Episodes

  • Did A Personality Disorder Combined With Lack of Impulse Control Lead Ashley Benefield To Kill Her Husband?

    Did A Personality Disorder Combined With Lack of Impulse Control Lead Ashley Benefield To Kill Her Husband?
    Jul 29 2024
    In this episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," the discussion focuses on the Black Swan murder trial of Ashley Benefield, who is accused of killing her husband, Doug Benefield. Psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott joins to analyze the case, which centers around conflicting narratives and allegations of domestic violence. Scott emphasizes the complexity of determining the truth in such cases, highlighting the importance of consistent stories and corroborating evidence. The conversation explores the psychological aspects of Ashley's actions, considering her potential perception of threat influenced by past experiences and possible personality disorders. The challenges of having a gun accessible during an argument, testimonies from family members, and the impact of post-traumatic stress and battered woman syndrome are discussed. The episode also delves into the broader implications of domestic violence, the role of family court in abuse allegations, and the difficulties juries face in deciding such cases.

    Bullet Points of Main Points:

    • The Black Swan murder trial of Ashley Benefield involves conflicting narratives and allegations of domestic violence.
    • Shavaun Scott emphasizes the importance of consistent stories and corroborating evidence in understanding the truth.
    • Psychological aspects of Ashley's actions are considered, including her perception of threat influenced by past experiences and possible personality disorders.
    • The danger of having a gun accessible during an argument is highlighted.
    • Testimonies from Doug Benefield's daughter and other family members are scrutinized.
    • The impact of post-traumatic stress and battered woman syndrome on Ashley's actions and perceptions is discussed.
    • Broader implications of domestic violence, the role of family court in abuse allegations, and the challenges juries face in such cases are explored.
    Hashtags: #AshleyBenefield #DougBenefield #BlackSwanMurderTrial #DomesticViolence #BatteredWomanSyndrome #PostTraumaticStress #HiddenKillersPodcast
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
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    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Karen Read Trial, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    12 mins
  • Will A Jury Believe 'Black Swan' Ashley Benefield At Murder Trial-WEEK IN REVIEW

    Will A Jury Believe 'Black Swan' Ashley Benefield At Murder Trial-WEEK IN REVIEW
    Jul 28 2024
    Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

    Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    11 mins
  • What Is James Burke's Connection To Rex Heuermann? -WEEK IN REVIEW

    What Is James Burke's Connection To Rex Heuermann? -WEEK IN REVIEW
    Jul 27 2024
    Welcome to the "Week in Review," where we delve into the true stories behind this week's headlines. Your host, Tony Brueski, joins hands with a rotating roster of guests, sharing their insights and analysis on a collection of intriguing, perplexing, and often chilling stories that made the news.

    This is not your average news recap. With the sharp investigative lens of Tony and his guests, the show uncovers layers beneath the headlines, offering a comprehensive perspective that traditional news can often miss. From high-profile criminal trials to in-depth examinations of ongoing investigations, this podcast takes listeners on a fascinating journey through the world of true crime and current events.

    Each episode navigates through multiple stories, illuminating their details with factual reporting, expert commentary, and engaging conversation. Tony and his guests discuss each case's nuances, complexities, and human elements, delivering a multi-dimensional understanding to their audience.

    Whether you are a dedicated follower of true crime, or an everyday listener interested in the stories shaping our world, the "Week in Review" brings you the perfect balance of intrigue, information, and intelligent conversation. Expect thoughtful analysis, informed opinions, and thought-provoking discussions beyond the 24-hour news cycle.
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    8 mins
  • Did Stephan Stern's Mom Know About The Abuse And Murder Of Madeline Soto?

    Did Stephan Stern's Mom Know About The Abuse And Murder Of Madeline Soto?
    Jul 26 2024
    In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the controversial murder case involving Stephan Sterns and the murder of Madeline Soto. The conversation revolves around letters exchanged within Sterns' family, particularly one from his mother that hints at others' involvement, potentially implicating Jen Soto. Scott highlights the mother's difficulty in accepting her son's culpability, a common trait where parents rationalize or minimize their children's monstrous behavior. Despite clear evidence of Sterns' crimes, his mother appears to be in denial, shifting blame to others. The discussion raises questions about the extent of her knowledge and potential complicity. Scott and Brueski also touch upon the psychological aspects of Sterns' upbringing and how parental denial can contribute to criminal behavior. They speculate about why Jen Soto hasn't been arrested despite apparent evidence of her involvement. The episode delves into the psychological underpinnings of familial denial, the complexities of the case, and the ongoing investigation.

