MURDER IN THE BLACK

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Murder In The Black

Steph and M.D.
  • 4.5 (480)
  • 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. Gregory Harris, Richard Phillips, and the Cost of Silence

    1d ago • Subscribers Only

    Gregory Harris, Richard Phillips, and the Cost of Silence

    On June 26, 1971, 21-year-old Gregory Harris left his Detroit home to buy cigarettes. He told his wife he would be back soon. He never returned. For months, Gregory’s family searched for answers after his blood-stained car was found in an alley. Nine months later, his remains were discovered in a field in Troy, Michigan. He had been shot twice in the head. The investigation eventually turned toward people in Gregory’s own circle, including his brother-in-law Fred Mitchell. But instead of being held accountable, Mitchell became the state’s key witness. His testimony helped convict Richard Phillips and Richard Palombo for Gregory’s murder. Richard Phillips maintained his innocence for decades. He spent more than 45 years in prison before new evidence revealed that Fred Mitchell’s story was false. In 2018, Richard Phillips was officially exonerated, making him one of the longest-serving wrongfully convicted people in U.S. history at the time. This episode looks at friendship, silence, false testimony, race, police indifference, and the devastating cost of a wrongful conviction. It also keeps Gregory Harris at the center: a young husband and father whose family deserved the truth from the beginning. In this episode: The disappearance and murder of Gregory HarrisThe blood-stained car and missed investigative opportunitiesFred Mitchell’s role as the state’s star witnessRichard Phillips’s conviction and decades-long fight for freedomThe hidden deal that was not disclosed to the defenseRichard Palombo’s later admission that Phillips was not involvedRichard Phillips’s 2018 exonerationUpdates on compensation questions and his life after prison Content Warning: This episode discusses murder, wrongful conviction, racism, police misconduct, incarceration, and drug overdose. Sources / Reference Points: National Registry of Exonerations, University of Michigan Innocence Clinic case reporting, Wayne County Conviction Integrity Unit reporting, and public coverage of Richard Phillips’s exoneration.

    43 min

  2. 5d ago

    The River Did Not Keep Her | The Murder of Lisa Eatmon

    Lisa Eatmon was a Brooklyn mother, Army veteran, and expectant mom preparing to welcome her son, Jaden Marquis. In April 2005, Lisa was found in the Hudson River, and what first seemed unclear soon became a homicide investigation. In this episode of Murder in the Black, we walk through Lisa’s life, the discovery in Manhattan, the evidence left behind at home, and the investigation that led detectives from phone records to a sanitation dock near the Hudson River. We also reflect on warning signs that can appear in relationships when pregnancy, accountability, secrecy, and control collide. Content warning: homicide, pregnancy loss, intimate partner violence, and grief involving a child losing a parent. If you or someone you love feels unsafe, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), text START to 88788, or visit thehotline.org. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

