From the NZ Herald newsroom comes A Moment in Crime - a podcast delving into some of New Zealand’s biggest cases.
Anna Leask has been a crime and justice reporter at the Herald for more than a decade.
Each month she'll take you inside some of our most infamous incidents, notorious offenders and behind the scenes of high profile trials and events to show you what’s really happening in your backyard.
Death in the street: The murder of Connor Morris
In August 2014 Connor Morris was fatally injured during a street fight in West Auckland. He was struck in the head with a sickle-like tool and died instantly. Morris, 27, was a patched gang member, the son of a senior leader and was in a relationship with the daughter of one of New Zealand's most prominent broadcasters. His murder and the trial for the man responsible, was high profile. A Moment In Crime writer and host Anna Leask covered the trial and sentencing for the Herald and looks back a the case 10 years on, as the killer becomes eligible for parole. Michael Thrift Murry admitted he killed Connor. But, he claimed there was no murderous intent, that he was trying to defend his younger brother from being attacked. After a two-week trial a jury of eight men and four women found him guilty. He was jailed for life with a minimum non-parole period of 10 years. The Morris family were contacted before the podcast aired. They did not want to comment publicly but wanted to ensure people knew how much their son, brother and partner was loved by them. For more on this case, visit nzherald.co.nz or click in the links above. If you have a case you'd like us to consider covering - email [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/23/2024 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 17 seconds
Bad teachers: New Zealand's most prolific sex offending educators revealed
It is not a rare occurrence for teachers to be investigated or charged with sexual offending against the children and young people they are supposed to be educating, guiding and nurturing. But some cases are significantly worse than other and in this episode of A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask recalls the three sex offending teachers who have caused New Zealand kids the most harm. The cases of Jaime Cooney, Paul Herrick and James Robertson are among the wrost offenders - in terms of how the abuse played out, the number of victims and how long the offending was taking place. And in all three cases, these predators could have been stopped much earlier. There were glaring red flags and concerns were raised both formally and informally with police and other authorities. But for various reasons these offenders remained free and able to continue violating and abusing innocent children. In today’s episode of A Moment In Crime Leask outlines how the sexual predators were caught, how they were dealt with by the justice system and where they are now. You will also hear from Parker - what he told the Parole Board in 2024 about his disgusting offending. This episode of A Moment In Crime tells the story of significant sexual offending and abuse and is intended for a mature audience. See below information on where to get help or advice. READ MORE: Blenheim sex abuse teacher: Anatomy of a scandal Predator principal's career of sex crimes and silencing Kaitāia’s paedophile teacher James Parker refused parole DO YOU NEED HELP?If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7: Call 0800 044 334Text 4334Email [email protected] more information visit safetotalk.nz If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9/25/2024 • 1 hour, 22 minutes, 31 seconds
The Dickason Family Tragedy - Part Two: Very Sick or Very Wicked?
This is the second in a two-part episode. In 2023 South African doctor Lauren Anne Dickason was found guilty of murdering her daughters Liane, 6, and 2-year-old twins Maya and Karla at their Timaru home. She and her husband Graham - an ortopaedic surgeon - had emigrated to New Zealand just weeks earlier seeking a better, safer life for their young children. Dickason killed the little girls 20 minutes after her husband left for a work function. He found the siblings dead in their beds when he arrived home. Dickason admitted smothering the children but claimed she was so mentally unwell she could not be held criminally responsible for their deaths. After an exhaustive five-week trial last year, a jury rejected her defence of insanity or infanticide and convicted the woman of murder. In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask looks back at the murders and the aftermath. Leask covered the story from the day the girls died, attending every day of Dickasons high profile trial and her later sentencing. The Dickason Family Tragedy is told in two parts. In part one Leask explained the family's background and what brought them to New Zealand, as well as what happened that awful day in 2021. In this episode Leask focuses on Dickason's trial - what the jury heard, the verdict, sentencing and what it was like inside the courtroom at pivotal moments. The double episode contains descriptions of the Dickason children's deaths and also refer to mental health, self harm, pregnancy loss and fertility issues. Both parts of A Moment In Crime - The Dickason Family Tragedy are intended for mature audiences. To read Leask's full coverage of the case click here. To read Justice Cameron Mander's full sentencing remarks via the Ministry of Justice website, click here. DO YOU NEED HELP OR ADVICE? • Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)• Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)• Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737 If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/21/2024 • 1 hour, 34 minutes, 4 seconds
The Dickason Family Tragedy - Part One: Three Dead At The Scene
In 2023 South African doctor Lauren Anne Dickason was found guilty of murdering her daughters Liane, 6, and 2-year-old twins Maya and Karla at their Timaru home. She and her husband Graham - an ortopaedic surgeon - had emigrated to New Zealand just weeks earlier seeking a better, safer life for their young children. Dickason killed the little girls 20 minutes after her husband left for a work function. He found the siblings dead in their beds when he arrived home. Dickason admitted smothering the children but claimed she was so mentally unwell she could not be held criminally responsible for their deaths. After an exhaustive five-week trial last year, a jury rejected her defence of insanity or infanticide and convicted the woman of murder. In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask looks back at the murders and the aftermath. Leask covered the story from the day the girls died, attending every day of Dickasons high profile trial and her later sentencing. The Dickason Family Tragedy is told in two parts. In part one Leask goes into the family's background and what brought them to New Zealand, as well as what happened that awful day in 2021. Part two will focus on Dickason's trial, sentencing and what it was like inside the courtroom at pivotal moments. It will be release a week after part one. The double episode contains descriptions of the Dickason children's deaths and also refer to mental health, self harm, pregnancy loss and fertility issues. Both parts of A Moment In Crime - The Dickason Family Tragedy are intended for mature audiences. To read Leask's full coverage of the case click here. DO YOU NEED HELP OR ADVICE? • Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7)• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)• Depression helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7)• Helpline: Need to talk? Call or text 1737 If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/5/2024 • 1 hour, 11 seconds
NZH Presents - Accused: The Polkinghorne Trial
On Easter Monday 2021, Paulina Hanna was found dead at the Remuera home she shared with her husband of 30 years, Philip Polkinghorne. For 16 months, her death was treated as “unexplained”. That’s until it emerged Polkinghorne had been charged with murder. He pleaded not guilty in August 2022. From the team behind The Front Page, the New Zealand Herald's daily news podcast, comes Accused: The Polkinghorne Trial. Listen to Accused: The Polkinghorne Trial on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, or in The Front Page podcast feed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/28/2024 • 44 seconds
The Last Advocate: Top pathologist delves into Kiwi murders, mysteries and the macabre
Cynric Temple-Camp is one of New Zealand's top pathologists - and he has just published his third book about his work. The Final Diagnosis is a collection of stranger-than-fiction stories of death, disease and murder - as well as Temple-Camp sharing new perspectives on high-profile cases, including the disappearance of Ben Smart and Olivia Hope and the trial of Mark Lundy. A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask spoke with Temple-Camp about the book, his career and why he is sure beyond reasonable doubt that Lundy is guilty. Episodes of A Moment In Crime - written and hosted by Leask - usually focus on old cases, cold cases or recent cases of national and international significance involving Kiwi offenders or victims. But this episode comes from the other side of the cordon - from a person often charged with determining how and why a person died and, who is responsible. To read more about Temple-Camp, the Lundy case and other crimes covered by Leask for the Herald, click here. Episodes of A Moment In Crime are usually released monthly and, so far, Leask has covered more than 55 cases including the murders of Grace Millane, Scott Guy, Austin Hemmings, Carmen Thomas, Karen Aim; the deaths of the Kahui Twins, the Edgeware Rd murders, the Bain family murders, the Christchurch House of Horrors and the massacres at Raurimu and Aramoana. Last year, a three-part special covered the case of rich lister and philanthropist James Wallace who was convicted of sexually assaulting three men and was jailed and had his knighthood stripped from him as a result. A Moment In Crime has topped the overall and true crime charts on numerous occasions, and has listeners in more than 80 countries. The podcast was a finalist at the 2024 NZ Radio & Podcast Awards and won a silver award in the true crime category at the inaugural New Zealand Podcast Awards in 2021. If you have a crime or case you’d like to hear more about, email [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/10/2024 • 50 minutes, 4 seconds
The House of Bain - Part Two: I Am Innocent
To mark the 30 year anniversary of the mass killing A Moment In Crime presents The House of Bain, a two-part telling of the case.
