In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the life and executions of Henry Pierrepoint. Henry begins his era as chief executioner, but not without experiencing his first brush with a family member of the recently executed, and on the same day, a pub brawl. We look at the first use of fingerprints in the UK for a murder charge with the case of the Stratton brothers and their terrible crimes against a husband and wife. We delve into the case leading to the execution of Edgar Edwards, who killed a family (for their home and belongs) and buried their dismembered bodies in a house he rented for that purpose. He was only caught because he tried to repeat the act. Henry also travels to Ireland to hang Joseph Fee who killed a man to prevent having to payback a debt, before leaving the body under manure at his business address, or was he framed?
In his personal life, Henry relocates and starts a new business and his son Albert is born. We will discuss Albert's life as an executioner in a later episode.
Scottish phrase of the week: ye've got a face lit a melted welly'
Sources:
trial transcript
t19030209-262 | The Proceedings of the Old Bailey
t19050502-415 | The Proceedings of the Old Bailey
Web
Northern Ireland Executions 1900-1961 – Capital Punishment UK
26 Dec 1904 - THE CLONES MURDER. - Trove
Stratton Brothers: First Murder Case Solved by Fingerprints
The Stratton Brothers – The UK’s First Murder Case Solved by a Fingerprint – Capital Punishment UK
nationalarchives.gov.uk/state-secrets/crime-and-punishment/crim-1985/
Books
Pierrepoint: A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)
The Executioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)
Executioner: Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)
The Hangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman)
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', we follow Henry Pierrepoint's journey as he becomes chief executioner with the infamous case of Amelia Sach and Annie Walters 'the Finchley baby farmers' and Richard Wigley. The conversation explores the complexities of justice, societal stigma, and the moral implications of capital punishment, while also engaging listeners with personal anecdotes and reflections on the evolution of crime and punishment. We also ask whether the conviction of Louisa Masset for the murder of her son Manfred in 1900 was a miscarriage of justice and if Manfred could have been another victim of the Finchley baby farmers?
Scottish word of the week : Tan, or tanned
Sources:
Books;
Pierrepoint: A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)
The Executioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)
Executioner: Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)
The Hangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman)
web;
Killer's chilling 14-word message to victim's family after brutal pub attack - The Mirror
Shrewsbury Prison – Capital Punishment UK07 Mar 1903 - THE FINCHLEY BABY FARM. - Trove
Louise Josephine Jemima Masset (1864-1900) Manfred Louis Masset (1896-1899) - Reffell Family History
Louisa Masset – For the Murder of Her Son – Capital Punishment UK
Trial transcriptst
18991211-77 | The Proceedings of the Old Bailey
t19030112-174 | The Proceedings of the Old Bailey
The one where Ali sets fire to the kitchen, we travel on Laguna Coaches and we start our deep dive into the Pierrepoint family.
In this episode, we delve into the intriguing and often dark history of the Pierrepoint family, a lineage of executioners in the UK, leading into a broader conversation about the morality of capital punishment and the historical context of executioners' roles. The episode highlights Henry Pierrepoint's journey from a young boy fascinated by execution to becoming an executioner himself, exploring the complexities of his motivations and the societal implications of his work. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the legacy of the Pierrepoint family and the historical significance of their profession.
Scottish phrase of the week: Gie it laldy
Sources:
The Pierrepoints - CLAYTON HISTORY GROUP
Great dynasties of the world: The Pierrepoints | Family | The Guardian
Century-old Pierrepoint journal shows hangman's spiral into alcoholism
YouTube
Britain's Hangmen The Pierrepoint Family
PIERREPOINT: A Family of Executioners PART ONE
PIERREPOINT: A Family of Executioners PART TWO
Books
Pierrepoint: A Family of Executioners,--(Steve Fielding)
The Executioner's Bible,--(Steve Fielding)
Executioner: Pierrepoint,--(Albert Pierrepoint)
The Hangman's tale,--(Syd Dernley and David Newman)
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', we explore the fascinating lives of two notorious figures from American history: Jefferson Randolph Smith II, better known as Soapy Smith, and Poker Alice Ivers. We discuss Soapy's rise as a con artist in the Wild West, his infamous prize soap scam, and the organised crime he led in Denver. The conversation then shifts to Poker Alice, a skilled poker player and a strong independent woman who navigated the male-dominated gambling world. The episode highlights their legacies and the romanticised view of organised crime in American history. If you don't know their stories - you should!
