MURDER IN THE BLACK

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Murder In The Black

Steph and M.D.
  • 4.3 (3)
  • TRUE CRIME
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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

  1. 2D AGO

    The Woods Between Them | Nacole Smith + Betty Brown

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we explore the heartbreaking story of 14-year-old Nacole Smith, a young girl with dreams of becoming a pediatrician who never made it to school on the morning of June 7, 1995. What began as a devastating crime in an Atlanta neighborhood would become a case that stretched across decades. Despite eyewitness descriptions, community efforts to identify a suspect, and early forensic evidence, investigators struggled to identify the man responsible. The case took a critical turn nearly nine years later, when 13-year-old Betty Brown survived a violent assault in East Point, Georgia. Betty’s courage to report the attack and her detailed recollection of the man who assaulted her would ultimately connect the two cases through DNA evidence — revealing that the same offender had been living in the community for years. Through advances in forensic science, including DNA profiling, CODIS, and later genetic genealogy, investigators were eventually able to identify the suspect responsible for both crimes. But the resolution came with its own tragedy when the suspect died before he could face justice. In this episode we also introduce our True Crime in Current News segment, where we highlight cases currently unfolding that listeners have brought to our attention. In this episode we discuss several developing stories, including the disturbing discovery of two young girls found in suitcases in Cleveland, a Bronx double homicide connected to a domestic dispute, and a shocking case involving a former NFL player accused of killing his girlfriend and allegedly using ChatGPT in an attempt to research ways to cover up the crime. The life and dreams of Nacole Smith The events of June 7, 1995, and the discovery of her murder Early investigative leads and eyewitness descriptions Community involvement and the circulation of the composite sketch Suspicion surrounding Jamar Hendrix and why resemblance to a sketch alone is not evidence DNA evidence collected from the crime scene and its entry into CODIS Why CODIS searches sometimes return no match The 2002 jailhouse informant tip and why investigators ruled it out The attack on Betty Brown and how her survival connected two crimes The role of forensic science and genetic genealogy in solving cold cases The identification of Kelvin Arnold decades later The emotional impact of the suspect dying before he could face justice The perseverance of investigators and the importance of survivor testimony True Crime in Current News: listener-submitted cases and developing investigations 00:00 – Introduction to Nacole Smith’s case02:25 – Nacole’s life, dreams, and family04:07 – The morning of June 7, 199507:26 – Discovery of the crime scene and evidence recovered09:55 – Witness descriptions and early suspect sketches11:42 – Community efforts and the composite sketch13:06 – Jamar Hendrix investigation and why he was ruled out14:37 – DNA evidence, CODIS, and investigative challenges17:31 – The 2002 jailhouse informant lead19:15 – The attack on Betty Brown in 200421:10 – DNA connection between Betty Brown’s case and Nacole’s murder25:20 – Advances in forensic science and genetic genealogy26:32 – Identification of Kelvin Arnold27:24 – Arnold’s death before arrest in 202128:15 – Reflection on justice, persistence, and investigative tenacity35:02 – True Crime in Current News segment36:08 – Final thoughts and episode close Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠ 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

    37 min
  2. A Bag in the Merrimack: The Murder of Mary Stetson + EXCITING UPDATE

    6D AGO • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    A Bag in the Merrimack: The Murder of Mary Stetson + EXCITING UPDATE

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the disturbing murder of Mary Stetson, a case that began with a shocking discovery in the Merrimack River and unfolded into a meticulous investigation involving forensic evidence, witness accounts, and a suspect whose violent history raised serious questions. What started as a mysterious bag floating in the river quickly became a homicide investigation after authorities discovered Mary’s dismembered torso, launching detectives into a race to reconstruct her final hours. Through forensic analysis, timeline reconstruction, and witness testimony, investigators eventually uncovered the truth behind what happened inside an apartment on Orange Street—a crime scene that revealed chilling details of violence and concealment. This episode explores how investigators pieced together Mary’s last known movements, how a seemingly small witness observation became critical, and how forensic evidence ultimately exposed the man responsible. We also reflect on the emotional weight cases like this carry for families who must grieve not only a loss—but the brutal circumstances surrounding it. Plus — at the end of the episode, I share an update about my upcoming original true-crime storytelling series, What I Didn’t See. If you’re a longtime member of the MIB family, you might remember I teased this project years ago. The teaser included in this episode gives listeners a first look at the story and what to expect as I begin releasing this long-awaited series. Episode Timeline 00:00 – Introduction: a bag floating in the Merrimack River 00:29 – The disturbing discovery and early investigation 01:01 – Blood evidence inside the Orange Street apartment 01:14 – The discovery that turns the case into a homicide 02:25 – Identifying the victim through forensic evidence 03:20 – Who Mary Stetson was and the life she lived 04:32 – The emotional impact on her loved ones 05:02 – Reconstructing Mary’s final day 05:57 – Medical examiner findings and dismemberment analysis 06:26 – Investigators build a timeline of events 07:12 – Mary’s planned meeting and early suspect reviews 08:13 – Witness sightings and the teddy bear purchase 09:01 – A confrontation at a local market 10:16 – Alibis begin to be tested 11:09 – The significance of overlooked details 12:32 – Witnesses describe the man last seen with Mary 13:00 – A crucial sighting that shifts the investigation 14:09 – Early suspect theories and investigative leads 15:54 – The breakthrough that points investigators to Vaclav Plick 16:30 – Plick’s history and suspicious behavior 17:47 – Search of the apartment reveals the true crime scene 18:46 – Evidence of attempted cleanup and dismemberment 19:14 – Arrest in Texas and extradition 20:38 – Recovery of Mary’s remains and family grief 21:06 – Trial, conviction, and life sentence 21:33 – The lasting impact of the case 22:00 – Closing reflections + teaser for my original true-crime series What I Didn’t See