On June 20 1994 Margaret and Robin Bain, their teenage daughters Arawa and Laniet and son Stephen were all shot dead in the family home at 65 Every Street, Dunedin.
Just after 7am David Bain - Margaret and Robin's oldest child - called emergency services to report the ghastly scene. He said he had come home from his morning paper run and found them all dead.
Days later Bain was charged with five counts of murder and after a high-profile trial a jury found him guilty.
He maintained his innocence and fought for decades for a retrial, which finally went ahead in 2007.
A second jury acquitted Bain, finding him not guilty of the five murders.
The case is arguably New Zealand's most talked about massacre and over the years has become morbidly iconic.
In the second part of House of Bain, you will hear more from Bain in his own words on his legal battle. The lawyer who represented him most recently also speaks about the case and its aftermath.
Host Anna Leask speaks to people involved in the case and those with expert opinions on why Bain and the grisly event have become embedded in New Zealand culture.
CLICK HERE for further New Zealand Herald coverage of this case
A Moment In Crime is an NZME podcast written and hosted by Anna Leask, senior crime and justice reporter for the New Zealand Herald.
The podcast is written and hosted by Leask. It is produced by Leask, NZME audio engineer James Irwin and podcast production manager Ethan Sills.
A number of key players in the case had their words voiced by actors - Glenn Dwight as David Bain and Tory McArthur as the juror from the second trial. NZME audio engineer Tash Chittock assisted with recording.
In this episode television news reports that featured on various iterations of 6pm news bulletins on TVNZ and NewsHub have been referenced..These are mostly taken from court coverage, which can still be found on YouTube.
If you have a crime or case you’d like to hear more about, email [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
6/4/2024 • 1 hour, 45 minutes, 15 seconds
The House of Bain - Part One: They're All Dead
On June 20 1994 five members of the Bain family were found shot dead in their home at 65 Every Street, Dunedin.
Margaret and Robin Bain, their teenage daughter Arawa and Laniet and their son Stephen were all shot at close range.
Just after 7am David Bain - Margaret and Robin's oldest child - called emergency services to report the ghastly scene. He said he had come home from his morning paper run and found them all dead.
Days later Bain was charged with five counts of murder and after a high-profile trial a jury found him guilty.
He maintained his innocence and fought for decades for a retrial, which finally went ahead in 2007.
A second jury acquitted Bain, finding him not guilty of the five murders.
The case is arguably New Zealand's most talked about massacre and over the years has become morbidly iconic.
To mark the 30-year anniversary of the mass killing A Moment In Crime presents The House of Bain, a two-part telling of the case.
CLICK HERE for further New Zealand Herald coverage of this case
For David Fisher's interview with the juror from the first trial click here
A Moment In Crime is an NZME podcast written and hosted by Anna Leask, senior crime and justice reporter for the New Zealand Herald.
The podcast is produced by Leask, NZME audio engineer James Irwin and podcast production manager Ethan Sills.
A number of key players in the case had their words voiced by actors - Glenn Dwight as David Bain, George Heard as Dean Cottle and Kurt Bayer as the juror from the first trial. NZME audio engineer Tash Chittock assisted with recording.
This episode features references to television news reports from various iterations of 6pm news bulletins on TVNZ1 and Three. These are mostly taken from court coverage, which can still be found on YouTube.
Part two of A Moment In Crime - The House of Bain will be released in June.
If you have a crime or case you’d like me to consider covering, email [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5/22/2024 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 39 seconds
The 'Heavenly Creatures' murder: The story of teen killers Juliet Hulme and Pauline Parker
In 1954 Christchurch woman Honorah Parker was murdered while on a walk in the Port Hills.
The culprits? Her daughter Pauline, 15 and best friend Juliet Hulme, 16.
With “animal ferocity” they hit her over and over again with a brick inside a stocking. Police would later say the 46-year-old had been “battered to pieces”.
After a controversial trial, the teens were found guilty of murder - a jury rejecting their claims of insanity.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask looks back at the crime, the trial, the aftermath and speaks exclusively to Juliet Hulme's brother about why he wants the convictions amended to reflect his sister's lifetime of insanity.
This episode is accompanied by a full feature about the case - click here to read the story.
This episode references Canterbury crime author Peter Graham's book about the case, So Brilliantly Clever, the documentary Anne Perry Interiors which is available to rent or buy in New Zealand on AppleTV and author Ian Rankin's documentary Evil Thoughts, which aired in 2002 and can be found in part on YouTube.
A Moment In Crime is written and hosted by Anna Leask, senior crime and justice journalist for the New Zealand Herald.
It is produced by Leask, NZME audio engineer James Irwin and podcast production manager Ethan Stills.
South Island head of news Kurt Bayer oversaw this project, the voice of Pauline Parker's diary was provided by NewstalkZB reporter Emily Ansell and some of the audio recording was undertaken by NZME video journalist George Heard.
Special thanks to Jonathan Hulme, Nigel Hampton KC and Professor Warren Brookbanks for their insight and in put into this episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
4/12/2024 • 1 hour, 55 minutes, 3 seconds
Missing and murdered: The disappearance of Marice McGregor
In 2011 Dean Richard Mulligan was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his girlfriend Marice McGregor.
Marice was reported missing by her family in April 2010 and it emerged she had not been seen or heard from in the 10 days before they approached police.
For weeks police searched and appealed for information - as did Marice's family.
What happened to Marice? How did she die? And what was her killer's explanation?
In this episode of A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask - a senior journalist for the NZ Herald - tells the story of Marice McGregor and the callous man who killed her.
To read more on this case click on the links below.
New twist in Marice hunt
Alleged killer's road to court
Mulligan gets life for murder
DO YOU NEED HELP?
If you are being abused - in any way -remember, it’s not your fault.
For help and information contact:
Women’s Refuge: 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
Shine: 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and Middle Eastern women and their children. 0800 742 584
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3/13/2024 • 58 minutes, 10 seconds
Not guilty: The murder trials of George Gwaze
George Gwaze was tried and acquitted in 2008 and 2012 after the death of his adopted daughter 10-year-old Charlene Makaza.
Charlene was rushed to hospital in a terrible state in January 2007 and died after her little body effectively shut down due to massive infection - doctors and experts unable to do anything to save her.
Her family - who had moved to New Zealand from Zimbabwe for a better life - were scrutinised by police and the public.
George Gwaze was then charged with sexually violating and suffocating Charlene to death.
He maintained his innocence and after a trial - where the Crown argued murder and the defence argued death by HIV-related symptoms - was found not guilty by a jury.
In an unprecedented move the Crown appealed the acquittal to New Zealand's highest court and won. A retrial was ordered.
This episode of A Moment In Crime I cover Charlenes death, the sad aftermath and the trials.
This episode refers to child sexual abuse and violence and may be upsetting - it is intended for a mature audience.
If the content raises any issues for you - please see below for a list of help and crisis agencies.
READ MORE:
Acquitted uncle tells his story
Gwaze relieved by not guilty verdict
Retrial ordered for murder accused
Gwaze trial miscarriage of justice - Solicitor General
George Gwaze on trial for rape, murder of his niece
Gwaze trial - medical staff feared child had meningitis
Gwaze trial: police describe detailed scene exam
For more on Felicity Goodyear-Smith and her book The Murder That Wasn't, published in 2015 - visit goodyearsmith.com or click here.
