Crime Time Inc

Crime Time Inc

Crime Time Inc. brings real investigative experience to true crime storytelling. Hosted by former detectives Tom Wood and Simon McLean, the podcast blends authentic policing insight with gripping, long-form narratives. Tom brings decades of investigative leadership from some of Scotland’s most complex cases, while Simon draws on his background in the murder squad and undercover work. Together, they combine sharp analysis, wit, and classic East–West Scottish banter. Every week, Crime Time Inc. delivers: • Deep-dive Scottish and UK policing episodes, where Tom and Simon break down real investigations, procedure, decision-making, and lessons learned from inside the job. • Immersive long-form true crime documentary series, exploring major cases like Charles Manson and the Zodiac Killer, followed by exclusive detective commentary you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re here for the insider knowledge or the cinematic storytelling, Crime Time Inc. brings you true crime with the experience and perspective of people who have genuinely lived it. Both Simon and Tom are regular contributors to the American True Crime Podcast, Small Town Dicks hosted by Yardley Smith. Real cases. Real detectives. Real talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Steve Wright: Suffolk Strangler, Victoria Hall & the Cold Case Breakthrough

    2 DAYS AGO

    Steve Wright: Suffolk Strangler, Victoria Hall & the Cold Case Breakthrough

    How Suffolk Constabulary secured justice decades later — and what this case reveals about sex worker safety, family liaison, evidence-led policing, and whistleblowers. In this episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom examine Steve Wright — widely known as the “Suffolk Strangler” (also referred to as the “Ipswich Ripper”) — and the cold case breakthrough that linked him to the 1999 abduction and murder of 17-year-old Victoria Hall.We unpack what made Suffolk Constabulary’s investigation stand out, how advances in forensic science can reopen “closed” history, and why long-term family liaison support can matter for decades, not days.Simon and Tom also explore the realities of policing vulnerable communities, the risks faced by sex workers working on the street, and how systems and legislation can unintentionally increase danger rather than reduce it.The conversation broadens into “policing politics” — when forces get pulled into high-stakes public controversies — and finishes on a practical, real-world discussion of whistleblowers: how to separate genuine warnings from grievance, and why leadership must follow the evidence either way.Listener note: This episode discusses murder and violence against women.Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 Crime Time Inc. intro00:44 A pause from Zodiac: back to the Suffolk Strangler case02:42 Suffolk Constabulary’s investigation & long-term family liaison05:18 Broadchurch and what not to do as a family liaison officer07:22 Steve Wright, victims’ families, and the 1999 case08:39 Pattern, geography, and “spree” timelines10:32 Could there be other victims? What a national review would look like12:38 Background, travel, and potential links to other cases13:59 Databases, forensic backstops, and eliminating suspects15:36 Sex work, safety, and where the system increases risk29:10 Policing politics and resource drain41:36 Whistleblowers vs malcontents — how leaders should respond46:30 Evidence, objectivity, and recurring lessons47:10 Closing reflections Steve Wright, Suffolk Strangler, Ipswich Ripper, Victoria Hall, Suffolk Constabulary, cold case, DNA evidence, forensic science, family liaison officer, sex worker safety, policing politics, whistleblowers, UK true crime, Crime Time Inc, Simon and Tom In memory of Victoria Hall (17) — murdered in 1999.Anneli Alderton, Paula Clennell, Gemma Adams, Tania Nicol, Annette Nicholls — murdered in the Ipswich area in 2006. You can buy the books mentioned in the podcast's by clicking the links below Tom's Best Selling Book: Ruxton: The First Modern Murder Paperback Edition Ruxton: The First Modern Murder Kindle Edition Simon's Best Selling Book: The Ten Percent Paperback Edition The Ten Percent Kindle Edition Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min
  2. Zodiac Killer: Lake Berryessa Stabbing (Hartnell & Shepard)

    6 DAYS AGO

    Zodiac Killer: Lake Berryessa Stabbing (Hartnell & Shepard)