Scottish word of the week : Chode
Sources:
Soapy
Who Was Soapy Smith? - The Days of 98 Show
Soapy Smith – Bunko Man of the Old West – Legends of America
Con Artist Soapy Smith Gets His Start in Leadville - Leadville, Colorado
Alice
Wild Women Of The West: Alice Ivers - COWGIRL Magazine
Poker Alice – Famous Frontier Gambler – Legends of America
Poker Alice Tubbs – Infamous Deadwood | Deadwood, SD
"Poker" Alice Tubbs (1851-1930) | Denver Public Library Special Collections and Archives
We Binge watched Monster: the Ed Gein Story and we have questions!
In this episode, we delve into the life and crimes of Ed Gein, a notorious American serial killer. We discuss the impact of his upbringing, the discovery of his gruesome collection of body parts, and the sensationalism surrounding his story in media and popular culture. The conversation also touches on the psychological aspects of Gein's actions, his relationships, and the myths that have developed around his life. Through humour and analysis, we aim to separate fact from fiction in the portrayal of Gein's life and crimes.
Scottish word of the week: 'bonnie'
Sources;
https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/81783093
https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/tv-shows/who-was-adeline-watkins-monster-the-ed-gein-story/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ed_Gein
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27980902/
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ed-Gein
We had a fabulous time at Crimecon UK in Manchester! Thank you to all involved and attending, you made our day!
This week we discuss, the content and the people, and what to expect if you come along to a Crimecon event in the UK, what is on stage and the social element of the incredible community. Our listeners share their domestic misdemeanours and we recall Sarah's bedroom related misdemeanour!
https://www.crimecon.co.uk/
*A sad reminder of why we do what we do. Not much is known about our victim and her story has been mostly forgotten after all these years, although sadly, domestic violence and spouse on spouse murder continues to happen. Let us remember Lily Griffiths.*
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', we delve into the tragic story of Lily Griffiths, a victim of domestic violence, and her relationship with a Canadian soldier. The conversation explores Lily's life, the abusive dynamics of her relationship, the night of her murder, and the subsequent trial of her partner. The hosts reflect on the societal attitudes towards domestic violence in the 1940s and emphasize the importance of remembering victims like Lily. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding domestic abuse and the need for awareness and justice. Also, Ali tells us about a semi-related incident of an epic escape from a prisoner of war camp.
Scottish phrase of the week (which isn't really Scottish) - ‘there’s mony a slip twixt the cup and the lip’
If you need help, please reach out to the National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000247
Sources:
PressReader.com - Digital Newspaper & Magazine Subscriptions
All the people executed in Wales in the 20th century | Wales Online
Results for 'howard grossley' | British Newspaper Archive
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Brookwood-Killers-Military-Murderers-WWII/dp/1399011820
When an elderly man shows incredible kindness to the wrong person...
In this episode of Hooked on True Crime, hosts Ali and Sarah delve into the tragic story of Mark Turner, an 82-year-old man who was brutally murdered by a Canadian soldier during World War II. The conversation explores Mark's life, his kindness, and the senseless nature of his death, as well as the subsequent investigation and trial of the soldier. The hosts reflect on themes of empathy, loss, and the impact of crime on communities, while also providing a historical context to the events discussed.
Scottish word of the week: Ghian and 'taps aff'
Book by Paul Johnson, Brookwood Killers
Mervin Clare McEwan - The Canadian Virtual War Memorial - Veterans Affairs Canada
Hangmen at War – Chapter 5 – Delinquent Soldiers – Capital Punishment UK
Malcolm Bull's Calderdale Companion : M
The one where Ali passes his driving test!
How do you catch a killer, a soldier in a city full of soldiers, without CCTV and DNA analysis?
