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by Crime Time Inc
Crime Time Inc. brings real investigative experience to true crime storytelling.Hosted by former detectives Tom Wood and Simon McLean, the podcast blends authentic policing insight with gripping, long-form narratives. Tom brings decades of investigative leadership from some of Scotland’s most complex cases, while Simon draws on his background in the murder squad and undercover work. Together, they combine sharp analysis, wit, and classic East–West Scottish banter.Every week, Crime Time Inc. delivers:• Deep-dive Scottish and UK policing episodes, where Tom and Simon break down real investigations, procedure, decision-making, and lessons learned from inside the job.• Immersive long-form true crime documentary series, exploring major cases like Charles Manson and the Zodiac Killer, followed by exclusive detective commentary you won’t hear anywhere else.Whether you’re
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- 2 days ago52 min
Police Scotland’s Digital Forensics Crisis, the Tony Parsons Case & Why Investigations Fail
This week on Crime Time Inc., former senior detectives Simon and Tom examine the growing pressures facing modern policing and criminal investigations.The discussion begins with concerns over digital forensic backlogs in Scotland, where increasing demand for mobile phone analysis, cybercrime investigations, toxicology testing and digital evidence recovery is placing unprecedented strain on forensic services. The pair explore how delays can impact criminal prosecutions and why investment in specialist technology has become essential for modern law enforcement.The conversation then turns to the tragic case of Tony Parsons, the former Royal Navy officer and cancer survivor who disappeared during a charity cycling challenge in the Scottish Highlands. Simon and Tom revisit the investigation, the eventual discovery of Parsons' remains, and the crucial role played by a witness whose actions helped bring those responsible to justice. They also discuss the wider challenges of missing person investigations and whether enough support is provided to individuals who assist police investigations.Also covered in this episode:The growing importance of digital forensics in modern policingCybercrime and the increasing demand on forensic laboratoriesPolice Scotland funding and resource challengesDrug-driving investigations and toxicology delaysArtificial intelligence and the future of criminal investigationsThe handling of missing person casesWitness welfare and informant protectionPolice supervision, specialist units and officer burnoutRoyal protection duties and security operationsScottish political frustrations and voter disengagementThe Royal Yacht Britannia and Edinburgh tourismDrawing on decades of policing experience, Simon and Tom offer a candid look at how investigations succeed or fail, and why technology alone can never replace good judgement, proper supervision and adequate resources.About Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- 1 weeks ago30 min
Peter Murrell, SNP Embezzlement & Leadership Failure | Former Detectives Analyse Scotland’s Biggest Political Scandal
The conviction of former SNP Chief Executive Peter Murrell has sent shockwaves through Scottish politics and raised serious questions about financial oversight, leadership responsibility and public trust.In this episode of Crime Time Inc., former detectives Tom Wood and Simon McLean examine the embezzlement case that dominated headlines across Scotland. Drawing on decades of investigative experience, they explore how breaches of trust develop, why embezzlement often goes undetected for years, and what warning signs organisations frequently miss.Tom and Simon compare the SNP case with real investigations from their policing careers, including thefts involving trusted employees, family-run businesses and compulsive offenders whose behaviour defied logic. They discuss the difference between crimes driven by need, greed and psychological compulsion, and analyse the extraordinary purchasing patterns revealed during the investigation.The conversation also turns to leadership accountability, internal financial controls, governance failures and the responsibilities of those entrusted with managing large organisations and public donations.In the second half of the episode, the hosts address the tragic rise in child and teenage drowning deaths across the UK. They discuss water safety, cold water shock, risk-taking behaviour among young people, and whether schools and parents are doing enough to prepare children for everyday dangers.A thought-provoking discussion on crime, trust, responsibility and the lessons that organisations and families ignore at their peril.The discussion also examines the wider implications of Operation Branchform, the investigation into Scottish National Party finances, and the questions raised about oversight during the leadership of Nicola Sturgeon. Drawing on their experience as former detectives, Tom Wood and Simon McLean provide insight into how fraud investigations develop, why financial controls fail, and what lessons organisations can learn from high-profile cases. The episode concludes with an important discussion on water safety, drowning prevention and the risks of cold water immersion.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the SNP Embezzlement Case01:20 How Embezzlement Typically Begins05:44 A Detective's Real-Life £74,000 Theft Investigation09:40 Need, Greed and Compulsive Theft16:37 The Strange Psychology of Criminal Behaviour18:45 Comparing Major Financial Crime Cases21:14 Leadership Accountability and Governance Failures23:58 Water Safety and Preventable Tragedies25:46 Why Young People Are Most at Risk28:13 The Green Cross Code and Safety LessonsAbout Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- 1 weeks ago28 min
