Court Junkie

Ep 148: The Bottom of the Stairs

In March 2007, Karl Hoerig was found dead at the bottom of his staircase. Who killed him, and why? Sponsors in this episode: Rothys - Check out all the amazing shoes, bags and masks available right now at Rothys.com/COURT. Talkspace - Get $100 off your first month and show your support for the show by using the code COURT at Talkspace.com. Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Care/Of - Court Junkies ca...

SIDEBAR: “The system failed. This can’t happen.”

NOTE: Please excuse audio issues - the joys of Zoom calls! One day soon, we hope to record together in the studio. Until then, Zoom, it is.  In this episode of Sidebar, Jillian and Brittnee chat about the most recent Court Junkie cases, including: - Tai Chan - Sandra Melgar - Lori McConnell - Kayle Fleischauer Jillian also goes over some updates in past Court Junkie cases: - Alexis Murphy - Joel Guy Jr. Then, Jillian shares an interview she did with Valerie Pavilonis, University Edi...

Ep 147: Accomplice to Murder

Prosecutors say Erica Stefanko played a crucial role in the murder of 25-year-old Ashley Biggs, but can they prove it in court? Sponsors in this episode: 1800-CONTACTS - Order online at 1800Contacts.com. Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Uprising - Be one of the first 1,000 to use the code COURT at Uprisingfood.com/court and get free standard shipping. Check out the sampler bundle today!  Jordan Har...

Ep 146: The Shooting Death of Chase Fleischauer

In April 2018, two siblings went to go visit their father for the weekend. Only one of them would leave the house alive. Today’s case examines the case of Chase Fleischauer, and the trial of his father, Kayle Fleischauer. Sponsors in this episode: Purely Elizabeth - Get 25% off your first order on all Purely Elizabeth products by using code: COURTJUNKIE at checkout on purelyelizabeth.com.  Straight Talk Wireless - With Straight Talk Wireless, you can get a Samsung Galaxy A51 for just $19...

Ep 145: When The System Fails - The Lori McConnell Story

On July 10, 2018, the lives of Lori McConnell’s children were changed forever. The system that was supposed to save her, didn’t.  Thank you to Ryan VanDoren and Lora Bennett for sharing their story with us.  Sponsors in this episode: 1800-CONTACTS - Order online at 1800Contacts.com. Literati - Head to Literati.com/COURT for 25% off your first two orders. Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Purely Eli...

Ep 144: Home Invasion or Murder From The Inside? (Sandra Melgar)

It’s a case that has been covered and picked apart for years, yet there are still many questions that linger. In December 2012, Houston police responded to a brutal murder scene - Jim Melgar was found dead in his bedroom, while his wife of 32 years, Sandra Melgar, was tied up in a bathroom closet. Sandra told investigators she had suffered a seizure and didn’t know who killed her husband and locked her up. Investigators didn’t believe her, and she was charged and later convicted of his murde...

SIDEBAR: “That was a very bizarre case.”

In this first episode of Sidebar, Jillian and Brittnee discuss the most recent Court Junkie cases, including: - Skylar Nemetz Joel Guy Jr. David Dooley Jillian also goes over some updates in past Court Junkie cases: - Jamarion Lawhorn - Anita Smithey Then, Jillian and Brittnee discuss the death of Phil Spector and how the media covered it, before diving into cases they are currently following. Those cases include a man who survived multiple attempts on his life, a heroic waitress, and...

Ep 143: The Deputy (Tai Chan)

In October 2014, two deputies with the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office left for Arizona on a work trip. After a night filled with drinking and arguing, only one would return home alive.  Sponsors in this episode: Straight Talk Wireless - With Straight Talk Wireless, you can get a Samsung Galaxy A51 for just $199. Plus, get the $45 unlimited talk, text, and data plan with NO contract on America’s best networks for up to 50% less. 1-800-CONTACTS - Order online at 1800contacts.com, download...

Ep 142: The Janitor (David Dooley)

After 42-year-old Michelle Mockbee was found dead at her work in May 2012, investigators zeroed in on the janitor, David Dooley. He was convicted of murder just two years later, and sentenced to life in prison. But in 2016, David would be granted a new trial. Would new evidence come to light and prove his innocence, or would he be convicted again? Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COU...

Ep 141: The Thanksgiving Weekend (Joel Guy Jr)

On Thanksgiving weekend in 2016, the home of Lisa and Joel Guy Sr. became a horror scene, after their bodies were found inside their home. Prosecutors would later be tasked with proving that their son, Joel Guy Jr, was the killer.  NOTE: This episode contains details and facts that are especially gruesome. Listener discretion is advised. Sponsors in this episode: Aurate - Get 15% off your first purchase when you go to AurateNewYork.com/courtjunkie , and use promo code COURTJUNKIE at check...

