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Five seasons. 268+ episodes. Cases from across the world — dissected, debated and brought to life by two former detectives who've seen it all.
288 episodes
The Golders Green Stabbings
In this insightful episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom reunite to dive deep into a variety of pressing issues that not only affect Scotland but resonate globally. As they take a brief break from their usual focus on historical cases, they engage in an enlightening conversation, drawing from Tom's extensive experience as a former Deputy Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders Police. The discussion kicks off with Simon sharing his recent interactions with police officers and the value of feedback in shaping their approach on Crime Time Inc. Drawing from these discussions, Tom elucidates the structural hierarchy within police ranks, clarifying the distinctions and responsibilities of roles such as Deputy Chief Constable and Assistant Chief Constable. Their extensive banter reveals how navigating the complexities of operational demands and political influences is a significant part of police work, informing listeners about the nuanced landscape of responsibility in law enforcement. Tom's reflections on his career shed light on the challenges of maintaining discipline and handling complaints, a responsibility he admits was not the most enjoyable aspect of his role. However, his approach emphasizes a progressive mindset towards discipline—believing in the potential for redemption rather than solely focusing on punitive measures. He shares a poignant anecdote about a detective whose actions could have been misinterpreted, stressing the importance of understanding an officer's character and past conduct when determining the right response to isolated incidents. The conversation then shifts to the realities of operational policing and the constraints officers face. Tom highlights that as one ascends the ranks, the illusion of increased authority often coincides with greater limitations influenced by budgetary and political factors. Using the example of a significant police budget cut in Scotland, he emphasizes how essential resources are in maintaining effective law enforcement and the impact of decreased funding on crime-solving capabilities and community safety. As they navigate through topics of crime prevention—specifically burglary—Tom expresses a deep-seated concern for the victims whose feeling of safety has been irrevocably damaged. He recounts personal encounters with victims and reflects on the lasting psychological impacts of such crimes. His narrative underscores the importance of emotional intelligence in policing, arguing that recognizing the human aspect of crime offers a more profound understanding that extends beyond statistics and detection rates. Tom also takes a moment to analyze contemporary issues surrounding hate crimes, drawing connections between mental health challenges and crimes committed by individuals suffering from severe mental illnesses. He points to recent events and the tragic outcomes they have produced, suggesting a systemic failure in addressing the needs of these vulnerable populations. Simon and Tom explore how underlying societal issues often contribute to crime, calling for strategic investments in mental health resources rather than reactive measures that merely address the symptoms of deeper problems. Bringing the episode to a thought-provoking close, Simon and Tom critique the naivety of political figures who engage in superficial commentary on complex matters of public safety and criminal justice. They argue that genuine change requires understanding the intricate dynamics at play rather than quick fixes or media-friendly soundbites. The pair advocates for a more nuanced dialogue that champions support for law enforcement while also addressing the root causes of crime, be it through community support, mental health resources, or societal reforms. Links to Percy Sillitoe Podcasts mentioned in this show https://crimetimeinc.com/episodes/percy-sillitoe-the-inspiration-for-james-bond-part-1 https://crimetimeinc.com/episodes/percy-sillitoe-the-inspiration-for-james-bond-part-2 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.
