True Crime Classics

In this gripping Dragnet episode, Detectives Joe Friday and Ben Romero are thrust into the chaotic pursuit of a twisted criminal masquerading as a police officer. Dubbed the “Red Light Bandit,” this ruthless fiend uses a red spotlight to prey on unsuspecting victims across Los Angeles. His violent spree begins with armed robberies and escalates to horrifying assaults, including kidnapping and murder.

The story begins with a chilling robbery at a drugstore and swiftly unravels into a series of brutal crimes that leave the LAPD scrambling for answers. As Friday and Romero dig deeper, they discover that the bandit’s cunning and savagery know no bounds. The suspense heightens when a lead takes them to Johnny Savage, a man released from prison just weeks earlier.

With a city in terror and the clock ticking, the detectives must rely on their wit and relentless determination to track down the suspect. When Savage’s own father steps forward to aid the investigation, the chase reaches its breaking point. The tension culminates in a rooftop confrontation, where justice is finally served.

This episode showcases Dragnet’s signature blend of stark realism and high-stakes drama, providing a harrowing look at the lengths police officers go to protect their community.

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Tune in to this thrilling episode of Dragnet to witness the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of deception and despair.

In this gripping episode of Dragnet, the Los Angeles Police Department faces one of its most harrowing murder investigations. Helen Corday, a well-liked waitress, is brutally murdered with a steel pipe, leaving the city in shock. Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Ben Romero are tasked with unraveling the mystery, following every clue and lead in a race against time.

As the investigation unfolds, Friday and Romero piece together a tangled web of potential suspects and witness statements, zeroing in on Frank Philip Larson, a man with a disturbing secret. Through methodical police work and intense interrogations, they inch closer to justice, determined to bring the killer to account. The tension builds as Larson’s confession finally reveals the horrifying truth behind Helen’s death, exposing the darker side of the city and the lives affected by violent crime.

Featuring Jack Webb as Joe Friday, this episode exemplifies the relentless pursuit of justice that defines Dragnet. The show’s signature approach to real-life police procedures, coupled with its dramatic storytelling, makes The Helen Corday Murder an unforgettable case from the files of the LAPD.

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Join Detective Joe Friday in this tense episode as he and his partner unravel the shocking murder of Helen Corday, exposing the true face of crime in Los Angeles in The Helen Corday Murder from Dragnet.

In this gripping episode of “Dragnet,” Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner Ben Romero face off against a ruthless gang of quick-trigger gunmen who have moved into Los Angeles, determined to kill the first cop who tries to apprehend them. The drama unfolds as they respond to a stake-out where a fellow officer, Fred Lindsey, has been killed in a bar hold-up. As the investigation progresses, Friday and Romero work tirelessly to track down the suspects, uncovering leads from a local drugstore and a taxi company that bring them closer to the killers.

The tense showdown takes place at a small apartment complex, where Friday and his team prepare to confront the armed criminals in a final, high-stakes encounter. With courage and determination, they fight to bring the gunmen to justice, risking their own lives in the process.

The episode captures the intense dangers faced by law enforcement officers, and the unwavering commitment they have to uphold the law, even in the face of deadly adversaries.

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Tune in to this thrilling and action-packed episode of “Dragnet” as Detective Friday and his team put everything on the line to stop a gang of dangerous gunmen terrorizing Los Angeles.

In this chilling episode of “Dragnet,” Detectives Joe Friday and Ben Romero are assigned to a robbery detail where a terrifying criminal, dubbed “The Werewolf,” has been terrorizing Los Angeles. This ruthless assailant has attacked and robbed 18 women over the past six weeks, leaving them battered and unconscious. With no solid leads and a city in fear, the pressure is on for the detectives to bring this dangerous criminal to justice before he escalates his crimes even further.

The victims describe a tall, dark-haired man with an animalistic face, intensifying the fear and mystery surrounding “The Werewolf.” Friday and Romero work tirelessly, setting up decoys and establishing a massive dragnet to catch him. Their efforts lead to a high-speed chase through the city and a final, tense confrontation in a park.

Through the dramatic tension and realism that “Dragnet” is known for, this episode showcases the relentless pursuit of justice by the Los Angeles Police Department. As the suspense builds, the audience is taken step-by-step through the process of solving this gripping case.

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Tune in to experience the dramatic storytelling of “Dragnet” and discover how Detectives Friday and Romero confront “The Werewolf,” bringing a sense of closure to a city gripped by fear.