    Two former senior detectives examine the Zodiac Killer’s most disturbing escalation: the Lake Berryessa attack. In broad daylight, the Zodiac abandons the gun, dons a costume, and turns murder into performance. We unpack what this shift reveals about planning, psychology, investigative blind spots in 1969, and why—despite unprecedented evidence—the killer still walked away. We also explore cryptography, Air Force links, witness behaviour, and the uncomfortable reality that the Zodiac wounded more victims than he killed. What we cover (chapter guide)00:00 — Cold open: Episode context; why Lake Berryessa marks a turning point01:10 — The silence before the storm: August 1969 and the lull after the cipher05:30 — Setting the scene: Pacific Union College, Bryan Hartnell, Cecelia Shepard10:15 — Lake Berryessa: daylight, isolation, and opportunity14:40 — Witnesses before the attack: watching, waiting, selecting18:10 — The costume appears: hood, symbol, and psychological theatre22:30 — Control and deception: the escaped-convict story and premeditation26:50 — Knife vs. gun: why this choice matters more than it seems32:20 — The attack: sequence, survival, and what Hartnell could tell police38:10 — Aftermath: the car door message and the call to Napa Sheriff’s Office42:45 — Evidence rarely seen in Zodiac cases: shoe prints, palm print, handwriting47:30 — The Air Force connection: wing-walker boots and cryptography skills53:10 — What 1969 police didn’t have: DNA, databases, behavioural profiling59:40 — Performance vs. panic: what the shaking hands reveal1:04:30 — Victim focus: remembering Cecelia Shepard1:09:20 — Why this case still matters: escalation, audience, and unfinished justice(Timings may vary slightly by platform.) Key takeaways“This wasn’t impulsive.” The costume, bindings, and knife show planning and rehearsal.“Daylight changes everything.” Witness quality improves—but so does offender confidence.“The Zodiac wasn’t trained to kill.” He wounded more victims than he killed, even at close range.“Evidence isn’t the same as answers.” Lake Berryessa produced more physical clues than any prior attack—yet still no suspect.“This was theatre.” The Zodiac needed to be seen, remembered, and talked about.Helpful contextThe Lake Berryessa attack (27 September 1969) is the only confirmed Zodiac assault with surviving victims and a full eyewitness account.It is also the only Zodiac crime involving a costume and a knife, making it critical for behavioural analysis.Listener noteThis episode contains discussion of violent assault and homicide. Listener discretion advised. Call to actionIf you value case-led analysis grounded in real policing experience, follow or subscribe.Share this episode with someone who thinks the Zodiac was “just a cipher and some letters.” You can buy the books mentioned in the podcast's by clicking the links below Tom's Best Selling Book: Ruxton: The First Modern Murder Paperback Edition Ruxton: The First Modern Murder Kindle Edition Simon's Best Selling Book: The Ten Percent Paperback Edition The Ten Percent Kindle Edition Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 17m
  3. Epstein Files Fallout in the UK: Mandelson, Starmer, Vetting Failures — and the Victims We Forget

    8 FEB

    Epstein Files Fallout in the UK: Mandelson, Starmer, Vetting Failures — and the Victims We Forget

    Two former senior detectives unpack the latest Epstein-files political shockwaves and what they reveal about power, vetting, and institutional judgement—before turning the spotlight back where it belongs: trafficking, coercion, and the victims who get sidelined.We also dig into jury decisions in protest cases, the realities of policing resources, and why the $100 bill may be the ultimate “quiet” enabler of illicit finance.What we cover (chapter guide) 00:00 — Cold open: Tom & Simon catch up; “what’s happening in the UK?”00:26 — Epstein files & UK fallout: why this story is detonating now, and what the controversy says about leadership judgement03:12 — Politics vs. priorities: why scandal crowds out wars, crises, and policy04:04 — “He was vetted” (really?): what enhanced/positive vetting should look like (ex-police perspective)06:38 — The “useful rogue” problem: why institutions sometimes gamble on ruthless operators09:22 — The human cost: why trafficking stories get buried beneath political theatre12:48 — Spotting exploitation in plain sight: why awareness training can matter (and where it can fall short)13:59 — Sex work realities: poverty, coercion, stigma, and the gap between politics and lived experience21:14 — Case reference: the Sheila Anderson murder (Edinburgh, 1983) and what it changed in policing25:52 — Resources & reality: why money, kit, and trained people decide what gets solved35:48 — Protest trials & juries: when verdicts collide with public mood—and the risks of perceived “justice failure”44:59 — The $100 bill mystery: why printing more high-denomination notes raises uncomfortable questions Key takeaways “An email is forever”: digital records outlive reputations—and institutions ignore that at their peril.“Vetting isn’t a tick-box”: real vetting corroborates, triangulates, and verifies—especially for elite appointments.“Scandal coverage is easy; victim coverage is hard”: the media default often erases survivors from the frame. Helpful context Recent reporting describes major political controversy in the UK tied to Epstein-related document releases and questions around Mandelson’s links and appointment vetting, with ongoing scrutiny and investigation coverage. Listener note This episode discusses sexual abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and violence. Listener discretion advised. Call to action If you value victim-focused coverage and real policing insight, follow/subscribe and share this episode with someone who only sees the headlines. The Tragic Case of Sheila Anderson Part 1 Season 1, Ep. 27 February 25, 2024 Part 2 Season 1 Ep 28 March 3, 2024 About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    47 min
  4. The Zodiac Killer's Game: Decoding His Infamous Cipher