DO YOU NEED HELP?If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:
Call 0800 044 334Text 4334Email [email protected] more information visit safetotalk.nz
If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.</strong>
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2/10/2024 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 9 seconds
Operation Darlia: Finding Jane Furlong - and her killer
Jane Furlong was 17 when she went missing from Auckland's Karangahape Rd in May 1993.
Her partner Dani Norsworthy reported her missing two days after she was last seen.
She was a new mum and a part time sex worker and while she'd had a troubled and turbulent life, was doing her best to carve out a future for herself.
For almost two decades - despite extensive police investigations - there was no sign of Jane, no clues to what happened to her or who was responsible.
In remains were finally discovered in 2012, buried in the dunes at Sunset Beach, Port Waikato.
The next year police announced a $50,000 reward for anyone who provided information or evidence that would lead to the conviction of Furlong's killer.
Despite the cash offer, and a major police investigation spanning more than 26 years - dubbed Operation Darlia - an arrest is yet to be made.
To date, police have not arrested anyone in connection with Jane's disappearance or death and her case remains one of the most enduring mysteries in New Zealand.
CAN YOU HELP?
If you know what happened to Jane Furlong or have information that could help the Operation Darlia police team - please come forward.
Contact police on 0800 2653 2273 (0800 COLD CASE) or click here to submit information online.
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or click here to offer information online.
READ MORE ABOUT OPERATION DARLIA HERE:
1998 Flashback: Teenage dreams cut short in K Rd
Skeleton found on beach identified
Jane Furlong gets a final farewell
Murder victim's son speaks out
Jane Furlong murder: Police revisiting 'crucial' period, killer's silence 'pathetic'
Person of interest in 26-year-long Jane Furlong murder cold case
Editorial: The death of Jane Furlong - someone knows something. It's time to come forward
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
1/9/2024 • 42 minutes, 17 seconds
On the run: New Zealand's greatest prison escapes
In this episode of A Moment In Crime - the last for 2023 - senior journalist Anna Leask looks back at some of the country’s most brazen prison escapes, and speaks to one of the most high-profile escapees in history.
Arthur Taylor spent almost a month on the run with two murderers and a robber after masterminding an escape from New Zealand’s toughest prison at Paremoremo near Auckland.
You’ll also hear from others who escaped multiple times including Dean Wickliffe, and, about why inmates go on the lam.
To date, no one has ever escaped prison in New Zealand and managed to stay away forever - they are all caught and hauled back eventually.
But over the years many a man - and a couple of women - have tried.
Leask has covered a number of these escapes for the Herald and canvassed many more in her book Behind Bars, published in 2017.
A full spread that further details the escapes is also available on nzherald.co.nz.
This episode contains strong language and is suited to a mature audience.
For more on Leask's book Behind Bars click here.
Read more:
Exclusive: Dean Wickliffe, the life and times of New Zealand's most 'notorious' crim
Exclusive: Notorious criminal Dean Wickliffe pens book about 41 years behind bars
Rimutaka Prison escapee guilty of rape, assault with a weapon and abduction, name suppression lapses for Damon John Exley
Phillip Smith's long history of terrifying and abusive behaviour
Whereabouts up in air
Greed the downfall of New Zealand's 'Godfather'
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/29/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 39 seconds
Disgusting and degrading: The life and death of 'New Zealand's Fritzl' - horrendous sex offender Ronald Van Der Plaat
In 2000 Ronald Van Der Plaat became one of the country’s most infamous sex offenders when he was jailed for a litany of horrific abuse against his daughter spanning 23 years.
He started raping, sexually violating and indecently assaulting his daughter Tanjas when she was just 9 when the family were living in Vanuatu.
For the next 23 years, he would keep her as a sex slave, subjecting her to “bizarre and depraved” abuse which only ended when she became pregnant to him - not for the first time - and suffered a miscarriage.
Van Der Plaat would use handcuffs, chains and clamps on Tanjas during sadistic sex sessions.
He would ply her with alcohol and sedatives before sex - once resulting in an overdose that left her with a permanent heart problem.
In the latest episode of Herald podcast A Moment In Crime journalist Anna Leask looks back at the ghastly offending.
The episode also features first-hand accounts of the abuse from Tanjas, from her book Flight of the Dancing Bird which she released after her father was imprisoned.
This episode contains references to physical and sexual abuse - and child abuse. It is suitable for a mature audience and may be upsetting.
The episode also contains brief extracts from the book Flight Of The Dancing Bird, published by Tanjas Darke published in 2001 by HarperCollins. The book is available at local libraries and can be purchased online.
READ MORE:
'Cruel, degrading' sex offender back in court: But released from charge due to dementia
Sadistic, depraved, cruel: Ronald Van Der Plaat's litany of 'bizarre' sexual abuse
Ronald Van Der Plaat, the man who raped and enslaved his daughter, to be released from prison
SEXUAL HARM - WHERE TO GET HELPIf it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:
• Call 0800 044 334• Text 4334• Email [email protected]• For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nz
Alternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.
If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/21/2023 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 18 seconds
Life without parole: The sentencing of the Christchurch mosque gunman
This episode of A Moment In Crime is a follow-up from the very first episode I produced about the Christchurch terror attack.
As the Coronial inquest into the mass murder begins, it's important to remember what happened and who was responsible. It's important to remember who was killed, wounded and impacted. And it's important to understand the inquest.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime you will hear from the judge who sentenced the terrorist in 2020 and from those closest to the attack - survivors, witnesses and those who lost loved ones that day.
Brenton Tarrant was the first person in New Zealand history to be jailed for life without parole and will spend the rest of his days in a prison cell - unable to hurt another person.
The episode refers to an act of terrorism, mass murder and the wounding of many people. It is graphic in parts and is intended for a mature audience.
Many people are against the name of the terrorist being published, but in this podcast episode he is named at times. His case was heard in an open court and is well known and I do not want to create any sense of drama around his abhorrent actions by painting him as a nameless villain.
At the outset of this episode of A Moment In Crime I would like to acknowledge the 51 people who died in the Christchruch terror attack and their families - and those injured on that terrible day.
For more on the attack, the prosecution, sentencing and investigations visit nzherald.co.nz
I also recommend reading these articles for a deeper understanding of the attack on March 15 and the aftermath.
The Ripple Effect
Christchurch mosque attack : terrorist sentenced
Christchurch mosque shooter sentencing: Tales of heartache, grief, terror fill courtroom
Christchurch mosque shooter sentencing: Gunshot wounds and grief only the start of pain, suffering for terror attack families
Christchurch mosque attack sentencing: Victim's father tells Brenton Tarrant he will never forgive him
Christchurch mosque shootings: Royal Commission report revealed
Christchurch mosque terror attack: Coronial scope hearing to examine Muslim community's unanswered questions
If you need support or help please reach out to one of the following services for advice:
Lifeline
Depression helpline
Youthline
What's Up
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/19/2023 • 1 hour, 37 minutes, 26 seconds
The Patron - Part Three: The bravery that ended James Wallace's reign of abuse
A Moment In Crime - The Patron - looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.
Behind his money, philanthropy and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it.
Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.
After he was sentenced he continued to fight to clear his name, mounting various appeals to keep his identity suppressed and himself out of prison.
A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes.
This episode looks at the victims experiences of the abuse and court, and the aftermath for the arts community.
Part One and Part Two are also live if you have yet to listen to those.
Thanks to the NZ Herald senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode.
For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:
Sir James Wallace named as former rich-lister convicted of indecently assaulting three men and attempting to pervert the course of justice
'I do not forgive you': Victims of prominent businessman speak out as influential figure jailed
Sir James Wallace unmasked: The inside story of a rich-lister, arts philanthropist and criminal
James Wallace: Disgraced arts patron continues to deny offending, refused parole
SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:
Call 0800 044 334
Text 4334
Email [email protected]
Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.
If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/5/2023 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 29 seconds
The Patron - Part Two: Bribery, scandal, secrecy, justice - inside the Wallace trials
A Moment In Crime - The Patron - looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.
