Advertise on podcast: Catfish Cops

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Some investigations begin with evidence that is only days or weeks old. Others begin with a survivor finding the courage to speak about something that happened years—even decades—before. “If These Dolls Could Talk” is an extraordinary case that demonstrates why a delayed disclosure does not mean the opportunity for justice has passed. The investigation began in 2023 after a now-adult survivor disclosed sexual abuse within her family. What initially appeared to be one case ultimately uncovered allegations spanning generations and dating as far back as 1994. Investigators identified multiple victims and developed cases involving both hands-on offenses and an enormous collection of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) discovered on digital devices. But the digital evidence revealed even more. Investigators uncovered an apparent obsession with a juvenile horseback rider, including evidence of attempts to gain access to her and multiple out-of-town trips to attend competitions where she was participating. Her mother would ultimately become an important witness at trial. Perhaps most remarkable was the evidence that still existed decades later. Handwritten notes and letters sent to girls had been saved by parents for years, providing investigators with physical evidence that helped corroborate events from long before the investigation began. The prosecution ultimately resulted in one offender receiving life without the possibility of parole, while the second received an eight-year sentence through a plea agreement reached with the involvement of the victim's family. At the heart of this episode, however, is a lesson every investigator, prosecutor, and survivor should hear: Delayed disclosure does not mean there is no evidence. And the passage of time does not necessarily eliminate the possibility of accountability. Old letters can still exist. Digital evidence can reveal unexpected connections. Witnesses can still remember. Families may have unknowingly preserved critical pieces of evidence for decades. This episode is about following those pieces wherever they lead—and about what can happen when investigators refuse to assume that “too much time has passed” means “nothing can be done.” If These Dolls Could Talk — a powerful case study in persistence, corroboration, digital forensics, and the pursuit of justice for survivors of child sexual abuse. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! How do you measure the impact of a career dedicated to protecting children? Sometimes, it isn't measured in awards, titles, or recognition. It's measured in the children who were found, the offenders who were identified, and the investigators who became better because someone was willing to teach them. In Part Two of our conversation with retired Detective Robert Shilling, former head of Crimes Against Children for INTERPOL, we go deeper into the lessons learned over a career spent confronting some of the most challenging crimes investigators can face. Robert shares his perspective on how the field has evolved, the importance of cooperation between investigators across jurisdictions and international borders, and the responsibility experienced investigators have to pass their knowledge to the next generation. There is also something bigger in this conversation: legacy. Robert Shilling helped pioneer a field that countless investigators continue to advance today. Yet throughout our conversation, his humility is unmistakable. For him, the mission was never about recognition. It was about the children. For those who currently investigate crimes against children—and especially those just beginning that journey—this episode is an opportunity to hear from someone who helped build the road you're now traveling. The technology will change. The investigative techniques will evolve. New challenges will emerge. But the mission remains the same: find them, protect them, and never stop fighting for children who need someone willing to fight for them. Part Two: Robert Shilling — The Mission Continues Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! There are people who work in a profession, and then there are those who help shape the profession for everyone who follows them. In Part One of this special two-part episode, we sit down with retired Detective Robert Shilling, former head of Crimes Against Children for INTERPOL and a true pioneer in the investigation of crimes against children. Robert’s career placed him on the front lines of some of the most difficult investigations imaginable, during a time when technology was rapidly changing both how offenders operated and how investigators worked to identify them and protect their victims. What struck us most, however, wasn't the résumé or the accomplishments. It was the man behind them. Despite decades of experience and an international reputation in the field, Robert is remarkably humble. He speaks less about what he accomplished and more about the children, investigators, and professionals who motivated the work. In Part One, Robert takes us through his journey—from detective to international child-protection leader—and shares how investigators began confronting crimes that increasingly crossed