Murder In The Black
Murder In The Black
Steph and M.D.
M.D. and STEPH are sisters who share a passion for true crime. ​They are committed to highlighting stories within the black community that often do not receive the attention they deserve. This has led them to create a platform where these stories can be shared on a weekly basis through their podcast. Drawing on her legal expertise, M.D. provides the legal context of each case, while Steph delves into the details concerning the victims and occasionally the perpetrators. By tuning in weekly, listeners can expect to learn about lesser-known crime cases and gain a deeper understanding of the cases
Keeshae Jacobs: The Silence Toni Knew Was Wrong
In this episode, we revisit the disappearance of Keeshae Jacobs, a 21-year-old woman from Richmond, Virginia, whose mother, Toni Jacobs, knew from the beginning that something was wrong.Keeshae’s case is not just about one missing person investigation. It is about family intuition, delayed urgency, forensic evidence, unanswered questions, and the pain of a mother forced to keep fighting through unimaginable grief. Toni searched for Keeshae while later having to bury her son, DaeVon, and even after a major break in the case, the justice her family deserved still feels incomplete.We walk through Keeshae’s life, the day she disappeared, the early police response, the evidence connected to Otis Tucker, his later conviction for the murder of Ashley Fowler in Florida, and the 2024 confession that brought answers without full accountability.This episode also looks at the larger issue of missing Black women and the families who are too often left to advocate, investigate, and demand urgency on their own.Key TopicsKeeshae Jacobs’ life, family, and close bond with her mother, ToniWhy Toni knew Keeshae’s silence was not normalThe early police response and misconceptions around missing adultsThe role of family intuition in missing person casesOtis Tucker’s changing timeline and history of violenceForensic evidence recovered from Tucker’s residenceThe emotional impact of DaeVon Jacobs’ murder on Toni and her familyHow misinformation, rumors, and scams affect missing familiesMedia disparities in coverage of missing Black womenTucker’s later murder conviction in Florida for Ashley Fowler’s deathThe 2024 confession, immunity agreement, and why charges were not filedThe difference between answers, closure, and justiceWhat Keeshae’s case reveals about urgency, accountability, and advocacy00:23 - Why Keeshae’s story is being revisited03:00 - Keeshae’s life, family, and bond with Toni08:12 - The night Keeshae was last seen11:21 - Toni’s search and the early police response14:40 - Keeshae’s last known location and Otis Tucker’s timeline17:31 - Forensic evidence and Tucker’s violent history19:54 - Delays, missed urgency, and systemic challenges22:11 - Foul play suspected and barriers to prosecution25:55 - DaeVon Jacobs’ death and Toni’s compounded grief28:38 - Rumors, media coverage, and advocacy for missing Black women29:57 - Tucker’s Florida conviction and Ashley Fowler’s murder30:56 - The immunity agreement and 2024 confession35:24 - Why charges were not filed36:24 - Toni’s fight, grief, and the meaning of justice38:21 - Reflection, listener takeaway, and closing CTAResources & LinksBlack and Missing FoundationNCIC Missing Persons StatisticsRichmond Police DepartmentCBS 6/WTVR reporting on Keeshae JacobsCoverage on Otis Tucker and Ashley Fowler’s caseClosing NoteKeeshae Jacobs was loved, known, and missed from the very beginning. Her story is a reminder to listen when families say something is wrong, to share missing person cases with care, and to keep pressure on the systems responsible for responding with urgency.
May 28
40 min
Natise Johnson and Oliver Wendell Munson: The Cost of Doing the Right Thing
A 21-year-old pregnant woman is murdered inside her father’s Philadelphia home just days before giving birth. A Maryland teacher disappears three days before he is set to testify in court. In this episode of Murder in the Black, we discuss the murder of Natise Johnson and the unsolved disappearance of Oliver Wendell Munson, two cases connected by haunting questions about loyalty, vulnerability, and what it can cost to do the right thing.Natise’s case is a devastating story of obsession, control, and retaliation. Oliver’s disappearance remains one of those deeply unsettling unsolved cases where the timing alone makes it impossible to ignore what may have happened.This episode contains discussions of murder, gun violence, abuse, witness vulnerability, and the death of an unborn child.