Behind his money, philanthropy and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it.
Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.
After he was sentenced he continued to fight to clear his name, mounting various appeals to keep his identity suppressed and himself out of prison.
A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes.
This episode looks at how the chaotic court cases unfolded, and the lengthy battle between media and Wallace's legal team to get him named.
Part one is live and part three will be out next week.
Thanks to the NZ Herald senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode.
For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:
Sir James Wallace named as former rich-lister convicted of indecently assaulting three men and attempting to pervert the course of justice
'I do not forgive you': Victims of prominent businessman speak out as influential figure jailed
Sir James Wallace unmasked: The inside story of a rich-lister, arts philanthropist and criminal
James Wallace: Disgraced arts patron continues to deny offending, refused parole
SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:
Call 0800 044 334
Text 4334
Email [email protected]
Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.
If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9/28/2023 • 44 minutes, 9 seconds
The Patron - Part One: The two faces of James Hay Wallace
A Moment In Crime is presenting a three part episode - The Patron - which looks back at the life and crimes of disgraced knight and serial sex attacker James Hay Wallace.
Until his spectacular fall from grace, the Auckland rich lister was considered one of the biggest supporters of New Zealand film and art.
Wallace was respected, revered and his help, guidance and money was sought after by many in the arts world.
But behind the money and resplendence, Wallace was a serial sex offender who lured men to his mansion on the premise of discussing funding proposals or helping with projects or careers and abused them when they least expected it.
Wallace’s case took years to resolve with multiple trial dates - one delayed, one aborted and the case then moved to the High Court at Auckland.
A Moment In Crime - The Patron tells the story of Wallace’s life, crimes, court case and the impact it had on the victims and wider community across three episodes.
Thanks to NZ Herald' senior journalist Sam Hurley for his contributions to this episode.
For more on the case visit nzherald.co.nz or click:
Sir James Wallace named as former rich-lister convicted of indecently assaulting three men and attempting to pervert the course of justice
'I do not forgive you': Victims of prominent businessman speak out as influential figure jailed
Sir James Wallace unmasked: The inside story of a rich-lister, arts philanthropist and criminal
James Wallace: Disgraced arts patron continues to deny offending, refused parole
SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:
Call 0800 044 334
Text 4334
Email [email protected]
Alternatively contact your local police station click here for a list.
If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9/21/2023 • 46 minutes, 19 seconds
Murder or Infanticide: The trial of Lauren Dickason
In September 2021, Lauren Dickason killed her three daughters, six year old Liane, and two year old twins Maya and Karla, shortly after the family moved to Timaru from South Africa.
For the last five weeks, Anna has been covering the trial, which this week saw a guilty verdict delivered on all three charges. As the trial has taken up a lot of Anna's time, there's no new episode of A Moment in Crime this month, but listen as she talks to The Front Page's Damien Venuto about the case. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/17/2023 • 12 minutes, 18 seconds
Abandoned: The tragic and twisted killing of Javed Mills
In 2011 an incomplete skeleton was found at a derelict property in Auckland by a demolition crew tasked with dismantling the buildings on site.
It took police months to work out who the remains belonged to - and then they had to work out who had killed the young man, and why.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime, journalist and host Anna Leask looks back at the grisly case and how the police finally got the man responsible.
For more on this case click the links below.
Dead man's last months with 'goth' mates
Police say defendant posed as dead man
Javed Mills manslaughter - 'frustrated' killer denied parole
A Moment In Crime is an NZME podcast produced monthly by Leask, who has been a specialist crime and justice reporter for almost two decades.
This episode was written and produced by Anna Leask and edited by NZME audio engineer James Irwin and NZME podcast production manager Ethan Sills.
If there is a case you would like Leask to consider covering please email [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/3/2023 • 43 minutes, 52 seconds
A fatal party: The Edgeware Road murders
On May 5 2007 Lipine Sila murdered Hannah Rossiter and Jane Young and caused grievous bodily harm to eight other teens when he drove his car through a crowd outside a party in the Christchurch suburb of Edgeware.
The collision took place after Sila and his brother had been involved in fights at the gathering.
Sila claimed he was scared for his life and was trying to get away from people attacking him - and that he never meant to harm any of the victims.
However a jury found him guilty of murder and in 2008 he was jailed for life with a minimum non-parole period of 17 years.
The murders were like nothing seen in New Zealand before. They impacted many in Christchurch - from the family and friends of the dead girls to their schoolmates and community, the wider city and the country.
There was anger towards Sila, toward those who organised the party - which had been widely shared and discussed on social media in the week leading up to it - and police for their response when it was clear it was about to go haywire.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask revisit the Edgeware Road murders - taking you inside the tragic party, the police handling of it and the trial and sentencing of one of the country's most notorious double murderers.
For more on the murders and aftermath visit nzherald.co.nz or click on the links below.
Brother admits 'I lost the plot' on night of deaths
Edgeware Road murder trial evidence ends
Murderer Sila convicted of prison assault
Review clears police over Edgeware Rd
A Moment In Crime is an NZME podcast produced monthly by Leask, who has been a specialist crime and justice reporter for almost two decades.
This episode was written and produced by Anna Leask and edited by NZME audio engineer James Irwin.
If there is a case you would like Leask to consider covering please email [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5/25/2023 • 58 minutes, 13 seconds
Murder of a tourist: The tragedy of Karen Aim
In January 2008 Scottish woman Karen Aim was beaten to death while she was visiting Taupō on a trip around New Zealand.
The 26-year-old was murdered in the street by a local teenager who had been vandalising a nearby school with a baseball bat.
He then used the weapon to murder the innocent woman.
Jahche Broughton was jailed for life and has been denied parole a number of times.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime host and senior journalist Anna Leask goes back to the day Karen died, speaking to the person who found her and raising the alarm.
You'll also hear in-depth coverage of the court case and parole hearings of Karen's teen killer.
A woman attacked by Broughton a week before the murder also spoke to Leask.
This episode outlines violent and sexual offending and is suitable for a mature audience.
For more on Karen's case and the prosecution of Jahche Broughton - visit nzherald.co.nz or click the links below.
Teen killer Jahche Broughton gives new insight into brutal murder of Scottish tourist Karen Aim
Backpacker murder: Karen Aim's killer Jahche Broughton declined parole
Coroner's inquest into Karen Aim death
Out of the darkness
The podcast is produced by Leask iHeart radio podcast producer James Irwin and NZ Herald podcast production manager Ethan Sills.
Episodes of a Moment In Crime are released monthly on nzherald.co.nz, iheart radio and all your usual podcast apps.
And if you love this podcast, you might enjoy another series Leask wrote and produced - Chasing Ghosts - which focuses on the disappearance of Southland toddler Amber-Lee Cruickshank.
If you have a crime or case you’d like us to consider covering, email [email protected] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
4/16/2023 • 50 minutes, 28 seconds
Where is Sara Niethe - the 20-year mystery and the new hunt for a missing mum
March 30 marks the 20th anniversary of Waikato mother-of-three Sara Niethe's disappearance.
Her body has never been found despite her boyfriend Mark Pakenham admitting he killed her.
Pakenham was charged with her murder in 2011 but before his case went to trial he pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of manslaughter.
He has always refused to tell police where Niethe’s body is, but admitted he injected Niethe with methamphetamine on March 30, 2003, causing her death.
Twenty years on from Sara's death her children - now all adults with their own families -have commissioned a new search and hope that finally, they can find the answers and evidence they have always longed for.
If you can help find Sara or have any information about her death email [email protected] or private investigator Bruce Currie [email protected]
You can also contact the police on non-emergency phone number 105 or the anonymous crime reporting line Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
For more on Sara's case click on the links below:
Cold-case killing: Shock guilty plea
Sara Niethe killer's long history of drugs, threats
Cold-case killer Mark Pakenham released on parole
Sara Niethe cold case: New search under way for body of Waikato mum killed with a ‘shot of meth’
FAMILY VIOLENCE - DO YOU NEED HELP?