End of the Year Recap

What a year! In this End of the Year Recap, I introduce a really good friend of mine, Brittnee, to the show. We chat about what 2020 was like for Court Junkie, what my top 10 episodes of the year were, and answer listener questions.  I’m also excited to announce that Brittnee and I will be doing monthly recap episodes on the main feed, starting in 2021. Make sure to follow @CourtJunkie on Instagram to submit listener questions or comments for each episode. You can also submit questions and ...

Ep 140: The Soldier

It was supposed to be a happy day of homecoming for 20-year-old Skylar Nemetz, and his wife, Danielle. But on October 16, 2014, after Skylar returned home from a month-long training, tragedy struck, and Danielle lost her life. Had Skylar intentionally murdered her? NOTE: I will be taking a holiday break and will be back with a new regular episode on Monday, January 18. Happy holidays, everyone!  Sponsors in this episode: The RealReal - Download The RealReal app today to shop and sell your...

Ep 139: The Trial of Chase Merritt (Part 2)

How does a family of four just disappear, seemingly off the face of the Earth? That’s what happened in Fallbrook, California in February 2010, when the McStay family suddenly disappeared from their home. In Part 2, we take a deep dive into the trial of the accused, Chase Merritt.  Sponsors in this episode: Man Crates - Now through December 23, buy one item and get a second item for 50% off at ManCrates.com/COURT. Policygenius - Find out how much you could save on home and auto insurance ...

Ep 139: The Disappearance of the McStay Family (Part 1)

How does a family of four just disappear, seemingly off the face of the Earth? That’s what happened in Fallbrook, California in February 2010, when the McStay family suddenly disappeared from their home. This episode covers the circumstances of their disappearance and the investigation that followed.  Sponsors: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Best Fiends - Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App...

Ep 138: A “Real Life Horror Movie”

Prosecutors dubbed it a “real life horror movie” after a brutal home invasion attack in Hobart, Wisconsin left two people dead and one injured in January 2016. Years later, 26-year-old Jacob Cayer would face murder charges in court.  Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  The Real Real - Download the Real Real app today to shop and sell your favorite luxury brands and get 20% off...

Ep 137: NXIVM - Inside The Organization

In 2019, Keith Raniere, one of the founders of NXIVM, a self-proclaimed self-help organization, went to trial for federal crimes including, extortion, forced labor, sex trafficking, fraud, and the production and the possession of child pornography. There have been numerous articles and documentaries made about this scandal, but in today’s episode, we look at the testimony of Lauren Salzman, who struck a deal with prosecutors and agreed to testify against Keith.  Note: Everything in this epi...

Ep 136: The Unanswered Pleas For Help

In October 2018, the body of 21-year-old Lauren McCluskey, a college student at the University of Utah, was found on campus. An investigation into her death would reveal her numerous complaints to university police about her dangerous ex-boyfriend - all of which went unanswered.  A special thank you to Jill McCluskey, for sharing her daughter’s story with us.  Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com an...

Ep 135: The Social Circle

In January 2005, 16-year-old Adrianne Reynolds went missing from East Moline, Illinois. Investigators quickly uncovered that Adrianne’s friends knew more than they were saying. What happened to Adrianne Reynolds would shock nearly everyone in their community.  Thank you to everyone who shared this story with us, including Joanna Reynolds, Nicole Lally, and Toria Wilson. Please check out Toria’s podcast, Missing and Murdered in the Midwest for even more in-depth info on this case.  Sponsors...

Ep 134: The Purple Glove

While firefighters were putting out a fire at a Tennessee pawn shop in May 2016, they found the body of the shop’s owner, Jerry Ridge, inside. Who could have murdered Jerry and then set his shop on fire? Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Policygenius - Policygenius makes finding the right life insurance a breeze. In minutes you can compare quotes from the top insurers to find...

Ep 133: Anatomy of a Wrongful Conviction (Lydell Grant)

In December 2010, 28-year-old Aaron Scheerhoorn was murdered in a bar parking lot in Houston, Texas. Investigators quickly zeroed in on a suspect - 33-year-old Lydell Grant. But nearly 10 years later, even after all parties agree that he’s innocent, why has Lydell still not been exonerated? Sponsors in this episode: Best Fiends - Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play. Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Ree...