    41 min

  3. Jun 18

    The Lawyer Who Became the Case: Murder of Chiquita Tate

    In this episode, we revisit the tragic case of Chiquita Tate, a rising Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney whose life was violently taken inside her own law office. Chiquita was brilliant, ambitious, and building a name for herself in the courtroom when her final night at work became the center of a murder investigation. We walk through Chiquita’s life, the timeline of her last hours, the evidence found at the scene, and the courtroom battle that followed. From DNA and hair evidence to the missing wallet, blood evidence, possible staging, and the complicated personal history between Chiquita and her husband, Greg Harris, this case raises difficult questions about violence, control, justice, and legacy. This episode also includes a brief update and reflection on the Alexis Crawford case, another heartbreaking story involving a young woman whose future was stolen. Key Topics Chiquita Tate’s life, career, and rise as a criminal defense attorneyThe timeline of her final night in Baton RougeThe crime scene evidence, including DNA, hair, blood evidence, and the missing walletHow the prosecution and defense interpreted the same evidence differentlyThe role of marriage, motive, life insurance, and possible separation plansGreg Harris’s trial, manslaughter conviction, sentencing, and appealsThe lasting impact of workplace and intimate-partner violenceChiquita’s legacy beyond the crime sceneTimestamps 00:00 - Introduction and factual reporting note 01:06 - A Baton Rouge law office becomes a crime scene 02:04 - The murder of Chiquita Tate 03:02 - Chiquita’s background, ambition, and legal career 04:29 - Chiquita’s marriage to Greg Harris 09:26 - February 19, 2009: dinner, work, and her final hours 13:12 - Crime scene findings and early evidence 15:59 - The suspect list and growing focus on Greg Harris 17:31 - The discovery of Chiquita’s wallet 19:37 - Evidence from Greg and Chiquita’s home 22:17 - Possible motives: separation, control, and life insurance 24:03 - A tip that redirected investigators 26:41 - Sunglasses, DNA profiles, and forensic questions 29:18 - Court proceedings and trial strategy 36:16 - The verdict: manslaughter, not second-degree murder 37:20 - Sentencing, appeals, and legal aftermath 39:52 - Reflection on Chiquita’s life and legacy 42:51 - Update and reflection on the Alexis Crawford case 47:14 - Closing message and listener gratitude Resources Mentioned DNA evidence and forensic interpretationLouisiana second-degree murder and manslaughter lawCriminal appeals and post-conviction challengesThe Alexis Crawford caseIntimate-partner violence and workplace violence awarenessConnect With the Host Follow and connect on social media for case updates, episode discussions, and behind-the-scenes content. Final Reflection The heart of this story is not only the evidence. It is Chiquita Tate herself: a first-generation college graduate, a determined attorney, and a woman whose future was still unfolding. Her legacy reminds us to honor the lives behind the headlines and to keep speaking about violence that too often begins behind familiar doors.

    50 min
  4. After the Verdict: Reflections on the Karmelo Anthony Trial

    Jun 15 • Subscribers Only

    After the Verdict: Reflections on the Karmelo Anthony Trial

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, Host Steph takes listeners inside the courtroom for one of the most discussed criminal trials in Texas. After attending the Karmelo Anthony trial in Collin County, Steph shares firsthand observations of the proceedings, jury dynamics, witness testimony, courtroom atmosphere, and the larger questions surrounding race, justice, and public perception. This episode goes beyond the headlines, offering an on-the-ground perspective of what unfolded inside the courtroom and a thoughtful discussion about the issues that continue to resonate long after the verdict. Host Steph's experience attending the Karmelo Anthony trial The fast-paced nature of the proceedings and courtroom logistics Jury selection, demographics, and the absence of Black jurors Witness testimony, credibility concerns, and conflicting accounts The significance of Eddie's testimony and questions surrounding the utility knife incident Medical evidence and competing interpretations of the fatal wound Self-defense claims, intent, and the arguments presented by both sides The role race may have played in public perception and community response Changing demographics in Collin County and concerns about bias Reflections on justice, fairness, and what this case reveals about broader societal issues The importance of protecting Black youth while pursuing accountability and truth 00:00 – Introduction and why Host Steph attended the trial 00:29 – The unusually fast pace of the proceedings 00:57 – Courthouse security, access issues, and police presence 01:26 – Jury selection and the absence of Black jurors 01:56 – Court procedures and public handling of the case 02:22 – Witness testimony and questions of credibility 03:49 – Race, jury considerations, and courtroom dynamics 05:14 – Overflow lines, seating, and the trial experience 06:18 – Community perspectives and conversations outside the courtroom 07:18 – Juror demographics and potential bias concerns 08:04 – Defense strategy and courtroom objections 09:01 – Host Steph's observations and reflections 10:27 – Eddie's testimony and credibility issues 12:25 – Questions surrounding the evidence 14:21 – The utility knife incident and its significance 15:45 – Contradictions in testimony and implications for the case 16:36 – Medical testimony regarding the fatal wound 18:27 – Analysis of the wound trajectory and struggle narrative 19:52 – Accident, intent, and self-defense arguments 23:02 – Reflections on the verdict and whether justice was served 25:13 – Race, community attitudes, and Collin County's changing landscape 30:44 – Broader conversations about racial bias and profiling 33:02 – Why this case resonates deeply with Host Steph 37:23 – Final thoughts on justice, accountability, and the future Public court records and filings related to the Karmelo Anthony case Trial coverage and legal analysis Research regarding racial disparities within the criminal justice system Follow Host Steph and Murder in the Black for new episodes, bonus content, and behind-the-scenes discussions. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a rating, review, and share it with someone who values thoughtful conversations about true crime, justice, and accountability.

