Culpable
Join host Dennis Cooper as he explores unresolved cases where culpability has yet to be established. This acclaimed investigative series from the creators of Up and Vanished has tallied over 45 million downloads to-date. The newest season digs into the mysterious death of 17-year-old Danny Violette, who went missing for 11 days in the fall of 1998, and was later found in a cornfield with a ligature mark around his neck and a tire tread across his body. Season 2 followed the 2013 murder of 22-year-old Brittany Stykes, a young pregnant mother who was shot and killed while driving down a rural highway with her one-year-old daughter beside her in the vehicle. Season 1 investigated the suspicious death of 21-year-old Christian Andreacchio, whose 2014 shooting was classified as a suicide after a 45 minute investigation, despite substantial evidence of possible foul play.
Episodes
Culpable Trailer
The new true crime series from Black Mountain Media and Tenderfoot TV, coming June 17th.
A Mother's Plea
"Open letter to the people who hold the fate of my son in their hands..." On February 26, 2014 Rae Andreacchio suffered the tragic loss of her 21-year-old son, Christian. After a 4-year fight, her cries for justice have gone unanswered. Host Dennis Cooper will work to unearth the truth behind the story of a young man with a promising future, whose life met an unexpected end, and the years of injus
Trust the Process | 1
On February 26th, 2014, the Andreacchio family suffered a tragic loss, the death of 21-year-old Christian Andreacchio. Host Dennis Cooper travels to Lauderdale, Mississippi to visit Christian's mother Rae and the rest of his family. Rae, laments the time lost with her son as their 4 year struggle for justice continues. From Black Mountain Media and Tenderfoot TV, this is Culpable.https://culpablep
Until We Meet Again | 2
Dennis and the team visit the Andreacchio’s to attend “Wishing Night,” an annual event held on Christian's birthday to commemorate his life. Dennis talks to Christian’s ex-girlfriend, Avery Smith and an old friend Taylor Dial and learns more about what Christian was like. We learn about Christian’s new girlfriend, Whitley Goodman and new friend Dylan Swearingen, and how he began to change once the
The Apartment | 3
February 26th, the day of Christian’s death. Christian abruptly left his job on the tugboat and was picked up by Dylan Swearingen, He is driven home to confront his girlfriend Whitley Goodman about her alleged cheating. Later that day, Christian is found dead in the upstairs bathroom of his apartment.https://culpablepodcast.com/
Complex | 4
Dennis recaps Whitley and Dylan’s alibis on the day of Christian's death, and recounts their movement the night prior. Christian’s uncle gives his account of what he saw at the apartment when he and Christian’s brother Josh checked out the scene.https://culpablepodcast.com/
Gun Night | 5
We recount the night before Christian’s death. Three of our persons of interest, including Whitley, were shooting guns at Jett Miller’s house the night of February 25th; Matt Miller (cousin) was also present. We hear conflicting stories on whether or not Whitley shot the gun.https://culpablepodcast.com/
Welcome to Meridian | 6
Meridian Police Department rules Christian’s death a suicide after a mere 45 minute investigation. MPD holds everything close to the vest and Rae shares her experience of what working with MPD was really like. We also speak with attorney Cynthia Speetjans and private investigator Max Mayes who have worked closely on this case and hear their take on MPD’s involvement.https://culpablepodcast.com
Q&A | 07.18.19
Dennis answers listener's questions and releases new information. https://culpablepodcast.com/
A Second Look | 7
Mississippi Bureau of Investigation’s assumes responsibility of Christian’s case. The result of MBIs investigation is suicide. Dennis breaks down the MBI report. Rae shares their experience of working with MBI, which consists of lost evidence, a report based on theories, and false claims. Dennis also talks with Lt. Colonel Gale Mills who had an in with MBI and gets her take on their investigation.