Inside Scottish Policing: Murder Investigations, Human Trafficking & the Detectives Behind the Cases
In this episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom take listeners inside the world of Scottish policing, crime writing, and real-life murder investigations. What begins as a discussion about their upcoming books quickly evolves into a fascinating exploration of cold cases, people trafficking, major investigations, and the detectives who shaped modern policing.Simon discusses his new novel Kintyre: The Past Doesn’t Forget, explaining how a real unexplained death he encountered as a young officer in Campbeltown inspired the fictional story. He reveals how the book weaves together four timelines involving organised crime, corruption, trafficking, and a retired detective forced to revisit the past.The episode includes an emotional reading from the novel, following trafficking victim Song Lee as she struggles to survive after escaping exploitation and violence. Simon explains the challenges of writing from the perspective of a trafficked young woman and the importance of portraying victims realistically and respectfully.Tom then introduces his upcoming collection Sex, Spies and Bloody Murder, a series of true stories drawn from his policing career and historical crime research. He shares memories of working major investigations across multiple UK police forces and reflects on the detectives who pioneered modern murder inquiry techniques.A major focus of the discussion is legendary detective Hector Clarke and the early computerisation of murder investigations following the failures identified during the Yorkshire Ripper inquiry. Tom explains how innovation, intelligence analysis, and strategic thinking transformed policing during the hunt for serial killer Robert Black.The hosts also reflect on the responsibility of writing about real victims and crimes, the emotional impact investigations leave on families, and why remembering forgotten victims and detectives still matters today.As always, the episode ends with humour and nostalgia, including a discussion about classic Scottish slang words for someone who smells particularly bad — from “minging” to “howling.” About Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- 1 weeks ago40 min
Southampton Murder Case: Former Detectives Analyse the Henry Novak Killing, Police Response & Public Disorder
The Crime Time Inc. team returns with a special emergency episode to discuss one of the most talked-about criminal cases in the UK.Former Deputy Chief Constable Tom Wood and retired Detective Simon McLean examine the murder of Southampton student Henry Novak, the subsequent conviction of Vikram Digwa, and the intense public reaction that followed the release of police body-worn video footage.Drawing on decades of frontline policing experience, Tom and Simon explore:The timeline of the Southampton murder investigationHow false information provided to police shaped the initial responseThe challenges officers face when arriving at chaotic crime scenesThe impact of body-worn camera footage on public perceptionThe reality of split-second decision-making in frontline policingThe continuing debate around institutional racism and policingPublic disorder, riots, and modern crowd-control tacticsHow police gather evidence during major disturbancesThe psychology behind public order policing and baton chargesHistoric policing methods versus modern operational tacticsWhy media coverage often misses crucial investigative contextThe responsibilities of politicians, journalists, and police leaders during high-profile casesThe episode also includes stories from Tom and Simon's own policing careers, reflections on public order operations, and a preview of Tom's forthcoming book, Sex, Spies and Bloody Murder.If you're interested in true crime, criminal investigations, police procedure, law enforcement leadership, and the realities of modern policing, this is an episode you won't want to miss.About Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- 2 weeks ago44 min
Inside Scottish Policing: Cold Cases, Miscarriages of Justice & Detective Training Stories
In this wide-ranging episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom blend humour, nostalgia, and serious criminal justice discussion as they reflect on their careers in Scottish policing.The conversation begins with memories of detective training at Ayr and Tulliallan Police College, including stories from Butlins nights, old police accommodation blocks, and legendary detective courses from decades past.The hosts then move into a detailed discussion of the Andrew Malkinson miscarriage of justice case, exploring the dangers of flawed eyewitness identification, disclosure failures, parole complications for prisoners maintaining innocence, and the wider implications for the UK justice system.Tom shares insights into how major investigations and cold cases are managed behind the scenes, including how detectives prioritise cases, identify criminal patterns, review historic evidence, and learn from investigative mistakes.The episode also examines the pressures facing modern policing, including shrinking police numbers, overstretched resources, and the erosion of community policing in Scotland and beyond.Alongside the serious discussion are entertaining stories about traffic cops, detective office culture, nightclub escapades during training courses, book launches, and the realities of life inside the police service.About Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- May 4, 202644 min
