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When Jermaine Ross stopped answering his phone and missed his barber appointments, concern quickly turned into something far more disturbing. On October 3, 2018, Jermaine was found dead inside his home on Elm Street in Cahokia, Illinois. At first, investigators believed his death may have been natural. But forensic findings, an autopsy, and unsettling details inside the home revealed the truth—Jermaine Ross had been murdered. In this episode of Murder in the Black, we examine the homicide investigation from the inside out: the timeline shaped by decomposition evidence, rumors surrounding a recent insurance payout, shifting witness statements, and the chilling attempt to alter the crime scene after Jermaine’s death. As investigators worked to separate fact from fear in a close-knit community, the case exposed how desperation, access, and money can turn trust into a fatal vulnerability. This is the story of a man known as “the people’s barber”—and how the people closest to him became central to solving his murder. Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 ⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠ 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠ 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

Explore the deep roots of the blues, the cultural history of the Mississippi Delta, and the enduring legends surrounding blues legend Robert Johnson. This episode dives into the myths, mysteries, and significance of one of America's most influential musicians and how his story sits at the intersection of folklore, race, and power. Key Topics The cultural and historical significance of the Mississippi Delta in shaping the blues The origins of the blues as a form of black survival and expression Robert Johnson’s early life, hardships, and musical journey The legend of Robert Johnson's deal with the devil at the crossroads The mysterious circumstances surrounding his death in 1938 The legacy of Robert Johnson in American music and myth making The legal battle over his estate and the story of Claude Johnson claiming to be his son The enduring power of myth, rumor, and storytelling in black history and culture Timestamps 00:22 - Introduction: Rethinking true crime with a cultural mystery 0:49 - The backdrop of the Mississippi Delta — culture, history, and darkness 1:15 - Robert Johnson's story and the myth of the crossroads 2:10 - The Delta as a character and its impact on Black history 3:09 - Origins of the blues in black American survival and suffering 4:08 - The Great Depression, the Great Migration, and music as a means to survive 5:02 - Robert Johnson’s early life, family struggles, and musical beginnings 6:21 - His departure from the Delta and a possible spiritual journey 7:32 - The legend: selling his soul to the devil at the crossroads 8:29 - The power of myth: talent vs. supernatural stories 9:24 - Robert’s rise, performances, and recordings 10:23 - The 1938 incident, rumors, and possible poisoning 11:46 - The circumstances of his death and unresolved mysteries 13:05 - Posthumous fame, rediscovery, and his influence in music 14:02 - Estate battles and Claude Johnson’s claim to Robert’s legacy 15:05 - Why Robert Johnson’s legend endures and its significance in black history 16:02 - The cultural importance of mystery in preserving Black Southern traditions 16:28 - Audience engagement: What do you believe about Robert Johnson's death? 17:27 - Closing remarks and gratitude for listening Resources & Links Robert Johnson - Wikipedia The Crossroads: The Life and Music of Robert Johnson Grambling State University - Blues Archive Sinners (film) The Legend of Robert Johnson - Smithsonian Folkways Connect with [Steph / Murder in the Black]: Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations) 👉 ⁠https://murderintheblack.substack.com/⁠ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black 👉⁠https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack⁠ 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph 👉 ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack⁠ 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black 👉 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