Doesn't Add Up | 8
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the forensics, and hear from three professionals who worked on Christian’s case: Michael Knox, who focuses on ballistics and crime scene reconstruction; Ryan Rider, an expert in 3D scanning; and Dr. Jonathan Arden a Forensic Pathologist. These professionals share their scientific findings, which include new revelations refuting the manner and time of death
Time of Death | 9
In this episode we re-examine Dylan’s alibi through his interview with investigators with a new time of death in mind based on Dr. Arden’s findings and a witness who validates the time. We then discuss arrest warrants which led to Christians case being presented to a grand jury as well as the results of their ruling.https://culpablepodcast.com/
Q&A | 08.08.19
Dennis & Mark answer listener's questions and release new information about the case. https://culpablepodcast.com/
Persons of Interest | 10
In this episode, we hear two separate accounts identifying new persons of interest. One woman saw two men leaving Christians apartment the afternoon of the day he died, and this account is emphasized by a man who was given information implicating two men’s involvement, one of which was the same man seen leaving the apartment.https://culpablepodcast.com
The Investigation Pt. 1 | 11
Dennis travels with Jacob to meet Sheila Wysocki, a private investigator. Sheila and her team of PIs agreed to investigate Christian’s case. A strategy is devised with the first step being a trip to Key West, FL, where Whitley is residing. Jacob travels to Key West, FL with three PIs (Michael Kenney, Jay Marin, and Claudia Barrios) and the investigation begins.https://culpablepodcast.com/
The Investigation Pt. 2 | 12
In this episode, Sheila and her team of private investigators continue their investigation in Meridian, interviewing key witnesses in attempts to obtain pertinent information regarding Christian’s case. https://culpablepodcast.com/
Q&A | 08.29.19
Dennis, Sheila, and Mark G. answer listener's questions.https://culpablepodcast.com/
Behind Closed Doors | 13
The PIs continue their investigation meeting with a few more people including Captain Jay Arrington (Meridian Police) who believes that the charges he wanted for manslaughter by culpable negligence should have and could have been carried out back in 2017 had Bilbo Mitchell (DA) allowed him to present to a jury. We also hear leaked audio from a recent meeting between several public officials regard
Case File | 14
In this episode, we cover Christian’s case file, which was released in July of 2019. The case file contains documents gathered by various individuals and agencies who have worked this case over the years, including the recent investigation and presentation by the Attorney General’s office. Dennis discusses the release of the case file and breaks down its contents.https://culpablepodcast.com/
The Bigger Picture | 15
In our season finale, Dennis shares some final thoughts on Christian's case from various inconsistencies to how poorly this case has been handled. Throughout working this case, we have learned that Meridian is plagued with much bigger issues of crime that span beyond the death of Christian, and Dennis discusses some of the problems the city is facing. Rae and her brother Chris expand on this and t
Round Table | 09.26.19
In this bonus episode, Jacob and Dennis sit down with Sheila, Rae, and Josh to take a deep dive into new information and new aspects of Christian’s case, such as new information around the 911 call, additional insights from another forensic expert, and some other important details that was not covered in the podcast.https://culpablepodcast.com/
Bonus Episode | 10.03.19
In this Q&A + Round Table bonus episode, the Black Mountain Media team gives case updates, answers questions from our listeners and discusses their experience creating Culpable.
The Law: Update | 16
Dennis and the team behind Culpable navigate a $47 million lawsuit, and Rae and MS Representative Fred Shanks relive the hard-fought battle to pass Christian’s Law.https://culpablepodcast.com/https://resound.fm/culpable
The Narrative: Update | 17
Dennis reviews narratives drafted by Capt. Jay Arrington from his investigation into Christian’s death. Though he made a strong argument as to why arrests should be made, ultimately he and his reports were left out of the grand jury in 2017. This revelation sets off a chain of events breathing life into this case.https://culpablepodcast.com/https://resound.fm/culpable
Culpable Season 2 Trailer
Culpable returns with a new season and a new case!On August 28, 2013, 22 year old Brittany Stykes was shot and killed while driving down Highway 68 in Brown County, Ohio. It’s been nearly a decade since her murder and the search for answers continues. Host Dennis Cooper and investigative journalist Jessica Noll work to unearth the truth around this story of a young mother whose life was cut short
Somebody Knows Something
This is a true whodunit. Culpable is back for season 2!
The Bystander Effect | 1
A passing motorist pulled over when he saw a Jeep Wrangler in a wooded area off the side of Highway 68 in Brown County, OH. What he witnessed that day is something he’ll never forget. Why would someone want to kill 22 year old Brittany Stykes, a caring young mother with an unblemished past?