With excellent police work, that's how!
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', Ali tells Sarah the tragic story of Iris Miriam Deeley, a young woman whose life was cut short during World War II, when she was attacked, murdered and left in amongst the cabbages in a London allotment. Iris was a vibrant, intelligent woman and her life was full of potential - the same cannot not be said for the perpetrator of the crime against her. The investigation that followed was an example of great policing and has introduced us to new hero's.
Scottish phrase of the week: Lang may yer lum reek!
Use code 'hooked' for 10 percent off your CrimeconUK tickets (Manchester, September 27th 2025)
Sources:
Brookwood Killers by Paul Johnson (Book)
Ernest James Kemp | Murderpedia, the encyclopedia of murderers
MPIX00331746 - Topfoto Image Archive
Hangmen at War – Chapter 5 – Delinquent Soldiers – Capital Punishment UK
Funeral at Manor Park Cemetary, 18th February 1944. On Monday 14th... News Photo - Getty Images
The competition episode ;)
In this episode of the Hooked on True Crime podcast, hosts Ali and Sarah delve into the fascinating and complex cases of two men named Daniel: Daniel McNaughton and Daniel Sickles. They explore McNaughton's life, his assassination attempt on a government official, and the subsequent trial that established the McNaughton Rules for the insanity defence. The conversation then shifts to Daniel Sickles, a politician whose infidelity led to a dramatic murder trial, marking the first acquittal due to temporary insanity in the United States. The hosts discuss the implications of these cases on legal history, public perception of insanity defences, and the intersection of crime and mental health.
Scottish word of the week : Flenky
Use the code 'hooked' for 10% of Crimecon UK (Manchester, 27th of September 2025)
Join our socials and post the competition answer for a chance to get some HOTC swag.
Sources:
Books:
Moran R. Knowing Right From Wrong: The Insanity Defense of Daniel McNaughtan. The Free Press; 1981.Walk A, West DJ, eds.
Daniel McNaughton: His Trial and the Aftermath. Gaskell Books/Royal College of Psychiatrists; 1977.
Websites:
Daniel McNaughton (1813-1865) - PMCDaniel M’Naghten: The Man Who Changed the Law on Insanity
Daniel Sickles: An Unusual Character - Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Murder in Lafayette Square | Headlines & HeroesDaniel Sickles Trial: 1859 | Encyclopedia.com
The 1859 Murder Trial of Daniel E. Sickles - Historical Society of the D.C. CircuitUNITED STATES v. SICKLES.
Caution : this episode contains discussion of rape and violence, plus an anger spawning justice system!
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', hosts Ali and Sarah delve into a harrowing true crime story set on the Greek Island of Corfu, focusing on the case of a young woman who was brutally attacked and raped by a known sex offender. We explore the systemic failures of the criminal justice system that allowed a serial rapist to remain free despite his history of violent attacks. This may be the most evil perpetrator we've ever covered.
Scottish word of the week: Sarah is tested in a quiz and fails!
Ali commits another domestic misdemeanour and we binge watch Destination X, Karen Pirie, and Shetland (BBC)
Used code 'Hooked' for 10% off CrimeConUk Manchester September 27th, 2025.
Sources:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sluBk4iBTQ
'My Kavos rapist told me - I am a man and I will take what I want' - Grimsby Live
Corfu serial rapist re-arrested and held on new rape charge – The Greek Herald
Corfu rapist who attacked British women holidaymakers sent to prison | Daily Mail Online
Serial rapist ‘beast of Kavos’ reportedly falls off cliff while running from police | The Independent | The IndependentSerial rapist
Beast of Kavos breaks back plunging 100ft into Corfu ravine - The Mirror
Serial Rapist Jumps Off Cliff While Running From Police and Breaks Ribs - The New York Times
Corfu serial rapist held on new rape charge | eKathimerini.com
Police show 'rape kit' found after serial rapist 'Beast of Kavos' was arrested - The Mirror
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOfaK2r5yMw
This week we explore the profound journey of forgiveness and restorative justice following the tragic murder of Christopher Donovan. Ray and Vi Donovan share their experiences of meeting the offenders, the impact of forgiveness on their lives, and the importance of restorative justice in healing both victims and offenders. They emphasize the need for empathy, understanding, and education in preventing crime and fostering a more compassionate society. Through their story, they highlight the transformative power of forgiveness and the potential for change in the lives of those affected by crime.
