MURDER IN THE BLACK

Bonus Content Weekly

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Murder In The Black

Steph and M.D.
  • 4.5 (460)
  • 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. Unseen Predators: Inside the Mind of Serial Killers and the Systems That Enable Them

    1D AGO • 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

  2. 3D AGO

    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
  3. 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

  4. 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
  5. 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

  6. FEB 12

    When the Voice Sounds Real: A.I., Fear, and the Cost of Believing Too Fast

    In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the devastating loss of LoLetha Hall — a woman simply doing her job who became entangled in a deadly situation fueled by fear, misinformation, and an AI-driven scam. As technology evolves, so do the dangers surrounding it. Steph and Maia unpack how impersonation scams are changing the landscape of crime, the legal complexities of self-defense in Ohio, and the difficult questions surrounding “reasonable fear,” implicit bias, and accountability. This conversation goes beyond one case. It asks how we protect our communities, our elders, and ourselves in a world where voices can be fabricated — and fear can be engineered. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 🔎 Key Topics Covered The rise of AI-powered scam calls and impersonation tactics How vulnerable populations — especially seniors — are targeted The timeline leading to the fatal encounter between LoLetha Hall and William Brock Ohio self-defense law and the question of proportional force The difference between genuine fear and legally “reasonable” fear How implicit bias can shape perceptions of danger Public awareness, digital literacy, and family safety planning Practical strategies for preventing scam-related harm AI Impersonation Scam Resources Time Stamps 00:00 — Why this case highlights the dangers of AI scams 00:29 — Who LoLetha Hall and William Brock were 01:48 — Inside the scam: impersonation and escalation 02:38 — The confrontation and fatal shooting 03:51 — Dashcam footage and police response 04:21 — Fear, perception, and Brock’s mindset 08:38 — AI’s growing role in modern scams 09:07 — Elder vulnerability and education gaps 11:37 — Breaking down Ohio self-defense law 16:24 — Fear, bias, and legal interpretation 19:07 — The impact on LoLetha’s family 20:50 — Community responsibility and awareness 23:18 — Practical scam-prevention tools 25:03 — Final reflections on bias, fear, and accountability Understanding Deepfake Technology Scam Awareness Tips (AARP) Ohio Self-Defense Law Overview Social Media & Digital Safety Tips Resources & Education 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/

    27 min
  7. When Home Is Not Safe: The Marlboro Murders & What’s Up With Shorty?

    FEB 8 • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    When Home Is Not Safe: The Marlboro Murders & What’s Up With Shorty?

    In this episode, we sit with the devastating truths behind What’s Up With Shorty by Rashona Landfair—unpacking how proximity to fame and the music industry created cover for grooming, manipulation, and years of silence. Rashona’s story forces us to confront how abuse is often minimized, ignored, or excused when power is involved—especially for Black women and girls. Alongside this reflection, Steph examines the Marlboro, Maryland murders, tracing the ripple effects of violence and the deep sense of loss left behind when justice is partial and some victims never see a courtroom. Together, these stories ask difficult questions about safety, accountability, and what it means to survive when systems fail. If this piece brought up something difficult for you, please know you don’t have to carry it alone. Help is available, and you deserve support—no matter how long ago the abuse happened. Support Resources United States RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) 📞 800-656-HOPE (4673) 💬 rainn.org Available 24/7, confidential National Child Abuse Hotline 📞 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) 💬 childhelphotline.org StrongHearts Native Helpline 📞 1-844-7NATIVE (1-844-762-8483) 💬 strongheartshelpline.org Outside the U.S. Visit findahelpline.com to find support in your country. Reaching out is not weakness. It’s care.

    40 min

  8. FEB 5

    The People’s Barber | Jermaine Ross

    When Jermaine Ross stopped answering his phone and missed his barber appointments, concern quickly turned into something far more disturbing. On October 3, 2018, Jermaine was found dead inside his home on Elm Street in Cahokia, Illinois. At first, investigators believed his death may have been natural. But forensic findings, an autopsy, and unsettling details inside the home revealed the truth—Jermaine Ross had been murdered. In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the homicide investigation from the inside out: the timeline shaped by decomposition evidence, rumors surrounding a recent insurance payout, shifting witness statements, and the chilling attempt to alter the crime scene after Jermaine’s death. As investigators worked to separate fact from fear in a close-knit community, the case exposed how desperation, access, and money can turn trust into a fatal vulnerability. This is the story of a man known as “the people’s barber”—and how the people closest to him became central to solving his murder. 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
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Trailer

4.5
out of 5
460 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
    277
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Steph and M.D.
  • Show Website
    Murder In The Black
  • Provider
    Stephenie Broden-Weaver

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