Why the Zodiac Killer Was Never Caught | Final Case Review
In this episode, we delve into the intricate case of the Zodiac Killer, reflecting on the thorough investigation and narrative crafted by Alex, who's been pivotal in summarizing the key elements of this elusive case. Through Alex’s comprehensive overview, we pay homage to the victims and draw distinctions between verified killings attributed to the Zodiac and other alleged murders. Despite decades passing, the case remains alive with ongoing public interest, leading to a continuous influx of suspect names, showcasing the enduring enigma the Zodiac has become. We explore the complexities that have accumulated over the last 50 years, emphasizing how the tales surrounding the Zodiac Killer have taken on a life of their own. The necessity arises to return to the inception of the investigations, utilizing modern technology such as artificial intelligence to sift through historical data to identify the genuine Zodiac murders versus those that have been mistakenly associated with him. This approach could pave the way for a more accurate forensic review, relying on evolved methodologies to address any degradation of evidence over time. Both Tom and Simon reflect on the huge investment of resources needed in cold cases like the Zodiac—a task that requires not only modern techniques but a fresh perspective unmarred by the "noise" of decades of speculation and myth-making. The discussion turns towards assessing the worth and feasibility of revisiting long-cold cases against the backdrop of contemporary murder rates and resource limitations for law enforcement agencies. We also touch on the necessity for proficiency in cryptography as a critical characteristic of the true Zodiac Killer, underscoring that this level of expertise would significantly narrow down the pool of suspects. The conversation further highlights the evolution of investigative techniques, by juxtaposing past practices with today’s advanced methodologies that could expose previously overlooked details in long-standing murder inquiries, especially focusing on stranger killings and suspicious deaths that may have been misclassified due to various systemic flaws in the investigative process. As the episode progresses, we reflect on the human aspects of the law enforcement officers who encountered the Zodiac's initial crimes—acknowledging their challenges and limited training at the time. Both hosts express admiration for Alex’s respectful treatment of these individuals while emphasizing the need for contemporary discussions to address the evolving dynamics of murder investigation teams and their management. Finally, we conclude by considering the potential future directions of investigations into the Zodiac case. As we celebrate Alex's innovative work, we ponder the implications of reopening old cases with a fresh lens and the importance of imparting lessons learned from past mistakes within law enforcement practices. The exchange leaves listeners with a profound sense of the shared history behind these investigations and the ongoing allure that such cases continue to exert on public imagination. Zodiac Killer Zodiac Killer investigation unsolved serial killers true crime podcast cold case review criminal investigation forensic failures police investigation mistakes Zodiac cryptography detective analysis unsolved mysteries cold case analysis 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.
Zodiac Killer Final Episode: The Remaining Suspects, The Failed Investigation, and Why the Case Is Still Unsolved
In the final episode of our Zodiac Killer series, we move beyond the best-known suspects and examine the bigger question at the heart of this case: why has the Zodiac investigation produced so many names, and yet no definitive answer? This episode covers the remaining major suspects, including Jack Tarrance, Rick Marshall, Ted Kaczynski, David Carpenter, Bruce Davis, Paul Doerr, Kjell Qvale, and Giuseppe Bevilacqua. For each, we look at why they were considered, what evidence or theory linked them to the case, and why none of those theories has led to a confirmed identification. But this is not just another suspects episode. It is also a deeper look at the Zodiac investigation itself: the fragmented police response across multiple jurisdictions, the missed opportunities, the Paul Stine dispatcher error, the role of Dave Toschi and other investigators, the limitations of eyewitness sketches, the problems with the DNA evidence, and the enduring influence of the Zodiac’s letters and ciphers. We also examine how modern forensic tools, including touch DNA, next-generation sequencing, and genetic genealogy, may still offer hope — while being honest about the limits of the evidence that remains. The episode explores the 2020 cracking of the Z340 cipher, the unsolved Z13 and Z32 messages, and the reality that the Zodiac case remains open more than half a century later. Above all, this episode brings the focus back to the confirmed victims: David Faraday, Betty Lou Jensen, Darlene Ferrin, Cecelia Shepard, and Paul Stine. Their lives, not the mythology of the killer, are where this story begins and ends. This is the final scripted episode in our Zodiac series — a careful, unsensational look at the remaining suspects, the failures and frustrations of the investigation, and the uncomfortable truth that some cases remain unsolved. zodiac killer, zodiac killer suspects, zodiac killer final episode, zodiac case unsolved, jack tarrance zodiac, rick marshall zodiac, ted kaczynski zodiac theory, paul doerr zodiac, kjell qvale zodiac, zodiac investigation, zodiac killer dna, zodiac ciphers, z340 cipher, zodiac killer case update, zodiac victims, true crime podcast, unsolved serial killer, san francisco zodiac killer, zodiac killer documentary, 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.