    36 min

  5. Jun 11

    Latasha Harlins, Karmelo Anthony, and the Question of Black Childhood

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, the host reflects on Latasha Harlins’ life, death, and legacy while connecting her story to racial violence, community grief, policing, and justice in America. She also shares her firsthand experience attending the Karmelo Anthony trial and examines how Black youth are viewed in courtrooms, media, and public opinion. Key Topics Latasha Harlins’ life, family, and tragic deathSouth Central LA in the 1980s and 1990sEula Mae Love, Rodney King, and LAPD violenceBlack and Korean community tensions in South CentralThe 1992 LA Uprising and its aftermathThe O.J. Simpson trial and distrust of the LAPDCyrus Carmack-Belton and ongoing racial violenceThe Karmelo Anthony trial and courtroom experienceRace, accountability, grief, and Black childhoodTimestamps 00:00 - Witnessing the Karmelo Anthony trial 00:23 - Latasha Harlins’ story 03:06 - Latasha’s family and move to LA 05:42 - Crystal Harlins’ death 09:15 - Black grandmothers and survival 11:07 - Latasha’s dreams 13:14 - Black/Korean tensions in South Central 14:19 - Eula Mae Love and LAPD violence 17:15 - Rodney King 21:34 - Latasha’s murder 23:22 - Sentencing and outrage 26:21 - 1992 LA Uprising 29:32 - O.J. Simpson and the LAPD 30:24 - Cyrus Carmack-Belton 31:03 - Karmelo Anthony case 36:04 - Jury composition 37:09 - Verdict impact 42:19 - Race, grief, and accountability 46:01 - James Baldwin reflection Resources Latasha Harlins case, Rodney King beating, 1992 LA Uprising, O.J. Simpson trial, Cyrus Carmack-Belton case, Karmelo Anthony case, James Baldwin quote.

    47 min
  6. Stolen at Sixteen: The Murder of Cypress Noonan

    Jun 7 • Subscribers Only

    Stolen at Sixteen: The Murder of Cypress Noonan

    Today’s case covers the murder of 16-year-old Cypress Noonan in Ridgeland, South Carolina. On September 6, 2020, a 911 call came in from the Forest Motel in Jasper County. Brian Redding told dispatch that his girlfriend had been shot in the head. When officers arrived, Cypress was found inside room 22 with a fatal gunshot wound. At first, investigators had to determine whether this was self-inflicted or a homicide. But as they processed the scene, key details stood out: no gun was found in the room, there were no signs of forced entry, and evidence began pointing back to Brian Redding. This episode walks through Cypress’s life, her family’s concerns about her relationship with Brian, the investigation, forensic evidence, phone records, trial testimony, and the verdict. Brian Redding was later convicted of murder and weapons charges. He was sentenced to 48 years in prison. Current South Carolina Department of Corrections records list him at Turbeville Correctional Institution, with a projected release date of October 28, 2068, and parole marked not eligible. Cypress was only sixteen years old. She was remembered by her family as loving, lively, strong-willed, and deeply cherished. Sources South Carolina Law Enforcement Division arrest release ⁠https://www.sled.sc.gov⁠ 14th Circuit Solicitor / local sentencing coverage ⁠https://www.aol.com/jasper-county-man-sentenced-48-135314890.html⁠ South Carolina Department of Corrections inmate record for Brian Jamel Redding ⁠https://public.doc.state.sc.us/scdc-public/inmateDetails.do?id=+00379058⁠ Cypress Noonan obituary ⁠https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/18298500/cypress-noonan

    30 min
  7. What I Didn’t See, Episode 5: Familiar Doesn’t Mean Safe + Journal Entry