In this intense and gripping episode of Dragnet, originally aired on June 10, 1949, Detective Sergeant Joe Friday (played by Jack Webb) and his partner Ben Romero are thrust into a tense investigation after two police officers are shot outside a seedy café in Los Angeles. As the detectives follow the trail of clues, they discover that a nickel-plated .44 caliber Smith & Wesson was used in the attack. The case quickly escalates as they uncover a string of violent crimes linked to the same weapon. Using advanced technology for the time, including I.B.M. machines and a tape recorder, Friday and Romero race against the clock to track down the dangerous criminals behind the shootings.

This true-to-life story, drawn from official LAPD files, captures the relentless pursuit of justice that made Dragnet a legendary radio drama. Don't miss this classic episode that blends suspense, action, and a chilling look at crime in 1940s Los Angeles.

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In the chilling final episode of "Crime Classics," titled "Good Evening, My Name Is Jack The Ripper," Thomas Hyland, the ever-intriguing connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, delves into one of history's most notorious unsolved mysteries. Set against the fog-shrouded streets of London in 1888, this episode revisits the terror that gripped the Whitechapel district as a ruthless slasher left a trail of mutilated bodies in his wake.

Through the eyes of a young lass, we witness the horrific activities of the infamous Jack the Ripper. The murders, beginning with Emma Elizabeth Smith and continuing through a series of tragic victims, each sharing the common trait of blonde hair, are explored in gruesome detail. As the body count rises, the fear and hysteria in London grow, but the identity of the killer remains shrouded in darkness.

Written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, and adapted from original newspaper reports of the time, this episode captures the eerie atmosphere of late 19th-century London and the chilling uncertainty that surrounded these heinous crimes.

With standout performances by Betty Harford, James McCallion, and Paula Winslowe, and Elliott Lewis's expert direction, this episode brings to life the terror that has made Jack the Ripper a legend of fear.

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Step into the shadows of Victorian London and uncover the terrifying tale of "Good Evening, My Name Is Jack The Ripper," a gripping episode from the classic series "Crime Classics."

In this captivating episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-curious connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the chilling tale of "Ali Pasha, A Turkish Delight." Set within the opulent yet treacherous world of the Ottoman Empire, this episode unravels a story where power, betrayal, and murder are everyday affairs.

The narrative focuses on Ali Pasha, a notorious figure in Ottoman history, whose life was a twisted blend of delight and darkness. As power struggles ensue and alliances shift, Ali Pasha's story becomes a bizarre tale of murder and mayhem, with even his own mother confined to a dungeon. Writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin bring to life this historical drama, adapted from original records, creating a vivid portrayal of a man who wielded power with both charm and cruelty.

Featuring standout performances by Edgar Barrier, Hans Conried, and Paula Winslowe, and with Bob Lemond as the announcer, this episode is a rich tapestry of intrigue and suspense, underscored by Elliott Lewis's masterful direction.

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Dive into the twisted world of Ottoman politics and crime in this gripping episode of "Crime Classics," where murder and mayhem reign supreme.

In this intriguing episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the astute connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, unravels the tale of "The Death of a Baltimore Birdie and Friend." Set against the backdrop of a sweltering summer night in August 1953, this episode delves into the dark and tangled world of a prizefighter whose life takes a sinister turn involving love and murder.

The story follows a canvasback prizefighter, whose adventures in both the ring and romance lead to deadly consequences. On this fateful night, the line between love and violence blurs, resulting in a tragic end for both the fighter and his closest companion. Through meticulous adaptation of original court reports and newspaper accounts, writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin craft a narrative that captures the complexities of crime and passion.

With compelling performances by Jerry Hausner, Paula Winslowe, and Lou Merrill, and haunting music composed and conducted by Bernard Hermann, this episode is a masterful blend of suspense and drama, characteristic of the "Crime Classics" series.

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Tune in to explore the twists and turns of this tragic tale, where love and murder intertwine in a story that’s as gripping as it is heartbreaking.

In this compelling episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the insightful connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the chilling tale of "The Assassination of Leon Trotsky." This episode delves into the life and death of one of history’s most influential revolutionaries, Leon Trotsky, whose tumultuous journey from Russian exile to his final days in Mexico City ended in a brutal assassination.