Ex-Detectives review Earl Van Best Jnr as a Zodiac Killer Suspect
In this episode of Crime Time Inc, hosts Tom Wood and Simon McLean join researcher Alex to continue their deep dive into the Zodiac killer case, turning their attention from the evidence itself to the deeply human story behind one of the most enduring suspects — a man whose abandoned son became convinced his estranged father was the infamous serial killer. Tom, drawing on decades of experience as a senior investigating officer on cases including the World's End murders and the Robert Black abductions, offers a compelling psychological perspective on why family members of terrible people sometimes come forward to link their relatives to high-profile unsolved crimes. As he explains, these individuals are rarely faking it; they genuinely believe what they're saying, driven by a deep need to make sense of the cruelty they experienced. It's a way of externalising their pain, of finding an explanation grand enough to account for the abandonment and neglect they suffered. The conversation opens up into a broader and thought-provoking discussion about the exploitation of serious crime. Simon raises the uncomfortable truth that bestselling books, films, and television programmes have been built on the back of cases like the Zodiac, Jack the Ripper, and countless others — an industry where there is, as Tom puts it, no quality control and no board of censors. With the rise of artificial intelligence, the hosts note, the barrier to producing speculative true crime content has never been lower. It's a candid moment of self-awareness from two men who make their living in the genre, and they handle it with characteristic honesty and humour. Tom takes the opportunity to share the remarkable story behind his own book, *Ruxton: The First Modern Murder*, recounting how a bundle of case papers — tied with the original pink police tape, unread for over eighty years — was discovered in a Portobello attic and eventually found its way to his desk. The documents, belonging to a deceased Edinburgh CID detective, contained a wealth of new information about a well-known case and told the story of an ordinary county police sergeant who, with no resources and no CID experience, did extraordinary investigative work. It's a story that underscores a theme that has run through Crime Time Inc from the very beginning: the critical importance of protecting and properly investigating the crime scene, a principle as vital today as it was in 1935. Simon also teases his forthcoming novel, *Kintyre*, which Tom reports he has read in excerpt and enjoyed very much. The episode closes with a forward-looking discussion about cold case responsibility. Tom poses the question of who, if anyone, is still actively investigating the Zodiac murders, and whether modern forensic advances have ever been applied to the original evidence. He draws a parallel with the ongoing Police Scotland search for the remains of Renee MacRae and her young son — a case that is solved and whose perpetrator is dead, yet where the duty to victims' families compels continued work. The hosts reflect on the value of structures like Police Scotland's Homicide Review Board and wonder whether any equivalent systematic review has ever been applied to the full range of killings attributed to the Zodiac. It's a fitting end to an episode that balances sharp investigative thinking with genuine humanity, and listeners are reminded that the Zodiac series will continue with further suspects and a full case summary in upcoming episodes. Zodiac Killer, Zodiac Killer podcast, Zodiac murders, unsolved serial killer, true crime podcast, Zodiac suspects, Zodiac evidence, San Francisco murders, 1960s serial killer, cold case investigation, Zodiac cipher, true crime analysis, Zodiac Killer theory, unsolved mysteries, crime podcast, serial killer case study, Zodiac Killer identity, true crime storytelling, criminal investigation, famous unsolved cases 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.
Was Earl Van Best Jr the Zodiac Killer? The Gary Stewart Theory Examined
In this episode, we examine one of the most emotionally powerful and controversial theories ever attached to the Zodiac case: the claim that Earl Van Best Jr was the killer. At the centre of the story is Gary Stewart, a man abandoned as a baby who spent decades searching for the truth about his biological father. What he found was not peace, but a theory that would become a bestselling book, a major documentary, and one of the most debated suspect narratives in true crime. We trace the disturbing life of Earl Van Best Jr—from his relationship with 14-year-old Judith Gilford, to his arrest, disappearance, and lonely death in an unmarked grave in Mexico City. We also revisit the Zodiac murders, the letters, the ciphers, the taunts to police and journalists, and the mystery that still grips investigators more than half a century later. Then we break down the evidence Gary Stewart presented against his father: the resemblance to the Zodiac sketch, the alleged name hidden in the ciphers, the Paul Avery connection, the claimed fingerprint match, the disputed handwriting evidence, and Van Best’s reported interests in opera, puzzles and codes. Finally, we examine why so much of that case began to fall apart under scrutiny—and what this story reveals about grief, identity, abandonment, and the human need to make sense of the unbearable. This is not just a story about whether Earl Van Best Jr was the Zodiac Killer. It is a story about why someone might need him to be. The Zodiac case remains officially unsolved. No individual has ever been formally identified as the killer. Zodiac Killer, Earl Van Best Jr, Gary Stewart, Zodiac Killer Suspects, True Crime Podcast, Unsolved Murders, Zodiac Ciphers, Serial Killer Theories, San Francisco Murders, Paul Avery, Cold Case Investigation, True Crime Analysis, The Most Dangerous Animal of All, Zodiac Documentary 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.
