In Episode 6: Evidence of Defensive Magic, anthropologist Tony Kail and forensic archeologist Steven Katz speak with Amy Blackthorn, a practicing witch and security professional. The conversation focuses on police and forensic professionals encountering scenes where artifacts and shrines reflect defensive and protective practices.

In this episode we discuss the discovery of a religious artifact in a cemetery with possible ties to the Kongo spiritual traditions. Anthropologist Tony Kail shares stories and experiences of the healers, customs and rituals of this sacred tradition. Forensic Archeologist Steven Katz discusses how materials may be approached by forensic and archeological professionals.

In this episode we discuss the Afro-Caribbean religion of Santería and Tony's book 'Fieldwork with the Saints: An Ethnographic Journey into Santería in the American South'. Forensic archeologist Steven Katz delves into questions about the history, culture and practices of this much misunderstood religion.

In this episode we are joined by D.J. Schilling, a devotee of Norse tradition as well as a cultural consultant to criminal justice agencies on the topic of Norse traditions and hate groups. We are also joined by archeologist and friend Steven Katz.

In this episode we discuss cases involving various vampire cultures. This episode is for adults only and features graphic content. Our guest is Lady Ann Selene, a vampyre witch who shares about the customs, practices and interpretations of vampirism. We touch on blood letting, crime scenes and psychic vampires in this fascinating episode.

Mystical shrines, secret rituals and full moon ceremonies. The world of witches and those who follow Pagan traditions is rarely understood and frequently misrepresented by Hollywood stereotypes. Over the years forensic professionals and public safety agencies have encountered members of these communities sometimes under a cloud of suspicion and fear. What do witches do? What do altars and shrines look like and how do responders gain a cultural understanding of those we seek to serve?

On this first episode of Crime Scenes and Cultures we introduce the basis for our show and speak to an authority on witchcraft and Paganism. Witch and writer Star Bustamonte joins us for a riveting conversation about Pagan traditions, artifacts and sacred spaces. Together we discuss encounters between police, crime scene investigators and forensic professionals as we seek to cultivate understanding between those who stand within the circle and those outside the circle.