Episodes

  • Ep 36 - Hybristophilia & Wade Wilson

    Ep 36 - Hybristophilia & Wade Wilson
    Sep 18 2024
    What is hybristophilia? Why would someone fall for a killer, and just how far will they go in the name of love? We investigate the case of convicted murderer Wade Wilson, now on death row. Legal expert Eric Zelaya walks us through the conviction process, revealing what unfolds after a verdict is handed down. Uncover the intricate legal journey and the dark obsessions that fuel these dangerous relationships—where women find themselves captivated by notorious criminals. Get ready for a revealing look into the minds behind these deadly attractions.


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    51 mins
  • 35 - Mental Health Diversion

    35 - Mental Health Diversion
    Sep 11 2024
    Can mental health conditions truly reshape legal outcomes? Dr. Dana Anderson and Dr. Craig Wetterer explore how mental health diversion (MHD) can offer a second chance for individuals facing criminal charges. They reveal how forensic psychology and law converge to create meaningful alternatives to incarceration, reducing or even eliminating charges through targeted treatment. This episode provides essential insights for attorneys looking to apply MHD strategies and clients who want to better understand the process. Whether you're in the courtroom or navigating the justice system, you’ll gain practical guidance on leveraging mental health diversion for a brighter future.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Diversion Evaluations
    00:59 Defining Mental Health Diversion Evaluations
    02:28 Exclusion of Antisocial Personality Disorder
    06:14 The Process and Impact of Mental Health Diversion
    13:17 The Problem of Misdiagnosis
    19:03 The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
    21:47 The Benefits of Psychological Evaluations
    28:03 Challenges with Co-occurring Mental Illness and Antisocial Behavior
    30:28 The Importance of Accurate Psychological Evaluations
    32:27 The Side Effects of Antipsychotic Drugs
    33:52 Uncovering the Truth: Therapy as an Intervention
    36:36 Understanding Personality Disorders
    40:22 The Gut Feeling: Recognizing Personality Disorders
    45:09 Getting it Right the First Time: Hiring Qualified Professionals
    50:23 Beware of Unlicensed Practitioners
    54:42 The Challenges of Prosecuting Unlicensed Practitioners
    56:37 The Benefits of Independent Evaluations

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 34 - I Don't Like Mondays

    34 - I Don't Like Mondays
    Sep 4 2024
    "I Don't Like Mondays" by N. Leigh Hunt is a gripping true crime book that delves into the harrowing case of Brenda Ann Spencer, who, at just 16 years old, became America's first school shooter on January 29, 1979. From her home across the street, Spencer opened fire on an elementary school in San Diego, tragically killing two adults and injuring eight children and a police officer. Her chilling response when asked why she committed the crime—"I don't like Mondays"—which inspired the book's title

    Join forensic psychologists as they explore the complex psychological and social factors that may have contributed to Spencer's actions and examine the broader implications of this tragedy. The discussion covers the profound and lasting impact on the victims, their families, and the community, as well as the controversial debate surrounding Spencer's potential release on parole. Drawing on meticulous research and interviews, Hunt offers a comprehensive account of the crime that remains deeply relevant in today's discussions on school violence, mental health, and the criminal justice system.


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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • 33 - The Son of Sam Law

    33 - The Son of Sam Law
    Aug 28 2024
    In this episode, seasoned investigator Jerry Lyons, known for his work on the Casey Anthony case, joins forces with experts Eric Zelaya and Dr. Craig Wetterer to dive deep into the Son of Sam law—a legal doctrine that prevents criminals from profiting off the publicity of their crimes. The discussion unpacks the reasons behind the public's fascination with notorious criminal cases and examines how psychological traps like attribution bias, confirmation bias, and the need for control distort our perception of justice. The team also delves into the complexities of double jeopardy, the disturbing obsession with true crime, and the public's fixation on cases like that of Gypsy Rose Blanchard. Don't miss this thought-provoking analysis of the darker side of our collective obsession with the most infamous crimes.

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • 32 - Pretty But Deadly (Part II)

    32 - Pretty But Deadly (Part II)
    Aug 21 2024
    In the gripping conclusion to "Pretty but Deadly", Helene returns with a shocking revelation of how her mother, driven by a twisted compulsion, ultimately poisons her own husband—Helene's father. Helene uncovers this final, devastating act. How does a family unravel when the person they trust most becomes their greatest threat? Join us as Helene, with her compelling storytelling, pieces together the chilling truth of her family's tragic history. This episode will leave you questioning the depths of human behavior and the hidden dangers that can lurk within the family unit.


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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 31 - Pretty But Deadly (Part I)

    31 - Pretty But Deadly (Part I)
    Aug 14 2024
    Prepare to be captivated by the harrowing story of a seemingly perfect mother who harbors a deadly secret. Beneath her beauty lies a terrifying obsession with control, driving her to poison her children and husband in a tragic case of Munchausen by Proxy. Helene, one of the children who miraculously survived, is a masterful storyteller who brings this dark tale to life. With bravery, she reveals the twisted psychology that led her mother to commit these unimaginable acts. Listen in as we explore the red flags and warning signs that went unreported.

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    59 mins
  • 30 - Murder by Proxy: Gypsy Rose

    30 - Murder by Proxy: Gypsy Rose
    Aug 7 2024
    Unravel the dark web of psychological manipulation that led to a shocking murder by proxy, where years of abuse and deception culminated in the notorious killing of Gypsy's mother Dee Dee Blanchard. This episode takes you deep into the minds of Nicholas Godejohn, serving life in prison, and Gypsy Rose, who is out on parole. We dissect the factors that drove them to plan such a heinous crime and ask whether justice was truly served. Will Gypsy Rose return to prison, or has she truly broken free from her past? Board Certified Homicide Investigator Eric Zelaya examines the unsettling secrets and dark truths behind this case, uncovering the twisted dynamics that have fascinated the public.

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    47 mins
  • 29 - Thomas Crooks Attempted Assassination of Trump

    29 - Thomas Crooks Attempted Assassination of Trump
    Jul 31 2024
    Statistics show the rise of these violent acts and discuss measures to address this growing crisis. The episode explores the recent assassination attempt on Donald Trump involving Thomas Matthew Crooks and cases like Dylann Roof and Ethan Crumbley. Our discussion highlights the pathways leading to such heinous acts and the critical role forensic psychologists play in intervening before individuals reach the tipping point.

    We'll cover strategies to divert individuals from violence and the psychological triggers behind these actions. Listen in and decide if Crooks' acts are the work of a lone-wolf attack or part of a larger assassination plot. Joining us are Dr. Graham Danzer and Dr. Craig Wetterer, who will provide expert insights into these issues. This episode provides a deep, thought-provoking look into the minds behind these violent acts and the ongoing efforts to prevent future tragedies, making it a must-listen for those interested in understanding and addressing this critical issue.


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/killer-psychologist--6020549/support.
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    1 hr and 6 mins