jurisdictions, borders, and eventually the digital world. This isn't simply a conversation about a career. It's a conversation about the early foundations of a mission that continues today: finding victims, identifying offenders, and protecting children wherever they may be. Part One: Robert Shilling — A Pioneer in Protecting Children Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Some cases stay with you long after the courtroom empties. “Snaggletooth” is one of those cases. In this episode, Hays County Assistant District Attorney Katie Arnold takes us inside the investigation and prosecution of a deeply disturbing case involving a father accused of committing unimaginable acts against a child. But this story isn't about giving notoriety to the person responsible. It's about the people who refused to give up on the children involved. Katie walks us through a difficult case that demanded patience, persistence, and an extraordinary attention to detail. When the path toward justice was anything but simple, her dedication to the case—and to the children at the center of it—never wavered. Behind every piece of evidence was a child who deserved to be heard. Behind every difficult decision were siblings and a family searching for answers and, ultimately, some measure of closure. “Snaggletooth” is a story about the darkest side of human behavior—but more importantly, it's about what can happen when dedicated professionals refuse to stop fighting for a child. Join us as Assistant District Attorney Katie Arnold tells the story of Snaggletooth—a case she fought relentlessly to bring to its conclusion, and one that reminds us why protecting children and pursuing justice on their behalf matters so deeply. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! The dark web. Online extremism. Digital extortion. Human trafficking. These are complex investigations taking place in an online world that is constantly evolving—and our next guest has spent years working at the intersection of law enforcement, cybercrime, and the dark web. We’re joined by Detective and Task Force Officer Keven Hendricks of the New Brunswick Police Department in New Jersey, a veteran law enforcement officer whose career began in 2007. Hendricks has served with FBI and DEA cybercrime task forces and is recognized as a subject-matter expert in dark web investigations. His expertise has been featured by The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, NPR, The Economist, and Wired, and he trains law enforcement professionals both nationally and internationally. He is also the founder of the Ubivis Project – StopDarkwebDrugs.com and serves on the advisory council for the Anti-Human Trafficking Intelligence Initiative. In this episode, we sit down with Keven to discuss the disturbing evolution of Nihilistic Violent Extremism (NVE) and Sadistic Online Extortion (SOE)—including how offenders exploit technology, online communities, and anonymity to target and manipulate victims. Most importantly, we discuss what law enforcement, parents, and communities need to understand about these emerging threats and why protecting children in the digital world has never been more important. This is a conversation about understanding what is happening in some of the darkest corners of the internet—and giving those tasked with protecting children the knowledge to recognize the threat and respond. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Gear up for a case with a WILD series of twists and turns, particularly when it comes to the forensics—evidence that ultimately helped lead to a sentence we do not see very often. Carlos was incredible to interview. While we are unable to identify his agency, what we can tell you is that he is a highly experienced and dedicated child protector serving the Dallas-Fort Worth law enforcement community. Cases involving crimes against children demand persistence, experience, and an unwavering commitment to following the evidence wherever it leads. Protecting children is among the most important responsibilities we have, and this case is a powerful reminder of why the men and women who investigate these crimes—and the forensic work behind those investigations—matter so much. This is a case you will want to hear from beginning to end. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! We hope you will enjoy this short but powerful episode with Amanda Kozlowski who is the owner/founder of Ring True with her sister Shannon Sloan.  Ring True has the mission to provide dignified work opportunities to survivors and those at risk. Every purchase you make through Ring True is a heartwarming statement of support for a brighter and more compassionate future for the ladies who make our jewelry. Our company is unwavering in its dedication to empowering survivors of human trafficking, offering them meaningful employment opportunities. When you choose Ring True for gifts or for something special for yourself, you’re not just gifting products; you’re investing in stories of resilience and triumph, spreading the spirit of hope. With every purchase, you actively contribute to the rehabilitation and empowerment of survivors who have bravely overcome unimaginable challenges. Thank you for being a partner with us in this important work! Please check them oout at the following links.  