The Missing Report: True crime, missing persons & justice

Shirley Sutton

The Missing Report, hosted by Shirley Sutton, is a gripping narrative podcast dedicated to uncovering the truth behind missing persons cases and the relentless pursuit of justice. Each episode invites listeners into the emotional core of real-life mysteries, blending investigative rigor with deep empathy for victims and their families. Shirley’s compelling narration transforms complex files into intimate stories that resonate long after the final word is spoken. This show offers a profound look at how communities come together when someone disappears, highlighting both the heartbreak and the hope that define these searches. Dive deep into unsolved mysteries, cold case investigations, and true crime stories that challenge our understanding of safety and trust. Explore topics like serial killer profiles, kidnapping survivals, and forensic breakthroughs that finally bring closure to decades-old cases. The podcast examines the psychology of disappearances, the role of law enforcement in missing persons investigations, and the impact of digital evidence on solving crimes. From high-profile national cases to overlooked local tragedies, every story is presented with factual precision and respectful storytelling. Listeners will discover the intricate details of detective work, witness testimonies, and the legal battles fought for accountability. Ideal for true crime enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone interested in social justice and human resilience, this series delivers weekly episodes packed with suspense and insight. Shirley Sutton’s warm yet authoritative voice guides you through each chapter with clarity and compassion, ensuring every victim is remembered with dignity. Whether you are a seasoned fan of investigative journalism or new to the genre, The Missing Report provides a consistent, high-quality listening experience that informs and moves its audience. Join Shirley Sutton and the Humanity Media network today by following and subscribing to The Missing Report for your next immersive true crime journey. Topics: true crime podcast, missing persons cases, unsolved mysteries, cold case investigations, justice for victims, shirley sutton host, humanity media network, serial killer stories, kidnapping survivors, forensic breakthroughs, law enforcement interviews, witness testimonies, digital evidence, social justice podcast, investigative journalism, crime documentary, victim advocacy, community support #TrueCrime #MissingPersons #JusticeSeekers #ColdCases #UnsolvedMysteries #ShirleySutton #HumanityMedia #InvestigativeJournalism #CrimeDocumentary #ForensicScience #VictimAdvocacy #SerialKillerStories #KidnappingSurvivors #LawEnforcement #CommunitySupport #PodcastLovers General information, not professional advice.

Episodes

  1. 11h ago

    The Officer Who Haunted California: Justice for the Golden State Killer | The Missing Report

    In this episode of The Missing Report, host Kira Terry delves into the chilling true crime story of Joseph James DeAngelo Jr., widely known as the Golden State Killer. This is not just a recounting of crimes; it is an exploration of how a man with a badge used his intimate knowledge of police procedures to evade capture for decades. The episode examines the terrifying irony of DeAngelo serving as a burglary-unit officer in Exeter and Sacramento while simultaneously committing burglaries, rapes, and murders across California. Listeners will learn about his early life, including traumatic childhood events and military service, which shaped his path from a troubled youth to one of America's most prolific serial offenders. The narrative traces the evolution of the case from fragmented investigations—labeled variously as the Visalia Ransacker, East Area Rapist, and Original Night Stalker—to the breakthrough provided by forensic genetic genealogy. We discuss the pivotal role of DNA technology, the establishment of California’s DNA database, and the investigative work that connected disparate crimes spanning 120 burglaries, 51 rapes, and 13 murders. The episode highlights the contributions of crime writer Michelle McNamara, whose advocacy kept the case alive, and details the specific evidence, such as a discarded tissue box, that finally led to DeAngelo’s arrest in 2018. This deep dive covers the legal aftermath, including DeAngelo’s guilty plea, his sentence of life imprisonment without parole, and the statute of limitations issues regarding the 1970s rape charges. Beyond the facts and dates, the episode reflects on the psychological horror of a predator who hid in plain sight within the law enforcement community. It serves as a somber reminder of the resilience of victims and the enduring power of modern forensic science to solve cold cases. Whether you are a true crime enthusiast, a student of criminal justice, or simply interested in the mechanics of high-profile investigations, this episode offers a comprehensive and harrowing look at justice delayed but ultimately served. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_James_DeAngelo · https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-00342-4 More from The Missing Report: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-report Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joseph_James_DeAngelo Topics: golden state killer, joseph james deangelo, true crime podcast, cold case solved, forensic genetic genealogy, east area rapist, visalia ransacker, original night stalker, serial killer psychology, california true crime, dna database, michelle mcnamara, police corruption stories, criminal justice system #GoldenStateKiller #TrueCrime #ColdCase #SerialKiller #ForensicScience #JusticeServed #MissingReport #CrimeDocumentary #Investigation #CaliforniaHistory #PodcastEpisode #UnsolvedMysteries Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-report/2026-09-07.txt