How Forensics Might Solve the Gary Poste Enigma
In this episode of Crime Time Inc, hosts Tom Wood and Simon McLean take a detailed look at Gary Francis Post as a suspect in the Zodiac killer case, continuing their in-depth series on one of America's most enduring unsolved mysteries. Before diving into the main discussion, the pair share some entertaining memories of police life — the Glasgow dairies and Edinburgh bakeries that served as unofficial gathering spots for officers, the camaraderie with A&E nurses at the Western General Hospital on the night shift, and some memorably brutal lines from staff appraisals. It's a warm, unguarded exchange that captures the culture of policing in Scotland during their era, and a reminder that even in a true crime podcast, the human side of the job matters. The heart of the episode is a rigorous, experience-driven analysis of Post as a Zodiac suspect and the work of the so-called "case breakers" who championed him. Tom and Simon walk through the circumstantial evidence — Post's military background, his time in the San Francisco Bay Area, claimed cipher interpretations spelling out his name, reports of domestic violence, and familiarity with firearms — and systematically weigh each element. Tom, drawing on decades as a senior investigator and his FBI secondment at Quantico, is characteristically measured but skeptical. He notes that firearms familiarity was near-universal among American men of that generation, that access to military PX stores was hardly exclusive, and that the behavioural profile doesn't fit: serial offenders of this type rarely just stop and settle into quiet domestic life. Simon reinforces the point that the evidence supporting Post is almost entirely subjective or speculative, and crucially, that law enforcement investigating the Zodiac case showed no interest in Post — a telling sign given their otherwise fastidious approach to other suspects. A standout theme of the episode is the concept of elimination in major crime investigation. Tom explains, with the authority of someone who led the World's End murders inquiry and spent years on the Susan Maxwell and Vicky Hamilton cases, that elimination must meet an even higher standard than prosecution — you need to be one hundred per cent certain it is not the suspect. He illustrates this vividly with the Emma Caldwell case, where a suspect initially appeared to have a cast-iron alibi of being in prison, only for investigators to discover he had been released on weekend leave at the time of the murder. The discussion also highlights how DNA evidence, so central to Tom's work on the World's End case — explored fully in his bestselling book *The World's End Murders: The Inside Story* (Ringwood Publishing, 2024) — serves as much to clear the innocent as to convict the guilty. It's a nuanced point that underscores why the Zodiac case, with its degraded and poorly preserved forensic evidence, remains so frustratingly unresolved. The episode closes on a lighter note, with Tom revealing he saw the Beatles live in Edinburgh in their very early days, and Simon ribbing him about Paul McCartney's stolen left-handed guitar — a nod to Simon's well-known friendship with McCartney dating back to his days as a young officer in Campbeltown. The pair tease future episodes, including a Zodiac series roundup and a possible deep dive into the Emma Caldwell case, giving listeners plenty to look forward to. 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.