Leon Trotsky, born in Russia in 1879, was a fervent revolutionist who found inspiration in the writings of Karl Marx. His life was marked by a series of exiles as he spread his doctrine of world revolution across Europe. It was in London that he met Lenin, forming a lasting and dangerous conspiracy that would shape the course of history. Despite his relentless pursuit of revolution, Trotsky’s life was cut short by an assassin’s hand in 1940, a murder that shocked the world.

Writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin masterfully adapt original court reports and newspaper accounts, bringing to life the intricate details of this historical assassination. With performances by Charles Calvert, Irene Tedrow, and Melitza Milow, and under the direction of Elliott Lewis, this episode captures the tension and drama of Trotsky’s final days.

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Join us as we explore the life, ideals, and tragic end of Leon Trotsky in this gripping episode of "Crime Classics."

In this darkly intriguing episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-astute connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, recounts the bizarre and cunning story of "Mr. Jonathan Jewett: How He Most Peculiarly Cheated The Hangman." Set in an era when the gallows loomed large as the ultimate arbiter of justice, this tale delves into the mind of a man who dared to outwit the noose.

As Jonathan Jewett stands on the brink of execution, facing the inevitable fate of the hangman’s rope, he devises a daring plan to cheat death. With the help of a dubious "friend," Jewett attempts to escape the clutches of the hangman in a way that defies both logic and expectation. Morton Fine and David Friedkin, master storytellers, bring this macabre plot to life with their signature style of vivid, grisly descriptions that will leave listeners both horrified and fascinated.

With a stellar cast featuring John Dehner, Lee Millar Jr., and Byron Kane, under the direction of Elliott Lewis, "Mr. Jonathan Jewett: How He Most Peculiarly Cheated The Hangman" is a twisted and suspenseful journey into the dark corners of the human mind.

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Tune in for a story where the line between life and death is blurred by one man’s desperate attempt to cheat the hangman’s noose in this gripping episode of "Crime Classics."

In this gripping episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the distinguished connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, delves into the chilling tale of "The Lethal Habit of Marquise de Brinvilliers." Set in the opulent yet perilous world of 18th century France, this story uncovers the deadly hobbies of the Marquise Henri De Brinvilliers, a man of influence and lethal intent.

Amid the splendor of King Louis XIV’s Versailles, where fortunes were made and lives were lost in equal measure, the Marquise and his wife took pleasure in poisoning those who displeased them. Their twisted sense of justice left a trail of death and despair, as they wielded their influence to settle scores in the most permanent way possible. Adapted from original accounts by the talented writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this episode paints a vivid picture of a time when power, poison, and peril walked hand in hand.

With captivating performances by Herb Butterfield, Mary Jane Croft, and Joseph Kearns, and atmospheric direction by Elliott Lewis, "The Lethal Habit of Marquise de Brinvilliers" is a chilling reminder of the dangers lurking behind the grandeur of the French aristocracy.

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Join us as we explore the lethal habits of a man whose charm was only matched by his deadly intent in this haunting episode of "Crime Classics."

In this intriguing episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-curious connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, unravels the mystery of "Mr. Clarke’s Skeleton in Mr. Aram’s Closet: The Noise It Made." Set against the foggy backdrop of Yorkshire in 1758, this tale explores a murder long forgotten—until the discovery of a skeleton shakes the town and sends shockwaves through its most respectable circles.

The story centers on a trial where the wrong man—or is he?—is set to face the gallows. As the remains of Mr. Clarke are unearthed from a cave near Knaresborough, 15 years after his murder, the once-respected Mr. Aram finds himself at the center of a chilling mystery. Adapted from original court records and newspaper accounts by the talented duo Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this episode delves into the dark secrets hidden behind closed doors and the noises that refuse to be silenced.

With performances by Herb Butterfield, Charles Davis, and William Johnstone, and a haunting score by Bernard Herrmann, this episode is a masterclass in suspense and storytelling.

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Join us as we uncover the eerie events that led to one of the most perplexing trials in Yorkshire’s history in this unforgettable episode of "Crime Classics."

In this chilling episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the astute connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the darkly intriguing story of "Bunny Baumler: A Brush with Fame and Four Murders in a Beer Hall." Set in the bustling city of Nuremberg in 1820, this episode delves into the life of Bunny Baumler, a man who struggled with just about everything—except for committing a brutal quadruple murder.