Our Life, Our Story | 2
Brittany’s friends and family remember the impact she had on those around her. Yet in the wake of her tragic death, those left behind are still wondering, who’s responsible? Investigators look into Brittany's husband.
The Insider (Bonus) | 10.28.22
Host Dennis Cooper interviews producer Jessica Noll, a local who's been following this case since day 1.
Road Rage | 3
August 28th, 2013 was supposed to be a pretty normal day for Brittany. But her day started with an unsettling encounter and ended with an unimaginable tragedy. Could they be connected in some way?
Elephant in the Room | 4
Coming to terms with Brittany's death was hard enough on her loved ones, but the aftermath only made things harder. The ripple effect may look different for each of these individuals, but is equally troubling.
Wrong Direction | 5
Over the years, investigators have chased endless leads and looked at numerous persons of interest. The first few names came as a tip from Brittany's husband. Could he be onto something?
Informant | 6
Just as the investigation looks like it’s heading nowhere, a break in the case breathes new life. An informant tells authorities a harrowing story about an ex-boyfriend who murdered a young mother on a busy highway in Brown County, Ohio.
The Jeep | 7
There's been a lot of talk about the Jeep Brittany was driving in when she was murdered. The mobile crime scene may contain the most substantial evidence in this case.
Hollywood | 8
Sergeant Quinn Carlson may be a Los Angeles native, but now he finds himself in rural Brown County, Ohio where he is the lead detective on Brittany’s case, and he’s taking this investigation in a promising new direction.
The Outsider (Bonus)
Producer Jessica Noll, interviews host Dennis Cooper, who came into this story as an outsider.
Personal Agenda | 9
Brittany's sister, Emily, believes there was a personal agenda behind her sister's murder - someone must have benefitted in some way. Brittany's husband, Shane, has a firm alibi for the night of the murder, but he still wonders if this could all tie into him in some way.
Whodunit | 10
After nearly a decade, the death of Brittany Stykes remains unsolved. Brown County's Sergeant Quinn Carlson warned us that we were dealing with a "true whodunit". But in a case where theories abound, we may be inching closer to an answer.
Official Trailer: Culpable... A New Spin
In 2019 we took a long form, investigative approach, covering the case of Christian Andreacchio. In 2022, we did another deep dive into the case of Brittany Stykes. Now, we’re changing things up a little. A new spin on the hit series from Resonate Originals and Tenderfoot TV. Introducing Culpable Case Review.
Case Review: Andrew Thomas Wall, Part 1
When 26-year-old Andrew Thomas Wall was found dead in his apartment from an apparent drug overdose, his friends and family were devastated. But after noticing that all of his valuables were missing, including his car, they grew suspicious of the individuals he was known to be with in the days leading up to his death.
Case Review: Andrew Thomas Wall, Part 2
After Andrew’s investigation takes a downturn, his childhood friend, Breanna, steps in to raise awareness on social media and question authorities about the circumstances surrounding his death. Was he alone when he died? Who supplied the lethal drugs? Andrew’s loved ones fight to learn the truth about what happened to him.
Case Review: Mika Westwolf
When 22-year-old Mika Westwolf was found dead from an apparent hit and run on her reservation, a person of interest was quickly identified. But months later, no charges have been brought and the investigation has stalled. Mika's family and legal advocate have taken matters into their own hands, as they no longer know who to trust.
Case Review: Maurice Walker
It's been over 30 years since 18-year-old Maurice Walker was found dead near one of his regular fishing spots. To this day, no suspects have been named. But after all these years, his highschool sweetheart is still doing everything in her power to keep his memory alive. She suspects some of the locals that Maurice was known to hang around at the time.
Case Review: Tim Watkins
In September of 2017, 61-year-old Tim Watkins went out for a routine bike ride on one of his favorite trails and never returned. When a search party located several of his belongings, it raised suspicions. But when they later found his body in a shallow grave nearby, it became clear that a murderer was on the loose. Tim's family wants nothing more than for that person to be held accountable.
Case Review: Amy Jo Nelson
For most of her life Amy Jo Nelson fought through health complications, which resulted in numerous treatments and medications. When the 39-year-old was found dead in a stranger's apartment, many believed she may have died of a drug overdose. But her family immediately suspected foul play, having witnessed some strange events leading up to her demise. They'd receive some affirmation when the autops
How Did We Get Here?
