Murder In The Morning | Daily True Crime News True Crime Today

Want to listen to all of the content from the True Crime Today and Hidden Killers podcast universe, AD FREE and in ADVANCE?

This is the place to do it!

1) Simply SUBSCRIBE to True Crime Today Premium Plus on Apple Podcasts monthly or yearly, and you're IN!!

2) IMPORTANT; Then, be sure to follow the True Crime Today Premium Plus channel on Apple Podcasts for ALL of the AD FREE and ADVANCE CONTENT. THIS IS A SEPARATE CHANNEL that hosts all of the ALL of the AD FREE and ADVANCE CONTENT.

NOTE: ALL AD-FREE and ADVANCE content will only be posted to the True Crime Today Premium Plus channel on Apple Podcasts. If you subscribe to any of our channels and want the AD-FREE and ADVANCE podcasts, you need to follow the True Crime Today Premium Plus channel to access these premium features.

In a disturbing breach of trust and legal boundaries, Candace Chapman Scott, a 37-year-old former mortuary worker from Arkansas, has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to the theft and sale of human body parts. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Arkansas made the announcement on Thursday, marking a significant development in a case that has shocked the medical and legal communities.

Scott was implicated in a scheme involving the transportation of body parts across state lines and conspiring to commit mail fraud. According to federal authorities, she was employed by a service provider contracted to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). This institution receives cadavers donated for medical research through its Anatomical Gift Program, which Scott exploited for her illicit activities.

The case unfolded when Scott, using a Facebook group for enthusiasts of "oddities," contacted a man from Pennsylvania on October 28, 2021. She introduced herself as a mortician associated with UAMS, revealing that her responsibilities included the cremation of medical cadavers. During their correspondence, Scott inquired if the man knew anyone interested in purchasing an embalmed human brain, setting the stage for a series of illegal transactions.

From October 31, 2021, to July 15, 2022, Scott sent 24 boxes filled with stolen body parts, including a human brain, heart, skullcap, kidneys, livers, hands, and a female pelvis with femurs, all of which she pilfered from UAMS. These parcels were transported via the U.S. Postal Service to her contact in Pennsylvania. In exchange, Scott received $10,625, transferred to her through PayPal.

The FBI intervened on July 13, 2022, with a search warrant executed at Scott's residence in Little Rock. Agents discovered numerous stolen body parts stored inappropriately in boxes and trash bags. Upon being questioned, Scott admitted her role in the transactions and her method of receiving payments.

As Scott awaits sentencing, the legal ramifications and the breach of ethical standards she perpetrated have ignited a discourse on the oversight of mortuary services and the protection of donated cadavers intended for scientific research. The trust placed in medical institutions by donors and their families has been severely undermined by this case, prompting calls for stricter regulations and oversight in the handling of anatomical gifts.

The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate legal consequences for Scott. It highlights critical vulnerabilities in the systems intended to honor and utilize the altruistic donations of bodies for medical science. As the community and the families affected by this breach seek justice, the case serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance and integrity in medical and mortuary practices.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

In Norfolk Superior Court, the murder trial of Karen Read, a 44-year-old resident of Mansfield, entered its second day with gripping testimonies that shed light on the tragic death of Boston police officer John O'Keefe. Read faces charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter while operating under the influence, and leaving the scene of personal injury and death.

During Tuesday’s proceedings, the court heard from Canton Fire Lieutenant Anthony Flematti and paramedic Timothy Nuttall, who were among the first responders at the scene. Flematti described arriving to find "four to six inches of snow on the ground" and a "female party," later identified as Read, administering chest compressions to O'Keefe.

Nuttall provided a detailed account of the emergency measures taken to save O'Keefe, including efforts to clear his airway of blood, mucus, and bile. He noted that O'Keefe was unresponsive with no pulse and had a hematoma above his right eye, alongside scratches on his right arm. Despite these efforts, O'Keefe's condition upon the responders' arrival painted a grim picture of his last moments.

The courtroom was tense as Alan Jackson, Read’s attorney, cross-examined witnesses, highlighting discrepancies in the police report and questioning the accuracy of witness descriptions of O'Keefe’s clothing and injuries. Jackson focused on challenging the initial observations at the scene, suggesting that the injuries might not solely relate to a vehicular incident, pointing out that “a lot” of different scenarios could lead to similar physical outcomes, not just physical altercations.

Jackson's defense strategy also pointed to possible mismanagement or errors in the police investigation, noting incorrect addresses and timing discrepancies in the official records. He questioned whether these inconsistencies were oversights or indicative of a deeper issue within the investigation.

The emotional charge of the trial was palpable, with Read’s supporters and O’Keefe’s family present in the courtroom. Witnesses described Read as visibly shaken and in shock, actively trying to revive O'Keefe, which contrasts with the prosecution's portrayal of her as responsible for his death.

This high-profile case continues to attract attention due to its tragic nature and the questions it raises about responsibility, the accuracy of police investigations, and the impact of personal relationships on legal outcomes. The trial will resume Thursday, promising further developments and potentially more revelations about the night O'Keefe died.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Samson Shelton, the former teacher and professional wrestler who admitted to attempting to murder 17-year-old Ashley Reeves in 2006, has been released on parole after serving about 17 years of his 20-year sentence. The Illinois Department of Corrections confirmed his release this Monday, April 22, marking the end of a case that captured national attention and was later depicted in a Lifetime movie.

