True Crime with Lux Podcast

Ep 16 The Blood Countess: Elizabeth Bathory's Reign of Terror

Host: Lux
Podcast: True Crime with Lux
In this chilling episode, Lux delves into the dark and twisted life of Countess Elizabeth Bathory, infamously known as the Blood Countess. Born into nobility in 1560, Elizabeth's life took a sinister turn as she allegedly murdered hundreds of young girls between 1590 and 1610. Lux explores her early life, her marriage to Count Ferenc, and the horrifying acts of torture she inflicted on her victims.
Listeners will learn about Elizabeth's involvement in witchcraft, her gruesome methods of torture, and the eventual downfall that led to her imprisonment. With detailed accounts of her atrocities and the trial that shocked Hungary, this episode provides a comprehensive look at one of history's most notorious female serial killers.
Join Lux as she unravels the spine-tingling story of Elizabeth Bathory, a woman whose name became synonymous with cruelty and bloodlust. Don't miss this episode if you're a fan of true crime and historical mysteries.

Ep 15 The Chilling Case of Diane Downs: A Mother's Betrayal

Hey everyone, I'm Lux. In this episode, we delve into the chilling story of Diane Downs, originally born Elizabeth Diane Fredrickson on August 7th, 1955, in Phoenix, Arizona. Diane's early years were marked by a strict conservative upbringing, leading to rebellion and a tumultuous relationship with her parents and high school sweetheart, Steve Downs.After a failed stint at Pacific Coast Baptist Bible College and a rocky marriage to Steve, Diane's life spiraled further into chaos. The couple had three children, but Diane's lack of interest in motherhood and strained relationship with Steve led to their eventual divorce. Moving to Oregon, Diane's life took a dark turn on May 19th, 1983, when she claimed a bushy-haired man carjacked her and shot her three children.The tragic night left one child dead and the other two severely injured. Diane's suspicious behavior and lack of emotion raised red flags. Police investigations revealed inconsistencies in her story, leading to her eventual arrest and conviction for murder and attempted murder. Even after escaping prison briefly in 1987, Diane's claims of innocence have fallen on deaf ears, and she remains behind bars.Join us as we uncover the harrowing details of this case and the impact it had on Diane's children and those around her. Thank you for listening, and don't forget to like and share the podcast. Stay safe, and I'll be talking to you next week.

Ep 14 The Controversial Case of Jesse Madison Holton

In this gripping episode, we delve into the tumultuous life of Jesse Madison Holton, a once popular high schooler from Eclectic, Alabama, whose world spiraled out of control during his senior year. As his parents grappled with a divorce, Madison's behavior took a rebellious turn, culminating in a house party that ended in tragedy. On September 11, 2016, Madison's parents were found shot, leading to a complex investigation that questioned Madison's innocence and the plausibility of the events he described.We explore the evidence, conflicting testimonies, and the controversial findings that left the community divided. Did Madison commit the unthinkable, or was he a victim of unfortunate circumstances? Join us as we dissect this perplexing case, presenting the arguments from both sides and leaving you to ponder the ultimate question: Did Madison get away with murder?

Ep 13 Margaret Allen: A Descent into Violence

In this gripping episode, we delve into the tragic story of Margaret Allen and the harrowing events that led to the brutal murder of her housekeeper, Wenda Wright. Born into a life marked by criminal activity, Margaret's troubled past set the stage for a series of violent acts.On February 8, 2005, tensions erupted when Margaret accused Wenda of stealing $2,000. With the help of her nephew, Quinton, the confrontation escalated into a horrific act of violence involving chemical torture and strangulation. The episode explores the chilling details of that fateful day and the subsequent efforts to cover up the crime.We hear testimonies from key witnesses, including Wenda's partner and Quinton, who ultimately turned himself in and led authorities to Wenda's shallow grave. The trial reveals the extent of Margaret's violent history and the jury's unanimous decision to sentence her to death. Margaret Allen now remains on death row, steadfastly maintaining her innocence despite overwhelming evidence.Tune in to uncover the full story of Margaret Allen and the devastating impact of her actions on those around her.