Ep 132: The Roommates

In one of the first trials to start up again after COVID-19, 21-year-old Andrew Vrba faces charges for the bizarre murder of his roommate.  Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  The Jordan Harbinger Show - Subscribe anywhere you listen to podcasts Policygenius - Policygenius makes finding the right life insurance a breeze. In minutes you can compare quotes from the top insurers...

Ep 131: The Drive-By Shooting

In April 1993, two teenagers were shot and killed in an apparent drive-by shooting. Investigators quickly zeroed in on another teenager named Daniel Villegas, who had told his cousin he had done it. But did they really have the right guy? Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  The Jordan Harbinger Show - Subscribe anywhere you listen to podcasts Policygenius - Policygenius makes...

Ep 130: No Justice For Emmett Till

In today’s episode, we look back at the historic 1955 trial where Roy Bryant and JW Milam were tried for 14-year-old Emmett Till’s murder.  Thank you to Chris Metress, Ayesha Bell Hardaway, Louis Woods, and Deidre Keller for speaking to us about this case. Sponsors in this episode: Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Best Fiends - With over 100 million downloads and tons of five-star reviews, Best Fie...

Ep 129: The Super Bowl Party

On Super Bowl Sunday in 2017, a quiet gathering was interrupted by gunfire. Prosecutors were convinced they had the two suspects awaiting trial, but were the murders really committed by a third gunman?  Sponsors in this episode: Talkspace - Go to talkspace.com and use the code COURT to get $100 off your first month and show your support for the show. Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  Ritual - Visit r...

Ep 128: A Fatal Obsession: The Emma Walker Story

In November 2016, 16-year-old Emma Walker was found deceased in her bed. At trial, the defendant claimed he had only wanted to scare her, while prosecutors believe it was a cold-blooded killing. Sponsors in this episode: - Aurate - For 15% off your first Aurate purchase, go to AurateNewYork.com/courtjunkie and use promo code courtjunkie. - Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT.  - Policygenius - Policygeni...

Ep 127: The Case of Jamarion Lawhorn

In August 2014, a tragedy unfolded at a playground in Kentwood, Michigan. A 9-year-old boy was deceased, and a 12-year-old boy was charged with murder.  How did this happen, and what would the criminal justice system do with such a young killer? Thank you to Vicki Seidl, from the Kent County Prosecutor’s Office, for speaking with me about this case.  Sponsors in this episode: - Care/Of - Court Junkies can get 50% off your first Care/of order, when you go to TakeCareOf.com and enter code ...

Ep 126: The Orchestrated Murder of Dr. Teresa Sievers

Dr. Teresa Sievers was murdered inside her home in June 2015. Four years later, after two trials, the details of the orchestrated plot would finally be revealed.  Sponsors in this episode: - SimpliSafe - Try SimpliSafe today at SimpliSafe.com/COURT . You get free shipping and a 60 day risk free trial.  - NetSuite - Receive your FREE guide – “Seven Actions Businesses Need to Take Now” and schedule your FREE Product Tour - at NetSuite.com/COURT . - Policygenius - Policygenius makes finding...

Ep 125: The Estranged Husband

After a contentious breakup, Amanda Colley was granted a restraining order against her estranged husband. But within days, she and her best friend were murdered. Sponsors in this episode: - Ritual - Visit ritual.com/COURT to get 10% off during your first three months. - Rothys - Check out the amazing shoes and bags available right now at Rothys.com/COURT. - Talkspace - Go to talkspace.com or download the app and use promo code COURT to get $100 off your first month. - Madison Reed - Get 10...

Ep 124: The Tourists (Shawn Tyson Trial)

After two college students are found murdered while on vacation in Sarasota, Florida, a 16-year-old boy is arrested and charged with the crime. Sponsors in this episode: - Magic Spoon - Go to magicspoon.com/COURTJUNKIE to grab a variety pack and try it today! Be sure to use our promo code COURTJUNKIE at checkout to get free shipping. - SimpliSafe - Try SimpliSafe today at SimpliSafe.com/COURT. You get free shipping and a 60 day risk free trial. - Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipp...

Ep 123: Is This Really Happening? The Wrongful Conviction of Jeff Deskovic

In November 1989, 15-year-old Angela Correa was found murdered in a park in Peekskill, New York. Investigators quickly honed in on 16-year-old Jeff Deskovic, one of her high school classmates. Although the scientific evidence at the scene excluded him, he was ultimately convicted of her murder. This is Jeff’s story. NOTE: In some parts of the interview, you will hear a dog barking in the background - that’s my not-so-fierce dog, Porky, and I apologize for the inconvenience. My usual recor...