If you're in danger now:
• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.• Run outside and head for where there are other people.• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.• Take the children with you.• Don't stop to get anything else.• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay
Where to go for help or more information:
• Shine, free national helpline 9am- 11pm every day - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz• Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz• Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584• It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz
CREDITS:
A Moment In Crime is an NZME podcast written and hosted by Anna Leask, senior crime and justice reporter for the New Zealand Herald.
The podcast is produced by myself, iHeart radio podcast producer James Irwin and NZ Herald podcast production manager Ethan Sills.
Episodes of a Moment In Crime are released monthly on nzherald.co.nz, iheart radio and all your usual podcast apps.
And if you love this podcast, you might enjoy another series I wrote and produced - Chasing Ghosts - which focuses on the disappearance of Southland toddler Amber-Lee Cruickshank.
If you have a crime or case you’d like me to consider covering, email [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3/28/2023 • 44 minutes, 42 seconds
Finding Carmen Thomas: The mystery of the missing mother
Warning: this episode contains graphic descriptions of murder and the disposal of a body and is suitable for a mature audience only.
In 2010 Auckland woman Carmen Thomas was reported missing by her ex-partner Brad Callaghan. He told police she had failed to pick up their little boy as per their shared custody arrangement and he was worried. Police launched an investigation but there was no sign of Carmen. Three months later Callaghan was arrested and the brutal and macabre details of Carmen's murder and his attempts to avoid being caught came to light. The case is one of New Zealand's most high-profile murder investigations and in this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask goes back through the timeline of tragedy.
This episode includes short extracts from the television show Forensics - a prime-time documentary ‘crime’ series that aired in New Zealand in 2017. The show was produced by South Pacific Pictures.
To read more about Carmen Thomas, click on the links to stories published in the NZ Herald, Weekend Herald and Herald on Sunday below.
If there is a case you want to hear about on A Moment In Crime, please email host and producer Anna Leask [email protected]
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/cctv-footage-clue-in-carmen-inquiry/E7DU36D5GJHTLU2SJOYLFQR5VE/
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/carmen-thomas-murder-brad-callaghan-hid-his-dark-secret-behind-sinister-mask-of-deception/ST6ZX3NHVSMKWNKDJUFWGT5K7E/
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/revealed-how-science-caught-carmen-thomas-killer/E5S5N2Y2VS5BHLEH4U3MOYZAGQ/
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/parenting-the-parentless-raising-the-children-of-family-violence-murders-in-new-zealand/FEPWLQBXEBDENEK65VJCQODXYA/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2/17/2023 • 56 minutes, 47 seconds
Women who kill: New Zealand's grisly roll of dishonour
Police figures show between mid-2012 and 2022, about 280 people were convicted of murder in Aotearoa.
Of those, 9.5 per cent of offenders - 26 in total - were women.A further 47 women were convicted of manslaughter, 27 per cent of the 271 total offenders in that category.
n the latest episode of A Moment In Crime senior crime and justice reporter Anna Leask looks back at some of New Zealand’s most shocking cases of murder, manslaughter and even some mercy killings carried out by women.
This episode of A Moment In Crime references violence towards a child domestic violence - if you need help, or have concerns about someone else, please scroll down for a list of crisis and support agencies.
READ MORE: click here for Anna Leask's coverage on women who kill
DO YOU NEED HELP?
Child abuse
If you are worried about a child or have information about any young person being abused, please contact the police.
Information can be passed on to your local police or anonymously through the Crimestoppers reporting line on 0800 555 111.
If you’re worried about a child you are urged to contact Oranga Tamariki immediately on 0508 326 459; or email [email protected].
If the child or young person is in immediate danger, call police on 111.
Family violence
If you’re in danger now:
• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.• Run outside and head for where there are other people.• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.• Take the children with you.• Don’t stop to get anything else.
If you are being abused, remember it’s not your fault. Violence is never okay.
Where to go for help or more information:
• Shine, free national helpline available 24/7 - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz• Women’s Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz• Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584• It’s Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/26/2022 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 27 seconds
Under the bridge: the hidden and horrible murders of Pakeeza and Jojo
For nearly eight years Auckland woman Pakeeza Yusuf and her 3-yeard-old daughter, Juwairiyah “Jojo” Kalim, lay covered by stone and mud on Auckland’s North Shore.
They were murdered as they slept in late 2006 but for many years nobody knew about their grisly fate. A decade later in 2016, Kamal Gyanendra Reddy was found guilty of their murder by a jury.
A six-month undercover police operation drew a confession from him on October 14, 2014, where he admitted to strangling Pakeeza with the cord of an electric iron, and smothering Jojo to cover up his ghastly offending.
This episode of A Moment In Crime references violence towards a child domestic violence - if you need help, or have concerns about someone else, please scroll down for a list of crisis and support agencies.
READ MORE:
Bodies-under-the-bridge murders: Kamal Reddy found guilty
Bodies-under-the-bridge murders: Kamal Reddy jailed for at least 21 years
Undercover police operation to catch double murderer Kamal Reddy revealed
WHERE TO GET HELP?
Child abuse:
If you are worried about a child or have information about about any young person being abused, please contact the police.
Information can be passed on to your local police - <a href=’https://www.police.govt.nz/contact-us/stations/a2z’ target=’_blank’>click here for a list of stations and contact details</a> - or anonymously through the Crimestoppers reporting line on 0800 555 111.
If you’re worried about a child you are urged to contact Oranga Tamariki immediately on 0508 326 459; or email [email protected].
If the child or young person is in immediate danger, call police on 111.
Family violence:
If you’re in danger now phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you.
Where to go for help or more information:
Shine, free national helpline 9am- 11pm every day - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
Women’s Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz\
Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584
It’s Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/11/2022 • 51 minutes, 48 seconds
Murder of a good Samaritan - the tragic death of Austin Hemmings
In September 2008 New Zealanders were shocked by the killing of a man who stepped in to help a woman in danger in central Auckland.
Austin Hemmings, 44, was fatally stabbed when he intervened in a confrontation as he left work.
The good Samaritan was simply trying to help a woman who was in clear distress and who had called out for help after a man confronted her and threatened her.
Pauesi Leofa Brown stabbed Hemmings in the chest and the father-of-three died soon after.
Brown was later sentenced to life in prison for Hemmings' murder.
Today in Herald podcast A Moment In Crime host and journalist Anna Leask looks back at the case and how it impacted both Hemmings' family and the woman he saved - paying the ultimate price with his own life.
A Moment In Crime is written and hosted by senior journalist Anna Leask - who has been covering crime and justice for NZME since 2005.
Leask has also reported on most of the major incidents and events in New Zealand during that period including the Christchurch quakes, Pike River mine disaster, March 15 terror attack and the White Island eruption.
"Each month I'll take you inside some of our most infamous incidents, notorious offenders and behind the scenes of high-profile trials and events to show you what's really happening in your backyard," she said.
"Heroes and villains battle for justice to be done, and it seems no matter how horrifying the story, we always want to know more."
A Moment In Crime is produced by Leask, iHeart radio podcast producer Adam Pomana, and NZ Herald podcast production manager Ethan Sills.
Episodes of a Moment In Crime are usually released monthly.
If there is a case you would like to hear about on A Moment In Crime, email [email protected]
READ MORE ON THE AUSTIN HEMMINGS CASE
Hemmings family 'torn to shreds'
Hemmings' murderer jailed for at least 16 years
Hemmings' murderer had killed before
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/31/2022 • 39 minutes, 46 seconds
Callous and cruel: the murder of Val Heaney
Christchurch caregiver Valerie May Heaney, 64, was found dead in the hallway of her Bromley home on April 4 2022.
Initially, police said her death was unexplained but after a post-mortem examination, it became clear something violent and horrific had happened to Val.
