The Woods Between Them | Nacole Smith + Betty Brown

In this episode of Murder in the Black, we explore the heartbreaking story of 14-year-old Nacole Smith, a young girl with dreams of becoming a pediatrician who never made it to school on the morning of June 7, 1995.What began as a devastating crime in an Atlanta neighborhood would become a case that stretched across decades. Despite eyewitness descriptions, community efforts to identify a suspect, and early forensic evidence, investigators struggled to identify the man responsible.The case took a critical turn nearly nine years later, when 13-year-old Betty Brown survived a violent assault in East Point, Georgia. Betty’s courage to report the attack and her detailed recollection of the man who assaulted her would ultimately connect the two cases through DNA evidence — revealing that the same offender had been living in the community for years.Through advances in forensic science, including DNA profiling, CODIS, and later genetic genealogy, investigators were eventually able to identify the suspect responsible for both crimes. But the resolution came with its own tragedy when the suspect died before he could face justice.In this episode we also introduce our True Crime in Current News segment, where we highlight cases currently unfolding that listeners have brought to our attention. In this episode we discuss several developing stories, including the disturbing discovery of two young girls found in suitcases in Cleveland, a Bronx double homicide connected to a domestic dispute, and a shocking case involving a former NFL player accused of killing his girlfriend and allegedly using ChatGPT in an attempt to research ways to cover up the crime.The life and dreams of Nacole SmithThe events of June 7, 1995, and the discovery of her murderEarly investigative leads and eyewitness descriptionsCommunity involvement and the circulation of the composite sketchSuspicion surrounding Jamar Hendrix and why resemblance to a sketch alone is not evidenceDNA evidence collected from the crime scene and its entry into CODISWhy CODIS searches sometimes return no matchThe 2002 jailhouse informant tip and why investigators ruled it outThe attack on Betty Brown and how her survival connected two crimesThe role of forensic science and genetic genealogy in solving cold casesThe identification of Kelvin Arnold decades laterThe emotional impact of the suspect dying before he could face justiceThe perseverance of investigators and the importance of survivor testimonyTrue Crime in Current News: listener-submitted cases and developing investigations00:00 – Introduction to Nacole Smith’s case02:25 – Nacole’s life, dreams, and family04:07 – The morning of June 7, 199507:26 – Discovery of the crime scene and evidence recovered09:55 – Witness descriptions and early suspect sketches11:42 – Community efforts and the composite sketch13:06 – Jamar Hendrix investigation and why he was ruled out14:37 – DNA evidence, CODIS, and investigative challenges17:31 – The 2002 jailhouse informant lead19:15 – The attack on Betty Brown in 200421:10 – DNA connection between Betty Brown’s case and Nacole’s murder25:20 – Advances in forensic science and genetic genealogy26:32 – Identification of Kelvin Arnold27:24 – Arnold’s death before arrest in 202128:15 – Reflection on justice, persistence, and investigative tenacity35:02 – True Crime in Current News segment36:08 – Final thoughts and episode closeFollow + 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 examine the heartbreaking murder of Kenyadda Patterson, a 31-year-old mother whose life was taken in Charlotte, North Carolina. When her body was discovered behind a church, investigators were faced with a disturbing crime scene and very few answers.As detectives began piecing together Kenyadda’s final hours, suspicion initially fell on people close to her — including her estranged husband and a man she had recently met. But forensic evidence would ultimately lead investigators in an unexpected direction, revealing that the person responsible for her death had been much closer than anyone realized.This episode explores the investigative process, the role of DNA evidence in identifying the killer, and the unsettling discovery that the suspect had a long history of violent crime. We also reflect on the impact Kenyadda’s death had on her children and community.At the end of the episode, we also highlight the still-unresolved disappearance of Daniel Robinson, a young geologist who vanished in the Arizona desert in 2021, reminding us that while some families receive answers, others are still searching for the truth.TIMELINE00:00 – A crime scene behind a church in Charlotte, North Carolina00:30 – Discovery of Kenyadda Patterson’s body03:00 – Crime scene analysis and evidence collection04:24 – Investigators examine the abandoned vehicle and possible timeline07:04 – Medical examiner findings: strangulation and sexual assault08:02 – Investigators examine Kenyadda’s relationship with her estranged husband09:21 – Interviews with James Patterson and the emergence of another potential suspect12:35 – Johnny Moulton enters the investigation14:36 – Community reaction and the impact on Kenyadda’s children16:58 – Neighbor Thelma Harris contacts investigators with a tip22:38 – Detectives uncover the criminal history of Derrick Harris23:02 – A shocking connection between Derrick Harris and the investigation24:29 – Detectives revisit the neighborhood as suspicion grows25:47 – DNA results identify Derrick Harris as the killer26:31 – Reflection on Kenyadda’s life and the legacy she left behind27:38 – Featured segment: The disappearance of Daniel Robinson31:05 – Why some cases remain unresolved32:36 – Final reflections and call to actionIn the closing segment of this episode, we also discuss the disappearance of Daniel Robinson, a 24-year-old geologist who vanished in the Arizona desert in 2021. Daniel was described by family and friends as intelligent, adventurous, and determined. After weeks of searching, his vehicle was discovered in a remote desert area with many of his personal belongings still inside, but Daniel himself was missing.Human remains later confirmed to belong to Daniel were discovered in the desert, but investigators have been unable to determine the exact cause of death. His father has continued to advocate for answers and further investigation.If you have information related to Daniel Robinson’s disappearance, please contact:Buckeye Police Department Tip Line: 623-349-6411Silent Witness (Anonymous Tips): 480-WITNESS• Information on criminal investigations and forensic evidence• News coverage and case documentation related to Kenyada