    4 FEB

    The Zodiac Killer's Game: Decoding His Infamous Cipher

    What Two Former Detectives See in the Zodiac’s Letters! On August 1, 1969, three Northern California newspapers received mysterious letters that would transform a local murder investigation into a national obsession. The letters connected two previous attacks in the Vallejo area and introduced the Zodiac killer, providing specific details only the murderer could know, along with a threatening cipher. Upon publication, the cipher was decoded by a high school teacher and his wife, revealing the killer's chilling manifesto. This episode recounts the early crimes and the intense public and police scrutiny that followed, setting the stage for the Zodiac's reign of terror. 00:00 A Normal Morning in San Francisco 00:49 The Zodiac Killer's First Letters 00:53 Revisiting the Murders 02:01 The Chilling Phone Call 02:51 Families in Limbo 04:12 A Summer of Fear 04:53 The Killer's Letters Arrive 05:49 The Zodiac's Confession 07:33 The Enigmatic Cipher 11:54 The Newspapers' Dilemma 15:35 Chief Stiltz's Challenge 17:12 The Zodiac's Response 22:47 The Hardens Crack the Code 26:19 The Chilling Message 30:37 The Aftermath and Debate 33:45 Remembering the Victims 36:08 The Zodiac's Legacy 37:20 Next Episode Teaser About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 4m
  5. Inside ICE: When Immigration Raids Lead to Tragedy

    1 FEB

    Inside ICE: When Immigration Raids Lead to Tragedy

    Crime Time Inc: Controversial Cases and Listener Feedback Good afternoon, and welcome to Crime Time Inc., the hub of intriguing and controversial true crime discussions! In this episode, hosts Tom and Simon address recent feedback from listeners across the globe, with a keen focus on a contentious shooting incident in Minneapolis. They dive into the nuances of ICE operations, discussing the cultural differences between American and Scottish law enforcement perspectives. This episode also touches on the politicization of immigration, the controversies surrounding sanctuary cities, and how international policies impact local enforcement. With lively debate, thoughtful listener letters, and a balance of serious analysis and light-hearted banter, Tom and Simon unpack the layers of crime and law enforcement from both sides of the pond. Tune in to explore ongoing unsolved mysteries, criminal psychology, and some of history's most shocking crimes. 00:00 Welcome to Crime Time International 01:14 Discussing Listener Feedback 02:35 Reading Listener's Letter 08:03 Analyzing the Minneapolis Incident 15:19 Debating Law Enforcement and Immigration Policies 21:03 Federal vs. Local Law Enforcement Dynamics 21:25 The Importance of Cooperation in Law Enforcement 22:00 Accountability and Inquiry in Law Enforcement 22:14 Broader Implications of Protests and Public Debate 22:53 The Role of the United States in Global Politics 23:25 Political Reactions to Critical Incidents 23:58 A Brutal Murder Case and Its Implications 24:26 Layers of Investigation in Murder Cases 26:19 Cultural Differences and Misinterpretations 26:36 The Glasgow Stabbing Case 28:46 Feedback and Reflections on Policing 30:04 Corporal Punishment Debate 31:03 Listener Feedback and International Reach 33:59 Greenland Anecdote and Credible Evidence 35:44 Conclusion and Farewell About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    36 min
  6. Two-Tier Policing: Potential Perils and Promises

    28 JAN

    Two-Tier Policing: Potential Perils and Promises

    Reforming the Police: A Discussion on Crime Time Inc. In this compelling episode of Crime Time Inc., hosts Simon and Tom engage in an insightful conversation about the current state of policing in the UK and the USA, addressing recent reforms and their implications. They dive deep into the significance of effective investigative techniques and the lessons learned from infamous cases like Rockton and the World’s End Murders. The discussion shifts to the controversial formation of a new national police force in England and Wales, drawing parallels with Scotland's Police Scotland and the FBI's structure in the USA. Tom's extensive experience, combined with his personal anecdotes, brings fascinating perspectives on crime investigation, the role of sergeants, and the potential pitfalls of a two-tier police system. They touch on the interconnectedness of all parts of the criminal justice system, the dangers of political interference, and reflect on the broader implications for law enforcement practices globally. Tune in to explore the intriguing intersections of criminal psychology, unsolved mysteries, and the continuous evolution of policing methods. 00:00 Introduction and Greetings 00:03 Discussing Crime Time Inc. Success 00:29 Book Review and Crossover 01:02 Tom's Books and Investigative Techniques 02:53 UK's New National Police Force 04:08 Understanding the FBI's Role 06:12 Police Reforms in England and Wales 09:15 Challenges and Concerns with Reforms 11:00 Two-Tier Police System Issues 21:33 Lessons from International Police Restructuring 23:32 Reflecting on Police Experience and Reform 24:41 The Importance of Community Policing 25:14 Challenges in the Criminal Justice System 26:35 Failures in Policing and Training 27:46 The Role of Sergeants in Policing 29:54 Issues with Federal Forces and Jurisdiction 32:15 Recruitment and Training Concerns 41:53 The Impact of Facial Recognition Technology 44:50 Concluding Thoughts and Anecdotes About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    46 min
  7. Jack the Ripper, Fred West and more.