    Main Points

    - **Case Background:** Stephan Sterns is involved in the murder case of Madeline Soto, with family letters suggesting other parties' involvement.
    - **Mother’s Denial:** Sterns' mother minimizes his culpability and hints at others' involvement, displaying a common parental denial trait.
    - **Clear Evidence:** Despite clear evidence of Sterns' crimes, his mother shifts blame, unable to accept his full responsibility.
    - **Psychological Insight:** The conversation explores how parental rationalization and denial can contribute to a child's criminal behavior.
    - **Questionable Awareness:** The letters imply that Sterns' mother may have had prior knowledge of his actions, raising suspicions about her complicity.
    - **Investigation Dynamics:** Discussion on why Jen Soto hasn't been arrested despite insinuations of her involvement and potential evidence.
    - **Ongoing Case:** The complexity of the case is highlighted, with continuous gathering of evidence delaying the trial.

    #StephanSterns #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #MadelineSoto #ParentalDenial #JenSoto #CriminalPsychology
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    7 mins
  • Will A Jury Believe 'Black Swan' Ashley Benefield At Murder Trial?

    Will A Jury Believe 'Black Swan' Ashley Benefield At Murder Trial?
    Jul 25 2024
    In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the upcoming murder trial of Ashley Benefield, who is accused of murdering her husband during a custody battle. Benefield claims self-defense, but the judge has expressed skepticism about her abuse allegations. Scott emphasizes the danger of taking narratives at face value, especially in the age of the internet where partial information can sway public opinion. She draws parallels to the Karen Read case, where similar dynamics of public support without substantial evidence are at play. Scott points out that physical attractiveness can influence public perception and sympathy in such cases. She notes that during custody battles, false abuse allegations are not uncommon, often driven by intense emotions. The lack of hard evidence and the presence of conflicting statements by Benefield make the case complex. Scott suggests that a psychological evaluation might provide crucial insights. She also highlights the difficulty juries face in distinguishing truth from manipulation in such emotionally charged cases.

    Main Points

    - Ashley Benefield is on trial for the murder of her husband, claiming self-defense.
    - The judge previously dismissed her abuse claims during a custody battle.
    - Public opinion is divided, with some rallying behind Benefield based on limited information.
    - Physical attractiveness can influence public sympathy and media attention.
    - False abuse allegations are common in custody battles, driven by emotional conflicts.
    - Benefield's conflicting statements and lack of physical evidence complicate the case.
    - A psychological evaluation might provide key insights for the jury.
    - The case highlights the challenges of discerning truth in emotionally charged situations.

    #AshleyBenefield #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #CustodyBattle #FalseAllegations #PublicPerception #PsychologicalEvaluation
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    11 mins
  • More Stories Of 'Bad Boy' Behavior From Sean Diddy Combs

    More Stories Of 'Bad Boy' Behavior From Sean Diddy Combs
    Jul 24 2024
    In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott delves into the increasingly troubling revelations about Sean "Diddy" Combs. The conversation highlights recent accusations, including an incident in the 90's where Diddy allegedly threatened a Vibe magazine editor to change a cover and even removed a server from their office. Scott describes Diddy as an entitled, violent, and controlling individual, with these behaviors fitting into a larger pattern of accusations, including sex trafficking and abuse. The discussion also touches on Diddy's current activities, such as traveling in Italy, raising concerns about whether he poses a flight risk. Scott and Brueski explore the psychological profile of Diddy, considering his narcissism and long history of avoiding consequences. They question whether he believes himself invincible or if reality will eventually catch up to him. The conversation ends with a reflection on society's fascination with toxic celebrities and the cultural implications of celebrating such figures.

    Main Points
    - **Revelations about Sean "Diddy" Combs:** Recent and historical accusations highlight his violent and controlling behavior.
    - **Incident with Vibe Magazine:** Diddy allegedly threatened an editor in the 90s, demanding a cover change and removing a server from their office.
    - **Current Investigations:** Diddy is under federal investigation for sex trafficking and abuse, with Homeland Security involved.
    - **Travel and Flight Risk:** Diddy's current travels in Italy raise concerns about him potentially fleeing to avoid charges.
    - **Psychological Profile:** Diddy is described as narcissistic and entitled, with a long history of avoiding consequences.
    - **Cultural Reflections:** The conversation reflects on society's fascination with toxic celebrities and the cultural implications of celebrating such figures.
    - **Celebrity Admiration:** The episode contrasts toxic celebrities with positive role models like Jimmy Carter, questioning societal values.