May 21
40 min
The House in Crescentville
In 2003, a Philadelphia neighborhood was shaken by the murders of Patricia, Nikki, and James inside their own home. What investigators found at the scene — an untouched slice of pizza, an extra Coke can, and victims covered after death — pointed toward something more personal and psychologically unsettling than a random act of violence.In this episode of Murder in the Black, Steph examines the investigation, the behavioral clues uncovered inside the home, and how the case ultimately shifted toward Sean Brown. The episode also explores the role of community observations, family persistence, and evolving forensic evidence in solving violent crimes.Later, Steph discusses ongoing updates in the cases of Vontisha “Sway” Williams and Celeste Hernandez, reflecting on how digital evidence and modern investigative techniques continue reshaping true crime investigations today.Topics CoveredThe murders of Patricia, Nikki, and JamesCrime scene behavioral analysisThe significance of the extra Coke can and covered victimsSean Brown’s arrest and confessionCommunity involvement and investigative breakthroughsPatterns of escalation and warning signs in violent offendersUpdates on Vontisha Williams and Celeste HernandezTimestamps(00:00) — The Philadelphia triple homicide(05:11) — The crime scene details investigators focused on(11:24) — Early theories and suspect developments(17:34) — Fingerprint evidence and Sean Brown(24:31) — Violence disrupting ordinary life(28:22) — Updates on Vontisha Williams and Celeste Hernandez(38:33) — Final reflections + What I Didn’t SeeResources & Further ReadingPhiladelphia homicide investigation archivesPublic court records related to Sean BrownCommunity memorial pages for Vontisha “Sway” WilliamsOngoing public updates surrounding the Celeste Hernandez investigationConnect With Murder in the BlackYouTube: Murder in the BlackTikTok & Instagram: @MurderintheBlackSubstack: Murder in the BlackEmail:[email protected]
May 14
41 min
What I Didn’t See, Episode 1: The Life I Thought I Had
Christina believed she understood exactly who she was and the kind of life she was building. But as wedding plans move forward, a quiet conversation and an unexpected new presence begin to disturb the certainty she has spent years protecting.In this first episode of What I Didn’t See, Christina introduces the world she thought was stable, the man she believed made sense of it, and the first subtle crack in the life she thought she wanted.What I Didn’t See is a psychological thriller about love, denial, self-deception, and the truths that begin circling us long before we are ready to name them.In this episode:Christina reflects on the life she thought she was buildingSamson appears as the kind of man who fits the future she has always imaginedJames enters the story as a quiet but unsettling new presenceA simple evening begins to expose the difference between safety and certaintyTo hear the next chapter, subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts for premium episodes, bonus material, and Christina’s private journal entries.Start now with 3-day free access.Episode 1 & 2 AVAILABLE NOW
May 10
9 min
A Lie Borrowed In Someone Else Name : Murder of Anna Mae Florence
In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking 1987 murder of Anna Mae Florence—a case that remained unsolved for decades before modern forensic technology finally uncovered the truth. What began as a brutal attack investigation evolved into a complex story involving unreliable witnesses, false identities, overlooked evidence, and the persistence of investigators who refused to let the case disappear.This case highlights how one piece of evidence—a bloody handprint—ultimately became the key to solving a murder 25 years later.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: a case where the truth remained buried for decades00:28 – The attack on Anna Mae Florence and the initial police response01:11 – Anna Mae’s life and background in Columbus, Ohio02:13 – The violent attack: 14 stab wounds and her final moments03:32 – Crime scene analysis and evidence of a struggle04:54 – Discovery of the blood-stained purse and bloody handprint05:45 – Fingerprint analysis limitations in 198706:32 – Witness descriptions and the original suspect sketch07:48 – Investigators explore theories of robbery and overkill08:58 – Reports of a frantic woman asking strangers for help09:54 – Early suspects, including a teenage girl and local residents11:25 – The tip involving Odell and emerging inconsistencies12:45 – Odell’s changing stories and sudden disappearance13:41 – Investigators examine Danita’s alibi and hospital records14:28 – Discrepancies in records and evidence of deception15:26 – The plan to use a wire in hopes of gathering more information16:17 – A major setback when fingerprint evidence fails to match the suspect17:42 – The case goes cold in 1988 while Anna Mae’s family continues searching for answers20:01 – The 2012 cold case revival and renewed forensic testing20:59 – Reinvestigating suspects through modern DNA and fingerprint analysis26:34 – The shocking identification of Zina Roberson29:34 – Zina’s arrest, background, and confession31:09 – Why the bloody handprint became the defining piece of evidence33:02 – Reflections on trust, vulnerability, and the exploitation of kindness34:43 – The lasting impact of Anna Mae Florence’s case35:07 – Closing thoughts, community discussions, and upcoming Murder in the Black projects
