The Murder of Riah Milton: "The Honeytrap"

Season 6, Episode 7 – “The Honeytrap”

Tuesday June 9, 2020, 25-year-old Black transgender woman Riah Milton (she/her) was lured into a deadly trap in Liberty Township, Ohio, just outside of Cincinnati. Riah, a beloved sister, daughter, and friend, was described by those who knew her as vibrant, kindhearted, and determined. Like many young Black trans women, she faced the dual burden of systemic racism and transphobia—realities that shaped both her life and her tragic death.

In “The Honeytrap,” we take listeners inside the harrowing events leading up to Riah’s murder. Court documents and witness accounts revealed that suspects Tyree Cross (18), Nyimaya Smith (16), and a 14-year-old accomplice concocted a plan to lure Riah under the pretense of a meeting, intending to steal her car and belongings. The encounter turned violent, and Riah was fatally shot.

This episode unpacks not only the details of the case but also the broader patterns it reflects. Riah’s story echoes a disturbing trend: transgender women of color, particularly Black trans women, face disproportionate levels of violence in the United States. Her murder occurred during Pride Month and amidst national uprisings for racial justice, further highlighting the intersections of identity, marginalization, and systemic neglect.

The investigation led to swift arrests, with charges including aggravated robbery, involuntary manslaughter, and complicity to murder. Yet, as with so many cases of anti-trans violence, justice remains complex. While suspects were held accountable through the legal system, Riah’s life and potential were irreparably stolen.

Through testimony, archival material, and reflection, “The Honeytrap” honors Riah Milton’s legacy while illuminating the urgent need to address the epidemic of violence against Black trans women. Her story is a call for remembrance, justice, and change.