CrimeCon 2018: Event Recap

  • By Website Editor
  • •
  • 09 May, 2018
When CrimeCon 2017 wrapped up in Indianapolis last year, many of you tweeted to ask me “How will they ever top this?”
This past weekend, many of you found out. Not only did attendance more than DOUBLE at this year’s event, the programming, content, and speakers were top-notch. We learned new information about infamous cases, heard from victims and survivors of the BUSTED Golden State Killer, and got an inside glimpse at the newest crime-fighting technologies on the market. So when it came time to recap an event jam-packed with so much must-know information, the only thing I could think to do was to give you the most superlative moments from the entire weekend.
Most Emotional Moment
Hearing Debbi Domingo describe the last bitter conversation she had with her mother Cheri before she was killed by the Golden State Killer. During a live recording of Crime Stories with Nancy Grace, Debbi and her “sister survivors” Jane Carson-Sandler, Michelle Cruz, and Margaret Wardlow recounted their horrific encounters with the Golden State Killer and the emotional aftermath he left in his wake. You may listen to the live recording here (though you’d better grab the tissues first).
Speaker You Most Wanted to Hug
Many of us knew Dianne Lake as the youngest member of the Manson Family before taking a seat at her session. Likewise, many of us probably thought we knew her story. But none of the books we’ve read or documentaries we’ve watched could have compared to the moment when Dianne’s voice cracked as she shared the story of her “rescue” from the cult at the hands of police: “I told them, ‘My name is Dianne Lake. I’m sixteen years old and I just want my mommy.’”
Most Quotable Session
Thinking Sideways Podcast always clocks some enjoyable but reverent humor during their episodes. A sense of humor is important in this line of work, especially given the dark subject matter in which we’re immersed every day. During their time in the Podcast Studio, Steve, Devin, and Joe covered the Ade Family Murders. I won’t spoil the details of the case or episode for you, but instead will leave you with a couple of my favorite quotes:
Most Victorious Moment
Every Golden State Killer session. First, there was the beginning of the session formerly known as “A Deep Dive into the Golden State Killer Case.” Paul Hayes opened the session on Friday afternoon: “Originally, this session was titled “A Deep Dive into the Golden State Killer Case.” But then there was a development. And we changed it:"
Cue standing ovation number one.
Following that, Paul and his co-host Billy Jensen welcomed hero detective and GSK investigator Paul Holes to the stage, followed by survivors Jane Carson-Sandler and Margaret Wardlow, and surviving family members Debbi Domingo and Michelle Cruz. Margaret, the youngest GSK victim at just thirteen years old, recalled her refusal to give in to fear: “I had been reading about this guy for weeks, I was obsessed with the case. So when he came for me, I knew that what he wanted most of all was to see the fear in me, and I refused to give it to him. If I could say anything to him right now, I would say “I wasn’t scared of you then, I haven’t been scared of you the entire time you’ve been at large, and I’m not scared of you now.”
Cue standing ovation number five.
Scariest Session
Kimberlie Massnick’s Sensory Experience. This session put us (as much as possible, without incurring a lawsuit) in the shoes of the victims of the vile serial killer John Gerard Schaefer. Using the provided blindfolds and restraints, we were forced into some very uncomfortable positions in a very uncomfortably warm room while forced to listen to a very uncomfortable letter Schaefer wrote describing the very uncomfortable things he did to his victims. The letter took about five minutes to read, during which we held our restrained hands above our heads as his victims were made to do. Halfway through, most of us had dropped our hands from exhaustion. Professor Massnick was quick to remind us that Schaefer’s victims had no such choice. It was a harrowing, eye-opening experience that helped us all keep the victims and their experience front-of-mind during the remainder of our time at CrimeCon -- and hopefully forever.
Most Stomach-Turning Moment
There were several, but perhaps the worst came during Laura Richards’s session, Murder in Slow Motion. Near the beginning of her session about the fifteen high-risk factors associated with domestic abuse and stalking, Laura played a video including 911 calls, newspaper clippings, and horrifying photos of domestic abuse victims and perpetrators that had hundreds of people in the room squirming in their seats. More than a handful of people tweeted that they had to leave the room despite the trigger warning Laura included at the beginning of her presentation.
Most Emotional Victim Tribute
On the 25th anniversary of their deaths, Truth & Justice Podcast host Bob Ruff paid homage to the West Memphis Three victims Stevie, Christopher, and Michael. Rather than focus on the perpetrators (regardless of who any of us believe that to be), Bob broke hundreds of hearts with a tear-jerking slideshow of photos and tidbits about each victim. Stevie loved the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles; Christopher was energetic and still believed in the Easter Bunny; Michael was obsessed with Cub Scouts and was wearing his uniform when he disappeared. These intimate details left a pall in the room. We honored their memories with a moment of heavy silence, then Bob focused on dispelling some common misconceptions about the case.
BONUS: Scene-Stealer
GSK investigator Paul Holes. The handsome hero set many hearts a-flutter and stole the show at every session and every room he entered. Poor fella couldn't take five steps without being swarmed by adoring fans and peppered with questions. And he took it all in stride. We were beyond thrilled that Paul could join us at CrimeCon 2018 and wish him a peaceful retirement (though somehow I doubt he's the type to languish on his laurels).
===
Every session at CrimeCon 2018 was superlative. I wish that I could have attended them all or include them all here. Alas, if you’re just DYING to know what you missed, my best advice is to download the official CrimeCon app or join the Online Community to sign up for our Insider subscription. The Insider subscription gives you access to 35 hours of CC18 programming -- nearly the ENTIRE event! -- AND new original content throughout the year. We’ll upload video chats, AMAs, live Q&As with speakers and guests, and more all year long.