Known for his bumbling nature, Bunny was hardly the type anyone expected to make headlines. But when he bludgeoned four people to death in a local beer hall, he secured his infamous place in history. Adapted from original records by skilled writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this tale explores the mind of an unlikely murderer and the shocking events that led to his brush with fame.

Featuring a stellar cast including Edgar Barrier, Jack Kruschen, and Howard McNear, with masterful direction by Elliott Lewis, this episode transports listeners to the grim streets of 19th-century Nuremberg, where one man's incompetence turned into a horrifying spree of violence.

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Tune in to hear the haunting story of Bunny Baumler and the tragic events that unfolded in a Nuremberg beer hall, in this gripping episode of "Crime Classics."

In this intriguing episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the insightful connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the story of "Widow Magee and the Three Gypsies: A Vermont Fandango." Set in the picturesque yet unforgiving landscape of 1850 Vermont, this tale follows the enchanting Widow Magee, a woman whose beauty and charm captivate three wandering gypsies.

But beneath the surface of this seemingly quaint tale lies a dark and twisted narrative. As Widow Magee weaves her spell over the gypsies, suspicions arise, and the story takes a turn toward the sinister. Adapted from historical records by the talented writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this episode explores themes of manipulation, desire, and the consequences of trust misplaced.

Featuring a powerful cast including Hy Averback, William Conrad, and Sammie Hill, with direction by Elliott Lewis, this episode is a captivating blend of suspense and historical intrigue, drawing listeners into the eerie atmosphere of 19th-century New England.

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Join Thomas Hyland as he recounts the beguiling and dangerous dance of the Widow Magee and the three gypsies in this unforgettable episode of "Crime Classics."

In this compelling episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the astute connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, narrates the chilling story of "Cesare Borgia: His Most Difficult Murder." Set in the heart of Rome in the year 1500, this tale dives deep into the sinister world of Cesare Borgia, one of history's most infamous figures.

As Rome simmers with plots and counterplots, Borgia, a man with power and ambition, faces a challenge that tests even his ruthless capabilities. This episode brings to life the intricacies of Borgia's most difficult murder, revealing the dark maneuvers and deadly games played in the shadowy corridors of power. Adapted from original court reports and newspaper accounts by the talented writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this story captures the tension and danger that surrounded Borgia's reign.

Featuring a stellar cast including Hy Averback, Edgar Barrier, and William Conrad, with direction by Elliott Lewis, this episode is a masterful portrayal of treachery and the lengths to which one will go to maintain control in a city steeped in blood and betrayal.

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Immerse yourself in the deadly intrigues of Renaissance Rome as Thomas Hyland recounts the story of Cesare Borgia and his most challenging murder.

In this gripping episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the meticulous connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the harrowing tale of "James Evans Fireman: How He Extinguished a Human Torch." Set in the industrial city of Manchester, England, in the year 1826, this story combines elements of true love and horrifying violence.

James Evans, a dedicated fireman, is thrust into a situation where love and duty collide in the most unexpected way. The Norwich Union boys, known for their prowess in extinguishing fires of all sizes, face a challenge that goes beyond the ordinary—a human torch. As Hyland narrates, the episode uncovers the dark events that led to this tragic incident, offering a glimpse into the dangers faced by firemen of the era and the lengths to which they would go to protect those they loved.

Brought to life by a talented cast including Alastair Duncan, Betty Harford, and Richard Peel, with direction from Elliott Lewis, this episode is a haunting exploration of passion, duty, and the fierce flames that threaten to consume them both.

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Tune in to hear the true story of James Evans and the extraordinary events that made this day in 1826 one for the history books.

In this poignant episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-curious connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, brings to life a chilling tale of love and betrayal in Tsarist Russia. "The General’s Daughter: A Russian Tragedy in the Frozen Neva" is a story steeped in secrecy, passion, and the unforgiving cold of a Russian winter.

Set in the opulent but dangerous world of 19th-century Russia, this episode recounts the hidden romance between the General’s daughter and the Tsar’s Lieutenant, a love affair that leads to tragic consequences. With a meticulous adaptation by writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin, the episode unveils the fateful events that culminate in a tragic ending, as the lovers' story is intertwined with the frozen Neva River and a linen closet filled with secrets.

The drama is brought to life by a talented cast, including Hy Averback, John Dehner, and Irene Tedrow, with Bob Lemond as the announcer. Elliott Lewis’s direction and the haunting music score provide the perfect atmosphere for this Russian tragedy.