The Man With the Hammer: Gary Poste and the Zodiac Killer Theory Explained
In this episode, Simon and Tom examine one of the most controversial modern Zodiac Killer suspects: Gary Francis Poste. The story begins with a chilling moment—an elderly man, a simple question, and a violent response with a hammer. That moment would later fuel a nationwide media storm and reignite interest in a case that has remained unsolved for over 50 years. We break down the claims made by the Case Breakers, a team of former law enforcement and intelligence professionals who publicly named Poste as the Zodiac in 2021. Key areas explored in this episode: The hammer incident and the credibility of the sole witness Poste’s background: Air Force service, cryptography training, and life in the Bay Area during the Zodiac murders His move to Groveland, California in 1970—the same year the Zodiac killings stopped Allegations of violence, control, and disturbing behaviour reported by neighbours The forehead scars and how they compare to the Zodiac composite sketch The controversial cipher theory linking Poste’s name to the Zodiac’s coded messages The connection to the Cheri Jo Bates murder—and why police dispute it Claims of hidden weapons caches and a possible trained group of followers The ongoing mystery surrounding DNA evidence—and why it has never been conclusively compared We also examine strong criticism from leading Zodiac researchers, including Tom Voigt, and explore whether the Case Breakers’ evidence holds up under scrutiny. With no confirmed forensic link—no definitive DNA, fingerprints, or handwriting match—the case against Gary Poste remains entirely circumstantial. So why hasn’t law enforcement fully addressed it? And what happens when a suspect dies before answers are found? The Zodiac case remains officially open. And the question still stands: Was Gary Francis Poste the Zodiac Killer—or just another name in a long list of suspects? 🎙️ This episode sets up our next instalment, where Simon and Tom critically review the Gary Poste theory in detail. Zodiac Killer, Gary Francis Poste, Zodiac suspect, Case Breakers, true crime podcast, unsolved murders, serial killers, Cheri Jo Bates, Zodiac ciphers, cold case, forensic investigation, true crime UK, true crime US, criminal psychology, unsolved mysteries 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.
Richard Gaikowski Review: Was the Zodiac Killer Hiding in Plain Sight?
In this review episode, Simon and Tom take a measured look at Richard Gaikowski, one of the most frequently discussed suspects in the Zodiac case. After Alec’s suspect profile, they break down what is genuinely intriguing, what feels overstated, and why Gaikowski remains a suspect many people talk about—but one who is still far from proven. The discussion focuses on several points that continue to keep Gaikowski in the conversation: his work as a newspaper editor in the Bay Area, his background as an army medic, his reported mental health issues, and the often-mentioned claim that parts of the Zodiac material may contain references to his name. Simon and Tom weigh each of these carefully, separating factual details from interpretations that may rely too heavily on hindsight. A major theme in this episode is the danger of forcing evidence to fit a suspect. Tom raises concerns about the reliability of the anonymous informant behind some of the claims, and both hosts question how much weight can really be placed on decades-old voice identifications and speculative links drawn from coded messages. The episode also explores one of the most interesting aspects of the case: timeline gaps. Gaikowski’s stay at Napa State Hospital from 1971 to 1974 is discussed in relation to the absence of Zodiac letters during that period, raising the question of whether those missing years might matter more than they first appear. Along the way, Simon and Tom also reflect on how historic cases are sometimes solved unexpectedly—through family disclosures, long-buried secrets, or information that only emerges decades later. It is a thoughtful conversation about evidence, probability, and why some suspects can never be fully dismissed, even when the case against them remains inconclusive. This episode is not about sensational claims. It is about careful review, investigative caution, and asking whether Richard Gaikowski was a serious Zodiac suspect—or another name kept alive by mystery, coincidence, and speculation. 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.
Richard Gaikowski: The Zodiac Suspect Built on Coincidence or Hidden Truth?