Ep 12 The Butcher Baker: The Chilling Crimes of Robert Hansen

Hey everyone, today I'm going to be telling you about Robert Hansen, also known as the Butcher Baker. Born in Esterville, Iowa, on February 15th, 1939, Hansen had a troubled childhood and a strained relationship with his father. After a brief stint in the United States Army Reserve, his criminal activities began with the arson of a school bus garage in 1960.Hansen's crimes escalated after he moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1963. From petty theft, his actions turned to abductions, rapes, and murders. His first known victim, Celia Beth Van Zanten, was found murdered in December 1971. Over the years, many women went missing or were found dead, with Hansen's involvement suspected in numerous cases.Hansen's terrifying spree included the murders of Megan Emmerich, Mary Kathleen Thill, and Sherry Morrow, among others. He employed brutal methods, often abducting women and then hunting them in the Alaskan wilderness. One of his surviving victims, Cindy Paulson, managed to escape and provided crucial information that led to Hansen's capture.In 1983, authorities searched Hansen's property, uncovering evidence that linked him to the crimes, including a map with marked locations of where victims' bodies were found. Despite initially denying his involvement, Hansen eventually confessed to multiple murders.Robert Hansen was sentenced to 461 years in prison without the possibility of parole and died in 2014 from natural causes. His gruesome legacy as the Butcher Baker remains a chilling reminder of his heinous acts.Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed the podcast, please like and share it with your friends. Stay safe, and I'll be talking to you next week.

Ep 11 A Twisted Christmas Tale

In this dark and chilling episode, we delve into the horrifying events surrounding the Lawson family tragedy of 1929. Charles Lawson, a successful tobacco farmer, inexplicably turns on his family, claiming the lives of his wife and seven children before taking his own life. This marks one of the most gruesome mass family murders in North Carolina's history. Discover the theories surrounding Charles Lawson's motives, including possible secrets and a speculated affair with his eldest daughter.The episode also sheds light on what followed the grim incident. Learn about the distasteful act of Charles' brother, who converted the murder site and crime scene into a tourist attraction. Uncover the sorrowful details of the crime, the questionable choices made after the event, and more in this haunting recount of the Lawson family tragedy.Despite the sinister and dark theme, we hope this episode provides you with a glimpse into the past as we try to piece together the reasons behind the tragic events. Thank you for listening, and be sure to like and share the podcast if you found it informative and riveting.

Ep 10 The Terrifying Tale of Dennis Nilsen, The Muswell Hill Murderer

Immerse yourself in this blood-curdling tale of horrific crimes committed by Dennis Nielsen, notoriously known as the Muswell Hill Murderer. In this episode, we dissect Nielsen's life, tracing from his troubled early years, marked with familial discord and identity crises, to his grim journey into becoming one of Britain's most infamous serial killers.
Discover how Nielsen, characterized by his personal struggles and heavy drinking, manipulated his facade of success as a British Army and Metropolitan Police member, to hide his darkest deeds. We graphically recount the ruthless murders and disconcerting post-mortem treatment of his myriad victims, from 14-year-old Stephen Holmes, to Malcolm Barlow, the tragic 23-year-old epileptic.
Unsettling details of Nielsen's eerie habits of stocking corpses under his floorboards and his gruesome disposal methods probe the horrifying reality of his seemingly quiet life. As we traverse the sinister narrative, we also touch upon the grisly encounters with John Howlett and a depressed girl leading to further horrific events.
Experience the horrid anticipation as the narrative progresses towards the revelation and investigation of his monstrous crimes. Learn about the revealing plumbing problem, his nonchalant confession, law enforcement's pursuit of justice, and Nielsen's mentally disturbed state behind bars. The conclusion will undoubtedly leave a frightening impression of the darkness that humanity can descend into.
This spine-chilling account serves as a bleak cautionary tale of human monstrosity. We thank you for joining us on this terrifying journey. Please remember to take care and share this intriguing narrative with those who would appreciate such chilling tales.

