Crime Time Inc

The conviction of former SNP Chief Executive Peter Murrell has sent shockwaves through Scottish politics and raised serious questions about financial oversight, leadership responsibility and public trust.In this episode of Crime Time Inc., former detectives Tom Wood and Simon McLean examine the embezzlement case that dominated headlines across Scotland. Drawing on decades of investigative experience, they explore how breaches of trust develop, why embezzlement often goes undetected for years, and what warning signs organisations frequently miss.Tom and Simon compare the SNP case with real investigations from their policing careers, including thefts involving trusted employees, family-run businesses and compulsive offenders whose behaviour defied logic. They discuss the difference between crimes driven by need, greed and psychological compulsion, and analyse the extraordinary purchasing patterns revealed during the investigation.The conversation also turns to leadership accountability, internal financial controls, governance failures and the responsibilities of those entrusted with managing large organisations and public donations.In the second half of the episode, the hosts address the tragic rise in child and teenage drowning deaths across the UK. They discuss water safety, cold water shock, risk-taking behaviour among young people, and whether schools and parents are doing enough to prepare children for everyday dangers.A thought-provoking discussion on crime, trust, responsibility and the lessons that organisations and families ignore at their peril.The discussion also examines the wider implications of Operation Branchform, the investigation into Scottish National Party finances, and the questions raised about oversight during the leadership of Nicola Sturgeon. Drawing on their experience as former detectives, Tom Wood and Simon McLean provide insight into how fraud investigations develop, why financial controls fail, and what lessons organisations can learn from high-profile cases. The episode concludes with an important discussion on water safety, drowning prevention and the risks of cold water immersion.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the SNP Embezzlement Case01:20 How Embezzlement Typically Begins05:44 A Detective's Real-Life £74,000 Theft Investigation09:40 Need, Greed and Compulsive Theft16:37 The Strange Psychology of Criminal Behaviour18:45 Comparing Major Financial Crime Cases21:14 Leadership Accountability and Governance Failures23:58 Water Safety and Preventable Tragedies25:46 Why Young People Are Most at Risk28:13 The Green Cross Code and Safety Lessons

In this episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom take listeners inside the world of Scottish policing, crime writing, and real-life murder investigations. What begins as a discussion about their upcoming books quickly evolves into a fascinating exploration of cold cases, people trafficking, major investigations, and the detectives who shaped modern policing.Simon discusses his new novel Kintyre: The Past Doesn’t Forget, explaining how a real unexplained death he encountered as a young officer in Campbeltown inspired the fictional story. He reveals how the book weaves together four timelines involving organised crime, corruption, trafficking, and a retired detective forced to revisit the past.The episode includes an emotional reading from the novel, following trafficking victim Song Lee as she struggles to survive after escaping exploitation and violence. Simon explains the challenges of writing from the perspective of a trafficked young woman and the importance of portraying victims realistically and respectfully.Tom then introduces his upcoming collection Sex, Spies and Bloody Murder, a series of true stories drawn from his policing career and historical crime research. He shares memories of working major investigations across multiple UK police forces and reflects on the detectives who pioneered modern murder inquiry techniques.A major focus of the discussion is legendary detective Hector Clarke and the early computerisation of murder investigations following the failures identified during the Yorkshire Ripper inquiry. Tom explains how innovation, intelligence analysis, and strategic thinking transformed policing during the hunt for serial killer Robert Black.The hosts also reflect on the responsibility of writing about real victims and crimes, the emotional impact investigations leave on families, and why remembering forgotten victims and detectives still matters today.As always, the episode ends with humour and nostalgia, including a discussion about classic Scottish slang words for someone who smells particularly bad — from “minging” to “howling.” 

The Crime Time Inc. team returns with a special emergency episode to discuss one of the most talked-about criminal cases in the UK.Former Deputy Chief Constable Tom Wood and retired Detective Simon McLean examine the murder of Southampton student Henry Novak, the subsequent conviction of Vikram Digwa, and the intense public reaction that followed the release of police body-worn video footage.Drawing on decades of frontline policing experience, Tom and Simon explore:The timeline of the Southampton murder investigationHow false information provided to police shaped the initial responseThe challenges officers face when arriving at chaotic crime scenesThe impact of body-worn camera footage on public perceptionThe reality of split-second decision-making in frontline policingThe continuing debate around institutional racism and policingPublic disorder, riots, and modern crowd-control tacticsHow police gather evidence during major disturbancesThe psychology behind public order policing and baton chargesHistoric policing methods versus modern operational tacticsWhy media coverage often misses crucial investigative contextThe responsibilities of politicians, journalists, and police leaders during high-profile casesThe episode also includes stories from Tom and Simon's own policing careers, reflections on public order operations, and a preview of Tom's forthcoming book, Sex, Spies and Bloody Murder.If you're interested in true crime, criminal investigations, police procedure, law enforcement leadership, and the realities of modern policing, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this wide-ranging episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom blend humour, nostalgia, and serious criminal justice discussion as they reflect on their careers in Scottish policing.The conversation begins with memories of detective training at Ayr and Tulliallan Police College, including stories from Butlins nights, old police accommodation blocks, and legendary detective courses from decades past.The hosts then move into a detailed discussion of the Andrew Malkinson miscarriage of justice case, exploring the dangers of flawed eyewitness identification, disclosure failures, parole complications for prisoners maintaining innocence, and the wider implications for the UK justice system.Tom shares insights into how major investigations and cold cases are managed behind the scenes, including how detectives prioritise cases, identify criminal patterns, review historic evidence, and learn from investigative mistakes.The episode also examines the pressures facing modern policing, including shrinking police numbers, overstretched resources, and the erosion of community policing in Scotland and beyond.Alongside the serious discussion are entertaining stories about traffic cops, detective office culture, nightclub escapades during training courses, book launches, and the realities of life inside the police service.

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 showhttps://crimetimeinc.com/episodes/percy-sillitoe-the-inspiration-for-james-bond-part-1https://crimetimeinc.com/episodes/percy-sillitoe-the-inspiration-for-james-bond-part-2

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 KillerZodiac Killer investigationunsolved serial killerstrue crime podcastcold case reviewcriminal investigationforensic failurespolice investigation mistakesZodiac cryptographydetective analysisunsolved mysteriescold case analysis

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, 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