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Join Thomas Hyland as he narrates this dark and haunting tale of love, betrayal, and frozen destiny.

In this captivating episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-intriguing connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the dramatic story of "Robby Boy Balfour: How He Wrecked the Big Prison’s Reputation." Set against the austere backdrop of Scotland in 1707, this tale explores the life of Robby Boy Balfour, a man whose actions brought disgrace to a once-feared institution.

As the narrative unfolds, listeners are taken on a journey through the grim realities of 18th-century Scottish prisons, where Robby Boy Balfour's cunning and defiance turned him into a legend of sorts. Through meticulous adaptation of historical records, writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin reveal the events that led to Balfour's notorious reputation and his ultimate impact on the prison system.

This episode features a strong cast, including Norman Field, Virginia Gregg, and William Johnstone, with Bob Lamont as the announcer. The haunting score adds depth to this gripping tale of rebellion and retribution.

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Tune in to hear how one man’s defiance echoed through the walls of a Scottish prison, forever altering its legacy.

In this fascinating episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the meticulous connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the chilling tale of "Old Six Toes: How He Stopped Construction on the BBC." Set in old India, where an old man and a young wife create a deadly mix, this story reveals a murder most foul.

The episode takes listeners into the depths of a sinister plot, where Old Six Toes, a figure shrouded in mystery and fear, brings an entire construction project to a halt with a single, heinous act. Adapted from historical records by writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this episode captures the dark essence of betrayal and violence in a bygone era.

With a stellar cast including Jack Edwards, Jane Webb, and Lou Merrill, and narrated by the inimitable Bob Lemond, "Old Six Toes" is a gripping exploration of crime and punishment, made even more intense by the haunting musical score that accompanies each scene.

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Listen in as Thomas Hyland takes you back to old India to unravel the mystery of how one man’s actions stopped the BBC in its tracks.

In this riveting episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-insightful connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, brings us the chilling tale of "The Tiger and Brad Ferguson." Set against the rugged backdrop of New Hampshire in 1842, this story delves into the dark and mysterious events that led to a fatal confrontation.

Brad Ferguson, an ordinary man, finds himself in extraordinary circumstances when he encounters a tiger—an unlikely and fearsome presence in the New Hampshire wilderness. But this is no ordinary tale of man versus beast. Through meticulous adaptation of original court reports and newspaper accounts, writers Morton Fine and David Friedkin unravel the mystery behind this encounter, revealing deeper, more sinister motives that lurk beneath the surface.

The episode is brought to life by a stellar cast, including Parley Baer, Jeanne Bates, and John Dehner, with Bernard Hermann providing a haunting musical score that perfectly complements the suspenseful narrative.

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Tune in to hear the story of a deadly encounter that shocked the people of New Hampshire and became a notorious chapter in the annals of American crime.

In this intriguing episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the ever-curious connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, recounts the strange and eerie story of "Roger Nems: How He, Though Dead, Won the Game." Set during the reign of Charles II, this tale unfolds in the quiet countryside of Suffolk, England, in 1676.

Roger Nems, an unsuspecting gentleman, finds himself in a deadly game of croquet with his cousin John and their mutual friend Guy Marcy. But the peaceful afternoon soon turns sinister when Guy, driven by dark motives, delivers a fatal blow with his mallet, ending Roger’s life in an instant. However, the story doesn't end with Roger's death. In a twist of fate, Roger manages to achieve an unexpected victory, even from beyond the grave.

Written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, with beautiful 18th-century music masterfully arranged by Bernard Herrmann, this episode masterfully weaves historical intrigue with suspenseful storytelling. The performances of actors like Alistair Duncan, Lou Merrill, and Ellen Morgan bring the drama to life, making it an episode you won't want to miss.

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Tune in to discover how Roger Nems, despite his untimely death, won the game in this chilling episode of "Crime Classics."

In this gripping episode of "Crime Classics," Thomas Hyland, the connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, presents the harrowing tale of "The Good Ship Jane: Why She Became Flotsam." Set in the year 1821, this episode dives deep into the dark world of piracy and betrayal on the high seas.

The Good Ship Jane was once a vessel of promise, sailing the vast oceans with a hopeful crew. But as the episode unfolds, Hyland reveals the chilling events that led to the ship’s tragic demise. Through a series of well-crafted twists, the story of piracy, greed, and cold-blooded murder emerges, turning the Jane from a symbol of adventure to a shattered wreck drifting aimlessly as flotsam.