No domestic crimes committed!
Scottish word of the week: Maukit/Mockit
CrimeCon Uk Manchester 27th of September 2025, we'll be there! Use our code 'Hooked' for 10% off
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', hosts Ali and Sarah engage with the wonderful Ray and Vi Donovan MBEs, who share their harrowing experience following the murder of their son, Chris. The conversation delves into the night of the incident, the emotional turmoil of the hospital experience, the complexities of the court proceedings, and the reflections on justice and forgiveness. The Donovan's discuss the impact of the tragedy on their family, the challenges of navigating the legal system, and their journey towards healing and understanding.
Support/contact Ray and Vi via the Chris Donovan Trust
Use code 'hooked' for 10% discount on CrimeCon UK tickets.
Contact us and join our HOTC family through social media!
Please like, subscribe and support our wee podcast!
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', hosts Ali and Sarah engage with former SIO Colin Sutton, who shares insights from his extensive experience in leading murder investigations, particularly focusing on the tragic case of Chris Donovan. The conversation delves into the complexities of the investigation, the emotional toll on families, and the innovative methods used to present evidence in court. Sutton reflects on the challenges faced during the investigation, the impact of crime on victims' families, and the broader implications of justice and forgiveness in the aftermath of tragedy.
Ali commits a domestic misdemeanour or two!
Scottish word of the week : Feckles
Colin is currently on tour with the Real Manhunter 2, a must see!
He will also be at CrimeCon Manchester, as will we, use code 'hooked' for 10% discount
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', hosts Ali and Sarah discuss the tragic case of Bridget Milton, a hardworking Irish woman who became a victim of a violent crime.
The conversation explores Bridget's background, her struggles as an immigrant, and the circumstances leading to her murder by a soldier. We delve into the investigation, trial, and the societal issues surrounding violence against women, while also reflecting on the personal stories and listener interactions that shape their podcast.
We answer a listeners question about attending Crimecon solo. Use code 'hooked' for 10% off your ticket for Manchester on the 27th of September 2025!
Ali commits, yet another, domestic misdemeanour. Or rather improves on the previous one!
Scottish words of the week : Tapsalteerie and Whigmaleerie
Content Warning: Sarah is outraged and swears in this one! Descriptions of rape and murder.
Join our Hooked on True Crime family on our socials.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1385112779403649
https://www.instagram.com/hooked_on_true_crime_podcast/
Sources:
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Brookwood-Killers-Paperback/p/51761
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forty-Years-Murder-Keith-Simpson/dp/B001PKVHCY
In this weeks episode, Ali and Sarah talk with author and true crime producer Tanita Matthew’s about her book, ‘The Murder of Judith Roberts: The mark of Peter Sutcliffe.
They discuss the crimes of Peter Sutcliffe, the man the media dubbed the 'Yorkshire Ripper', covering all of his confirmed victims. Then guided by Tanita, they look into whether Judith Roberts could have been a victim of one of the UKs most notorious serial killers.
In domestic misdemeanours, Sarah calls out her daughter Lily for bringing home the beach and Tanita objects to her lovely partner Tom “Just living his life”.
Scottish word of the week: Drookit
Coming to Crimecon UK Manchester? Use our code 'hooked' for 10% off the cost of your ticket.
The Murder of Judith Roberts : The Mark of Peter Sutcliffe, by Chris Clark and Tanita Matthews (2024), Pen and Sword Publishers (ISBN: 9781399080125)
Avaliable at:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Murder-Judith-Roberts-Peter-Sutcliffe/dp/1399080121
https://www.pen-and-sword.co.uk/The-Murder-of-Judith-Roberts-Hardback/p/50959
Sources:
www.Assets.publishing.service.gov.uk - scanned doc part 2 chronological; sequence of events - Byford Report
www. biography.com/crime/peter-sutcliffe
www.research.tees.ac.uk - 'Revisiting the Yorkshire ripper murders; interogating gender violence, sex work and justice'.
https://www.itv.com/watch/yorkshire-ripper-the-secret-murders/10a0680
Content warning: this episode contains discussion of multiple crimes, murder, and violence.