May 7
37 min
What I Didn’t See: Official Trailer
Christina thought she understood exactly who she was and the life she was supposed to want. But as her wedding approaches, two men force her to confront the parts of herself she has spent years refusing to see.What I Didn’t See is a psychological thriller about love, denial, self-deception, and the truths that circle us long before we are ready to name them.Listen & Subscribe
May 6
2 min
Killed By Illusion | The Murder of Carlnell Walker
The Murder of Carlnell Walker | Riverdale, GeorgiaIn 2006, college student Carlnell Walker was found dead under deeply disturbing circumstances—his body discovered in the trunk of a car in Clayton County, Georgia. What initially appeared to be a missing persons case quickly evolved into something far more complex.In this episode, we examine how perception, identity, and image—both online and in real life—intersected with greed and manipulation, ultimately leading to devastating consequences.This case challenges how we think about who people present themselves to be versus who they actually are—and what can happen in the space between those two realities.In This EpisodeThe discovery of Carlnell Walker and the condition of the sceneKey moments in the investigation and how suspicion developedThe role of social media and identity performanceFinancial motives, including insurance and personal gainConfessions, arrests, and case outcomesThe larger questions this case raises about perception and vulnerabilityTimestamps00:00 – Listener discretion advised01:28 – Case introduction: Clayton County, Georgia02:13 – A mother’s concern: Peggy Walker speaks up03:11 – Discovery of Carlnell in the trunk04:55 – Who Carlnell was beyond the headlines05:52 – Evidence of torture and escalation of violence06:49 – Scene analysis and multiple perpetrators08:15 – Insurance and eviction letters raise questions08:44 – Interview with landlord Terry Alexander10:38 – Early inconsistencies in the story13:24 – Witness tip and fear of retaliation14:22 – Ari Brown’s interview15:49 – Social media, image, and perception16:47 – Financial motive and insurance claims18:11 – Forensic findings and cause of death19:05 – Breakthrough lead from cafeteria worker19:58 – Reinvention and identity among suspects21:18 – Confession from Breylon Garland23:45 – The final hours of Carlnell’s life26:49 – Arrests: Miles Allen, Keith Roberts, Theodore Hall
Apr 30
38 min
Corruption with Care: The Murders of Caleb, Gianna and Gloria Short
In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the devastating murders of Gloria Short, her son Caleb, and her granddaughter Gianna—a case that forces us to confront what happens when violence comes not from strangers, but from within trusted circles. Through forensic evidence, investigative breakthroughs, and reflection, we explore how care, access, and familiarity were manipulated in one of the most haunting forms of betrayal.--------------------------------------------------------------------Main TopicsThe lives of Gloria, Caleb, and Gianna Short—and the close family bonds at the heart of this tragedyThe crime scene evidence, including staging, forensic clues, and what investigators immediately recognizedHow community tips and social media helped move the investigation forwardThe involvement of young perpetrators and what this case raises about violence, influence, and accountabilityThe investigative trail—from vehicle tracking to identifying accomplice Jervarceay “Weeda” TapleyThe emotional weight of betrayal when harm comes through trusted relationshipsLegal outcomes, life sentences, and the family’s continuing path toward healingBroader reflections on predation, trust, and the corruption of care itself----------------------------------------------------------------------Key InsightsWhy betrayal by someone known can feel more destabilizing than stranger violenceHow forensic evidence helped establish planning, intent, and participationWhat this case reveals about the exploitation of proximity and trustThe difficult questions raised when very young perpetrators are involvedWhy this case challenges assumptions about safety inside familiar relationships-----------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps00:00 — Introduction and listener warning00:31 — The crime scene and early investigative clues00:59 — Betrayal versus stranger violence01:27 — The victims: Gloria, Caleb, and Gianna02:23 — Who they were beyond the headlines
Apr 23
37 min
What Happened to Michael Giles?