Elliot Ajay Prakash, 43, was later charged with her murder.He was a boarder at Heaney's home and the pair were sometimes lovers.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime I'll tell you why - and how - Prakash killed Val, and what he told police.
This episode is about domestic violence and may be upsetting for some people.
READ MORE ON THIS CASE:
Val Heaney murder: Man who battered landlord with hockey stick jailed for life, previous violence revealed
Family violence - do you need help?
If you're in danger now:
• Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.• Run outside and head for where there are other people.• Scream for help so that your neighbours can hear you.• Take the children with you.• Don't stop to get anything else.• If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay
Where to go for help or more information:
• Shine, free national helpline - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz• Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz• Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584• It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/6/2022 • 32 minutes, 39 seconds
The great escape: the life and crimes of brazen killer Phillip John Smith
When Phillip John Smith left a Waikato prison on approved temporary leave in 2014 no one suspected that within days he would be leading authorities on an international man hunt.
Smith, also known as Phillip John Traynor, was meant to spend his time outside the wire at an address in Auckland with a sponsor.
The leave was part of a plan to reintegrate the convicted killer and sex offender back into the community.
But instead of going to the address in Auckland he made his way to the airport and boarded a plane to South America.
Smith's plan was to never return to New Zealand.
However a chance sighting lead authorities right to him at a backpackers in Brazil.
Smith was jailed for life for murdering the father of a young boy he'd been convicted of sexually abusing.
So how did he get a passport?
How did he get past border authorities?
And how was he captured in the heart of one of the busiest cities in the world?
Herald podcast A Moment In Crime goes back to Smith's escape and explains just how police tracked him down and hauled him back to New Zealand.
READ MORE HERE:
Phillip Smith's long history of terrifying and abusive behaviour
Great Escape: How a murderer almost got away
SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?
If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline on:
Text 4334 and they will respond
Email [email protected]
Visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat
Alternatively contact your local police station - <a href='http://www.police.govt.nz/contact-us/stations/a2z' target='_blank'>click here for a list.</a>
If you have been abused, remember it's not your fault.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9/28/2022 • 41 minutes, 40 seconds
Searching for answers: The cold case murder of Kirsty Bentley
The 1998 murder of the Ashburton schoolgirl remains one of New Zealand's most high-profile cold cases.
Kirsty disappeared on December 31, 1998, while walking the family dog Abby on the banks of the Ashburton River.
The day after Kirsty went missing, the family's dog Abby was found tied to a tree near the river, and the teen's underwear was nearby.
Her body was found two weeks later, hidden in dense scrub almost 50km away.
To date, no one has been arrested for her murder and police recently announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the capture of her killer - or killers.
DO YOU HAVE INFORMATION ABOUT THE KIRSTY BENTLEY CASE?
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police via their non-emergency phone number 105 and reference Operation Kirsty. Alternatively, you can call Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
READ MORE ON THIS CASE IN THE HERALD:
Kirsty Bentley murder: Police offer $100,000 reward in Ashburton cold case
Kirsty Bentley cold case: Police focus on stranger abduction lead
Kirsty Bentley murder cold case: Killer may have already been spoken to by police
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/26/2022 • 46 minutes, 11 seconds
The bedroom murders: love, jealousy and deadly revenge in South Auckland
In 2013 Auckland couple Glenys Stanton and Trevor Waite were gunned down in bed together at his home in Opaheke south of the city.
Their killer was John Mowatt, an ex of Stanton who spiralled out of control when she ended their relationship.
Mowatt killed himself at Woodhill Forest north of Auckland days after the double murder.
The crime, later dubbed 'the bedroom murders' shocked the country.
If there is a case you want to hear more about email [email protected]
READ MORE ON THE CASE HERE:
The Bedroom Murders: 29 shots, 3 people dead. Why?
Bedroom murders: Tale of love and death
DO YOU NEED HELP?
If it is an emergency and you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
For counselling and support:
Lifeline: http://www.lifeline.co.nz, call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP)
Suicide Crisis Helpline: www.lifeline.org.nz/services/suicide-crisis-helpline, or call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
For more information and support, talk to your local doctor, hauora, community mental health team, or counselling service.
The Mental Health Foundation has more helplines and service contacts - click here for informationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/5/2022 • 36 minutes, 13 seconds
Fight for freedom: The murder of Arthur Easton and Alan Hall's wrongful conviction
In October 1985 Arthur Easton was murdered in his Papakura family home.
Easton and his two teenage sons were attacked by a bayonet-wielding home invader.
The 52-year-old postal worker was stabbed in his liver during the frenzied attack and died of blood loss after emergency services arrived on the scene.
Alan Hall was convicted of murder in 1986 and spent 19 years in prison for the crime.
However Hall was not the person who killed Easton.
He maintained his innocence for almost four decades and in 2022 the Supreme Court finally quashed his conviction for murder.
The Crown accepted earlier this year in a submission to the Court that key evidence leading to the identity of the true attacker was "materially" altered, leading to a miscarriage of justice.
Today Herald senior journalist Anna Leask revisits the murder of Arthur Easton and the journey to justice for Alan Hall.
This episode of A Moment In Crime is a bonus episode.
While our usual monthly episodes look at cases that have gripped New Zealand's interest over the years, there are plenty of cases before the courts that I'm covering right now that warrant a deeper look.
From complex murder trials to the cases destined for infamy, these bonus episodes will show you what's really happening in your backyard - right now.
For more on the case visit:
Alan Hall: Murder conviction set to be quashed after decades, Crown acknowledges miscarriage of justice
Alan Hall's murder conviction officially quashed, compensation claim on the cards
Solicitor-General admits Alan Hall case 'significant miscarriage of justice', opens investigation into Crown conductSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/4/2022 • 30 minutes, 53 seconds
Evil stepfather: Bruce Howse and the murders of Saliel Aplin and Olympia Jetson
This episode contains strong language.
In 2001 Bruce Thomas Howse murdered his stepdaughters Olympia Jetson and Saliel Aplin as they lay in their beds at their Masterton home.
The girls - aged just 11 and 12 - had suffered years of physical and sexual abuse at the hands of Howse and despite their cries for help, it never came.
Today A Moment In Crime is about the tragic deaths of the young sisters and the impact on their family, particularly their older sister Alicia.
This episode of A Moment In Crime deals with child abuse, sexual assault and murder and may not be suitable for some listeners.
If you need help or you are worried about someone else - see below for a list of help and support agencies.
For more on this case:
Sister of murdered Masterton siblings speaks out about abuse, violence and murder
Killer's ex tells of fight to keep children safe
Reports into girls' deaths find fault with CYF
Are you worried about the safety of a child?
If you have concerns about the immediate safety of a child, call 111.
Alternative call the police non-emergency reporting line on 105.
Or, contact Oranga Tamariki, Ministry for Children on 0508 326 459 for advice or click here to visit the agency's website for more information.
Sexual harm - do you need help?
If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline:
Text: 4334
Email: [email protected]
Visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat
Domestic violence and abuse - do you need help?
If you're in danger now - phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours of friends to ring for you.
Where to go for help or more information:
Shine: Free national helpline available 24/7 - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
6/23/2022 • 53 minutes, 34 seconds
The body in the compost: The awful murder of Martin Berry
In January 2020 Rena Joyce walked into a Christchurch police station and made a startling confession.
She told officers she had killed her partner Martin Berry and that his body was buried in the compost heap at his home.
Following a trial in March 2022 Joyce - who had previous convictions for assaulting her partner - was found guilty of murdering Berry and in May she was sentenced to life in prison.
In this bonus episode of A Moment In Crime, Herald senior journalist Anna Leask goes inside the trial - and the sentencing.