In this episode of Murder in the Black, we unpack the heartbreaking story of Kim Groves—a Black woman, community advocate, and mother whose decision to report police misconduct in 1994 set off a chain of events that would change everything. What began as one woman speaking up against abuse of power quickly revealed something much bigger: a deeply corrupted system inside the New Orleans Police Department, and a city already battling violence, fear, and broken trust. Kim’s story forces us to confront the cost of courage, the danger Black communities face when they challenge authority, and the uncomfortable truth that corruption doesn’t always look like a stranger—it can wear a badge. The violent reality of New Orleans in the 1990s and the systemic failures that shaped it Corruption inside the NOPD, including the actions of Officer Len Davis Kim Groves’ courage—and what happens when a Black woman refuses to stay silent The long history of mistrust between Black communities and law enforcement in America How race, power, and internal systems of oppression complicate “protection” and “justice” The investigation, cooperation deals, and what accountability looks like in a corrupt system Why police reform is still an urgent conversation—and why stories like Kim’s must be remembered Timestamps 00:00 — Introduction + case overview00:35 — New Orleans in the 1990s: context + tension01:02 — Crime statistics + community impact02:24 — Len Davis + Kim Groves background03:42 — Misconduct culture inside the NOPD05:59 — Operation Shattered Shield begins08:11 — Kim files a misconduct complaint09:33 — The danger of speaking out11:05 — The legacy of racial oppression + policing13:09 — Kim Groves’ murder + surveillance footage14:57 — Trial tactics: discrediting the victim16:37 — Witness testimony + plea deals20:03 — Victim-blaming + “perfect victim” expectations21:41 — Sentencing + why plea agreements matter24:50 — Len Davis’ death + the lasting damage25:45 — Corruption and community trauma27:08 — Remembering Kim’s humanity28:20 — Corruption involving Black officers30:05 — Accountability: personal + systemic31:26 — Closing reflection: race, policing, reform Resources & Links FBI: Operation Shattered Shield Kim Groves case coverage + justice reporting Follow + Support Murder in the Black 📌 Substack: Murder in the Black (Subscriber exclusives + episode conversations)👉 https://murderintheblack.substack.com/ 🎥 YouTube: Murder in the Black👉https://www.youtube.com/@www.youtube.com/@murderintheblack 🎵 TikTok: Murder in the Black / Story Time with Steph👉 https://www.tiktok.com/@murderintheblack 📘 Facebook: Murder in the Black👉 https://www.facebook.com/p/Murder-In-The-Black-Podcast-100088434791438/

In this gripping episode of Murder in the Black, host Steph unpacks the chilling story of William Jennings Choyce—a man who maintained the appearance of a devoted family man while living a hidden life marked by violence. This case exposes the devastating realities of domestic abuse, the ripple effects it creates within families, and the long, difficult road to holding a serial offender accountable. As the story unfolds, listeners are encouraged to trust their instincts, recognize early warning signs of abuse, and reflect on the larger societal question: whose lives are valued when justice is delayed—or denied? Keywords William Jennings Choyce, domestic abuse, true crime, serial offender, family dynamics, justice, victims, warning signs, instincts, cold cases Key Takeaways Trust your instincts—your body often recognizes danger before your mind can explain it. Abuse doesn’t always begin with violence; it can start with control, intimidation, and fear. Choyce lived a double life, hiding disturbing behavior behind a mask of normalcy. The justice system can move slowly, but persistence and evolving technology can bring answers. Survivors of abuse often live in emotional conflict—love, fear, guilt, anger, and survival can coexist. Some victims are treated as “less important,” shaping how urgently cases are pursued. Family systems can be permanently altered by one person’s violence and deception. Denial can become a form of protection—but it can also keep people trapped. Protecting vulnerable people requires awareness, community, and intervention. Cold cases can be solved—even years later—through breakthroughs in investigation and forensic advancements.

In this episode of Murder in the Black, hosts Steph and Maia examine the heartbreaking case of Damilola Taylor, a 10-year-old boy whose life was tragically cut short in London. What initially appeared to be an isolated act of violence revealed deep systemic failures within public housing, community safety, and institutional accountability. Steph and Maia explore the investigation into Damilola’s death, the role of media narratives in shaping public perception, and how Black youth are often criminalized rather than protected. The episode also unpacks key differences between the UK and US legal systems—particularly the UK’s emphasis on rehabilitation over punishment when it comes to minors. Finally, the hosts highlight how Damilola’s family transformed unimaginable grief into purpose through the Damilola Taylor Trust, an organization dedicated to education, community empowerment, and anti-knife crime initiatives. This episode asks a critical question: What does justice truly look like—and how do we prevent the next tragedy? Key Takeaways Damilola Taylor’s case exposes long-standing systemic failures in public housing and youth safety Media coverage often shifts blame onto Black youth instead of centering victims The UK legal system emphasizes rehabilitation rather than retribution for minors Legal inducements can complicate truth-seeking and justice The Taylor family chose advocacy over bitterness Community-driven efforts can lead to meaningful change Justice should be measured by prevention, not punishment alone Sound Bites “Damilola was just 10 years old.” “A system that failed him at every turn.” “The media’s narrative shifted to criminalizing Black youth.” “Rehabilitation, not retribution, is the priority.” “Justice is measured by preventing the next child from dying.” “Turning pain into purpose through advocacy. Episode Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Damilola Taylor’s Story 05:12 — Systemic Failures & Public Housing 17:40 — Investigation & Media Portrayal 32:18 — Legal Proceedings & Cultural Differences 46:05 — The Damilola Taylor Trust & Lasting Advocacy