https://ringtrueco.com/ https://www.instagram.com/ringtrue_co/ https://www.youtube.com/@ringtrue_co https://ringtrueco.com/product/anxiety-fidget-rings/ring-of-the-month/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAaeLQHeHO0LycVmX3DitEW3kPP4yacENnwt9vO7HhGpxXhWUS2Cfqax7eRmOrw_aem_QcNX4KLaCo7uH-ijaZfoEg Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! There are moments in life when you realize your plans were never really your own. This episode of the CatFish Cops Podcast is one of those moments. We had the incredible privilege of sitting down with Nick Menster, the creator of The Protector's Prayer—a message that has reached countless law enforcement officers, first responders, military members, and protectors around the world. What began as a conversation quickly became something much greater: a reminder that every calling, every sacrifice, every hardship, and every victory points to something far bigger than ourselves. What started as an act of obedience has grown into a movement encouraging protectors to see their calling through a Christ-centered lens. As investigators, officers, and protectors, we often witness the darkest parts of humanity. Yet even in that darkness, there is hope, purpose, and a God who never wastes our experiences. This isn't just another podcast episode. It's a conversation about faith, courage, calling, and the unseen hand of God working through ordinary people willing to answer an extraordinary calling. Whether you wear a badge, a military uniform, serve your community, or simply need encouragement to keep pressing forward, this episode is for you. The message is simple: It's never been about us. It has always been... For His Glory. Take a few moments to learn more about Nick's incredible ministry and share it with someone who serves: 🙏 The Protector's Prayer https://protectorsprayer.com/prayer 📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ProtectorsPrayer/ 📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/protectorsprayer/ If this conversation encouraged you, please like, subscribe, and share. Someone in your life may need this message today. #CatFishCopsPodcast #ProtectorsPrayer #NickMenster #ForHisGlory #SoliDeoGloria #Faith #LawEnforcement #FirstResponders #Military #Protectors #Purpose #Courage #ThinBlueLine #Podcast Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Established in 2022 and officially incorporated as an LLC in September 2023, Prevention Starts with Parents is dedicated to educating and empowering parents and caregivers. We firmly believe that informed parents are protective parents. Our mission is to provide essential knowledge on child sexual abuse risks and prevention strategies, ensuring that every child's safety is a top priority. Our Vision At Prevention Starts with Parents, we envision a world where every child grows up in a safe and nurturing environment. We aim to empower parents and caregivers with knowledge, tools, and resources to protect their children from the threat of sexual abuse. We envision a future where every child's innocence is preserved, and their well-being is prioritized, thanks to the commitment of parents and caregivers. Alison Sutherland is a dedicated professional with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. With a career spanning various sectors, she has accumulated extensive expertise in Child Abuse and Prevention. Her experience includes roles in Child Protective Services, Juvenile Court, Victim's Advocacy within Law Enforcement, and most recently, as a Forensic Interviewer. Alison is committed to safeguarding children and making a positive impact in the field of child protection. Alison became a forensic interviewer in 2020 and was trained in Child First Protocol.Alison has spent several years working under different juvenile judges - becoming well versed in cases related to dependency, delinquency and truancy.Alison began her career a decade ago with the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) and investigated cases of child abuse and neglect. In 2018, Alison became the Crime Victim's Coordinator at a central Texas police department. She worked with all victims of violent and sexual crimes identified by the police department.Alison has spent well over 1000 hours observing and participating in various courts.Having two separate opportunities to work with two different family treatment courts, Alison has an extensive background with addiction and how substance abuse effects families. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Kevin Branzetti is the co-founder and CEO of the National Child Protection Task Force. Kevin Branzetti is the co-founder and CEO of the National Child Protection Task Force. With a rich 29-year history in law enforcement, Branzetti spent 22 years specializing in terrorism and violent extremism with the NYPD, later joining the Manhattan District Attorney's Office for another 7. At the Manhattan DA's Office, he led major investigations into these areas, including terrorism, violent extremism, and cyber-crime. He ended his NYPD journey in the Intelligence Bureau as the commanding officer of the Cyber Intelligence Unit, where he pioneered the development of a groundbreaking terrorist targeting program. Globally well-respected, he's shared his online