  2. 1d ago

    The Day the Beach Went Quiet: The Beaumont Children | The Missing Report

    On January 26, 1966, three siblings—Jane, Arnna, and Grant Beaumont—disappeared from Glenelg Beach in Adelaide, Australia, marking one of the most enduring and chilling mysteries in true crime history. This episode of The Missing Report reconstructs the timeline of that sweltering summer day, exploring how a routine bus ride turned into a national nightmare. Host Kira Terry details the initial panic, the massive police search efforts, and the disturbing witness accounts of a man seen walking away with the children. We delve into the psychological shift this case caused in Australian society, ending the era of free-range childhood and instilling a permanent sense of vigilance among parents. The investigation has spanned decades, surviving false leads and forensic dead ends. We examine the 1998 interrogation of convicted murderer Derek Ernest Percy, whose DNA was excluded as a biological father but who remains a person of interest due to incriminating statements made years prior. The narrative also touches on the broader context of unsolved abductions in Adelaide, including the 1973 Adelaide Oval cases, suggesting potential patterns of predatory behavior in the region. Despite modern forensic techniques re-examining soil samples and clothing evidence, and a million-dollar reward offered by the South Australian government, no trace of Jane, Arnna, or Grant has ever been found. Their absence remains a haunting void in the historical record. This episode is essential listening for fans of cold case investigations, historical true crime, and stories about the intersection of justice and mystery. It provides a respectful yet thorough examination of the evidence, the societal impact, and the human cost of an unanswered question. By weaving together police reports, witness testimonies, and the emotional toll on the Beaumont family, we honor the memory of the children while analyzing why this case continues to captivate and disturb the public imagination fifty years later. Join us as we explore the shadows where the Beaumont children vanished, seeking clarity in a story defined by its silence. Listen to The Missing Report for more deep dives into unresolved crimes and historical mysteries. If you find value in these stories, please support the show via the link in our description to help keep independent journalism alive. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disappearance_of_the_Beaumont_children · https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaumont_children_disappearance · https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-01-26/beaumont-children-disappearance-50-years-on/7135682 More from The Missing Report: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-report Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disappearance_of_the_Beaumont_children Topics: beaumont children disappearance, glenelg beach mystery, australian true crime, cold case investigations, derek ernest percy, adelaide missing persons, jane arnna grant beaumont, unsolved child abductions, 1966 australia crime, true crime podcast episodes, forensic analysis cold cases, south australia history #beaumontchildren #truecrime #coldcase #mystery #australiamystery #unsolved #podcast #justice #historicalcrime #glenelgbeach #missingpersons #investigation Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-report/2026-09-06.txt

  3. 3d ago

    The Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run: A Story Lost to Time | The Missing Report