This episode of Murder in the Black examines the wrongful conviction of Eric Glisson and others for two murders that occurred in the Bronx in 1995. Through the lens of this case, the episode explores systemic failures within the criminal justice system, the lasting impact of wrongful convictions on individuals and families, and the long fight for truth that led to exoneration nearly 20 years later. The story also revisits the unresolved murder of Denise Raymond, raising difficult questions about investigative misconduct, accountability, and what justice looks like when the wrong people are punished and the right answers never come. KeywordsTakeaways wrongful conviction, Eric Glisson, Bronx Six, Bronx murders, justice system, Denise Raymond, investigative misconduct, exoneration, systemic failure, true crime, Murder in the Black True crime isn’t only about who committed a crime—it’s also about who didn’t. Stories like this don’t belong to the past; they continue to shape lives long after verdicts are handed down. Once a narrative hardens into a verdict, it can become incredibly difficult to undo. Eric Glisson was convicted of a crime he had no involvement in. Miriam Taveras’s eyewitness account was later shown to be physically impossible. Phone records became powerful, objective evidence pointing toward innocence. John O’Malley filed a sworn affidavit stating that Eric Glisson was innocent. The Bronx District Attorney’s Office reopened the case after new evidence emerged. Eric Glisson and others were eventually exonerated after nearly two decades in prison. Wrongful convictions are not rare anomalies—they are a systemic failure that demands continued attention.

Summary In this gripping episode of Murder in the Black, host Steph examines a devastating series of arson fires that shattered a neighborhood in Akron, Ohio. The story begins with a late-night blaze that claimed the lives of Gloria Hart and Lindell Lewis, quickly raising suspicions that the fire was anything but accidental. As investigators dig deeper, a troubling pattern emerges—earlier incidents, escalating tensions, and a neighbor, Stanley Ford, whose ongoing complaints and proximity to the victims place him under scrutiny. The episode traces how arson often unfolds not as a single act, but as a progression—beginning with smaller fires and grievances that quietly escalate into catastrophic violence. The investigation takes a devastating turn with a second fire that kills seven people, including five children, intensifying the urgency to identify the person responsible. Steph explores the investigative challenges, the psychological dimensions of arson, and how distance and planning shape this form of violence. As the case moves toward arrest and trial, Stanley Ford emerges as the central figure, forcing difficult questions about intent, accountability, and the calculated nature of harm carried out without direct confrontation. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on violence, control, and what it means when fire becomes a weapon designed to erase rather than confront. arson, true crime, murder, Stanley Ford, Akron Ohio, arson investigation, criminal psychology, neighborhood conflict, victim impact 00:00 — The Early Hours of Tragedy09:09 — The Investigation Begins18:34 — Unraveling the Suspect’s Motives25:42 — The Trial and Its Complications31:41 — Reflections on Violence and Intention KeywordsChapters

In this episode of Murder in the Black, hosts Steph and Maia tell the story of Erica Vassel, a vibrant 21-year-old from Clewiston, Florida, whose life was cut short just days after Super Bowl Sunday in February 2011. Known as America’s Sweetest Town, Clewiston sits on the edge of the Everglades, surrounded by sugar cane fields and built on familiarity and trust. But when Erica failed to come home, that sense of safety quickly unraveled. Steph and Maia walk listeners through who Erica was before she became a headline — a young woman full of color, ambition, and promise — and then carefully unfold the events surrounding her disappearance, the rumors that flooded her small community, and the investigation that followed. As detectives chased leads, a burner phone, and conflicting stories, the truth ultimately emerged through a shocking confession. This episode also explores the cultural and spiritual concept of “root work”, how belief systems can be misunderstood or weaponized, and the dangerous consequences when fear overrides accountability. Through reflection, this case challenges us to consider trust, vigilance, and how even familiar places can hold hidden dangers. The life and legacy of Erica Vassel Her disappearance and discovery in Clewiston, Florida How rumors and community speculation can complicate investigations The role of belief systems in criminal confessions The dangers of misplaced fear and control The importance of community awareness and accountability A family’s fight for truth and justice Missing persons • Community trust • Violence in familiar spaces • Cultural misunderstanding • Accountability • Vigilance • Justice This episode invites listeners to reflect on personal safety, community responsibility, and how easily danger can be overlooked when it hides behind familiarity. 🕊️ What This Episode Explores🔎 Key Themes🎧 Listener Reflection

Welcome to Season Nine of Murder in the Black. In this episode, Steph tells the story of LaJoya McCoy, a driven and ambitious woman whose sudden disappearance in Monrovia, California, raised alarming questions and led to a disturbing investigation. As details emerged, investigators uncovered signs of foul play and a truth that forever changed her family. LaJoya’s story is a sobering reminder of the importance of listening, vigilance, and community awareness.