The Golders Green Stabbings
In this insightful episode of Crime Time Inc., Simon and Tom reunite to dive deep into a variety of pressing issues that not only affect Scotland but resonate globally. As they take a brief break from their usual focus on historical cases, they engage in an enlightening conversation, drawing from Tom's extensive experience as a former Deputy Chief Constable of Lothian and Borders Police.The discussion kicks off with Simon sharing his recent interactions with police officers and the value of feedback in shaping their approach on Crime Time Inc. Drawing from these discussions, Tom elucidates the structural hierarchy within police ranks, clarifying the distinctions and responsibilities of roles such as Deputy Chief Constable and Assistant Chief Constable. Their extensive banter reveals how navigating the complexities of operational demands and political influences is a significant part of police work, informing listeners about the nuanced landscape of responsibility in law enforcement.Tom's reflections on his career shed light on the challenges of maintaining discipline and handling complaints, a responsibility he admits was not the most enjoyable aspect of his role. However, his approach emphasizes a progressive mindset towards discipline—believing in the potential for redemption rather than solely focusing on punitive measures. He shares a poignant anecdote about a detective whose actions could have been misinterpreted, stressing the importance of understanding an officer's character and past conduct when determining the right response to isolated incidents.The conversation then shifts to the realities of operational policing and the constraints officers face. Tom highlights that as one ascends the ranks, the illusion of increased authority often coincides with greater limitations influenced by budgetary and political factors. Using the example of a significant police budget cut in Scotland, he emphasizes how essential resources are in maintaining effective law enforcement and the impact of decreased funding on crime-solving capabilities and community safety.As they navigate through topics of crime prevention—specifically burglary—Tom expresses a deep-seated concern for the victims whose feeling of safety has been irrevocably damaged. He recounts personal encounters with victims and reflects on the lasting psychological impacts of such crimes. His narrative underscores the importance of emotional intelligence in policing, arguing that recognizing the human aspect of crime offers a more profound understanding that extends beyond statistics and detection rates.Tom also takes a moment to analyze contemporary issues surrounding hate crimes, drawing connections between mental health challenges and crimes committed by individuals suffering from severe mental illnesses. He points to recent events and the tragic outcomes they have produced, suggesting a systemic failure in addressing the needs of these vulnerable populations. Simon and Tom explore how underlying societal issues often contribute to crime, calling for strategic investments in mental health resources rather than reactive measures that merely address the symptoms of deeper problems.Bringing the episode to a thought-provoking close, Simon and Tom critique the naivety of political figures who engage in superficial commentary on complex matters of public safety and criminal justice. They argue that genuine change requires understanding the intricate dynamics at play rather than quick fixes or media-friendly soundbites. The pair advocates for a more nuanced dialogue that champions support for law enforcement while also addressing the root causes of crime, be it through community support, mental health resources, or societal reforms.Links to Percy Sillitoe Podcasts mentioned in this showhttps://crimetimeinc.com/episodes/percy-sillitoe-the-inspiration-for-james-bond-part-1https://crimetimeinc.com/episodes/percy-sillitoe-the-inspiration-for-james-bond-part-2About Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://
- Apr 26, 202629 min
Why the Zodiac Killer Was Never Caught | Final Case Review
In this episode, we delve into the intricate case of the Zodiac Killer, reflecting on the thorough investigation and narrative crafted by Alex, who's been pivotal in summarizing the key elements of this elusive case. Through Alex’s comprehensive overview, we pay homage to the victims and draw distinctions between verified killings attributed to the Zodiac and other alleged murders. Despite decades passing, the case remains alive with ongoing public interest, leading to a continuous influx of suspect names, showcasing the enduring enigma the Zodiac has become.We explore the complexities that have accumulated over the last 50 years, emphasizing how the tales surrounding the Zodiac Killer have taken on a life of their own. The necessity arises to return to the inception of the investigations, utilizing modern technology such as artificial intelligence to sift through historical data to identify the genuine Zodiac murders versus those that have been mistakenly associated with him. This approach could pave the way for a more accurate forensic review, relying on evolved methodologies to address any degradation of evidence over time.Both Tom and Simon reflect on the huge investment of resources needed in cold cases like the Zodiac—a task that requires not only modern techniques but a fresh perspective unmarred by the "noise" of decades of speculation and myth-making. The discussion turns towards assessing the worth and feasibility