhaalen. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Jenna Verhaalen Archives - Forensic Files Now
Jenna Verhaalen Murder: Where is Jeremiah Rosser Now?
Jenna Verhaalen Obituary (2008) - Austin, TX - Austin American-Statesman
Forensic Files - S14 E13 - Low Maintenace
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E27 - 23m - Jun 30, 2026 - The House Fire Lie
When a house fire erupts in rural Washington, an 11-year-old boy is reported missing, and a desperate search begins. But as investigators sift through the ashes, they uncover a far more sinister truth—one that points to betrayal from the person who should have protected him most. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Christopher Wood. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
A Cereal Killer – Forensic Tales
Murder Suspect Wood Kills Himself Father Was Accused Of Murdering 11-Year-Old Son
Wood Left No Confession, Detectives Say
Forensic Files - Season 10, Episode 12 - Cereal Killer
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E26 - 24m - Jun 23, 2026 - Short Order Murder
When a respected Colorado businessman is found brutally murdered in his own home, investigators uncover a twisted plot of greed, deception, and an unlikely clue hidden in his final meal. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the murder of Gerald Boggs. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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Check the Locks Podcast is Supported By:
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This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
Crime of the Century: The Black Widow murder case | SteamboatToday.com
Jill Coit Archives - Forensic Files Now
Wigs, Stun Gun, Escape Plan: How An Ex-Wife Plotted The Murder Of Her 8th Husband | Oxygen
How a Victim’s Last Meal Can Identify a Killer
Planted Evidence | Alumni Association | University of Colorado Boulder
Crime of the Century: The Black Widow murder case | SteamboatToday.com
Forensic Files - Season 8, Episode 12 - Order Up
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E25 - 20m - Jun 16, 2026 - The Southside Killer
In 1987, women across Richmond were locking their doors, but a lurking predator always seemed to find a way inside. As fear gripped an entire community, investigators raced to stop a killer whose crimes would ultimately change forensic science forever. Join John Conner as he dives deep into the dark to discuss the Southside Strangler, Timothy Wilson Spencer. Will this case be enough to make you check the locks?
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Check the Locks Podcast is Supported By:
Audible: Enjoy 30 Days for Free
This episode of Check the Locks is dedicated, with love, to the memory of our friend Mathew Scott Halliday.
Sources:
David Vasquez - Innocence Project
How Was the Southside Strangler Caught? | A&E
Spencer v. Com. :: 1989 :: Supreme Court of Virginia Decisions
Spencer v. Com. :: 1990 :: Supreme Court of Virginia Decisions
Murderer Put to Death In Virginia - The New York Times
Forensic Files - Season 1, Episode 6 - Southside Strangler
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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyS2E24 - 24m - Jun 9, 2026