Ep 122: 88 Days

In October 2018, news of the abduction of 13-year-old Jayme Closs spread across the nation. In this episode, we go behind the scenes of the investigation, the arrest, and the legal consequences. Sponsors in this episode: - Best Fiends - With over 100 million downloads and tons of five-star reviews, Best Fiends is a must-play. Download for FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play. - Luminary - Listen to Murder on the Towpath, available only on Luminary. Go to Luminary.link/Towpath and get...

Ep 121: 16 Shots: Laquan McDonald

In October 2014, the shooting death of Laquan McDonald by a Chicago police officer went almost completely unnoticed by the media - at least initially. But after a large settlement was made by the City of Chicago to Laquan McDonald’s family, journalists started asking questions. Pretty soon, the details of what happened would be revealed, and Officer Jason Van Dyke would be charged with murder. Sponsors in this episode: - Talkspace - Go to talkspace.com or download the app and use promo cod...

RE-PLAY & UPDATE: Jason Corbett - Self-Defense or Murder?

I’m taking the week off, but while I’m gone, please enjoy this re-play of Episode 33, with a major development in the case at the end. Court Junkie will be back next week with a brand new episode. Sponsors in this episode: - Care/Of - Court Junkies can get 50% off your first Care/of Order, when you go to TakeCareOf.com and enter code junkie50. - HelloFresh - Go to HelloFresh.com/courtjunkie80 and use code courtjunkie80 to get a total of $80 off, including free shipping on your first box....

Ep 120: Forbidden Love and Feigned Diseases (Godejohn Trial)

Dee Dee Blanchard was found murdered in her home in June 2015, and her daughter, Gypsy, whom she had always touted as having special needs, was missing. Investigators would soon uncover that everything wasn’t as it seemed, and Gypsy, along with her boyfriend Nick, were arrested for murder. In this episode, we delve into Nick Godejohn’s murder trial. No one disputes that he was the killer, but the question of “why” takes center stage at trial. Sponsors in this episode: -Care/Of - Court Ju...

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Ep 119: A Likely Friendship

Kimberly Boone and Anita Smithey, both accused of crimes against their husbands, formed a friendship while in jail and waiting for their cases to go through the system. This episode is a bit different than normal, as we take a look at each of their cases and the friendship that evolved from them. NOTE: This episode contains accusations of sexual violence. Listener discretion is advised. Sponsors in this episode: - Rothys - Check out the amazing shoes and bags available right now at Rothy...

Ep 118: The Tragic Death of Corey Jones

On October 18, 2015, Corey Jones was driving home from a music gig when his car broke down on the side of the road. As he called for help, a white van pulled up, and gunshots rang out. What happened that night would be debated inside a courtroom years later. Sponsors in this episode: - Policygenius - Policygenius makes finding the right home insurance a breeze. In minutes you can compare quotes from the top insurers to find your best price. Visit policygenius.com. - Ritual - Visit ritual.co...

Ep 117: The Alternative Suspects (Part 2)

In November 2010, a horrific murder took place in Tallahassee, Florida, at the home of a single mom and her three children. Prosecutors contend that one of the children’s fathers is the killer, but at his trial, his defense blames someone else - the Mexican cartel. Was the murder of Brandi Peters and her three children a crime of passion, or a cartel hit? In Part 2, I examine the Defense’s case. Would the jury vote to acquit or convict Henry Segura? Sponsors in this episode: - Madison Reed...

Ep 117: The Alternative Suspects (Part 1)

In November 2010, a horrific murder took place in Tallahassee, Florida, at the home of a single mom and her three children. Prosecutors contend that one of the children’s fathers is the killer, but at his trial, his defense blames someone else - the Mexican cartel. Was the murder of Brandi Peters and her three children a crime of passion, or a cartel hit? In Part 1, I examine the Prosecution’s case against Henry Segura. Sponsors in this episode: - Caldrea - Get free shipping on orders of ...

Ep 116: The Murder of Nicole VanderHeyden

In February 2018, the main suspect in the murder of 31-year-old Nicole VanderHeyden was prosecuted in court. While prosecutors told the jury that Nicole had been murdered by someone she didn’t know, the defense claimed they knew who the real killer was - Nicole’s boyfriend. Sponsors in this episode: - Hydrant - For 25% off your first order, go to DrinkHydrant.com/COURT or enter promo code COURT at checkout. - Caldrea - Get free shipping on orders of $50 or more when you buy online at Cald...