investigation know-how with police worldwide and worked closely with major social media companies to create trauma-informed solutions. Now, at the helm of the NCPTF, Kevin Branzetti's unparalleled leadership and deep-rooted expertise anchor the organization's mission to protect children. Drawing from his vast experience in law enforcement, intelligence, and cyber investigations, Kevin provides a robust foundation to tackle the intricate challenges of crimes against children. Under his stewardship, the NCPTF has emerged as a formidable player against child exploitation, harnessing cutting-edge strategies and synergies to effect real change. In his role as CEO, Kevin's steadfast commitment to the safety of vulnerable groups and his exemplary leadership skills remain at the core of the NCPTF's mission-driven initiatives. He remains a beacon in the effort to create a safer world for children, confronting and neutralizing the ever-evolving dangers of child exploitation. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Kevin Branzetti is the co-founder and CEO of the National Child Protection Task Force. Kevin Branzetti is the co-founder and CEO of the National Child Protection Task Force. With a rich 29-year history in law enforcement, Branzetti spent 22 years specializing in terrorism and violent extremism with the NYPD, later joining the Manhattan District Attorney's Office for another 7. At the Manhattan DA's Office, he led major investigations into these areas, including terrorism, violent extremism, and cyber-crime. He ended his NYPD journey in the Intelligence Bureau as the commanding officer of the Cyber Intelligence Unit, where he pioneered the development of a groundbreaking terrorist targeting program. Globally well-respected, he's shared his online investigation know-how with police worldwide and worked closely with major social media companies to create trauma-informed solutions. Now, at the helm of the NCPTF, Kevin Branzetti's unparalleled leadership and deep-rooted expertise anchor the organization's mission to protect children. Drawing from his vast experience in law enforcement, intelligence, and cyber investigations, Kevin provides a robust foundation to tackle the intricate challenges of crimes against children. Under his stewardship, the NCPTF has emerged as a formidable player against child exploitation, harnessing cutting-edge strategies and synergies to effect real change. In his role as CEO, Kevin's steadfast commitment to the safety of vulnerable groups and his exemplary leadership skills remain at the core of the NCPTF's mission-driven initiatives. He remains a beacon in the effort to create a safer world for children, confronting and neutralizing the ever-evolving dangers of child exploitation. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Child crime expert Detective Richard Wistocki has dedicated his career to helping children by tirelessly pursuing, apprehending and prosecuting child predators.  As an active Cyber Crimes Detective he educates Law Enforcement using cutting edge investigative techniques and Parents and Students on responsible digital activity. ·        ​30 year, decorated member of Law Enforcement ·        23 year SWAT team member ·        Authored the State of Illinois Sexting Law ·        Authored the State of Illinois Sexual Exploitation of a Child Law ·        Member of The United States Secret Service Chicago Electronic Crimes Task Force (CECTF) ·        Member of The Illinois Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC) ·        High Technology Crimes Detective, Naperville Ill.    ·        Formed the Will County Illinois States Attorney’s High Technology Crimes Unit that made over 90 sexual predator arrests in its first 3 ½ years.  ·        Created Juvenile Justice Online, a first of its kind diversion program redefining the future of positive juvenile reform.  www.juvenilejusticeonline.org Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! Jenna Quinn was first asked to speak in public and share her testimony as a young teenager. Since then, she has pioneered the national child sexual abuse prevention movement since 2004. She is also an author, TED speaker, conference trainer, and the namesake of Jenna’s Law legislation on the state and federal level.   Passed unanimously in Texas in 2009, Jenna’s Law was the first child sexual abuse prevention education mandate in the U.S named after a survivor requiring K-12 sexual abuse prevention for students, school staff, and caregivers. It requires each school district to adopt and implement a prevention policy that educates students, teachers, and caregivers on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse. Now, over half the country has adopted legislation reflecting the principals of Jenna’s Law, including federal legislation passed called, “The Jenna Quinn Law.” With an educational background in Psychology, Counseling, Applied Behavioral Therapy Services, and a Master’s Degree in Communication Studies, Jenna has reached international audiences, educating and sharing her inspiring story with legislatures, law-enforcement, abuse-prevention groups, schools, communities of faith, nonprofit organizations, and the general public delivering over 500 keynote speeches.    