While the third season of Culpable is in development, we’re going to keep using this platform to help more families in their fight for justice. Last fall we brought you 6 cases over 6 weeks. Now we’re bringing you 5 more. From Tenderfoot TV, Culpable returns with another installment of Case Reviews on May 17th.
Case Review Returns
Sometimes, the worst crimes happen when you’d least expect it. From the creators of Culpable comes an all new anthology of crime stories too shocking to miss. Featuring stories of a custody exchange gone wrong, a camping trip turned manhunt, and a missing persons investigation with an unbelievable twist.Five new cases coming May 17th.
Case Review: Tyeasha Starks
Tyeasha Starks was a vibrant young collegiate with a bright future. A student at Austin Peay State University, Tyeasha had many dreams and aspirations. The 22-year-old had recently become a new mother, and was actively working to create a better life for her and her child. But all that came crashing down in February of 2023, when her life was taken during a custody exchange gone wrong. Despite kno
Case Review: Steven Haugen and Jeanette Bauman
Steven Haugen and Jeanette Bauman were two middle-aged explorers who had developed a budding relationship. Steven, a father to two daughters, and Jeanette, a mother to two sons, shared a passion for exploring the great outdoors. This is what they were doing in the summer of 2005 when their children received some devastating news - the deceased bodies of Steven, Jeanette, and their dog, Caesar, had
Case Review: Doug McMillin
Doug McMillin was a spirited young man who developed a sense of independence early in life after moving out and getting an apartment of his own. As a young 19-year-old, this newfound freedom was like a breath of fresh air to Doug. No one could have imagined that a short time later he would be gunned down inside his apartment in an apparent robbery gone wrong. 15 years later, little is known about
Case Review: Austin Mitchell
Austin Mitchell was a kind and passionate young man living with his family in Union City, GA. The 20-year-old was a recent honors graduate with big dreams for the future. But in one tragic moment in March of 2019, all of that would be taken away. Austin had been hanging out with some friends in a nearby townhome when something unexpected occurred resulting in Austin’s death. His friends reported t
Case Review: Goldie Thornsberry, Part 1
Goldie Thornsberry was the glue that held her family together. When the 65-year-old disappeared in 1996 without any explanation, her loved ones quickly became concerned. Suspicions grew when Goldie’s bank revealed evidence of fraudulent checks on her account, leaving the family to wonder if one of their very own could be responsible for her disappearance.Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePod
Case Review: Goldie Thornsberry, Part 2
When Goldie Thornsberry’s dismembered body was identified in 2010, a trial was quickly scheduled to prosecute the key suspects. But after a shocking acquittal, Goldie’s loved ones were left searching for answers despite what the evidence might suggest. For 28 years, the family has kept this affair under wraps, but now, two of Goldie’s granddaughters are ready to share her story in hopes that it ca
Live from CrimeCon 2024 with Payne Lindsey, Dennis Cooper, and Liam Luxon
What's the formula for making a chart-topping true crime podcast? Why do some shows resonate with listeners and become an instant sensation? Is it hard work, sheer luck, or maybe both? Join Up and Vanished's Payne Lindsey, Culpable's Dennis Cooper, and Status: Untraced's Liam Luxon as they talk about their experience as first time hosts who created a #1 show. What they share might surprise you. Ho
Culpable 5-Year Review I Live From CrimeCon 2024
June 2024 marked 5 years since the release of the very first episode of Culpable - investigating the case of Christian Andreacchio. At that time nobody could have imagined where the road would lead, but a lot has happened since then. As Dennis and the team reached this new milestone, they decided to take some time to do a bit of reflection as well as a look ahead. And there's no better setting tha
Remembering Christian - Trust The Process I 1 (Republish)
On February 26, 2014, 21-year-old Christian Andreacchio was killed under suspicious circumstances. I spent years of my life investigating his case and following his family in their pursuit of justice. This podcast exists because of Christian and the impact he made on my life and countless others. Today is a day to remember him. Let’s go back to where it all started.
Trust the Process | 1 | Revisited
As we gear up for a new season of Culpable, let’s take some time to revisit the ones that came before. Follow along as I go back to 2019, when I first learned about the suspicious death of Christian Andreacchio, the young man who inspired the creation of this podcast. Listen to the very first episode of Culpable with a fresh perspective.
