Evil Has A Tattoo Face: The Death of Two Women

Kara Nichols is found dead, strangled and buried alongside a horse on a property owned by her murderer's parents, several years after she has been declared missing. Confessed killer Joel Hollendorfer is at the center of this tale that explores not just the murder itself, but its far-reaching repercussions. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack traverse the winding roads of Kara's life and the cold case that took years to solve. They discuss the forensics of strangulation, the ethics of grief, and the complexities of moral responsibility. Dave delves into the timeline of Kara's last days, while Joseph navigates the complicated web of legal hurdles that investigators faced. This episode also questions whether it's possible to die of a broken heart, highlighting the psychological and emotional toll a murder can take on the families involved.   Mentioned Podcast:   Zone 7 with Sheryl McCollum on Apple Podcasts   Time-coded Highlights:   00:00:43 — Joseph Scott Morgan discusses the theme of the episode, which is whether people can die of a broken heart, or from grief. He introduces a case where a murderer believes his father died from the shock of his confession.   00:02:03 — Dave Mack shares his philosophical views on the overwhelming power of grief.   00:03:20— Details about the murder of Kara Nichols are shared.    00:05:00—Joseph Scott Morgan talks about the emotional burden for the perpetrator's parents.   006:10, Dave questions the moral responsibility of those who know about the crime.   00:07:58—The close relationship between Kara and her brother is spotlighted.   00:08:27—The discussion shifts to the challenging circumstances of Kara's life. 00:09:14—Joe Scott Morgan reveals that persistence and hard work solved this cold case.   00:10:05 — Dave Mack expresses admiration for cold case workers like Cheryl McCollum.   00:15:05 — The movements of Kara are traced back to a specific suspect via her phone.   00:16:40 — Joel Hollendorfer’s conversation with Detective Gugliotta is discussed.   00:18:20 — The complexities of obtaining a search warrant are outlined.   00:23:11 — Morgan discusses the complexities of using ground penetrating radar in investigations.   00:24:14 — Dave Mack reveals that Joel Hollendorfer confessed to his parents about killing a young woman.    00:28:08 — Explaination of the use of lime on a body to speed up the decompositional process.   00:36:48 — Morgan explains the intricacies of strangulation and the role of the hyoid bone in determining the cause of death.   00:38:20 — The trial and conviction of Joel Hollendorfer are dissected, leaving listeners with the unsettling thought that he still has a chance at a life outside prison.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2 Marras 202339min

In an unfathomable act, the lifeless body of young Zion Staples is discovered abandoned in a trash can. The grim finding sends waves through the community, raising existential questions on human morality. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack dissect the intricacies of the case, exploring topics ranging from the science of decomposition to the societal implications of how we treat our deceased. While Morgan brings his forensic expertise to the table, offering unique insights into time of death estimation and the decomposition process, Mack provides additional context, revealing dark layers of the family's involvement.   Time-coded Highlights:   00:00:20 — Joseph Scott Morgan sets the tone by musing on the value of life.   00:01:20 — The tragic story of Zion Staples is introduced.    00:01:54 — Taking out the trash is discussed as an everyday act with dark implications in the Zion Staples case.   00:03:00 — Dave Mack contextualizes the focus on garbage and decomposition in the case.   00:03:50 — The connection between smell and taste in the context of decomposition is explained by Joe Scott.   00:04:08 — Society's treatment of the deceased is examined.    00:07:14 — Dispelling a common misconception, Joseph Scott Morgan talks about the challenges in determining the exact time of death.   00:09:11 — Morgan shares details about another mysterious case involving a person missing for seven months.   00:14:37 — A detailed explanation of body tissue disintegration after death is given.   00:16:22 — Cause of death's impact on decomposition rates is discussed after Dave Mack brings up the example of a gunshot wound to the head.   00:21:14 — Significant changes that a decomposing body undergoes are highlighted by Morgan, emphasizing the importance of evidence preservation.   00:29:00 — New information about Zion's mother, Sushi Staples, and her history with child services is revealed.    00:30:40 — Joe Scott Morgan discusses the challenges of the investigation due to the time elapsed since the incident and the lack of concrete evidence.   00:32:08 — Morgan reveals that Sushi Staples has only been charged with concealing the body of her 10-year-old son in a garbage can, not with his death.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

