INDIANAPOLIS — True crime podcasts are exploding in popularity.
"It’s a phenomenon as old as storytelling," Rick Dunkle, media expert at the University of Indianapolis, said. "People want to engage with the darkness but in a safe way.”
Licensed mental health counselor Kimble Richardson agrees.
"In a way it helps us to feel more secure if we can have a sense of why did someone do this terrible thing," Richardson said.
Nearly ten years ago, Cheryl Owsley Jackson's brother Cary died in their hometown of Columbus.
"The courts are done with my story at this particular time. It’s been blocked in the system by the appellate court right now, so I know I need to take this to a higher level," Jackson said.
She believes her brother was murdered and is now working on a documentary, with true crime podcasters and shows like Dateline to bring more attention to the case.
“The media is a necessary ingredient, especially for populations for don’t get justice. Podcasts [and] documentaries have the long form capability of telling all the evidence," Jackson, who is also a visiting lecturer at Indiana University, said.
Both experts believe the trend is here to stay.
WRTV reached out to the Bartholomew County Prosecutor's Office for comment and are still waiting to hear back.
Sheriff Matthew Myers said "I will not comment on pending litigation," and the police department said they did not investigate the case.
-
Hoosiers unite for 'Stand On Peace Walk'
Hundreds of Hoosiers gathered for the Stand On Peace Walk Friday afternoon to raise awareness for National Youth Violence Prevention Week.
Trent and Giannis score 37 in 117-101 Game 3 win over Pacers
The Pacers led 57-47 at halftime, but Trent hit three 3-pointers early in the third to pull the Bucks even at 62.
Expert insight on prolonged pollen seasons and allergy relief throughout Spring
With rising temperatures indicating a change in climate, local health experts warn that it may be more than just a seasonal nuisance.
The Willow Center teams with Hendricks County Jail for an inmate reentry program
The reentry program provides two dedicated “Recovery Pods” for men and women. They create a separate, supportive environment focused on recovery, healing, and growth.