    28 min

  3. MAR 5

    Closer Than Anyone Knew: Kayadda Patterson

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking murder of Kenyadda Patterson, a 31-year-old mother whose life was taken in Charlotte, North Carolina. When her body was discovered behind a church, investigators were faced with a disturbing crime scene and very few answers. As detectives began piecing together Kenyadda’s final hours, suspicion initially fell on people close to her — including her estranged husband and a man she had recently met. But forensic evidence would ultimately lead investigators in an unexpected direction, revealing that the person responsible for her death had been much closer than anyone realized. This episode explores the investigative process, the role of DNA evidence in identifying the killer, and the unsettling discovery that the suspect had a long history of violent crime. We also reflect on the impact Kenyadda’s death had on her children and community. At the end of the episode, we also highlight the still-unresolved disappearance of Daniel Robinson, a young geologist who vanished in the Arizona desert in 2021, reminding us that while some families receive answers, others are still searching for the truth. TIMELINE 00:00 – A crime scene behind a church in Charlotte, North Carolina00:30 – Discovery of Kenyadda Patterson’s body03:00 – Crime scene analysis and evidence collection04:24 – Investigators examine the abandoned vehicle and possible timeline07:04 – Medical examiner findings: strangulation and sexual assault08:02 – Investigators examine Kenyadda’s relationship with her estranged husband09:21 – Interviews with James Patterson and the emergence of another potential suspect12:35 – Johnny Moulton enters the investigation14:36 – Community reaction and the impact on Kenyadda’s children16:58 – Neighbor Thelma Harris contacts investigators with a tip22:38 – Detectives uncover the criminal history of Derrick Harris23:02 – A shocking connection between Derrick Harris and the investigation24:29 – Detectives revisit the neighborhood as suspicion grows25:47 – DNA results identify Derrick Harris as the killer26:31 – Reflection on Kenyadda’s life and the legacy she left behind27:38 – Featured segment: The disappearance of Daniel Robinson31:05 – Why some cases remain unresolved32:36 – Final reflections and call to action In the closing segment of this episode, we also discuss the disappearance of Daniel Robinson, a 24-year-old geologist who vanished in the Arizona desert in 2021. Daniel was described by family and friends as intelligent, adventurous, and determined. After weeks of searching, his vehicle was discovered in a remote desert area with many of his personal belongings still inside, but Daniel himself was missing. Human remains later confirmed to belong to Daniel were discovered in the desert, but investigators have been unable to determine the exact cause of death. His father has continued to advocate for answers and further investigation. If you have information related to Daniel Robinson’s disappearance, please contact: Buckeye Police Department Tip Line: 623-349-6411Silent Witness (Anonymous Tips): 480-WITNESS • Information on criminal investigations and forensic evidence• News coverage and case documentation related to Kenyada Patterson• Resources for families of missing persons• Community organizations supporting victims and families affected by violent crime Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠ 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

    34 min
  4. Unseen Predators: Inside the Mind of Serial Killers and the Systems That Enable Them

    MAR 1 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Unseen Predators: Inside the Mind of Serial Killers and the Systems That Enable Them