The disappearance and murder of Michael Giles is a case built on manipulation, deception, and a trail of circumstantial evidence that couldn’t be ignored.In this episode, we break down how Kwaneta Harris constructed narratives, controlled perceptions, and left behind patterns that investigators couldn’t overlook.From a suspicious backyard slab… to financial records, false alibis, and forged documents—this case forces us to examine how truth is uncovered when nothing is straightforward.We also touch on the mysterious death of Ashlee Jenae, and what it reveals about justice, media coverage, and accountability.Keywordstrue crime podcast, Michael Giles case, Kwaneta Harris, murder investigation, circumstantial evidence, manipulation tactics, false confession, Erica Flores, domestic abuse, true crime stories, Black victims, justice system, crime analysis.What You’ll HearMichael Giles’ disappearance and investigationKwaneta Harris’ role and psychological manipulationBackyard burial site and forensic discoveryFinancial evidence and digital trailFalse confession scheme involving Erica FloresForged documents and deception tacticsPatterns of behavior that built the caseReflections on justice, media, and accountabilityTimestamps00:00 Introduction01:32 Background & relationship timeline08:30 Backyard slab discovery11:13 Last contact with Michael Giles13:24 Financial evidence16:42 Excavation of the property22:33 Discovery of remains23:32 Arrest and interrogation30:30 Erica Flores false confession38:03 Pattern of deception42:28 Plea deal47:05 Final reflections
Apr 16
1 hr 3 min
Who Do You Believe? The Ciara Ingram Case
This episode explores the case of Ciara Ingram—a mother, nurse, and veteran whose life was cut short just as she was preparing to start over. What begins as a tragic discovery inside her Columbus, Georgia apartment quickly unfolds into a layered investigation marked by conflicting accounts, shifting timelines, and unanswered questions.As the case develops, attention turns to the people closest to Ciara, including her ex-husband, Jared Ingram—the last known person to see her alive. His arrest, the 15 months he spent in jail before making bond, and the years that passed before trial all become part of a larger narrative shaped as much by time as by evidence.This episode takes a closer look at what was presented in court—from witness testimony and alleged motives to the absence of definitive forensic evidence. It also examines the role of child witnesses, exploring how memory can evolve under pressure and how questioning techniques can influence what is later recalled as truth.At its core, this case raises difficult questions about belief, credibility, and the burden of proof. When evidence leaves room for interpretation, how do jurors decide what is reliable? And what does justice look like when certainty is out of reach?More than a recounting of events, this episode sits in the tension between what may have happened and what can actually be proven—leaving listeners to confront not just the outcome, but how they arrived at their own conclusions.Keywordstrue crime, Ciara Ingram, murder case, forensic psychology, court trial, child testimony, DNA evidence, justice system, reasonable doubt, criminal investigationThe timeline of Ciara Ingram’s murder and the events leading up to her deathThe role of child testimony and how memory can be influenced over timeThe evidence presented at trial—and the gaps that raised doubtHow perception, narrative, and interpretation can shape the outcome of a case“Children’s memories can be shaped, even when they believe they’re telling the truth.”“Doubt isn’t a weakness in the system—it’s the standard.”Chapters00:00 — The Complexity of Truth in Family Violence03:30 — Ciara Ingram’s Life and Tragic Death06:35 — The Investigation Begins09:28 — Unraveling Relationships and Motives12:13 — Children as Witnesses: Memory and Influence15:29 — The Trial: Evidence and Doubt18:34 — The Verdict and Its Implications
Apr 9
26 min
Load more