As a survivor who benefited from the services of a Children’s Advocacy Center, Jenna has worked with over 100 Child Advocacy Centers across the country. She's also reached over 3 million children and youth, and helped raise over $20 million dollars for various organizations fighting child sexual abuse.  Moreover, she has worked with over 26 states to help implement prevention education policies and has helped develop numerous child safety curriculums.   Jenna is also the founder of Reveal To Heal International nonprofit. She serves on several boards and committees and is currently serving on one of Texas Governor Abbott's Task Forces. She has participated in both local and international radio, television, and news programs, including Glamour Magazine, CBN, CNN, and our United States Senate. She is a wife and a mother and lives with her family in the Dallas, Texas area.  Jenna Quinn has dedicated the past 21 years of her life to education, advocacy, collaboration, and legislative action in pursuit of a safer, more just society to protect the most vulnerable.  Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! The Epic conclusion of a WILD case we are calling The 3-Headed Unicorn!  William Beckam was a serial child abductor and sexual abuser who terrorized and victimized at least three children and one young adult in Dallas County. He nicknamed himself “Skittles” because of the unique identifying tattoos of the candy on his face. Beckam targeted children who were walking alone on the streets of Dallas and Irving, either luring or threatening them to compel them to get into his vehicle. He then drove the victims to remote locations, sexually assaulted them at gunpoint, and returned them to the location where they were abducted. Through the incredible work of Detective Andrew Padrutt (Irving Police Department) and Detective Raungi Jones (Dallas Police Department), along with the outstanding forensic interviewers at the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, law enforcement was able to obtain solid identifying information about the assailant from the child victims shortly after their assaults. From those descriptions, leads were developed that led to the children positively identifying Beckam in a six-photo lineup. Law enforcement arrested Beckam while he was wearing the exact articles of clothing described in one of the assaults. Additionally, a search of his residence yielded the specific type of firearm described by the victims. Cell phone evidence contained images of one of the abducted victims that Beckam had photographed during one of the assaults, as well as multiple images and videos of CSAM. The excellent work of the REACH clinic also yielded positive DNA matches linking the seminal fluid found on one of the victims to Beckam. ADAs Blake Penfield and Kristen vanBolden prosecuted Beckam for the offense of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child with a Deadly Weapon. A Dallas County jury swiftly convicted him, and he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. This verdict brought justice for the victims and could not have happened without the earnest and coordinated efforts of every facet of the MDT. Support the show

Feel free to leave us a comment! If you'd like to ask a question, or want a response, please send an email to us at [email protected]! William Beckam was a serial child abductor and sexual abuser who terrorized and victimized at least three children and one young adult in Dallas County. He nicknamed himself “Skittles” because of the unique identifying tattoos of the candy on his face. Beckam targeted children who were walking alone on the streets of Dallas and Irving, either luring or threatening them to compel them to get into his vehicle. He then drove the victims to remote locations, sexually assaulted them at gunpoint, and returned them to the location where they were abducted. Through the incredible work of Detective Andrew Padrutt (Irving Police Department) and Detective Raungi Jones (Dallas Police Department), along with the outstanding forensic interviewers at the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, law enforcement was able to obtain solid identifying information about the assailant from the child victims shortly after their assaults. From those descriptions, leads were developed that led to the children positively identifying Beckam in a six-photo lineup. Law enforcement arrested Beckam while he was wearing the exact articles of clothing described in one of the assaults. Additionally, a search of his residence yielded the specific type of firearm described by the victims. Cell phone evidence contained images of one of the abducted victims that Beckam had photographed during one of the assaults, as well as multiple images and videos of CSAM. The excellent work of the REACH clinic also yielded positive DNA matches linking the seminal fluid found on one of the victims to Beckam. ADAs Blake Penfield and Kristen vanBolden prosecuted Beckam for the offense of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child with a Deadly Weapon. A Dallas County jury swiftly convicted him, and he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. This verdict brought justice for the victims and could not have happened without the earnest and coordinated efforts of every facet of the MDT. Support the show