Criminology Chats

Criminology Chats

Host: The Chicago School

Hosted by J. R. Rainbolt, this podcast delves into case studies, explores innovative research, and features interviews with specialists to illuminate the dynamic field of crime and justice. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply fascinated by crime narratives, there is much to discover. So, put on your headphones, relax, and join us as we navigate the complex realm of criminology. Welcome to Criminology Chats—where we bring the educational experience right to your ears.

Episodes

Life Without Parole
01October 09, 2025 6:00pm

Life Without Parole

This is the case of Jessica Reeves-Burrola doing Life Without Parole (LWOP). One night high on drugs and alcohol changed her life forever. Was it self-defense or revenge murder. “Jes” has been in email correspondence with us, and we are pro…

911 Dispatchers with Brandon Hall
02September 25, 2025 6:00pm

911 Dispatchers with Brandon Hall

In this episode JR and co-host Carley chat with Brandon Hall. Brandon is a native of Nashville, Tennessee.  For about 25 years he has been an emergency 911 dispatcher with the Metro Nashville Department of Emergency Communications. 

Elderly Crimes including Catfishing
03September 11, 2025 6:15pm

Elderly Crimes including Catfishing

Elderly crimes and scams are serious issues. Scammers often target seniors because they might be lonely or not familiar with technology. These scams can take many forms, like phone calls where someone pretends to be from a government agency…

Multiple Murders in San Luis Valley Colorado
04August 28, 2025 6:00pm

Multiple Murders in San Luis Valley Colorado

The San Luis Valley is in Southern Colorado and is one of the largest high desert valleys in the world. It is situated between the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range on the east and the San Juan Mountain range on the west. Between August-Octob…

The Original Men in Black
05August 14, 2025 6:00pmExplicit

The Original Men in Black

The Men in Black are a figure of popular culture, often depicted as shadowy figures in black suits who intimidate or silence those who have witnessed UFOs or have information about them. Dr. Josh Goodwin, a retired special agent from The Of…

Retired FBI Agent Jonny Grusing talks about the Harold Henthorn Case
06July 31, 2025 6:00pm

Retired FBI Agent Jonny Grusing talks about the Harold Henthorn Case

In this episode hosts JR and Ashley chat with retired FBI agent Jonny Grusing. Jonny talks about the case of Harold Henthorn. He worked the Henthorn case with many other FBI agents and a retired National Parks Special Agent Beth Scott. Jonn…

Megan’s Law & The case of Jessee Timmendequas
07July 17, 2025 7:45pmExplicit

Megan’s Law & The case of Jessee Timmendequas

In this episode of Criminology Chats, host J.R. and co-host Grace engage in a discussion with two faculty members from the Chicago School regarding Megan’s Law and the Jesse Timmendequas case.

Violent Media and Youth Aggressiveness
08July 03, 2025 6:00pm

Violent Media and Youth Aggressiveness

In this episode, Dr. Paul Boxer, from Rutgers University, Newark, NJ talks about violent media, the impact on youth aggressiveness and later violent behavior.

Female Serial Killers
09June 19, 2025 6:00pm

Female Serial Killers

In this episode, we chat with Dr. Marissa A. Harrison from Penn State University (PSU) Harrisburg, PA who has studied female serial killers and written a book about them.

Part 2 of the case of Army Sergeant James T. Murphy
10June 05, 2025 6:00pmExplicit

Part 2 of the case of Army Sergeant James T. Murphy

This is part 2 of the tragic case of Army Sergeant James T. Murphy. In this episode we start with Murphy arriving in West Germany and we will quote from his on emails to us about his actions leading to the death of three people.  Listeners …

The Case of Army Sergeant James T. Murphy
11May 22, 2025 6:00pmExplicit

The Case of Army Sergeant James T. Murphy

Welcome to this episode of Criminology Chats, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of crime, justice, and everything in between. Today, we're tackling a fascinating yet tragic case, one that raises difficult questions about evidenc…

Police Leadership
12May 08, 2025 6:00pm

Police Leadership

In this episode we will be speaking with Police Chief Randal Moody of the Harrisonville Missouri Police Department.

Cold Case Foundation
13April 24, 2025 6:00pm

Cold Case Foundation

In this episode, the leadership team from the Cold Case Foundation will engage in a discussion with students at the Chicago School. They will share insights on how the foundation supports families and law enforcement in tackling unsolved mu…

Mastering Madness with Tyler Allen
14April 10, 2025 6:00pm

Mastering Madness with Tyler Allen

Welcome to this episode of Criminology Chats. I’m your host, JR Rainbolt. Today, we have the honor of speaking with Tyler Allen, the esteemed host of the popular true crime podcast, Minds of Madness. Joining us are several students from The…

Inmate Mental Health
15March 27, 2025 6:00pm

Inmate Mental Health

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Denise C. Vargas, PsyD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who provides valuable insights into the mental health challenges faced by incarcerated individuals. Dr. Vargas shares her unique experiences …

Genetic Genealogy and Cold Cases
16March 21, 2025 5:03pm

Genetic Genealogy and Cold Cases

In this episode, we engage with Dr. Angela Williamson, a prominent expert in forensic DNA analysis. She explores the intriguing field of forensic genetic genealogy and its significance in solving cold cases. Dr. Williamson underscores the e…

Genetic Genealogy and Cold Cases
17March 13, 2025 6:00pm

Genetic Genealogy and Cold Cases

Episode 102 of Criminology Chats welcomes Dr. Angela Williamson, a forensic DNA expert, who shares insights on how forensic genetic genealogy is utilized to crack cold cases. She emphasizes the significance of funding and teamwork in these …

Cold Cases Solved
18February 27, 2025 6:05pm

Cold Cases Solved

Season 1 Episode 101 of Criminology Chats delves into the resolution of a 40-year-old cold case associated with serial killer Joseph Irvin. This episode highlights the significance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies, advancemen…