31 Loka 202332min

Two horrific murders shake a university town to its core, as Channon Christian and Christopher Newsom fall prey to a monstrous crime. In a dilapidated house in East Knoxville, Tennessee, the young couple are kidnapped and tortured in an environment that can only be described as hellish. In this gripping episode, Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack unravel the gruesome details, chilling forensics, and unfathomable cruelty behind the case. With firsthand experience and unsettling revelations, they bring you closer to understanding the harrowing ordeal these victims went through. The episode delves into forensic complexities, offers insights into the minds of the perpetrators, and discusses the pivotal moments that led to their capture. Brace yourselves for a haunting journey through one of the darkest chapters of true crime.   Time-coded Highlights: 00:00:20 — Joseph Scott Morgan sets the stage for the episode’s chilling focus: two horrific murders in a university town, considered among the most horrifying covered by Morgan. 00:01:20 — The names of the victims, Channon Christian and Christopher Newsom, are introduced alongside the setting—a rundown house in East Knoxville. 00:01:40 — Joseph Scott Morgan discloses his personal involvement in covering the Eric Boyd trial. 00:03:00 — A visceral account of the kidnapping and the setting is provided by Dave Mack. 00:04:40 — It's revealed that the atrocities committed against Channon and Christopher are akin to acts of “Satan himself." 00:07:31 — The suffering endured by Christopher Newsom, including torture and being set on fire, is hauntingly detailed by Dave Mack. 00:08:04 — The agonizing torment Channon Christian went through is elaborated upon by Joseph Scott Morgan. 00:08:46 — The seclusion and inaccessibility of railway tracks as common dumping grounds for victims are discussed. 00:10:02 — Dave Mack specifies that Christopher was not killed at the house but was later taken to the railway tracks. 00:10:54 — Dave Mack reveals that unusual activities at the house on the night of the crime were noticed by a dump truck driver. 00:11:27 — Treatment of the victims is equated to "torture," akin to how prisoners of war are treated. 00:15:04 — The crime scene’s dehumanizing aspects and the extreme physical abuse suffered by the victims are dissected. 00:23:05 — Psychological manipulation used on the victim by promising release is exposed. 00:30:27 — The discovery of the female victim's body in a garbage can, constricted into a fetal position, adds another layer of horror to the narrative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

26 Loka 202332min

Dorothy Dusold's life comes to a chilling end, her body marred by manual strangulation and the telltale signs of anoxic encephalopathy—a gruesome testament to oxygen deprivation and ensuing cardiac arrest. True crime experts Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack join forces to dissect this unsettling narrative, where familial love crumbles into fatal brutality. Diving deep into the psychosocial underpinnings, forensic evidence, and medical realities of the case, they guide us from the eerie echoes of the 911 call to the contentious forensic findings that sway the court. Through their exhaustive analysis, they illuminate not only Dorothy's agonizing final moments but also the grim medical trajectories that culminated in her tragic demise. This episode serves as a poignant and intellectually rigorous examination of the shadowy corners where family ties fray into lethal violence.   Time-coded Highlights: 00:00:20—Joseph Scott Morgan introduces the unique case of a daughter allegedly squeezing her mother to death. 00:02:40—Joe Scott and Dave Mack discuss the physical strength required to squeeze someone to death. 00:03:20 — The 911 call made by Cassandra Dusold is discussed.  00:04:20—Morgan lauds the invaluable role of first responders in high-stakes situations. 00:06:20 — The concept of deception in the case is introduced. 00:07:04 — Joe Scott Morgan explains what a 'code' means in a hospital setting, specifically a 'code blue' which indicates cardiac arrest. 00:08:31— The crucial steps in emergency cardiac care are outlined.  00:14:09 — Dave Mack opens up a dialogue on the unusual circumstances surrounding Dorothy Dusold's death. 00:16:40—Dave highlights inconsistencies in Cassandra's story, creating doubt about her credibility. 00:18:40, the possibility of Dorothy having bilateral black eyes and ear bleeding is explored. 00:27:49 — A medical breakdown of how the victim's throat was constricted is presented. 00:30:00, Joe Scott delves into various methods of manual strangulation, questioning the story told by Cassandra. 00:31:40 — The episode wraps up with the conviction of the perpetrator, Cassandra Dussault, for manslaughter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