    #SeanDiddyCombs #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #VibeMagazine #Narcissism #CelebrityCulture #PsychologicalProfile
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    6 mins
  • Is Society Creating A New Generation of Rex Heuermann Types?

    Is Society Creating A New Generation of Rex Heuermann Types?
    Jul 23 2024
    In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the unsettling press conference held by Asa Ellerup, the wife of Rex Heuermann, marking a year since his arrest. Scott comments on the incongruity of the family’s public demeanor, especially given the serious accusations against Heuermann. The discussion also touches on a controversial press conference by the victims' attorney, highlighting disturbing artwork linked to Heuermann's daughter. Scott expresses deep concern about the normalization of sadism and torture in media, especially its accessibility to young minds. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of such exposure on children, the potential increase in disturbed individuals like James Burke, and the societal implications of widespread access to extreme and violent content. Scott underscores the need for better regulation to protect young minds from harmful material.

    ### Main Points
    - **Press Conference Reaction:** Asa Ellerup and her children publicly present a seemingly incongruent demeanor during a press conference marking a year since Rex Heuermann's arrest.
    - **Disturbing Artwork:** Discussion on disturbing artwork linked to Heuermann's daughter, shown by the victims' attorney, raises concerns about the family's image versus reality.
    - **Normalization of Sadism:** Scott highlights the dangers of normalizing sadism and torture in media, especially its accessibility to children.
    - **Psychological Impact on Children:** The conversation explores the damaging effects of violent and sexual content on young minds and how it can warp their development.
    - **Societal Implications:** Concerns about the increase in disturbed individuals due to easy access to extreme content, likening it to the potential creation of more individuals like James Burke.
    - **Regulatory Needs:** Scott emphasizes the need for stricter regulations to protect children from accessing harmful material online.
    - **Cultural Reflection:** The discussion reflects on the broader cultural implications of allowing such content to be widely available and its impact on future generations.

    ### Hashtags

    #RexHeuermann #AsaEllerup #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #JamesBurke #PsychologicalImpact #SadismNormalization
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    7 mins
  • What Is James Burke's Connection To Rex Heuermann?

    What Is James Burke's Connection To Rex Heuermann?
    Jul 22 2024
    In the latest episode of "Hidden Killers With Tony Brueski," psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott discusses the complex connections between former Suffolk County police chief James Burke and accused serial killer Rex Heuermann. The conversation explores Burke's history of accusations and charges, including civil rights violations and possessing disturbing materials, alongside Heuermann's alleged crimes involving sex workers near Gilgo Beach. Scott and Brueski speculate on possible links between Burke and Heuermann, despite the challenges of gathering evidence from past events. They discuss the societal tendency to distrust sex workers' testimonies and the difficulty of rooting out corruption within law enforcement. Scott emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations and the need for public trust in the police, suggesting that historical analysis and in-depth interviews could uncover more about these troubling connections.

    Main Points
    - **Connection Speculation:** Discussing potential links between James Burke and Rex Heuermann based on their behaviors and geographic proximity.
    - **James Burke’s History:** Highlighting Burke's past accusations, including civil rights violations and possession of disturbing materials.
    - **Societal Distrust:** Examining the challenges of believing sex workers' testimonies and public reluctance to accept law enforcement corruption.
    - **Investigative Challenges:** Exploring the difficulties in gathering historical evidence and conducting thorough investigations.
    - **Corruption and Complicity:** Addressing the potential for ongoing complicity within the police force despite Burke's removal from power.
    - **Importance of Trust:** Emphasizing the need for high ethical standards and public trust in law enforcement.
    - **Investigative Recommendations:** Advocating for in-depth investigations and interviews to uncover the full extent of corruption and criminal behavior.

    #JamesBurke #RexHeuermann #ShavaunScott #HiddenKillers #LawEnforcementCorruption #SexWorkerRights #PublicTrust
    Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj
    Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
    The latest on The Downfall of Diddy, The Trial of Karen Read, The Murder Of Maddie Soto, Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
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    8 mins