    In this episode of The Missing Report, host Jennifer McCarthy delves into the chilling and complex history of the Mad Butcher of Kingsbury Run, a serial killer who terrorized Cleveland, Ohio, during the late 1930s. This true crime narrative explores how the killer exploited the invisibility of the impoverished residents in the 'Hobo Jungle'—a shantytown known as 'The Roaring Third'—to decapitate and dismember at least twelve victims between 1935 and 1938, with estimates suggesting the toll may have been much higher. The episode provides a deep dive into the forensic challenges of the era, the erasure of identities among the victims, and the desperate, controversial measures taken by Public Safety Director Eliot Ness to stop the murders. We examine the psychological warfare waged against Ness, including the taunting postcards and the display of remains at City Hall, while also highlighting the broader social context of the Great Depression that allowed these crimes to remain hidden for so long. The story traces the investigation from the initial raids and burning of the shanties to the eventual closure of files without convictions. Crucially, the episode connects this historical tragedy to modern justice, detailing the 2024 collaboration between the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner’s Office and the DNA Doe Project. Using investigative genetic genealogy, scientists are now exhuming remains to finally identify the anonymous John Does and Jane Does, restoring dignity and names to those who were treated as disposable. This episode is essential listening for fans of unsolved mysteries, cold case investigations, and historical true crime. It offers a respectful yet unflinching look at how societal neglect facilitated violence against the marginalized, and how modern technology is beginning to rewrite history. We discuss the specific cases of Edward Andrassy, Florence Polillo, and Rose Wallace, alongside the ongoing search for the remaining unidentified victims. By focusing on the human stories behind the police logs, we honor the memory of those lost and underscore the importance of bearing witness to their lives. Join us as we explore the intersection of past injustice and present-day truth-seeking. Thank you for joining me on this journey through the shadows of Kingsbury Run. If this episode resonated with you or helped bring light to these forgotten stories, please consider supporting the show via the link below. Your support allows us to continue investigating unsolved crimes and honoring the families affected by them. Subscribe to The Missing Report for more deep dives into mysteries that demand answers. Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cleveland_Torso_Murderer More from The Missing Report: https://humanitymedia.org/the-missing-report Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cleveland_Torso_Murderer Topics: mad butcher of kingsbury run, cleveland serial killer, eli ot ness untouchables, dna doe project, investigative genetic genealogy, unsolved true crime, cold case cleveland ohio, hooverville hobo jungle, forensic anthropology, 1930s serial murders, unidentified human remains, true crime podcast, jennifer mccarthy missing report #truecrime #unsolvedmysteries #coldcase #kingsburyrun #clevelandhistory #geneticgenealogy #eliotness #forensicscience #missingpersons #podcastrecommendation #justiceforvictims #historicalmystery Transcript: https://cdn.humanitymedia.org/transcripts/the-missing-report/2026-09-04.txt

About

The Missing Report, hosted by Shirley Sutton, is a gripping narrative podcast dedicated to uncovering the truth behind missing persons cases and the relentless pursuit of justice. Each episode invites listeners into the emotional core of real-life mysteries, blending investigative rigor with deep empathy for victims and their families. Shirley’s compelling narration transforms complex files into intimate stories that resonate long after the final word is spoken. This show offers a profound look at how communities come together when someone disappears, highlighting both the heartbreak and the hope that define these searches. Dive deep into unsolved mysteries, cold case investigations, and true crime stories that challenge our understanding of safety and trust. Explore topics like serial killer profiles, kidnapping survivals, and forensic breakthroughs that finally bring closure to decades-old cases. The podcast examines the psychology of disappearances, the role of law enforcement in missing persons investigations, and the impact of digital evidence on solving crimes. From high-profile national cases to overlooked local tragedies, every story is presented with factual precision and respectful storytelling. Listeners will discover the intricate details of detective work, witness testimonies, and the legal battles fought for accountability. Ideal for true crime enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone interested in social justice and human resilience, this series delivers weekly episodes packed with suspense and insight. Shirley Sutton’s warm yet authoritative voice guides you through each chapter with clarity and compassion, ensuring every victim is remembered with dignity. Whether you are a seasoned fan of investigative journalism or new to the genre, The Missing Report provides a consistent, high-quality listening experience that informs and moves its audience. Join Shirley Sutton and the Humanity Media network today by following and subscribing to The Missing Report for your next immersive true crime journey. Topics: true crime podcast, missing persons cases, unsolved mysteries, cold case investigations, justice for victims, shirley sutton host, humanity media network, serial killer stories, kidnapping survivors, forensic breakthroughs, law enforcement interviews, witness testimonies, digital evidence, social justice podcast, investigative journalism, crime documentary, victim advocacy, community support #TrueCrime #MissingPersons #JusticeSeekers #ColdCases #UnsolvedMysteries #ShirleySutton #HumanityMedia #InvestigativeJournalism #CrimeDocumentary #ForensicScience #VictimAdvocacy #SerialKillerStories #KidnappingSurvivors #LawEnforcement #CommunitySupport #PodcastLovers General information, not professional advice.