In 2006, Shelton, then a 26-year-old driver’s education teacher and known in wrestling circles as "The Teacher," became infamously linked to the brutal attack on Reeves, who had once been a student at the middle school where he taught. The incident occurred after Shelton and Reeves, who had been involved romantically, got into an altercation while he was driving. According to reports, Shelton choked Reeves and broke her neck before discarding her body in a wooded area of Citizens Park in Belleville.

Reeves was found barely alive around 2 a.m. on April 29, 2006, after a 30-hour search initiated when she was reported missing. Miraculously surviving the attack, she endured significant brain trauma and underwent a painstaking recovery process to relearn fundamental skills such as swallowing, walking, and talking.

During his incarceration, Shelton was housed at Illinois River Correctional Center, beginning in June 2007. His early release on parole, scheduled to last until April 2027, has reignited discussions about justice and rehabilitation.

The case garnered extensive media coverage due to the shocking nature of the crime and Shelton's dual life as an educator and wrestler. His confession and the subsequent discovery of Reeves alive were pivotal moments in the investigation, which revealed the extent of his betrayal.

In a recent interview, Reeves, now in her 30s, shared her ongoing recovery journey and her determination to move forward. "It’s been a long and challenging road, but I’m focused on my future and continuing to heal," she told KSDK.

As the community reflects on Shelton's release, many continue to be haunted by the severity of the crime and its impact on a young student. The case remains a profound example of survival and the complex questions surrounding sentencing and parole in the criminal justice system.
Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

The trial of Karen Read, the 43-year-old Mansfield woman charged with the second-degree murder of her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe, began with riveting opening statements and emotional testimonies on Monday.

Accused of hitting O'Keefe with her vehicle during a blizzard on January 29, 2022, Read has maintained her innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges. The tragic incident unfolded outside a Canton home, culminating a night marred by heavy drinking.

Prosecutor Adam Lally delivered a stark opening statement, detailing the events leading to O'Keefe's untimely death. "Karen Read is guilty of murder in the second degree. She struck Mr. O'Keefe with a car, knocking him back onto the ground, causing critical head injuries from which he did not recover," Lally said. He painted a picture of a fatal altercation that left O'Keefe bleeding and swelling in the brain, ultimately leading to his death.

In a dramatic counter, defense attorney David Yannetti contested the prosecution's narrative, claiming his client was a scapegoat in a broader conspiracy. "Karen Read was framed. Her car never struck John O'Keefe. She did not cause his death. And that means that somebody else did it," Yannetti argued. The defense has been vocal about their theory of a cover-up, suggesting that O'Keefe was actually assaulted inside the home and attributing his injuries to a beating and a dog attack, rather than a vehicular assault.

The jury selection process, which lasted five days, resulted in a panel of 17 jurors—seven women and ten men. There were initial concerns about the courtroom layout affecting Read's right to a fair trial, leading to a last-minute switch to a smaller courtroom to address these issues.

The first witness, Paul O'Keefe, the victim's brother, took the stand. His testimony provided a heart-wrenching account of the aftermath, describing a distraught Read at the hospital screaming, "Is he alive?" as she was restrained by staff.

Prosecutors have announced plans to call up to 87 witnesses, while the defense may call up to 77, indicating the extensive evidence and testimonies expected to be presented. Some individuals are listed as potential witnesses for both sides, suggesting key overlaps in the narratives to be examined.

The trial, expected to last between six to eight weeks, promises more twists as both sides delve deeper into the events of that fateful night. With the judge ruling that the defense may argue a third-party culprit theory, the courtroom is set for a series of contentious debates over what really happened to Officer O'Keefe.

As the community watches closely, the case not only explores the tragic death of a police officer but also probes themes of justice, accountability, and the intricate dynamics within law enforcement relationships. Security measures including a "buffer zone" have been established around the courthouse, reflecting the trial's high-profile nature and contentious backdrop.

Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

Stephan Sterns, the man accused of the brutal murder of 13-year-old Madeline Soto, waived his right to appear at his arraignment on Monday, adding another layer of complexity to a case that has shocked the community of Kissimmee, Florida. Sterns was scheduled to enter a plea but chose not to attend the court session.

Madeline Soto, the daughter of Sterns' girlfriend, was reported missing after Sterns failed to drop her off at Hunters Creek Middle School on February 26. Investigators allege that instead of taking her to school, Sterns killed her and subsequently dumped her body. Further investigation revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse, with evidence suggesting Sterns had been molesting Soto for years and capturing these acts on his mobile phone.

The court has proceeded with setting a timeline for the case, regardless of Sterns' absence. An Osceola County court administrator indicated that a pre-trial hearing is slated for July 10, and the trial is scheduled to start on July 16, though it may face delays.

Prosecutors are now faced with a critical decision within the next 45 days: whether to pursue the death penalty against Sterns. To justify such a sentence, they must present aggravating factors, which in Sterns' case could include his role as a parental figure to Madeline, the premeditated nature of the murder, and its connection to prolonged sexual abuse.

"The case against Mr. Sterns is built on a foundation of egregious betrayals and criminal actions that culminated in a tragic loss of young life," stated the prosecution team. "We are committed to seeking justice for Madeline, ensuring that all facts and circumstances are thoroughly considered in our pursuit of an appropriate sentence."

The community and the family of Madeline Soto await justice in a case that has deeply affected many, drawing attention to the horrors of domestic abuse hidden behind closed doors. As the legal process unfolds, the memory of Madeline and the fight for her justice remain at the forefront of this tragic narrative.


Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com