 

CrimeCon UK heads to Manchester!

By David Jones • November 28, 2024
Breaking News! CrimeCon UK is coming to Manchester in 2025!

CrimeCon London 2025

By David Jones - Brand Manager • September 30, 2024

CrimeCon Returns to London on 7th and 8th June 2025: A Must-Attend Event for True Crime Enthusiasts

Exciting news for true crime aficionados – CrimeCon is making its much-anticipated return to London on 7th and 8th June 2025! As the biggest UK event for those with a passion for the true crime genre, this is an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of crime, justice, and investigation, all set in the heart of the UK capital.

CrimeCon UK has built a reputation as the ultimate true crime experience, where enthusiasts, experts, educators and professionals come together to explore high-profile cases, delve into forensic science, and hear from those at the forefront of criminal investigation. 2025 promises to be the best event yet - being more captivating than ever before.

What to Expect at CrimeCon 2025

Building on the enormous success of past years, CrimeCon London 2025 will once again offer attendees exclusive access to leading criminal experts, investigative journalists, detectives, and true crime content creators. With a packed schedule of live panels, interactive discussions, and real-life case studies, this year's event is guaranteed to leave attendees with insights into some of the most talked-about cases and topical true crime themes. Not only this, CrimeCon UK puts victims and advocacy for justice at the heart of the event - making sure that CrimeCon is a platform for every story that needs to be told.

Here's a glimpse of what awaits attendees at CrimeCon 2025:

  • Exclusive Interviews and Case Debriefs: Hear directly from those involved in some of the UK’s most intriguing and infamous criminal cases, hearing from those that were directly impacted by criminality.
  • Meet Your Favorite True Crime Content Creators: The digital world has revolutionised the true crime genre, and CrimeCon will be bringing top content creators together to discuss their platforms, methods, and deep dives into unsolved mysteries.
  • Interactive Exhibits and Forensic Workshops: Put your sleuthing skills to the test as you take part in immersive activities, which have, in the past, included forensic analysis and criminal profiling.
  • Q&A Sessions with Experts: Get the chance to ask burning questions to investigators, criminologists, and legal professionals.

Who Should Attend?

Whether you're a die-hard true crime fan, a criminal justice professional, or just someone curious about the world of crime-solving, CrimeCon is perfect for you. The event brings together a diverse community of people who share a passion for exploring the darker side of humanity while discussing critical issues of justice and victim advocacy.

For those already familiar with popular crime podcasts, books, and documentaries, this is your chance to engage with the experts and learn more about the complexities behind these stories. CrimeCon offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.

Secure Your Spot

Tickets for CrimeCon London 2025 are expected to sell out fast, so be sure to grab yours soon. Various ticket packages are be available, offering different levels of access, from basic admission to VIP and Platinum experiences, where you can enjoy perks such as exclusive sessions with speakers, early access to certain events and enhanced event benefits. 

To find out more and to book your tickets, click here. Don't miss out on being part of the most thrilling true crime event of the year!

PUBLIC VOTE - OPEN NOW

By David Jones • February 5, 2024

Now is your chance to ensure your favourite true crime content from 2023 is recognised in the TCAs!

VIEWERS' CHOICE:  Whether it's your favourite series, documentary film or influencer - make sure you submit your thoughts on your favourite on-screen true crime content today! Remember - only content released in 2023 is eligible and will be counted.

LISTENERS' CHOICE:   All True Crime podcasts (that released content that is available in the UK during 2023) are eligible to be nominated so be sure that your go-to true crime podcast is recognised!

READERS' CHOICE:   Which true crime book caught your attention in 2023? As long as it was first published last year then it's eligible to be nominated, so cast your vote today!

Voting is now open and closes on 31st March 2024.  Those with the most votes will be recognised and awarded at the True Crime Awards which is scheduled to take place on 25th April 2024.

VOTE NOW!

The Big Scottish Book Club

By daviduk • October 18, 2023
THE BIG SCOTTISH BOOK CLUB
SERIES 5 EPISODE 2
AVAILABLE NOW

Damian Barr is joined by Shetland and Vera author Ann Cleeves to discuss her new novel, The Raging Storm. Lauren Lyle, star of the series Karen Pirie, reveals how she brings the Val McDermid character to life, and, on the 30th anniversary of Trainspotting, Irvine Welsh talks about the ITV crime series and his latest novel, The Long Knives. True crime podcasters (and our very own Nancy Baughen)  rate Truman Capote classic In Cold Blood, and crime readers at the Shetland Noir Festival in Lerwick recommend their favourite reads.

If you'd like to catch up and watch this incredible episode of The Big Scottish Book Club, click here. 
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