    In this episode, we explore chilling cases of serial killers operating in plain sight—how they blend into everyday life, the patterns behind their crimes, and the societal biases that influence our perception and response. From groundbreaking investigations to systemic issues surrounding race and media coverage, this discussion uncovers the complex layers behind these heinous acts. Key Topics: The detailed patterns and methodologies behind the Alton Coleman and Cleophas Prince Jr. case. How serial offenders choose victims based on accessibility and routine behaviors. The role of race, media representation, and societal neglect in the coverage of marginalized victims. The significance of psychological diagnoses such as IQ and personality disorders in understanding accountability. Systemic barriers and technological limitations in forensic investigations during the 1990s. The impact of manipulation and dependency dynamics in criminal partnerships, exemplified by Deborah Brown and Alton Coleman. How serial killers operate under the radar by integrating routine activities with violent tendencies. Reflection on the cultural narratives around crime and the overlooked stories of Black victims, exemplified by Samuel Little. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the cases of Alton Coleman and Deborah Brown, and the importance of understanding patterns in serial crimes 02:17 - Background and psychological profile of Alton Coleman and Deborah Brown’s early lives 04:13 - The abduction and murder of children across six states and the pattern of violence 05:38 - Police investigations and the mounting evidence linking the suspects to multiple crimes 07:48 - The arrest and trial of Coleman and Brown, their sentences, and appeals processes 12:24 - The role of IQ and personality disorders in accountability—Deborah Brown’s case 15:23 - The manipulation and control dynamics between key perpetrators and their victims 18:15 - The methodology of Cleophas Prince Jr.: routine, planning, and ritualistic killing 24:10 - The racial bias in media coverage of serial killers and victims, with focus on Samuel Little 25:35 - The societal and systemic factors that allow serial offenders to operate undetected 26:43 - The significance of opportunity, access, and environment in victim selection 28:24 - Final thoughts on justice, systemic failures, and the importance of broader narratives

    40 min

  5. FEB 26

    A Neighborhood Held Hostage | Howell Donaldson III

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the chilling Seminole Heights serial shootings in Tampa, Florida — a case that left a neighborhood paralyzed by fear and ultimately led to the arrest of Howell Donaldson III. Four strangers. No connection. No clear motive. Just proximity. We break down the victims’ stories, the psychological layers behind violence without motive, the investigative challenges, and the nearly six-year legal journey before Donaldson’s guilty plea.We also provide updates on the cases of Na’Ziyah Harris and Celeste Rivas Hernandez, exploring the complexities of plea deals, grand jury proceedings, and what justice truly means when families are still waiting for closure. Key Topics Covered • The Seminole Heights serial murders: timeline, victims, and community impact • The psychological question: What drives someone to kill strangers? • The comparison to the D.C. Sniper and the terror of unpredictability • How fear reshapes neighborhoods and daily routines • Evidence that led to Howell Donaldson’s arrest and conviction • The six-year legal process and the decision to plead guilty • The emotional toll on victims’ families navigating the justice system • Update on the Na’Ziyah Harris case: guilty plea, sentencing timeline, and the ongoing search for her remains • Celeste Rivas Hernandez case update: grand jury process and investigative patience Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: When violence has no motive 00:26 – Seminole Heights and the first shooting 00:59 – Community fear and escalating tension 1:29 – Who was Howell Donaldson III? 3:02 – Victim profiles and the randomness of the attacks 4:01 – Police response and reward increases 6:50 – Serial pattern and D.C. Sniper comparison 9:14 – The final murder and mounting pressure 12:26 – Arrest, ballistics evidence, and guilty plea 19:55 – Families navigating six years of legal delays 20:42 – Reflection: What ultimately drives random violence? 23:50 – Update: Na’Ziyah Harris case developments 32:43 – Celeste Rivas Hernandez investigation update 36:21 – Broader reflection on justice, delay, and closure Resources & Links • Seminole Heights Serial Murders – Case Background • Howell Donaldson III – Court Records & Sentencing • Na’Ziyah Harris – Case Update • Celeste Rivas Hernandez – Investigation Overview Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠⁠ 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

    29 min
  6. Unraveling the Birmingham Pawn Shop Murders: Surveillance, Evidence & Justice

    FEB 22 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Unraveling the Birmingham Pawn Shop Murders: Surveillance, Evidence & Justice

    This bonus episode isn’t about retelling the case — it’s about sitting with the questions that remain. In Birmingham, surveillance cameras, forensic science, and digital breadcrumbs helped investigators piece together a brutal series of crimes tied to pawn shop robberies and multiple shootings. Justice moved forward because of technology… but prevention never came in time. So in this space, we pause. What shaped these young men long before investigators ever learned their names? What does it say about a system where cameras capture violence but cannot stop it? And how do we reconcile the relief of solved cases with the grief of lives that never had to be lost? This is a reflection-driven conversation — unpacking youth, environment, accountability, and the uncomfortable truth that evidence often arrives after tragedy. 🖤 In This Bonus Conversation The emotional weight behind surveillance footage and digital evidence Questions about Marcus Presley, LaSamuel Gamble, and Stephen McKenzie beyond the headlines The intersection of choice, environment, and consequence Why technology feels like justice — but not protection The uncomfortable silence between crime prevention and crime documentation 🔗 Stay Connected with Murder in the Black 🖤 Read the deeper reflections on Substack 🎧 Follow & review on Apple Podcasts 📲 Join the conversation across socials

    30 min

  7. FEB 19

    When Proximity Turns Deadly: Sade Robinson & Lamont Adaire Jr.