Written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, this episode captures the essence of 19th-century maritime treachery. With performances by Paul Frees, William Johnstone, and other talented actors, the narrative brings to life the tension and fear that permeated the final voyage of the Good Ship Jane.

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Listen now to uncover the tragic fate of the Good Ship Jane and the deadly secrets that turned her into nothing more than flotsam in this unforgettable episode of "Crime Classics."

In this chilling episode of "Crime Classics," titled "Jean Baptiste Troppmann: Killer of Many," Thomas Hyland takes us back to 1865 France, under the reign of Louis Napoleon, to unravel the dark and twisted tale of a young man driven by greed and ambition.

Jean Baptiste Troppmann, though only a youth, harbors a sinister plan to secure fame and fortune through a series of brutal murders. The story unfolds with the mysterious disappearance of an entire family and the discovery of several freshly dug graves that hold a grim secret. As Hyland delves into the mind of this cold-blooded killer, the episode paints a vivid picture of the lengths to which Troppmann would go to achieve his twisted dreams.

Set against the backdrop of a nation still recovering from political upheaval, this episode explores the macabre actions of a murderer whose name would be etched in the annals of criminal history.

Written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, and narrated by the ever-compelling Joseph Kearns as Thomas Hyland, "Jean Baptiste Troppmann: Killer of Many" is a gripping account of one of France's most notorious murderers.

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Click to listen and step into the dark world of Jean Baptiste Troppmann, where murder and mayhem lead to infamy, in this haunting episode of "Crime Classics."

In "The Incredible History of John Shepard," a fascinating episode of "Crime Classics" originally aired on February 3, 1954, listeners are drawn into the daring and cunning world of one of old England's most infamous criminals.

John Shepard, a name that sent shivers down the spines of London's wealthy, was a master thief and escape artist whose exploits became the stuff of legend. This episode begins with a captivating encounter as Maria returns home from a grand party, only to find herself face to face with the notorious John Shepard. With a mix of fear and fascination, Maria watches as Shepard calmly and methodically relieves her of her prized jewelry—earrings, rings, all taken with a skillful hand and a charming smile.

But this is just one chapter in the incredible history of John Shepard, a man whose life was filled with daring heists, narrow escapes, and a charisma that even his victims couldn’t help but admire. Shepard’s ability to outwit the law and his audacious feats of burglary made him a legend in his own time, and this episode of "Crime Classics" brings his story to life with vivid detail and a touch of dark humor.

Written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, and directed by Elliott Lewis, "The Incredible History of John Shepard" is more than just a tale of crime—it's a journey into the mind of a man who turned theft into an art form. With engaging storytelling and rich characterizations, this episode offers a glimpse into the life of a rogue whose name still echoes through history.

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Click to listen and discover the legendary escapades of John Shepard, the charming rogue who outwitted England's finest in this thrilling episode of "Crime Classics."

Step back into the early 19th century with "The Boorn Brothers and the Hangman: A Study in Nip and Tuck," a fascinating episode of "Crime Classics" that originally aired on January 27, 1954. Set in Rutland, Vermont, in 1817, this episode tells the strange and gripping tale of the Boorn brothers, whose lives took a dark turn that led them to the gallows.

In this eerie and atmospheric story, a man is seen dancing in the moonlight with the "Little People"—an event that seems innocent enough but foreshadows a much darker series of events. The Boorn brothers, suspected of murder, find themselves entangled in a trial that will determine their fate. The story is a study in the nuances of justice during a time when the line between guilt and innocence was as thin as a rope around a hangman's noose.

Hosted by Thomas Hyland, the connoisseur of crime, student of violence, and teller of murders, "Crime Classics" brings to life true crime stories from history's darkest corners. This episode, written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, is a prime example of the series' ability to blend historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling.

Featuring performances by Elliott Lewis, Lou Merrill, and Irene Tedrow, and narrated by Bob Lemond, "The Boorn Brothers and the Hangman: A Study in Nip and Tuck" delves into the chilling and often perplexing world of early American justice.

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Click to listen and explore the twisted path of justice in "The Boorn Brothers and the Hangman," a captivating episode of "Crime Classics" where history and crime collide in a tale of life, death, and the gallows.