24 Loka 202332min

Jamie Faith, a special forces operator in Tennessee, is fatally shot seven times while walking his dog, a part of his morning routine with his wife Jennifer. What initially appears as a masked perpetrator's random act of violence unravels into a dark tale of manipulation, emotional affairs, and meticulous planning. Join Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack as they delve into the layers of this case, from shot groupings to text messages that expose a staggering truth. Hear about their personal experiences with gun control and their love for dogs, which add nuanced layers to this tragic narrative. With revelations of a GoFundMe scam and the psychological tactics of a supposedly grieving widow, this episode leaves you questioning where love ends and deceit begins.   Time-coded Highlights: 00:00:20—Joe Scott Morgan sets a serene scene by sharing his morning routine with his rescue dogs before diving into Jamie and Jennifer Faith's heart-wrenching story. 00:01:23—The tragic murder of Jamie Faith is introduced by Morgan, marking the contrast between a mundane dog-walking routine and a violent death. 00:01:55—A light moment as Morgan teases a secret about Dave Mack. 00:02:29—Dave Mack speaks fondly of his English Bulldog, Hank, adding to the hosts' evident love for dogs. 00:03:40—The story of Jamie and Jennifer Faith comes to life as Mack paints a vivid picture of the couple. 00:04:22—Joseph Scott Morgan describes the peaceful neighborhood where Jamie was killed starkly and how it contrasts with the horror that unfolded there. 00:07:03—The complexity of shooting scenarios is discussed, touching upon the differences in training between the military and police. 00:09:10—Shot grouping and its accuracy are detailed, with Morgan using the example of an index card. 00:12:11—Morgan's personal connection to the case reveals the story's emotional weight. 00:15:02—The hosts discuss the striking contrast between the crime scene and its peaceful setting, noting Jamie's strategic targeting. 00:18:21—A 45 caliber handgun's history and effectiveness are elaborated on by Morgan. 00:22:57—Dave Mack starts to reveal the investigation's findings, including a peculiar connection to Jennifer, Jamie's wife. 00:25:00—Digital forensics bring shocking text messages to light, discussed by both Mack and Morgan. 00:30:20—A perforating gunshot wound in Jamie's groin emphasizes the brutality of the attack. 00:31:00—The episode concludes with Joe Scott stating that the shooter was highly skilled, having left no trace of soot or gunpowder on Jamie's body.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

19 Loka 202331min

Ashli Ehrhardt, a woman embroiled in a tumultuous marriage, meets a devastating end in her laundry room. With signs of struggle all around and her body bearing multiple types of wounds—a belt around the neck, stab wounds, and puncture injuries—Ashli's father is the one who horrifyingly discovers her. Her husband, John Wonder, becomes the prime suspect in what appears to be a crime of passion layered with complex clues. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack unravel the chilling details surrounding Ashli’s death. From the puzzling written messages left at the crime scene to the suspect's unsettling social media behavior, this episode dives deep into the importance of forensic documentation. As the narrative unfolds, listen in for insights into unusual wounds, psychological profiles, and the critical role of time-stamped messages.    Time-coded Highlights: 00:00:20 — Joseph Scott Morgan opens the episode by discussing the power of written communication and its ability to express deep emotions. 00:02:20 — Dave Mack introduces the case involving John Wonder and Ashli Ehrhardt, a married couple going through a divorce. Mack speculates on their use of social media and text messaging. 00:07:00 — The importance of co-workers in death investigations is highlighted, especially in cases of suicide. 00:08:06  — Dave Mack discusses John Wonder's peculiar behavior. 00:10:20 — The heartbreaking moment Ashli's father discovers her body. 00:11:00 — Joseph Scott Morgan brings the horror of the scene to life by discussing the amount of blood present. 00:12:00 — Questions are raised about the cause of death when a belt is found around Ashley's neck. 00:16:42 — The unusual circumstances at the crime scene, including the belt and potential staging, are questioned by Dave Mack. 00:19:00 — Morgan stresses the necessity of a thorough examination at the autopsy table for determining the cause of death. 00:21:42 — Distinctions between stab and puncture wounds are explored.  00:29:50 — A disturbing text message from John to his sister is revealed.  00:30:20 — Mack shares an alleged text message from John indicating his plans to flee. 00:31:40 — The role of forensic document examiners in cases like this is introduced. 00:34:00 — Focusing on the writing in blood, the possibility of the defense claiming a setup is discussed. 00:40:47—The episode closes on a serious note as Joseph Scott Morgan shares the National Domestic Violence Hotline, urging those in abusive relationships to seek help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