    Jun 7 • Subscribers Only

    What I Didn’t See, Episode 5: Familiar Doesn’t Mean Safe + Journal Entry

    In Episode 5: Familiar Doesn’t Mean Safe, Christina begins to understand that the life she has been building with Samson may feel familiar because it is recognizable, not because it is peaceful. James’s questions continue to unsettle her, especially when he asks whether she wants to marry Samson or whether she wants her life to remain legible. As Christina tries to defend the relationship, Samson begins to feel the shift. What once looked like stability now starts to feel like performance, and the wedding plans become harder to separate from the doubts underneath them. For paid subscribers, this episode is followed by Christina’s Journal Entry, where she reflects more privately on legibility, relief, and the uncomfortable realization that familiar does not always mean safe. Content Notes: relationship tension, emotional avoidance, romantic ambiguity, grief references, coercive control themes.

    12 min

  8. Jun 4

    The Children Behind the Smiles : The Hart Family Murders

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the heartbreaking case of the Hart family murders—a tragedy that exposed serious failures within the child welfare system and challenged the carefully curated image of a family celebrated by many. What appeared to be a picture-perfect family on social media concealed years of abuse, neglect, and unanswered cries for help. Through court records, witness accounts, and investigative findings, we explore how warning signs were repeatedly overlooked and why the voices of six children were not heard until it was too late. This episode is not simply about how the Hart family died—it is about how six children lived, what they endured, and the futures they were denied. The events leading up to the deaths of Jennifer and Sarah Hart and their six adopted children Repeated reports of abuse and neglect that failed to result in meaningful intervention The role social media played in shaping public perception of the family Devonte Hart's viral image and the complex reality behind the photograph The importance of recognizing and responding to children's disclosures The dangers of "savior" narratives and performative activism Race, adoption, and the challenges of transracial family dynamics Systemic failures within child welfare and protective services The final investigation and evidence supporting an intentional murder-suicide The lives, personalities, and futures of the children at the center of this case Time Stamps : 00:00 – Introduction to the Hart family case 00:25 – A hungry child seeks help from neighbors 00:55 – The family's disappearance and the discovery at the California cliffside 01:50 – Public perception versus reality 02:29 – Devonte Hart and the image that captivated the nation 03:26 – The carefully constructed narrative surrounding the family 04:07 – Social media, activism, and image management 05:09 – How trauma was used to explain away concerns 06:28 – Priscilla Celestine's efforts to keep her family together 07:19 – Family separation and contradictions within the system 08:16 – Investigations, reports, and missed opportunities 09:12 – Adoption history and the creation of a public success story 10:33 – When trauma became a shield against accountability 11:58 – The 2010 abuse allegations and legal outcomes 13:39 – Continued warning signs and institutional failures 15:09 – Homeschooling, isolation, and limited oversight 16:21 – Narrative control and public image management 17:50 – A troubling family visit in Oregon 20:18 – Hannah Hart's attempt to seek help 22:06 – Devonte's repeated requests for food 23:39 – Escalating concerns and failures to intervene 26:33 – The crash investigation and evidence of intentional family annihilation 28:30 – The final days: sedatives, control, and isolation 30:48 – Recovery efforts and the search for Devonte 32:00 – Examining years of systemic oversight failures 34:45 – The dangers of rescue narratives and public perception 37:09 – The futures each child deserved 38:09 – The emotional impact of the case 39:36 – Looking beyond appearances and curated images 40:34 – Final reflections: How many warnings are too many? Topics Covered Child Welfare and Protective Services Resources Information on Trauma and Child Abuse Recognition Research on Transracial Adoption and Child Advocacy Historical Context Behind Devonte Hart's Viral Photograph Follow the show for updates, bonus content, and behind-the-scenes discussions: Instagram: @murderintheblackpodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and your favorite podcast platform. In Memory of Hannah, Markis, Abigail, Jeremiah, Sierra, and Devonte Hart. Their story reminds us that a carefully crafted image can hide painful realities. Most importantly, it reminds us that children deserve to be heard, believed, and protected.

    46 min
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Trailer

4.5
out of 5
480 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
    311
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Steph and M.D.
  • Show Website
    Murder In The Black
  • Provider
    Stephenie Broden-Weaver

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