For more on this case visit:
Rena Joyce sentenced to life in prison for murdering partner, dumping body in compost
Murdered and buried in his own garden - family speak about 'horrendous' death of Christchurch victim Martin Berry
Do you need help or advice around domestic violence:
Shine, free national helpline 9am- 11pm every day - 0508 744 633 www.2shine.org.nz
Women's Refuge: Free national crisis line operates 24/7 - 0800 refuge or 0800 733 843 www.womensrefuge.org.nz
Shakti: Providing specialist cultural services for African, Asian and middle eastern women and their children. Crisis line 24/7 0800 742 584
It's Not Ok: Information line 0800 456 450 www.areyouok.org.nz
If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5/27/2022 • 39 minutes, 13 seconds
Callous and despicable acts: the depraved offending of Liam James Reid
In 2007 Christchurch woman Emma Louise Agnew was found dead - murdered by a man she met while trying to sell her car.
The 20-year-old was reported missing on November 15 and her body was found 12 days later, hidden beneath vegetation and pine needles near a holiday park in the north of the city.
Emma's death was shocking and tragic - but when details emerged of what happened to her and who was responsible, there was outrage.
Liam James Reid was arrested the day after Emma was found and charged with rape and murder.
By the time he went on trial in 2008 he had also been charged with the rape, attempted murder and robbery of a 21-year-old student in Dunedin nine days after Emma was killed.
In this episode of A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask delves into Reid's horrendous offending and the impact it has had over the years.
For more on Reid's life of crime click the link below or visit nzherald.co.nz
The Big Read: Rapist, murderer Liam Reid hopeful of new appeal
SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP? If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline on:
Text 4334 and they will respond Email [email protected] https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat
Alternatively, contact your local police station. If you have been abused, remember it's not your fault.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5/17/2022 • 40 minutes, 16 seconds
Miscarriage of justice: the murder of Susan Burdett
In 1992 Susan Burdett was found dead in her South Auckland home.
The 39-year-old had been sexually assaulted and beaten to death with a baseball bat she kept by her bed for protection.
Susan's story was awful and tragic but would become much more so when the wrong man was convicted of her murder and jailed for more than 20 years.
In this month's episode of Herald podcast A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask looks into the death of Susan Burdett and the botched police investigation that led to Teina Pora being arrested and charged a year later.
Pora, a 17-year-old petty criminal, confessed to the murder after hearing about a significant reward offered by police for information that would lead to the killer being identified.
But there was no other evidence linking Pora to the scene and his confession was jumbled, vague and changed by the minute.
Two juries went on to convict Pora before an ex-detective got involved and fought for him to be freed.
It was not until after the Privy Council quashed Pora's convictions that the real killer - serial rapist Malcolm Rewa - was held to account.
FOR MORE ON THE CASE VISIT NZHERALD.CO.NZ OR CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW TO ACCESS CONTENT:
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/how-the-justice-system-failed-teina-pora/W4VPIZR6JDHMU4VHY7PLEBZCEI/Judge:
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/judge-teina-pora-innocent-entire-crown-case-rejected/B7LVXQK7FNRUVSKLP2L6AKKIGM/
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/serial-rapist-malcolm-rewa-jailed-for-life-for-1992-murder-of-susan-burdett/TWJNAO25RH77V2M242XXYRS2MA/?c_id=1&objectid=12216145
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/malcolm-rewa-survivors-heartbreaking-letter-i-thought-he-would-kill-me/PCCLD3DA4BFAAWCRTB4DJ7MTUA/?c_id=1&objectid=12206068
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/serial-rapist-malcolm-rewa-guilty-of-murdering-susan-burdett-in-1992/UCRYHDRG3ROT6YWRECKSORC4IM/?c_id=1&objectid=12205665
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/i-hope-to-get-justice-for-my-sister-susan-burdetts-brother-on-teina-pora-decision/HYXO4ZMD7XXL7XM7KPZBIQVONA/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
4/22/2022 • 57 minutes, 1 second
Gunshots at breakfast: The Raurimu massacre
On February 8 1997 Stephen Lawrence Anderson gunned down six people and wounded five others during a rampage at a ski lodge just out of Raurimu in the central North Island. The tragedy remains one of the worst mass shootings in New Zealand history. In this episode, Anna Leask revisits the day of the massacre and speaks to survivors, witnesses and the cop who took down the killer. The gunman also shares his story in his own words.For more on this case visit:Remembering Raurimu: victims break their 20-year silencehttps://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/remembering-raurimu-victims-break-their-20-year-silence/6BDSEYTTCMIRAZKXBXFBCLQ7FY/Raurimu 20 years on: the madman, the massacre and the memorieshttps://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/raurimu-20-years-on-the-madman-the-massacre-and-the-memories/2FGFIGPFPXMX3IPPIXD6VCW2NI/?c_id=1&objectid=11788645Raurimu massacre: remembering the fallen 20 years onhttps://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/raurimu-massacre-remembering-the-fallen-20-years-on/4E6CRIG2PFWVL26JVBGNOQFFWY/?c_id=1&objectid=11787718If you are worried about your or someone else's mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call police immediately on 111.OR IF YOU NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE ELSE:Lifelinehttp://www.lifeline.org.nzSUICIDE CRISIS HELPLINE0508 828 865DEPRESSION HELPLINE0800 111 757See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
2/26/2022 • 38 minutes, 26 seconds
Mystery at the mill: The vanishing of scientist Jim Donnelly
On a Monday morning in June 2004 Jim Donnelly got up and went to work at a steel mill south of Auckland. But he never came home. The metals scientist has been missing every since and his wife has never given up hope that one day the mystery will be solved.For a full feature on this case visit nzherald.co.nzIf you have information about what happened to Jim Donnelly contact Inspector Dave Glossop at the Counties Manukau Police [email protected] or A Moment In Crime host Anna Leask [email protected] pass on information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
1/15/2022 • 58 minutes, 56 seconds
Little girl lost: The kidnapping and murder of Louisa Damodran
Peter Holdem was a prolific sex offender and told police when he was arrested in the early 80s that the next little girl he targeted would die. In 1986 he grabbed Louisa Damodran as she walked home from school and his horrific promise came true.For more on this case and others mentioned in the podcast visit: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/author/anna-leask/SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline on: text 4334 and they will respond or email [email protected] or visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chatIf you have been abused, remember it's not your fault.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/12/2021 • 39 minutes, 49 seconds
Death of an angel - the brutal killing and lasting legacy of Christie Marceau
The death of Christie Marceau in November 2011 shook New Zealand. The 18-year-old was fatally stabbed in her own home and died in her mother's arms. The man responsible for the attack was on bail for previously kidnapping and assaulting Christie and had been released on bail 32 days before he killed her. He had been ordered to stay away from Christie and her family. This episode of A Moment In Crime marks the 10-year anniversary of Christie's tragic death. If you are worried about your or someone else's mental health, the best place to get help is your GP or local mental health provider. However, if you or someone else is in danger or endangering others, call police immediately on 111. For more information on Christie's life and death: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/i-watched-the-life-drain-out-of-her/W7XMAX2ZAHPPXJHKJRQAHOAWJA/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/terrifying-last-moments-at-hands-of-insane-killer/4BWAKHXTDY5KMOSNDV5XHO5P5E/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/christie-marceau-tragedy-and-futility-of-death-lead-to-major-recommendations-by-coroner/T3FNF443G2VQPK2ICL7K7QZO3I/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/christie-marceau-death-there-was-more-than-one-hand-on-the-knife-that-day/JSL4OVKK4K62XY4ZOKPQCKYWRE/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/6/2021 • 57 minutes, 4 seconds
Auckland's night stalker - The Riverhead quarry attack and the unmasking of a monster
Herald journalist Anna Leask looks back at the case of Colin Mitchell - the man behind an attack on a Auckland woman in 2017. What started as an apparent random attack soon unravelled as four decades of offending by a serial rapist who was finally revealed. If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111. If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline by texting 4334 and they will respond or visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/7/2021 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 18 seconds
The Kahui Twins: Who killed Chris and Cru