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine two intentional homicide cases connected by a deeper pattern of proximity, access, and life transition. In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 19-year-old Sade Robinson disappeared after a first date. Her dismembered remains were later discovered near Lake Michigan. Investigators arrested Maxwell Anderson, who now faces charges including first-degree intentional homicide, dismemberment of a corpse, and arson. In Seat Pleasant, Maryland, 24-year-old Lamont Adaire Jr. — a father and athlete preparing to play professional basketball in China — was shot 12 times in a coordinated attack. Franklin Scott later pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 50 years. Two cities.Two lives in motion.Two acts of deliberate violence. Cases & Locations ReferencedTopics This episode explores dating violence, digital evidence, jealousy, entitlement, masculinity, and the vulnerability that can accompany major life transitions. We examine how access and emotional immaturity intersect — and how opportunity can become perceived threat. • Sade Robinson – Milwaukee, Wisconsin (2024)• Milwaukee Area Technical College• Life360 location-sharing app• The Twisted Fisherman restaurant (Milwaukee)• Maxwell Anderson – arrest and pending court proceedings • Lamont Adaire Jr. – Seat Pleasant, Maryland (2018)• Franklin Scott – court records and sentencing details • Critical missing person alerts• Digital tracking and safety limitations• Surveillance and forensic timelines• Jealousy, retaliation, and emotional regulation• Cultural narratives around possession and entitlement• The ripple effect of violence on families Covered Resources & Links Life360Milwaukee Area Technical CollegeThe Twisted Fisherman (Milwaukee)Maxwell Anderson – Mugshot & Court RecordsFranklin Scott – Court Records & Sentencing Details If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse: National Domestic Violence Hotline1-800-799-7233thehotline.org Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠ 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠⁠⁠ 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

    36 min
  8. When Leaving Becomes Lethal | The Case of The Case of Alyssiah Wiley

    FEB 15 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    When Leaving Becomes Lethal | The Case of The Case of Alyssiah Wiley

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking case of Alyssiah — a 20-year-old college sophomore at Eastern Connecticut State University with a presidential scholarship and a future filled with promise. On April 20th, Alyssiah disappeared from campus after being seen getting into a car. What initially appeared to be a missing person case quickly evolved into something far more disturbing — revealing hidden layers of emotional control, escalating violence, and the dangerous reality of leaving an abusive relationship. This episode explores not only the investigation that led to Jermaine Richards’ conviction, but also the warning signs that often go unnoticed — especially among young women navigating independence, college life, and relationships. We discuss the psychology behind coercive control, the statistics surrounding teen and emerging adult dating violence, and why the period when someone attempts to leave can become the most lethal. This is not just a story about what happened. It’s a conversation about what we miss — and what we need to recognize sooner. 🔎 Key Topics Covered: ​Alyssiah’s life as a bright college student and scholarship recipient ​Timeline of her disappearance on April 20th ​Surveillance footage capturing Alyssiah’s last moments on campus ​The significance of her final text messages ​Emotional and psychological abuse in young relationships ​Jermaine Richards’ alibi, phone data, and investigative findings ​The discovery of Alyssiah’s remains and forensic details ​The role of family in recognizing signs of escalating violence ​CDC statistics on teen and young adult dating violence ​Why leaving an abusive partner is statistically the most dangerous time ​Community education and early intervention strategies ​ ​⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Alyssiah’s story: scholarship, ambition, and independence03:04 – Missing person report and early investigation07:29 – Surveillance footage and last confirmed sighting08:25 – Jermaine Richards and the evolving timeline09:22 – Text messages revealing Alyssiah’s desire to end the relationship11:05 – Emotional abuse and coercive control explained14:50 – Sister’s revelation of prior violence19:10 – Dating violence statistics among young women20:52 – Prior strangulation attempt and lethality risks22:42 – Discovery of partial remains24:21 – Conviction and sentencing29:25 – Identity, independence, and vulnerability in emerging adulthood31:50 – Reflection: recognizing warning signs before it’s too late

    33 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

4.3
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Steph and M.D.
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    280
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Steph and M.D.
  • Show Website
    Murder In The Black
  • Provider
    Stephenie Broden-Weaver

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