of revisiting long-cold cases against the backdrop of contemporary murder rates and resource limitations for law enforcement agencies.We also touch on the necessity for proficiency in cryptography as a critical characteristic of the true Zodiac Killer, underscoring that this level of expertise would significantly narrow down the pool of suspects. The conversation further highlights the evolution of investigative techniques, by juxtaposing past practices with today’s advanced methodologies that could expose previously overlooked details in long-standing murder inquiries, especially focusing on stranger killings and suspicious deaths that may have been misclassified due to various systemic flaws in the investigative process.As the episode progresses, we reflect on the human aspects of the law enforcement officers who encountered the Zodiac's initial crimes—acknowledging their challenges and limited training at the time. Both hosts express admiration for Alex’s respectful treatment of these individuals while emphasizing the need for contemporary discussions to address the evolving dynamics of murder investigation teams and their management.Finally, we conclude by considering the potential future directions of investigations into the Zodiac case. As we celebrate Alex's innovative work, we ponder the implications of reopening old cases with a fresh lens and the importance of imparting lessons learned from past mistakes within law enforcement practices. The exchange leaves listeners with a profound sense of the shared history behind these investigations and the ongoing allure that such cases continue to exert on public imagination.Zodiac KillerZodiac Killer investigationunsolved serial killerstrue crime podcastcold case reviewcriminal investigationforensic failurespolice investigation mistakesZodiac cryptographydetective analysisunsolved mysteriescold case analysisAbout Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
- Apr 22, 202644 min
Zodiac Killer Final Episode: The Remaining Suspects, The Failed Investigation, and Why the Case Is Still Unsolved
In the final episode of our Zodiac Killer series, we move beyond the best-known suspects and examine the bigger question at the heart of this case: why has the Zodiac investigation produced so many names, and yet no definitive answer?This episode covers the remaining major suspects, including Jack Tarrance, Rick Marshall, Ted Kaczynski, David Carpenter, Bruce Davis, Paul Doerr, Kjell Qvale, and Giuseppe Bevilacqua. For each, we look at why they were considered, what evidence or theory linked them to the case, and why none of those theories has led to a confirmed identification.But this is not just another suspects episode. It is also a deeper look at the Zodiac investigation itself: the fragmented police response across multiple jurisdictions, the missed opportunities, the Paul Stine dispatcher error, the role of Dave Toschi and other investigators, the limitations of eyewitness sketches, the problems with the DNA evidence, and the enduring influence of the Zodiac’s letters and ciphers.We also examine how modern forensic tools, including touch DNA, next-generation sequencing, and genetic genealogy, may still offer hope — while being honest about the limits of the evidence that remains. The episode explores the 2020 cracking of the Z340 cipher, the unsolved Z13 and Z32 messages, and the reality that the Zodiac case remains open more than half a century later.Above all, this episode brings the focus back to the confirmed victims: David Faraday, Betty Lou Jensen, Darlene Ferrin, Cecelia Shepard, and Paul Stine. Their lives, not the mythology of the killer, are where this story begins and ends.This is the final scripted episode in our Zodiac series — a careful, unsensational look at the remaining suspects, the failures and frustrations of the investigation, and the uncomfortable truth that some cases remain unsolved. zodiac killer, zodiac killer suspects, zodiac killer final episode, zodiac case unsolved, jack tarrance zodiac, rick marshall zodiac, ted kaczynski zodiac theory, paul doerr zodiac, kjell qvale zodiac, zodiac investigation, zodiac killer dna, zodiac ciphers, z340 cipher, zodiac killer case update, zodiac victims, true crime podcast, unsolved serial killer, san francisco zodiac killer, zodiac killer documentary,About Crime Time Inc.Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.Two crime worlds. One podcast.New episodes released regularly throughout the season.Our Website: https://crimetimeinc.com/If you like this show please leave a review. It really helps us.Please help us improve our Podcast by completing this survey.http://bit.ly/crimetimeinc-survey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
About Crime Time Inc
Crime Time Inc. brings real investigative experience to true crime storytelling.Hosted by former detectives Tom Wood and Simon McLean, the podcast blends authentic policing insight with gripping, long-form narratives. Tom brings decades of investigative leadership from some of Scotland’s most complex cases, while Simon draws on his background in the murder squad and undercover work. Together, they combine sharp analysis, wit, and classic East–West Scottish banter.Every week, Crime Time Inc. delivers:• Deep-dive Scottish and UK policing episodes, where Tom and Simon break down real investigations, procedure, decision-making, and lessons learned from inside the job.• Immersive long-form true crime documentary series, exploring major cases like Charles Manson and the Zodiac Killer, followed by exclusive detective commentary you won’t hear anywhere else.Whether you’re
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