Summary This conversation delves into the tragic story of Derwin Brown, a visionary police officer in DeKalb County, who was assassinated shortly after winning the sheriff election against Sydney Dorsey. The discussion covers the corruption within the police department, the election dynamics, the investigation into Brown's murder, and the subsequent trials of those involved. It highlights the impact of Brown's vision for change and the community's response to his untimely death. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to DeKalb County's Corruption Case 02:14 The Rise of Derwin Brown 06:09 The Election Showdown: Brown vs. Dorsey 09:00 Derwin Brown's Reform Agenda 12:29 The Assassination of Derwin Brown 15:58 The Investigation Begins 19:48 The Plot Unfolds: Cuffee's Confession 22:59 The Trials and Tribulations 25:46 Federal Charges and Final Sentences 30:13 trueCrime-outro-high-short.wav -------------------------------------------------------------------

Summary This episode delves into the tragic story of Carmen Sanders, a young woman whose life was cut short in a violent murder. The narrative unfolds with the discovery of her body, the investigation into her boyfriend Terry, and the eventual identification of Robert Harvey as the primary suspect. The case highlights systemic failures in the justice system that allowed a violent offender to remain free, ultimately leading to Carmen's death. The discussion emphasizes the importance of listening to concerns about safety and the need for accountability in protecting individuals from known threats. Takeaways Carmen Sanders was a promising young woman with dreams. Her murder occurred just days into the new year. The investigation revealed troubling signs of domestic issues. Terry, her boyfriend, was initially a suspect but was cleared. Robert Harvey had a history of violence and should not have been free. Carmen's mother identified Terry as a potential threat. The investigation revealed a pattern of systemic failures. Harvey's mother's testimony provided crucial evidence. Carmen's death raises questions about public safety and accountability. The case serves as a warning about the importance of heeding safety concerns.

In this rebroadcast of Murder in the Black, the hosts revisit the haunting case of Gregory Agnew and the unresolved disappearance of his former girlfriend, Tammy Niver. The story unfolds in Ypsilanti, a vibrant college town whose familiar streets hide a far darker history. Tammy vanished shortly after ending a volatile relationship with Gregory—one marked by control, intimidation, and escalating violence. Although suspicion surrounded Gregory early on, a lack of physical evidence prevented an arrest, leaving Tammy’s case cold and her family without answers for decades. Years later, Gregory’s violent past came sharply into focus when he was convicted of murdering his estranged wife, Martha Anu. Martha had made repeated efforts to expose Gregory’s abusive behavior, placing herself in danger while seeking accountability. Her tragic death ultimately reignited attention on Tammy’s long-unsolved disappearance. While justice was served in Martha’s case, Tammy Niver’s fate remains unknown. This rebroadcast highlights the devastating patterns of domestic violence, the long-term impact on victims and their families, and the importance of recognizing warning signs before it’s too late. ---------------------------------------------------------------- ⏱ Episode Chapters 00:00 — Introduction & Rebroadcast Overview00:30 — The Setting: Ypsilanti, Michigan01:58 — Tammy Niver’s Background03:04 — Toxic Dynamics of Gregory and Tammy’s Relationship05:40 — Suspicious Circumstances Surrounding Tammy’s Disappearance08:13 — Martha Anu’s Efforts to Expose Gregory17:59 — The Murder of Martha Anu26:16 — Tammy Niver’s Unresolved Case

