18 episodes

When Afrikka Hardy was strangled in 2014 it seemed completely random, but it wasn’t. It was part of a pattern.

Four years earlier, reporter Thomas Hargrove had created an algorithm to detect serial killers and flagged Gary, Indiana as the site of an unusual number of strangulations.

But when Hargrove reached out to warn local police, he was ignored -- until Afrikka Hardy was murdered, and those cold cases suddenly didn’t look so cold.

Algorithm follows the investigation into Afrikka’s murder, exposing the warnings that police ignored, and uncovering more than anyone expected -- that a serial killer was strangling women in Gary, Indiana could've been stopped. And that Afrikka Hardy should be alive today. 

This podcast will explore how technology can be used to identify and track serial killers, and how an algorithm can influence the way homicides are investigated all across the country.

Algorithm Tenderfoot TV

    • True Crime
    • 4.4 • 7 Ratings

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires subscription and macOS 11.4 or higher

When Afrikka Hardy was strangled in 2014 it seemed completely random, but it wasn’t. It was part of a pattern.

Four years earlier, reporter Thomas Hargrove had created an algorithm to detect serial killers and flagged Gary, Indiana as the site of an unusual number of strangulations.

But when Hargrove reached out to warn local police, he was ignored -- until Afrikka Hardy was murdered, and those cold cases suddenly didn’t look so cold.

Algorithm follows the investigation into Afrikka’s murder, exposing the warnings that police ignored, and uncovering more than anyone expected -- that a serial killer was strangling women in Gary, Indiana could've been stopped. And that Afrikka Hardy should be alive today. 

This podcast will explore how technology can be used to identify and track serial killers, and how an algorithm can influence the way homicides are investigated all across the country.

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Requires subscription and macOS 11.4 or higher

    Afrikka Didn't Need to Die

    Afrikka Didn't Need to Die

    When Afrikka Hardy was strangled in 2014 it seemed completely random. But it wasn’t. It was part of a pattern.
    Lori Townsend reminisces about her daughter Afrikka, and journalist Thomas Hargrove says Afrikka's death could've been prevented.
    Subscribe to Algorithm now, so you don't miss an episode, and follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter for more information about the case.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • 32 min
    Bonus | Q&A

    Bonus | Q&A

    Ben listens to voicemails and answers listener questions.
    You can leave a voicemail of your own at 888-501-3309. Or ask a question or leave a tip on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter @Ben_kuebrich.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • 22 min
    The Algorithm

    The Algorithm

    Four years before Afrikka's Death, reporter Thomas Hargrove took clues from the Atlanta child murders and the Green River Killer and created an algorithm to detect serial killers. His algorithm flagged Gary, Indiana as the site of an unusual number of strangulations. But how did this algorithm work, and what came of the findings?
    Thomas Hargrove discusses the creation of the algorithm and Dr. Mike Aamodt talks serial killing stats. Finally, host Ben Kuebrich receives an unexpected phone call.
    Subscribe to Algorithm now, so you don't miss an episode and leave a review! This is a brand new show that could really use your help. Also, follow host Ben Kuebrich on Twitter for more information about the case.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • 33 min
    Cold Cases

    Cold Cases

    Jackie investigates the cases Hargrove's algorithm identified. But there aren't any major leads... until Afrikka's murder.
    What really happened the night Afrikka was killed?
    Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. And follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • 31 min
    The Suspect

    The Suspect

    Detective Ford investigates Afrikka's killer... and discovers the killer may be connected to even more murders.
    Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • 33 min
    The Death March

    The Death March

    The Death March Continues as Darren Vann leads detectives to more victims... but it's unclear if he's telling the whole truth about his crimes ...
    Find out more about the case on twitter, instagram, or facebook. Follow host Ben Kuebrich on twitter. And reach out with any tips on Darren Vann, Big E, or crimes that might be related on social media or by leaving us a voicemail at 888-501-3309.

    Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    • 33 min

Customer Reviews

4.4 out of 5
7 Ratings

7 Ratings

Listening_While_Cleaning ,

Great Podcast

I totally disagree with the previous review- this is a brilliant podcast. It’s well written and easy to follow. Fantastic music from Make Up and Vanity Set as always. Ben narratives with compassion and sensitivity.
This podcast is definitely worth your time.

Ndebeledoll ,

Excellent Subject Matter/Poorly Produced

Such a poorly produced podcast with an amazingly powerful subject and content. The narrator has a terribly written script, full of grammatical errors, his voice is flat; meanwhile the subject matter has the ability to come alive and hold criminal justice to account, and still honour Afrikka. I cannot believe iHeartRadio and TenderfootTV put this out in such a poorly produced format.

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