Ep 115: Father and Son

According to prosecutors in Granville County, North Carolina, in December 2014, a father and son went on a crime spree. That spree ended with the New Years Day brutal murder of an elderly couple inside their home. According to the son, he was terrified of his abusive father and only went through with it out of fear for his life. With his life now again on the line, would a jury believe him? This episode contains some graphic testimony. Listener discretion is advised. Sponsors in this epis...

Ep 114: The Obsession

In December 2018, 29-year-old Grant Amato’s parents and brother were murdered inside the family home. Did Grant’s obsession with a web cam model lead him to murder his family, or is there another explanation for his family’s deaths? Sponsors in this episode: - Caldrea - Get free shipping on orders of $50 or more when you buy online at Caldrea.com. - Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT. - Hydrant - For 25...

Ep 113: The Deadly Neighborhood Feud

In August 2012, what started as a seemingly simple neighborhood dispute ended in a deadly shooting spree. The jury would have to decide if the shooter feared for his life, or committed premeditated murder. Sponsors in this episode: - Caldrea - Get free shipping on orders of $50 or more when you buy online at Caldrea.com. - Hydrant - For 25% off your first order, go to DrinkHydrant.com/COURT or enter promo code COURT at checkout. - Sunsoil - Get 30% off your first order by going to Sunsoi...

Ep 112: The House Party (Devon Robinson Trial)

On May 25, 2019, a house party in Detroit, Michigan turned into tragedy when three people were shot and killed by a masked intruder. At trial, prosecutors vow that they will prove who did it, and why. Sponsors in this episode: - Best Fiends - With over 100 million downloads and tons of five-star reviews, Best Fiends is a must-play! Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play. - Policygenius - Policygenius makes finding the right home insurance a breeze. In minutes you can...

Ep 111: Tragedy in Wichita Falls

When two young girls are shot while walking home from school, an entire community mourns. Who could have done such a thing, and why? Sponsors in this episode: - Caldrea - Get free shipping on orders of $50 or more when you buy online at Caldrea.com. - Ritual - Visit ritual.com/COURT for 10% off during your first three months. - Talkspace - Get $100 off your first month on Talkspace by going to Talkspace.com, or downloading the app, and using the code COURT. - Care/of - For 50% off your fir...

Ep 110: The Hostage Taker

After a hostage situation goes terribly wrong, who would be legally responsible? In this episode, I cover the Brian Flatoff trial. Sponsors in this episode: - Caldrea - Get free shipping on orders of $50 or more when you buy online at Caldrea.com. - Madison Reed - Get 10% off plus free shipping on your first Color Kit when you go to Madison-Reed.com and use code COURT. - Policygenius - Policygenius makes finding the right home insurance a breeze. In minutes you can compare quotes from the...

Ep 109: The Arrogant Killer

Someone was watching as 56-year-old Jennifer Fulford ran errands on the morning of September 27, 2017. Her body was found days later. At trial, the main suspect insisted on taking the stand, and adamantly told the court that even though he killed her, someone else was to blame. Sponsors in this episode: - Best Fiends - With over 100 million downloads and tons of five-star reviews, Best Fiends is a must-play! Download Best Fiends FREE on the Apple App Store or Google Play. - Madison Reed - ...

Announcement: Podapalooza Festival

Podapalooza is this weekend, and we’re proud to be participating alongside a lineup of incredible podcasters. Tickets are pay-what-you-can, and 100% of net proceeds goes to GiveDirectly, who’s helping families hardest hit by COVID-19. Get tickets and more info at www.podapalooza.org

Ep 108: The Boating Accident

On May 8, 2015, a tragic accident occurred on Berlin Lake in Berlin Township, Ohio, when a larger boat crashed into a fishing boat, killing one of its passengers. After details of what happened that night emerged, one question remained - what would the legal repercussions be for one man’s reckless actions that ended in a fatality? Thanks to Karin Coble for speaking with me about this case. You can visit her website at http://www.toledolegalresource.com/ Sponsors in this episode: - Policyge...

Ep 107: Michelle Martinko - Forever 18

In 1979, 18-year-old Michelle Martinko went missing after visiting a local mall in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Her body was found shortly after, in her abandoned car in the parking lot, but it would take nearly 40 years to bring her alleged killer to trial. Sponsors in this episode: - Bombas - Give a pair of socks when you buy a pair, and get 20% percent off your first purchase at Bombas.com/court. - Feals - Become a member today by going to Feals.com/Junkie and you'll get 50% off your first order...