Ep 9 An Odyssey from Troubled Childhood to Infamous Cult Leader

Unfold the dark narrative of one of history's most notorious crime figures, Charles Manson. This exciting episode delves into Manson's life journey - from his beleaguered childhood haunted by a dysfunctional family to his transformation into the sinister cult leader.Commencing with his birth as Charles Miles Maddox on November 12, 1934 to a teen mother and an absentee father, the story paints a vivid picture of Manson's difficult early years. Get an inside look into his turbulent adolescence epitomized by constant brushes with law enforcement, delinquent behavior, and reform schools.Follow Manson's evolution from a troubled teenager embroiled in serious offenses to a dangerous cult figurehead. Explore his brief encounter with music, failed marriages, and the beginning of the notorious Manson Family's formation.Gain unique insights into Manson's potent manipulative personality and the paranoia fed by his fears of an impending apocalyptic war, and how he used this paranoia to control his followers, leading them on a path of horrendous violence.Discover the grisly details of the crimes committed by Manson and his Manson Family, including the harrowing event at the Polanski house and the brutal murder of Sharon Tate. Learn about the aftermath of these heinous acts - investigative blunders, the sensational trial, and the eventual unraveling of the Manson Family's terror reign.Ending with Manson's life behind bars, prison time to his eventual death, we bring to light details of his failed parole pleas, court appearances, and the story of his last days. Tune in to this chilling chapter in criminal history and scrutinize the enigmatic life and crimes of Charles Manson and the Manson Family.

Ep 8 A House Fire and Hidden Secrets

In this riveting podcast episode, we dive deep into the heart-wrenching real-life story of the Sodder children's mysterious disappearance in 1945. Amidst the cheer of Christmas Eve, a destructive house fire forever altered the course of a well-respected family's life. George Sodder, an immigrant from Italy, his wife Jennie, and their ten children suffered an unimaginable tragedy that night, but the aftermath was even more unsettling.
As the flames consumed their home, five of the Sodder children were unaccounted for. The assumption was that they tragically perished in the fire. However, when officials failed to discover their remains among the ashes and inconsistencies began to emerge, the Sodder family suspected foul play. Their search for truth took them down a winding path filled with witness testimonies, doubtful leads, mafia theories, and an unnerving possibility that their children might still be alive.
Join us as we step back in time to a cold December night in 1945 and explore the layers of this tragic event that has blurred the line between fact and speculation. Their compelling story spanning seven decades raises questions about authority's role, investigation lapses, and the enduring hope despite seemingly insurmountable odds. This unforgettable tale of the Sodder children's disappearance is filled with deep mysteries begging to be unraveled.
Be prepared to embark on an emotional rollercoaster as this shocking narrative unfolds. If you appreciate investigations into unsolved mysteries and enjoy piecing together the puzzle of past events, then this is an episode you don't want to miss. Stay tuned for more gripping tales that'll leave you questioning and contemplating.

Ep 7 The Self-Proclaimed Vampire

In this chilling episode, we take an in-depth look into the life of Roderick "Rod" Justin Farrell, a Kentucky native who delved into the world of fantasy and committed horrifying crimes. Born on March 28, 1980, to teenage parents, Rod's journey from a troubled childhood to a life of crime is charted in detail.
After several on-going struggles, Rod and his mother relocated to Eustis, Florida. This was when he became friends with Heather Wendorf, another troubled kid, and began indulging in dark fantasies. His plunge into the occult was further accelerated as he started his cult, recruiting other kids into blood-drinking rituals.
The tale reaches a crescendo when Rod, convinced of his vampire identity, makes a heinous plan in November 1996. Along with Heather, their friends Scott Anderson, Charity Kesey, and Dana Cooper, Rod orchestrates the brutal murders of Heather’s parents to steal their car and rendezvous to New Orleans. The episode also captures the chilling discovery made by Heather's sister, Jennifer, who found her parents' lifeless bodies.
The subsequent police manhunt, arrests, trials, pleas, and sentences form a major part of this episode. In one of the biggest shocks, Rod was charged with two counts of murder and sentenced to death in 1998. He remains imprisoned at Tomoka Correctional Institution in Volusia County, Florida.
Unearth the detailed account of this hair-raising story of a self-proclaimed vampire as we delve deep into Rod Farrell’s life and crimes. Listen in, if you dare.