17 Loka 202338min

Struck on the head with an iron skillet and stabbed multiple times, Brenda Powell’s life comes to a shocking and tragic end at the hands of her daughter. Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack delve into the perplexing aspects of this chilling homicide that has captivated public interest. They explore the unique role an 'ear witness' plays in the investigation and scrutinize the difficult transition Sydney experienced from high school to college, as well as the financial and emotional challenges involved. Armed with Morgan's forensic expertise and Mack's keen investigative insights, the duo crafts an episode filled with emotional depth, compelling narrative, and sharp analysis. As they walk you through key moments, witness testimonies, and the complicated criminal landscape, they raise important questions about family dynamics, criminal psychology, and the advancements in forensic science.   Time-coded Highlights: 00:00:20—Joe Scott Morgan sets the tone by reflecting on the impact of sounds and memories on a murder investigation. He introduces Brenda Powell's brutal homicide case. 02:20:00—Dave Mack shares a unique description related to the case. 04:00:00—The emotional toll of working in oncology is illuminated. 05:20:00—The concept of an earwitness is introduced, offering an innovative twist to the narrative. 06:40:00—Sydney Powell's academic struggles are revealed.  07:35:00—Joe Scott explores the emotional and financial challenges of transitioning from high school to college.  09:23:00—The boiling point leading to violent crimes is dissected. 10:00:00—A critical phone call from Brenda to her university is detailed, becoming a key moment in the investigation. 12:20:00—The chilling moment when Brenda Powell is struck on the head by an iron skillet. 15:40:00—Morgan reflects on the cultural portrayal of frying pans as weapons compared to their real-world lethal potential. 23:05:00—The absence of premeditation in the crime is suggested, considering the presence of ‘ear witnesses’. 27:16:00—The immediate reaction of university administrators on the phone during the attack and their subsequent 911 calls are narrated. 34:00:00—Concluding the episode, Joe Scott Morgan explains that the multitude of injuries led to Brenda Powell's death.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12 Loka 202334min

Suzanne Morphew, a 49-year-old mother of two from Chaffee County, Colorado, disappears under mysterious and suspicious circumstances. Initially reported missing following a supposed bike ride on Mother's Day, her case quickly gains national media attention. With each passing day, the urgency to find the truth escalates. In this episode, Joseph Scott Morgan and Dave Mack meticulously examine the Suzanne Morphew case through a forensic lens. Morgan delves into expert insights, discussing the roles of apex predators, decay patterns, and dental records in Suzanne's identification. Dave Mack scrutinizes the media coverage and evaluates the initial theories surrounding the case. From weather impediments affecting search efforts to perplexing clues that challenge conventional theories, this episode offers an exhaustive exploration of a case that continues to confound investigators.   Time-coded Highlights: 00:02:00 — Introduction to the episode's focus on the forensics surrounding the Suzanne Morphew case. 00:02:40 — Dave Mack talks about the Morphew case, which he has been covering since Suzanne went missing. 00:04:20 — Mack delves into the initial theory that Suzanne went for a bike ride and subsequently vanished. 00:05:00 — Barry Morphew's theory of a mountain lion attack as a possible cause of Suzanne's disappearance is discussed. 00:05:20 — Joseph Scott Morgan explains the behavior patterns of apex predators and how they could be linked to this case. 00:08:20 — Questioning the absence of evidence supporting the apex predator theory where Suzanne's bike was found. 00:09:03 — The notion of a human predator being involved in Suzanne's disappearance is raised. 00:10:29 — Morgan talks about the discovery of Suzanne's helmet and the absence of trauma evidence within it. 00:12:58 — Joe Scott Morgan says that the circumstances surrounding Suzanne's discovery are unlike anything he has seen before. 00:14:04 — Morgan elaborates on the legal concept of corpus delecti and its relevance to this case. 00:16:14 — The implications of the burial site being a shallow grave are discussed. 00:19:21 — Dave Mack notes that investigators weren't looking for Suzanne when her remains were found. 00:22:23 — A vivid picture is painted about the potential skeletal disbursement of Suzanne's remains. 00:32:12 — Challenges in determining the cause of death in the absence of soft tissue are covered. 00:34:42 — Joe Scott Morgan wraps up the episode, questioning the preparation and speed involved in hiding Suzanne Morphew's body.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

10 Loka 202336min