In this episode, we examine one of the most controversial and debated Zodiac Killer suspects — Richard Gaikowski. A journalist with ties to San Francisco’s counterculture scene, Gaikowski has long fascinated researchers due to a series of striking coincidences, disputed claims, and lingering questions. We break down the full case for and against Gaikowski, separating documented facts from speculation. In this episode, we cover: Gaikowski’s background, military service, and journalism career His movements between California and New York during key Zodiac years The origins of the theory — and the role of Blaine “Goldcatcher”, the informant who first accused him The Darlene Ferrin connection and the Albany timeline overlap The controversial “GYKE” cipher claim The disputed voice identification by Nancy Slover Links to Good Times newspaper and cultural references like The Mikado Claims around the Exorcist letter and “Me = 37” Physical resemblance to the Zodiac composite sketch We also examine the critical weaknesses: The lack of credible supporting evidence from law enforcement The highly questionable reliability of the original source The disputed passport and travel alibi Handwriting analysis that did not match the Zodiac A missed opportunity for fingerprint comparison And most importantly — no public forensic evidence (DNA, fingerprints, or handwriting) has ever tied Gaikowski to the Zodiac crimes This episode takes a balanced, evidence-led approach, asking a key question: Is Richard Gaikowski a serious suspect — or a theory built on coincidence and amplification? Perfect for: True crime fans Zodiac Killer researchers Listeners interested in suspect analysis and investigative breakdowns If you enjoy deep-dive true crime analysis, follow the podcast and don’t miss our ongoing Zodiac series. Richard Gaikowski, Zodiac Killer, Zodiac Killer suspects, Zodiac Killer theory, Blaine Blaine Goldcatcher, Zodiac evidence, Darlene Ferrin, Zodiac cipher, GYKE, true crime podcast, unsolved murders, Zodiac case 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.
Scottish Elections, Police Body Cameras, Lockerbie and the £6 Billion Drugs Crisis
This week on Crime Time Inc, Simon and Tom mark the last of their general-topic episodes for a few weeks — while they push on to finish their in-depth series on the Zodiac murders — with an episode packed full of Scottish crime, policing, politics, and culture. Simon opens with a warning about "true friendship fraud", the growing phenomenon where criminals cultivate online relationships with vulnerable and elderly people in order to steal their money. With Scotland's older population increasingly targeted through Facebook, WhatsApp and other platforms, Simon and Tom explain the warning signs to look out for. Tom brings his characteristic dry wit to the subject, suggesting that any would-be fraudsters targeting him would leave considerably out of pocket. The political agenda is front and centre this week. Simon highlights new UK legislation cracking down on political donations — including a ban on crypto donations and a £100,000 cap on overseas contributions — ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections on 6 May. Tom draws on his years as Deputy Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders to give a frank insider account of what it takes to police a major election: the pre-planning, the management of rival factions, security at counting centres, the Representation of the People Act, and why rising political temperatures mean this May's vote will be a particularly demanding operation. Both hosts share their frustration at the state of modern political debate, noting that First Minister's Questions has descended into a catalogue of accusations rather than a forum for policy. Glasgow has finally joined the rest of the UK in rolling out police body-worn cameras, and Tom is blunt about why it took so long: Scotland's police capital budget is "lamentably inadequate", representing close to 0% of the Scottish Government's public spending despite policing accounting for roughly 3% of costs. Tom draws a direct line between that chronic underfunding and the £50 million Sheku Bayoh public inquiry — a cost that would have paid for body cameras across the whole of Police Scotland. The hosts also discuss privacy implications and Simon's affectionate memory of "Mr Gadget", a community officer from his days in Govan who wore every piece of kit simultaneously — including body armour he'd acquired himself — until being rendered immobile by the weight of it. Elsewhere, Tom gives his assessment of the Lockerbie bombing trial in New York, where alleged bomb-maker Abu Masud faces charges but legal delays are raising fears that the evidence may never be heard in open court. Tom warns of defence tactics designed to "run the clock round" and expresses hope that the Crown's reported intention to publish all evidence publicly — should the trial collapse — will at least bring some form of truth to the families of the 270 victims. The episode also features the latest instalment of the hosts' regular Scots language segment, with explorations of "wee", "Hogmanay", the "Loony Dook" and the beautiful Scots blessing "Lang may yer lum reek". Finally, Simon trails a forthcoming episode on Scotland's £6 billion annual drug crisis, following a major new Social Market Foundation report. KEY TALKING POINTS ------------------ • Friendship fraud and befriending scams: how to spot them and protect vulnerable people • New UK rules on political donations: crypto ban and the £100k overseas cap • Policing Scottish elections: behind the scenes with a former Deputy Chief Constable • Why First Minister's Questions has become "yaboo politics" • Glasgow body cameras: why Scotland was years behind — and the true cost of delay • The Sheku Bayoh inquiry: £50m that could have paid for national body cam rollout • Lockerbie trial update: delays, defence tactics and the risk evidence is never heard • Scots Language: "Wee", "Aye", "Hogmanay", "Loony Dook", "Lang may yer lum reek" • Preview: Scotland's £6 billion drug crisis HOSTS 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.