A Conversation w/ Rae
It’s been more than 6 years since I sat down with Christian’s mother, Rae Andreacchio, for the first time. Hear the latest on Christian’s case as we discuss the everything that’s happened since the release of Season 1.
The Bystander Effect | 1 | Revisited
Let’s go back to 2022, when I started following the unsolved murder of Brittany Stykes, a young mother who was gunned down while driving through rural Ohio. Brittany’s story would be the focus of Season 2. Now, 3 years later, it’s time to go back and revisit it.
A Conversation w/ Emily
It’s been a few years since I interviewed Emily Hampton, Brittany Stykes’ sister. Find out what she’s been up to since the release of Season 2 and hear the latest on Brittany’s case.
Just the Beginning
Years ago, I received an e-mail about a case. I never thought it would lead to this.
Culpable Returns - A New Season
A bizarre mystery has haunted a small town for more than a quarter of a century, but it's not too late to change that.
The Kid in the Cornfield | 1
17-year-old Danny Violette vanished in the fall of 1998. 11 days later, his body was found in a cornfield with signs of foul play. His case has gone unsolved for over 25 years, but some renewed interest could help unravel this mystery.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at https
Inside Culpable: Behind the Mic with Dennis Cooper
In this exclusive interview, Dennis Cooper sits down with Status: Untraced’s Liam Luxon to give a behind-the-scenes look at how Danny Violette’s case became the focus of this season and what listeners can expect.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at https://tenderfoot.tv/plus
Still a Blur | 2
Since losing Danny, life has been a blur for the Violette family, as they've been left in the dark about the details surrounding his case. Now, we get a rare peek into the early days of the investigation and learn the first leads that detectives chased.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Te
Ask Me Anything
Binge Culpable completely ad free only on Tenderfoot+. Subscribers also enjoy exclusive content including an upcoming Q&A episode about this season's case. For a chance to be featured in the episode send me a video or DM on Instagram @culpablepodcast or call our tip line at (470) 300-0238, and leave a voicemail with your question. Ask me anything about Danny Violette's case and tune in on Sept
A Bad Trip | 3
As authorities try to nail down the hours leading up to Danny’s death, a tip shifts their focus to the night before his disappearance, when Danny suffered a near death experience after taking some drugs. Even more concerning, he owed someone money for them.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to
Secondary Scene | 4
The condition of the body and evidence recovered from the scene have left many unanswered questions. With help from the coroner who performed Danny’s autopsy, we learn his cause of death and how he wound up in that field.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at https://tenderfoot.
The Last Sighting | 5
If Danny died within hours of his disappearance, determining who saw him last could be the key to solving this. But varying accounts of what happened that night, compounded by years of separation, will make it quite the challenge.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at https://te
An Unreliable Witness | 6
The events of Friday night remain in question, due to inconsistent accounts and information omitted from the files. We know what happened that night did not lead to Danny’s death, but learning the truth about it could help lead to answers.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at h
Conflict of Interest | 7
When Danny’s case was re-investigated in 2014, informants provided an alarming account of what happened to him. Yet somehow, the information led nowhere. Were they simply discredited, or could there be another explanation for this?
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at https://t
A Conversation with Matt
Dennis finally gets a chance to speak with Danny's friend, Matt, to discuss what he remembers from the days leading up to Danny's disappearance, and some of the allegations that have been made throughout the course of the investigation.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at htt
Domino Effect | 8
For more than 25 years, the Violette family have sought resolution in Danny's case. But some newly developed leads and advanced forensic technologies could finally help bring answers.
Follow Culpable on our socials @CulpablePodcastVisit the website at culpablepodcast.comFor early access and ad-free listening, subscribe to Tenderfoot+ at https://tenderfoot.tv/plus
Inside the Investigation with Payne Lindsey, Dennis Cooper, and Kyle Tekiela
Have you ever wondered what happens off mic in an investigative podcast? Join Payne Lindsey (Up and Vanished), Dennis Cooper (Culpable), and Kyle Tekiela (Crook County) for a candid look inside making a hit series. Hear personal reflections about honest storytelling, lifelong bonds to the cases you cover, and maintaining curiosity despite external pressures. Hear raw, insider takes on the un-aired
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