Crime Time Inc

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,

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

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.

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 witnessPoste’s background: Air Force service, cryptography training, and life in the Bay Area during the Zodiac murdersHis move to Groveland, California in 1970—the same year the Zodiac killings stoppedAllegations of violence, control, and disturbing behaviour reported by neighboursThe forehead scars and how they compare to the Zodiac composite sketchThe controversial cipher theory linking Poste’s name to the Zodiac’s coded messagesThe connection to the Cheri Jo Bates murder—and why police dispute itClaims of hidden weapons caches and a possible trained group of followersThe ongoing mystery surrounding DNA evidence—and why it has never been conclusively comparedWe 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 

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.

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 careerHis movements between California and New York during key Zodiac yearsThe origins of the theory — and the role of Blaine “Goldcatcher”, the informant who first accused himThe Darlene Ferrin connection and the Albany timeline overlapThe controversial “GYKE” cipher claimThe disputed voice identification by Nancy SloverLinks to Good Times newspaper and cultural references like The MikadoClaims around the Exorcist letter and “Me = 37”Physical resemblance to the Zodiac composite sketchWe also examine the critical weaknesses:The lack of credible supporting evidence from law enforcementThe highly questionable reliability of the original sourceThe disputed passport and travel alibiHandwriting analysis that did not match the ZodiacA missed opportunity for fingerprint comparisonAnd most importantly —no public forensic evidence (DNA, fingerprints, or handwriting) has ever tied Gaikowski to the Zodiac crimesThis 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 fansZodiac Killer researchersListeners interested in suspect analysis and investigative breakdownsIf 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

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 crisisHOSTS

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 offencesHis proximity to key Zodiac crime locations, including San Francisco and VallejoThe significance of his convictions for prowling and voyeurism — and whether these behaviours align with the Zodiac’s possible pre-offence patternsThe detectives focus heavily on identification evidence, often considered the backbone of any case:Darlene Ferrin’s sisters identifying Kane as a man who frightened herKathleen Johns later identifying Kane as her abductorWhy these identifications are compelling — but still fall short of proving he was the ZodiacHowever, major challenges to the Kane theory are also examined:No confirmed link to firearms — despite the Zodiac’s demonstrated skill with multiple weaponsThe Donna Lass case, which differs significantly from known Zodiac crimes in method and executionThe risk of forcing connections between unrelated crimesA 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 pictureUltimately, the conclusion remains frustratingly familiar:Lawrence Kane cannot be definitively linked to the Zodiac KillerBut equally, he cannot be fully ruled outThis 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.