When Truth Is Treated Like a Threat: The Murder of Kim Groves

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 itCorruption inside the NOPD, including the actions of Officer Len DavisKim Groves’ courage—and what happens when a Black woman refuses to stay silentThe long history of mistrust between Black communities and law enforcement in AmericaHow race, power, and internal systems of oppression complicate “protection” and “justice”The investigation, cooperation deals, and what accountability looks like in a corrupt systemWhy police reform is still an urgent conversation—and why stories like Kim’s must be rememberedTimestamps00:00 — 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, reformResources & LinksFBI: Operation Shattered ShieldKim Groves case coverage + justice reportingFollow + 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, 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 TakeawaysDamilola Taylor’s case exposes long-standing systemic failures in public housing and youth safetyMedia coverage often shifts blame onto Black youth instead of centering victimsThe UK legal system emphasizes rehabilitation rather than retribution for minorsLegal inducements can complicate truth-seeking and justiceThe Taylor family chose advocacy over bitternessCommunity-driven efforts can lead to meaningful changeJustice should be measured by prevention, not punishment aloneSound 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 Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Damilola Taylor’s Story05:12 — Systemic Failures & Public Housing17:40 — Investigation & Media Portrayal32:18 — Legal Proceedings & Cultural Differences46:05 — The Damilola Taylor Trust & Lasting Advocacy

SummaryIn 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 impact00:00 — 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 IntentionKeywordsChapters

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 VasselHer disappearance and discovery in Clewiston, FloridaHow rumors and community speculation can complicate investigationsThe role of belief systems in criminal confessionsThe dangers of misplaced fear and controlThe importance of community awareness and accountabilityA family’s fight for truth and justiceMissing persons • Community trust • Violence in familiar spaces • Cultural misunderstanding • Accountability • Vigilance • JusticeThis 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

SummaryThis 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.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters00:00 Introduction to DeKalb County's Corruption Case02:14 The Rise of Derwin Brown06:09 The Election Showdown: Brown vs. Dorsey09:00 Derwin Brown's Reform Agenda12:29 The Assassination of Derwin Brown15:58 The Investigation Begins19:48 The Plot Unfolds: Cuffee's Confession22:59 The Trials and Tribulations25:46 Federal Charges and Final Sentences30:13 trueCrime-outro-high-short.wav-------------------------------------------------------------------

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 Chapters00:00 — 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

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.KeywordsMurder 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
Chapters00:00 – 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

In this episode, host Steph examines two deeply unsettling true-crime cases that reveal how pressure, secrecy, and fractured relationships can shape devastating outcomes. We begin with the disappearance of Harmahn Smith in 2005, a case that unraveled into a web of complex relationships, community pressures, and the vulnerabilities that young people often carry silently.From there, Steph turns to the world of pageantry and perfection, unpacking the story of Aria Armstead and her boyfriend Nathan Ortiz—a couple whose lives spiraled into darkness, ultimately leading to the murder of Matthew Collins. Through Matthew’s tragic death, we see how competition, identity, and emotional instability can become combustible when amplified by outside expectations and internal turmoil.Together, these intertwined narratives raise critical questions about justice, the roots of violence, and the cultural forces that quietly influence young lives long before tragedy strikes.-----------------------------------------------------------------Congratulations to our giveaway winners!🖤 @kamariadowns3926🖤 @TamTam-z8i-n5x🖤 @lisaberry8443------------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode, Steph explores a real-life case that feels eerily similar to A Thin Line Between Love and Hate — except this story ends in tragedy, not movie credits.When Memphis police officer Tony Hayes goes missing after Labor Day 2006, his family immediately senses something is wrong. Their search leads detectives straight to his girlfriend, Monique Johnson, a corrections officer whose jealousy, heartbreak, and long history of turbulent relationships spiral into violence.As the investigation unfolds, the truth behind Tony and Monique’s relationship comes to light — the red flags, the manipulation, the rage, and the series of choices that ended with Tony’s body found in the trunk of his own car.This episode also revisits Monique’s 2023 attempted murder charges, nearly 20 years later, showing that some patterns don’t disappear with time.----------------------------------------------------------------------🔍 In This EpisodeTony’s disappearance and the frantic search to find himThe toxic relationship between Tony and MoniqueConflicting stories and the evidence that revealed the truthWhy the jury convicted her of reckless homicide instead of murderThe disturbing 2023 arrest involving a new boyfriendHow unhealed trauma can turn dangerous----------------------------------------------------------------📌 Need Help?If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, contact:1-800-799-SAFE | thehotline.org🎄 Season 8 AnnouncementsGiveaway winners announced December 11Holiday hiatus with rebroadcastsNew episodes for subscribers continueFinal episode of the year drops December 19Giveaway winners announced December 11

In this deeply moving episode, we explore the life, loss, and legacy of Ben “Benji” Wilson—the nation’s #1 high school basketball player in 1984 and the pride of Chicago’s South Side.What began as a typical school day spiraled into tragedy when Benji was shot just steps from Simeon High School. We walk you through the events leading up to the shooting, the emotional weight carried by his family and community, and the tense courtroom battle that followed.Beyond the headlines, this episode shines a light on something even more heartbreaking: the systemic failures that played a devastating role in Benji’s death. The outdated EMS policy that sent him to a hospital unequipped to save him became a turning point for the city.We also honor the resilience of his mother, Mary Wilson, whose advocacy helped change Chicago’s trauma response system—and whose strength ensured that Benji’s story would continue to shape futures long after his life was cut short.Benji’s legacy lives on in Chicago gyms, in the #25 jersey worn proudly by generations of players, and in the policy reforms sparked by his tragedy. This story is a powerful reminder of what gun violence steals from families, communities, and the dreams of young Black men full of promise.------------------------------------------------------------------- KeywordsBenji Wilson, Chicago, Simeon High School, basketball, gun violence, emergency response, EMS policy, systemic failure, trial, community grief, Mary Wilson, legacy, youth athletes, Chicago history-----------------------------------------------------------------Key TakeawaysBenji Wilson was a gifted basketball star whose talent and leadership made him a beacon of hope in Chicago.His fatal shooting in 1984 sent shockwaves through the city and became one of the most painful chapters in Chicago sports history.The trial of Billy Moore and Omar Dixon highlighted two competing narratives—and exposed how emotion and public pressure shaped the courtroom.A critical emergency response failure contributed to Benji’s death when he was transported to a non–trauma-equipped hospital.Benji’s tragedy directly influenced Chicago’s EMS reforms, ensuring gunshot victims are now taken to trauma centers.His mother, Mary Wilson, transformed her grief into advocacy, championing policy reform and youth safety.Benji’s legacy continues to inspire Chicago athletes, including NBA stars like Derrick Rose and Jabari Parker.His story remains a powerful reminder of the long-lasting impact of gun violence on families, communities, and generational dreams.Chicago still honors Benji’s influence on basketball culture—and his life continues to shape conversations about safety, justice, and hope.