In this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', hosts Ali and Sarah explore the case of Marguerite Beatrice Burge, a young woman who was brutally attacked and left for dead during World War II. The conversation begins with light-hearted banter about binge-watching 'Tiger King' (have we managed to be retro cool?) and Ali's infamous dad jokes (send help), before transitioning into the serious topic of Marguerite's tragic story. The hosts discuss the investigation that followed her discovery, the forensic evidence collected, and the various suspects involved, including 'Private Pat' and 'Private Ray'. The discussion covers the discovery of her body, the subsequent investigation, the trial, and the eventual conviction of Private Ray for her murder.
Scottish word of the week : wheesht
Content warning : discussion of sexual violence and murder (and dad jokes...)
Sources:
The Brookwood Killers, Military Murderers of WWII
By Paul Johnson (book)
Lethal Witness by Andrew Rose (book)
National Archives , ref CRIM1/1501 (web)
Wandsworth Prison Records - record of execution form LPC4 10th of July 1943 (web)
Tales from the Hangmans Record (vol3) - Steve Fielding (book)
In this this episode of 'Hooked on True Crime', hosts Ali and Sarah discuss the tragic case of Joan Perle Wolfe, a young woman whose life was cut short in 1942. They delve into the details of her murder, the forensic investigation that followed, and the eventual trial of her lover, a Canadian soldier. The conversation also touches on the unsolved case of Alan Holmes, a police mechanic who was brutally attacked in his home and left tied to his bed for 10 days. Throughout the episode, the hosts engage with their audience, share personal anecdotes, and highlight the importance of remembering victims and seeking justice.
We are coming to CrimeconUK Manchester, join us there. Use code ‘hooked’ for 10% off your tickets!
Scottish word of the week: Foggy Bummer
Sarah crochets a highland coo
*We support the Chris Donovan Trust*, please give your support any way you can.
Content advisory: in this episode, we discuss murder and torture.
Sources
The Brookwood Killers: Military Murderers of WWII by Paul Johnson 2022
Surrey Live (article by Steven White) 27th Dec 2022
J.H.H Gaute and Robin Odell, The New Murderers Who’s Who (1996), Harrap Books
Notable British Trails, The trial of August Sangret, William Hodge and Co. 1959
Professor Keith Simpson; An autobiography ‘Forty years of Murder’ (1978), Harrap Books
The fatal chance, 12 cases of a Notebook of a Crime pathologist, P.Davis (publisher) (1969)
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-12100886
https://www.murdermap.co.uk/unsolved-murders/alan-holmes-murder-unsolved-london/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmirfhg8o9w
In this episode of Hooked on True Crime, hosts Ali and Sarah explore various crime-related topics, including the story of Theodore Schurch, a soldier executed for treason during World War II, and the tragic case of Margaret Douglas, who was murdered in her home. The conversation delves into the complexities of justice, rehabilitation, and the implications of new legislation regarding sentencing minors for serious crimes. The hosts reflect on the moral dilemmas surrounding crime and punishment, making for a thought-provoking discussion.
Light-hearted interludes brought to you by the domestic misdemeanor of the week (HP Brown Sauce) and Ali's Scottish word of the week - hochmagandy
Content Advisory : this episode contains discussion of murder and abuse of a corpse.
Join the Hooked on True Crime Family on our social media!
Sources:
Book: The Brookwood Killers: Military murderers of WWII Paul Johnson
Internet:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8423q8GkAY
https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/family-worries-new-law-paves-a-road-out-of-prison-for-convicted-killer-of-98-year-old-woman
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/exclusive-parole-system-failing-prisoners-and-close-to-be-overwhelmed-lawyers-warn-9085487.html