Who killed Chris and Cru Kahui? The twin brothers were only 84 days old when they died, within hours of each other, after being violently assaulted. Their deaths remain one of New Zealand's worst child abuse cases. Are you worried about the safety of a child?If you have concerns about the immediate safety of a child, call 111.Alternatively contact your local police station. Or, contact Oranga Tamariki, Ministry for Children on 0508 326 459 for advice or www.orangatamariki.govt.nz/contact-us/contacts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/30/2021 • 1 hour, 18 seconds
Murder at Mangere Mountain: the Claire Hills cold case
In 1998 Auckland woman Claire Hills didn't make it to work. The 30-year-old was murdered, burned alive in her own car. Her killer left clues - DNA even - but after 23 years police are still no closer to finding him.If you can help police phone 0800 OP HILLS. SEXUAL HARM - DO YOU NEED HELP?If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone contact the Safe to Talk confidential crisis helpline by text on 4334, email [email protected] or visit https://safetotalk.nz/contact-us/ for an online chatSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/9/2021 • 34 minutes, 55 seconds
Smocks, secrecy and sex offenders: inside Gloriavale Christian community
In this episode of Herald true-crime podcast A Moment In Crime we look into the beginnings of Gloriavale and the ongoing list of men brought to justice for sex crimes against children within the confines of the religious community.And podcast host Anna Leask speaks about her own time at Gloriavale, reflecting on all she saw and experienced during a visit to the place often referred to as a cult or sect.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5/24/2021 • 43 minutes, 45 seconds
Murder in the Sounds: a most controversial case
Ben Smart and Olivia Hope went missing over New Year 1997. Their bodies were never found but a man was convicted of their murders and jailed for life. In today's episode of A Moment In Crime we revisit the enduring mystery,See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
5/6/2021 • 33 minutes, 54 seconds
Missing and murdered: The tragic killing of Grace Millane
In this month's episode of A Moment In Crime, senior journalist Anna Leask looks back a the murder of Grace Millane, a young backpacker from the UK who died in Auckland, New Zealand in 2019.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3/22/2021 • 49 minutes, 24 seconds
Chasing Ghosts: the disappearance of toddler Amber-Lee Cruickshank
In 1992 toddler Amber-Lee Cruickshank disappeared from a small South Island town. Despite exhaustive searches spanning almost 30 years, there has never been any sign of the 2-and-a-half-year-old. The Herald re-investigated the case in 2017 and episode 15 of A Moment In Crime goes back to a podcast that ran about the toddler and her family's journey since she vanished.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
1/16/2021 • 28 minutes, 38 seconds
Death in the hills: The mysterious case of the American polo star and the spa
After a high profile trial in November this year, Christchurch engineer Joseph McGirr was acquitted by a jury of giving ecstasy to a US polo player before she died in his spa bath.But he was found guilty of attempting to pervert the course of justice by burying her clothing after her death.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/18/2020 • 36 minutes, 28 seconds
Hell in paradise: The 1990 Aramoana massacre
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
11/6/2020 • 47 minutes, 59 seconds
The Ashburton WINZ murders: the shocking rampage of Russell John Tully
A 9.51am on September 1 2014 a balaclava-clad man stormed into the Work and Income New Zealand office in Ashburton and opened fire.In just 61 seconds he gunned down and killed two women and almost murdered two more.Then he calmly walked back out of the office, unlocked his bike and peddled away into the distance - leaving bloody carnage and chaos in his wake.The man was Russell John Tully and his horrendous, deliberate and planned actions that day shook New Zealand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/24/2020 • 45 minutes, 36 seconds
Death on duty: tales of tragedy on the police front line
In episode 11 of NZME podcast A Moment In Crime we look back at the front line deaths and revisit some of the stories that have shocked and saddened New Zealand. The episode comes two days before the annual police Remembrance Day - a date marked internationally to pay tribute to cops killed while on duty, and others who have passed during the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9/26/2020 • 42 minutes, 30 seconds
The Lundy Murders: who killed Christine and Amber
The murders of Christine Lundy and her young daughter Amber in their own home in 2000 is still a case that New Zealanders find shocking.And it's a case everyone has an opinion on - even more so after two decades of hearing the facts in various trials, appeals and other court settings. This is because Christine's husband - the father of her only child - was charged with the grisly murders.But after 20 years he maintains his innocence.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/29/2020 • 31 minutes, 50 seconds
Broken Angel: the unsolved murder of schoolgirl Alicia O'Reilly
In August 1980 six-year-old Alicia O'Reilly was raped and killed in her bed by an intruder. Her sister was sleeping less than a metre away. Forty years on, the offender has never been found and her family are still desperate for answers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
8/15/2020 • 43 minutes, 2 seconds
Death of a farmer: the mysterious murder of Scott Guy
In the early hours of June 8 2010, Feilding farmer Scott Guy was gunned down in the driveway of his rural home as he headed out to work. A decade on, despite an arrest and a high profile trial, there has been no one held accountable for the slaying, and no justice for Scott or his family.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/14/2020 • 33 minutes, 29 seconds
The Crewe murders: New Zealand's most infamous cold case
On June 17 1970 Harvey and Jeanette Crewe were gunned down in the living room of their Pukekawa farmhouse. Fifty years have passed since the brutal crime - which remains unsolved despite one man being convicted twice of murder. In episode seven of Herald podcast A Moment in Crime, we look back at the infamous cold case - one of New Zealand's most enduring murder mysteries.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
7/2/2020 • 40 minutes, 22 seconds
Kidnapped: The bizarre abduction of Baby Kahu
Kidnapped: The bizarre abduction of Baby Kahu In 2002 a baby girl was snatched from her pram as her mother pushed her through a quiet Wellington suburb. For days the nation - and the world - watched on as the hunt for Baby Kahu intensified. How did it end and who took her? We look back a the most gripping kidnapping case in NZ history.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
6/4/2020 • 37 minutes, 29 seconds
Update
Important update about the next episode of A Moment In Crime as the global Covid-19 pandemic rages on. For full virus updates and information visit nzherald.co.nzSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3/23/2020 • 2 minutes, 18 seconds
Two weddings and a murder - the Blazej Kot case
In 2009 Auckland man Blazej Kot murdered his new bride in New York State. We look back at the case - including the computer science student's bizarre trial and where he is now.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
3/3/2020 • 33 minutes, 1 second
House of Horrors: The despicable crimes of Jason Somerville
In 2008 Tisha Lowry went missing in Christchurch without a trace. In 2009 her neighbour reported his own wife missing. When he went into a local police station days later, no one could have imagined what he would admit to, and why. We look back at the double murderer and the women he destroyed and buried below his own home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
1/30/2020 • 39 minutes, 11 seconds
The body in the cupboard: The murder of Kayo Matsuzawa
Kayo Matsuzawa’s body was found stashed in a small cupboard in a building in Auckland’s CDB in 1998.She was naked, she had been there for at least 10 days.And 21 years on - even in spite of a hefty $75,000 reward offered in 2007 - her killer has never been caught.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
12/12/2019 • 39 minutes, 54 seconds
Little girl lost: The death and disappearance of Aisling Symes
In 2009 a toddler vanished in West Auckland.For more than a week police, search specialists and volunteers combed the city for any sign of the little girl.But she was nowhere to be found.As investigators started to fear foul play, a shocking and tragic discovery was made.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
10/24/2019 • 41 minutes, 28 seconds
New Zealand's darkest day - the Christchurch terror attacks
It was New Zealand's darkest day, and one we will never forget. Our newsroom got the first call from a witness just minutes after the shooting started. For the first time we are sharing audio from that interview - and others - as we take you back to the day that changed us all.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
9/22/2019 • 56 minutes, 46 seconds
Trailer
From the NZ Herald newsroom comes A Moment in Crime - a podcast delving into some of New Zealand’s biggest cases.Anna Leask has been a crime and justice reporter at the Herald for more than a decade.Each month she'll take you inside some of our most infamous incidents, notorious offenders and behind the scenes of high profile trials and events to show you what’s really happening in your backyard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.