This episode explores the tragic story of the Kaziago family, unpacking the complex and painful dynamics of a household shaped by abuse, control, and silence. It examines the stark duality of Joseph Kaziago’s life — a highly respected emergency-room surgeon admired by colleagues, and a father whose authoritarian and abusive behavior instilled fear within his own home. The conversation follows the long-term impact of that abuse on his children, culminating in the killing of Joseph by his son, Mulumba, and the legal consequences that followed. At its core, this episode challenges listeners to confront how silence, unchecked power, and unresolved trauma can lead to devastating outcomes. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Key Takeaways The Kaziago family operated under a strict code of silence that discouraged speaking out about abuse. Joseph Kaziago’s abusive behavior created a deeply toxic and fear-driven home environment. Multiple Kaziago children experienced severe mental health struggles, with three requiring institutional care. Mulumba’s confession revealed the layered and complicated nature of his motives. The legal system grappled with how to account for prolonged abuse while still enforcing accountability. A culture of silence around abuse often allows harm to escalate rather than disappear. Mulumba’s actions cannot be separated from years of sustained trauma. The case underscores the disturbing duality between public admiration and private violence. Understanding the context of abuse is essential when evaluating criminal responsibility. This story invites reflection on justice, accountability, and how societies respond to survivors of long-term abuse.

The episode unpacks the complex dynamics of control, manipulation, and power within relationships, while drawing unsettling parallels to the disappearance of Taalibah Islam, another woman connected to the same man. Through these cases, Steph challenges listeners to reflect on the role of witnesses, the warning signs of abuse, and the lasting impact unanswered questions leave on families. As the season comes to a close, Steph reflects on the emotional journey of Season 8 and expresses deep gratitude to the Murder in the Black community for their continued support. Select episodes will rebroadcast during the break, with Season 9 returning with new cases and deeper conversations. Keywords Murder in the Black, Typhenie Johnson, Taalibah Islam, true crime, missing persons, unresolved case, kidnapping, control, abusive relationships, Season 8 finale • Typhenie Johnson’s case remains unresolved despite a kidnapping conviction • Legal accountability does not always bring closure • Patterns of control and manipulation can escalate into disappearance • Taalibah Islam’s case mirrors chilling similarities • Families of the missing live with unanswered questions • Community awareness and vigilance matter • Witnesses to abuse play a critical role • Gratitude and reflection close out Season 8 • Select rebroadcasts will air during the hiatus • Season 9 promises deeper, more intentional storytelling
Chapters 00:00 – Season 8 Finale Introduction 00:00 – The Disappearance of Typhenie Johnson 00:00 – Parallels to Taalibah Islam 00:00 – Control, Abuse, and Power Dynamics 00:00 – Accountability vs. Closure 00:00 – Season Reflection & Community Thanks

This episode examines the intertwined stories of Shawn Johnson and LaQuanta Riley, two cases that reveal how differently justice can unfold. Through one story marked by convictions and another defined by absence, the episode centers the emotional toll carried by families navigating grief, uncertainty, and unanswered questions. Along the way, the host weaves in personal reflection, confronting the uneasy realities of true crime — where closure is uneven, systems fall short, and for families of the missing, the search never truly ends. . . . . Takeaways The emotional toll of missing persons cases is profound. Justice can feel incomplete even when accountability is achieved. Families of missing persons often face ongoing uncertainty. Cultural perceptions can complicate investigations. The importance of community support in search efforts. True crime narratives often overlook the humanity of victims. The impact of trauma on young lives is significant. Investigations can be hindered by lack of evidence. The role of personal connections in true crime stories is crucial. Understanding the complexities of human behavior is essential in these cases. . . . . . Chapters 00:00 Introduction: A Personal Touch 02:13 The Disappearance of Laquana Riley 09:10 The Ongoing Search and Advocacy for Missing Persons 09:41 The Unsolved Mystery of Missing Persons 12:20 The Gruesome Discovery of Sean Johnson 15:07 The Goth Culture and Its Misunderstandings 18:01 The Night of the Murder: Eyewitness Accounts 20:23 The Confession and Arrests 25:14 The Trial and Sentencing 28:57 Reflections on Violence and Trust . . . . Full Name: LaQuanta Nachelle Riley Age at Disappearance: 19 Missing Since: December 7, 2003 Last Known Location: Montgomery, Montgomery County, Alabama ⁠Doe Network⁠ Race: Black Gender: Female Height: 5′8″ Weight: 200 lbs Hair Color: Black Eye Color: Brown Distinguishing Marks: Pierced ears and a pierced tongue Tattoo reading “RIP Mesha” on her left arm Tattoo of her name “LaQuanta” on her right arm Scar on her nose According to missing person records, at the time she vanished she was believed to have been wearing a yellow and green Echo shirt, blue jeans, green and yellow Reebok sneakers, and a silver chain bracelet “If you have any information about the disappearance of LaQuanta Riley, please contact the Montgomery Police Department at 334-625-2810, or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST. Even the smallest detail could matter.”