    25 JAN

    Jack the Ripper, Fred West and more.

    Today's episode from the archives presents a lively conversation between Simon and Tom, covering various crime cases and their historical and forensic significance. They discuss recent personal updates, including Tom’s hoarse voice from a walking football match. The main topics include notable criminal cases like Rodney Alcala, the 'Dating Game Killer,' and his impact on forensic science and social media exploitation. Another focus is on the infamous John Christie and the wrongful execution of Timothy Evans, highlighting the importance of corroborating evidence in legal cases. Attention is also given to the atrocities of Fred and Rosemary West with insights into the challenges of identifying missing persons. They delve into the historical impact of Jack the Ripper on media and public perceptions of serial killers, and Dennis Nilsen's gruesome practices. The dialogue underscores the importance of forensic evidence in solving crimes and ensuring justice. About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  8. The Changing Face of Crime

    21 JAN

    The Changing Face of Crime

    Tom and Simon chat with cybersecurity expert Craig Taylor about rising cybercrime, online fraud, and safety tips. Craig emphasises the need for cyber literacy and offers practical advice to protect against digital threats. In this illuminating episode of **Crime Time Inc.**, hosts Tom and Simon sit down with cybersecurity expert Craig Taylor to unravel the intricacies of cybercrime in the modern world. With a background that uniquely blends psychology and cybersecurity, Craig shares valuable insights into the challenges posed by the digital age, emphasizing that over 50% of crime is now committed online. The discussion traverses various dimensions of cyber threats, including fraud, misinformation, and the disturbing rise of manipulative online schemes. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of different types of cybercriminals, the difficulties law enforcement faces in tracking them, and the pressing need for cyber literacy. Craig offers practical advice on essential practices like password hygiene and recognizing phishing attempts, while also addressing the alarming potential of AI manipulation in cyber fraud scenarios. The episode wraps up with vital resources from CyberHoot aimed at enhancing online safety, reinforcing the importance of proactive measures in the digital landscape. Join Tom and Simon as they equip you with the knowledge to safeguard yourself and your loved ones against the complexities of cyber threats. Don't miss this essential guide to navigating the digital realm securely! CyberHoot website: https://cyberhoot.com/ Chapters0:08 Welcome to Crime Time Inc. 0:51 Meet Our Cyber Expert Craig Taylor 3:09 Understanding Cybercrime and Its Impact 7:13 The Dark Side of Misinformation 9:22 Categories of Cybercriminals 15:09 Tracking Online Sex Offenders 19:42 The Importance of Cyber Literacy 21:11 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity 23:09 Navigating Email Security 25:29 Mastering Password Hygiene 29:04 Recognising Phishing Attempts 33:31 Choosing a Password Manager 40:42 Planning for Digital Legacy 47:20 Protecting Against AI Impersonation 49:54 Staying Informed on Cybersecurity 52:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Insights This engaging episode of **Crime Time Inc.** not only sheds light on the ever-evolving landscape of cybercrime but also empowers listeners with actionable insights and knowledge to protect themselves and their loved ones in a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected and complex. Don't miss this opportunity to arm yourself with the information needed to navigate the digital age safely! About Crime Time Inc. Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic. This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history. Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work. Two crime worlds. One podcast. New episodes released regularly throughout the season. Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/ If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us. Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey. http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min

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About

Crime Time Inc. brings real investigative experience to true crime storytelling. Hosted by former detectives Tom Wood and Simon McLean, the podcast blends authentic policing insight with gripping, long-form narratives. Tom brings decades of investigative leadership from some of Scotland’s most complex cases, while Simon draws on his background in the murder squad and undercover work. Together, they combine sharp analysis, wit, and classic East–West Scottish banter. Every week, Crime Time Inc. delivers: • Deep-dive Scottish and UK policing episodes, where Tom and Simon break down real investigations, procedure, decision-making, and lessons learned from inside the job. • Immersive long-form true crime documentary series, exploring major cases like Charles Manson and the Zodiac Killer, followed by exclusive detective commentary you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you’re here for the insider knowledge or the cinematic storytelling, Crime Time Inc. brings you true crime with the experience and perspective of people who have genuinely lived it. Both Simon and Tom are regular contributors to the American True Crime Podcast, Small Town Dicks hosted by Yardley Smith. Real cases. Real detectives. Real talk. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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