Patterson• Resources for families of missing persons• Community organizations supporting victims and families affected by violent crimeFollow + 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 examine the chilling Seminole Heights serial shootings in Tampa, Florida — a case that left a neighborhood paralyzed by fear and ultimately led to the arrest of Howell Donaldson III.Four strangers. No connection. No clear motive. Just proximity.We break down the victims’ stories, the psychological layers behind violence without motive, the investigative challenges, and the nearly six-year legal journey before Donaldson’s guilty plea.We also provide updates on the cases of Na’Ziyah Harris and Celeste Rivas Hernandez, exploring the complexities of plea deals, grand jury proceedings, and what justice truly means when families are still waiting for closure.Key Topics Covered• The Seminole Heights serial murders: timeline, victims, and community impact• The psychological question: What drives someone to kill strangers?• The comparison to the D.C. Sniper and the terror of unpredictability• How fear reshapes neighborhoods and daily routines• Evidence that led to Howell Donaldson’s arrest and conviction• The six-year legal process and the decision to plead guilty• The emotional toll on victims’ families navigating the justice system• Update on the Na’Ziyah Harris case: guilty plea, sentencing timeline, and the ongoing search for her remains• Celeste Rivas Hernandez case update: grand jury process and investigative patienceTimestamps00:00 – Introduction: When violence has no motive00:26 – Seminole Heights and the first shooting00:59 – Community fear and escalating tension1:29 – Who was Howell Donaldson III?3:02 – Victim profiles and the randomness of the attacks4:01 – Police response and reward increases6:50 – Serial pattern and D.C. Sniper comparison9:14 – The final murder and mounting pressure12:26 – Arrest, ballistics evidence, and guilty plea19:55 – Families navigating six years of legal delays20:42 – Reflection: What ultimately drives random violence?23:50 – Update: Na’Ziyah Harris case developments32:43 – Celeste Rivas Hernandez investigation update36:21 – Broader reflection on justice, delay, and closureResources & Links• Seminole Heights Serial Murders – Case Background• Howell Donaldson III – Court Records & Sentencing• Na’Ziyah Harris – Case Update• Celeste Rivas Hernandez – Investigation OverviewFollow + 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 examine two intentional homicide cases connected by a deeper pattern of proximity, access, and life transition.In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 19-year-old Sade Robinson disappeared after a first date. Her dismembered remains were later discovered near Lake Michigan. Investigators arrested Maxwell Anderson, who now faces charges including first-degree intentional homicide, dismemberment of a corpse, and arson.In Seat Pleasant, Maryland, 24-year-old Lamont Adaire Jr. — a father and athlete preparing to play professional basketball in China — was shot 12 times in a coordinated attack. Franklin Scott later pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced to 50 years.Two cities.Two lives in motion.Two acts of deliberate violence.Cases & Locations ReferencedTopics This episode explores dating violence, digital evidence, jealousy, entitlement, masculinity, and the vulnerability that can accompany major life transitions. We examine how access and emotional immaturity intersect — and how opportunity can become perceived threat.• Sade Robinson – Milwaukee, Wisconsin (2024)• Milwaukee Area Technical College• Life360 location-sharing app• The Twisted Fisherman restaurant (Milwaukee)• Maxwell Anderson – arrest and pending court proceedings• Lamont Adaire Jr. – Seat Pleasant, Maryland (2018)• Franklin Scott – court records and sentencing details• Critical missing person alerts• Digital tracking and safety limitations• Surveillance and forensic timelines• Jealousy, retaliation, and emotional regulation• Cultural narratives around possession and entitlement• The ripple effect of violence on familiesCovered Resources & LinksLife360Milwaukee Area Technical CollegeThe Twisted Fisherman (Milwaukee)Maxwell Anderson – Mugshot & Court RecordsFranklin Scott – Court Records & Sentencing DetailsIf you or someone you know is experiencing abuse:National Domestic Violence Hotline1-800-799-7233thehotline.orgFollow + 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 examine the devastating loss of LoLetha Hall — a woman simply doing her job who became entangled in a deadly situation fueled by fear, misinformation, and an AI-driven scam.As technology evolves, so do the dangers surrounding it. Steph and Maia unpack how impersonation scams are changing the landscape of crime, the legal complexities of self-defense in Ohio, and the difficult questions surrounding “reasonable fear,” implicit bias, and accountability.This conversation goes beyond one case. It asks how we protect our communities, our elders, and ourselves in a world where voices can be fabricated — and fear can be engineered.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------🔎 Key Topics CoveredThe rise of AI-powered scam calls and impersonation tacticsHow vulnerable populations — especially seniors — are targetedThe timeline leading to the fatal encounter between LoLetha Hall and William BrockOhio self-defense law and the question of proportional forceThe difference between genuine fear and legally “reasonable” fearHow implicit bias can shape perceptions of dangerPublic awareness, digital literacy, and family safety planningPractical strategies for preventing scam-related harmAI Impersonation Scam ResourcesTime Stamps 00:00 — Why this case highlights the dangers of AI scams00:29 — Who LoLetha Hall and William Brock were01:48 — Inside the scam: impersonation and escalation02:38 — The confrontation and fatal shooting03:51 — Dashcam footage and police response04:21 — Fear, perception, and Brock’s mindset08:38 — AI’s growing role in modern scams09:07 — Elder vulnerability and education gaps11:37 — Breaking down Ohio self-defense law16:24 — Fear, bias, and legal interpretation19:07 — The impact on LoLetha’s family20:50 — Community responsibility and awareness23:18 — Practical scam-prevention tools25:03 — Final reflections on bias, fear, and accountabilityUnderstanding Deepfake TechnologyScam Awareness Tips (AARP)Ohio Self-Defense Law OverviewSocial Media & Digital Safety Tips Resources & EducationFollow + 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/

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/

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