Why Lawrence Kane STILL Can’t Be Ruled Out as the Zodiac Killer
In this episode, former detectives Simon and Tom review the case against Lawrence Kane — one of the most persistent suspects in the Zodiac Killer investigation. We advise you listen to the previous episode. While Kane appears to “tick many boxes” on paper, this discussion goes deeper — separating compelling evidence from misleading coincidence. Key points explored include: Kane’s background: Navy experience, coding knowledge, brain injury, and a history of sexual and petty offences His proximity to key Zodiac crime locations, including San Francisco and Vallejo The significance of his convictions for prowling and voyeurism — and whether these behaviours align with the Zodiac’s possible pre-offence patterns The detectives focus heavily on identification evidence, often considered the backbone of any case: Darlene Ferrin’s sisters identifying Kane as a man who frightened her Kathleen Johns later identifying Kane as her abductor Why these identifications are compelling — but still fall short of proving he was the Zodiac However, major challenges to the Kane theory are also examined: No confirmed link to firearms — despite the Zodiac’s demonstrated skill with multiple weapons The Donna Lass case, which differs significantly from known Zodiac crimes in method and execution The risk of forcing connections between unrelated crimes A key theme of this episode is the copycat theory: Could some incidents attributed to the Zodiac actually be separate crimes triggered by media coverage? Are investigators and researchers grouping together crimes that don’t belong? The discussion also highlights a critical investigative danger: Becoming too focused on one suspect and forcing evidence to fit — rather than stepping back and reassessing the bigger picture Ultimately, the conclusion remains frustratingly familiar: Lawrence Kane cannot be definitively linked to the Zodiac Killer But equally, he cannot be fully ruled out This episode is a grounded, expert-led breakdown of a suspect who continues to divide opinion — and a reminder of just how complex the Zodiac case truly is. 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.
Lawrence Kane: The Zodiac Suspect Detectives Could Never Eliminate
n this episode, we examine one of the most persistent and controversial Zodiac Killer suspects: Lawrence Kane. Unlike lesser-known names, Kane is a suspect that serious investigators — including retired detective Harvey Hines — returned to repeatedly. We explore Kane’s background, including: His military training in electronics and coding A life-altering brain injury in 1962 and subsequent psychological decline A long criminal history that abruptly stopped just before the Zodiac killings began We then break down the most disturbing connections: Darlene Ferrin – Identified by her sisters as a man who frightened her prior to her murder Vehicle change – Kane replaced his car days after the Blue Rock Springs shooting Paul Stine murder – Kane lived just blocks from the pickup location Officer Don Fouke – Described Kane as the closest likeness he had seen to the Zodiac The case becomes even more chilling with the disappearance of Donna Lass: Worked in the same building as Kane in Lake Tahoe Vanished in 1970 under suspicious circumstances Later linked to a possible Zodiac communication Her remains were only identified in 2023 — over 50 years later We also revisit the Kathleen Johns abduction, where she identified Kane in a photo lineup — an incident the Zodiac himself claimed responsibility for. Despite these connections, the forensic case remains inconclusive: Fingerprints did not match — but may not belong to the killer DNA evidence is disputed and unreliable Handwriting analysis failed to confirm or eliminate him So why was Kane never ruled out? No definitive alibi Multiple circumstantial overlaps with Zodiac crimes Continued interest from law enforcement This episode lays out the full picture — the evidence, the doubts, and the unanswered questions — surrounding a man who may be one of the strongest Zodiac suspects, yet remains officially unconfirmed. Next episode: Richard Gaikowski — a name some believe the Zodiac hid in plain sight. 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.
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