Episodes

In this episode of Bloody Angola, we delve into the second part of Extreme Heat, discussing a civil lawsuit by inmates against the prison. We examine the backgrounds of the inmates named as plaintiffs, detailing their convictions for serious crimes like murder and armed robbery. The discussion covers the judge's ruling on Eighth Amendment violations due to extreme prison temperatures. We also explore the Angola Prison Rodeo, focusing on inmate Myron Smith. Legal developments include a federal ...

In this episode, Woody Overton and Jim Chapman examine the legal battle unfolding at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, where inmates are challenging the brutal working conditions in the fields. The lawsuit alleges many issues in the prison including the lack of breaks, absence of clean water, inadequate equipment, and extreme heat that endanger the prisoners' well-being. Plaintiffs like Myron Smith, Demarius Jackson, Nate Walker, and Darius Williams share the unjust treatment and unsafe p...

In this episode of Bloody Angola Podcast we discuss the remarkable journey of Warden Ross Maggio at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola. The youngest warden in Angola history at just 36 years old, he was renowned for his resilience during a harrowing kidnapping incident and his transformative leadership. Through prioritizing inmate work, security, and rehabilitation programs, Maggio reshaped Bloody Angola from a violent environment to a safer, disciplined prison. By implementing proactive se...

Go to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! we delve into the wild weather events that have occured at Louisiana State Penitentiary. It’s a special bonus episode for everyone this week! In this episode of Bloody Angola Podcast we explore the history of tornados and flooding at Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola. The impact of catastrophic floods in 1922, which led to the expansion of Angola to prevent future evacuations and challenges faced...

Go to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! In this episode, we delve into the world of America's most dangerous prisons, starting with Holman Correctional Facility in Alabama known as the Slaughterhouse. Moving on to Orleans Parish Prison with its reign of violence and numerous deaths. Pelican Bay State Prison in California is criticized for gang violence control, contrasting the setup with Angola. Rikers Island in New York is notorious with n...

Go to HelloFresh.com/BloodyAngolaapps for FREE APPETIZERS for life for Bloody Angola Listeners! Woody Overton and Jim Chapman tell the story of Connor Wood. A 15 year old convicted of the murder of his parents and his best friend in Ferriday, Louisiana in 2008. Timestamps 02:27 The Disturbing Phone Call 03:25 The Identity Revealed 04:48 Uncovering the Truth 05:46 Shocking Discoveries 06:47 A Surprising Revelation 10:29 Connor's Confession 15:43 The Failed Plan 16:57 Plan Gone Awry 18:3...

We continue to blow your mind with some of the most Brazen prison escape stories of all time! Timestamps 04:21 Japanese Prisoner Escapes: Yoshi Shiatori 05:23 Prison Break in Fort San Cristobal 06:55 Penal Colonies and Escapes 07:06 Escape-Proof Camp: Colditz Castle 08:52 Escape of French Resistance Fighter: Andre Devigny 15:13 Acre Prison Break: Jewish Underground Groups 19:56 Serial Killer Escape: Monroe Hickson 21:17 Escape from Alcatraz 22:09 Alcatraz Escape Continues 25:05 Monroe ...

We explore the tragic events surrounding Hillary Brown's death, due to alleged negligence and over-medication by her husband Dr. Benjamin Brown during procedures he performed on her at his office. Through a series of disturbing accounts from former patients like Jane Hawkins, Joy Edwards, and Brandy Fitzsimmons, Jim uncovers a pattern of botched surgeries, complications, and negligence that tarnished Dr. Brown's reputation. Former employees, including Shannon Gerage and Deborah Brown Guy, reve...

In this episode of the Bloody Angola podcast, Jim Chapman and Woody Overton discuss Jon Barry Simonis, known as the ski mask rapist. Simonis confessed to 81 rapes nationwide and was linked to over 130 attacks in a 12-state crime spree between 1978 and 1981. Simonis's crimes led to the formation of the FBI's profiling task force. The FBI created a detailed profile of Simonis, including his physical description, behavior patterns, and tendencies, which matched his characteristics accurately. Simo...

In this episode of "Bloody Angola," we explore the fascinating history of prison escapes worldwide. From narratives of breakouts in the Tower of London to daring escapes during the American Civil War and gripping incidents throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The lengths in which one will go to escape prison will blow your mind and we discuss it all today! Timestamps 02:18 Prison Escapes 04:21 Escape History 12:11 Criminal to Detective 16:16 Escaping War 18:52 Lifetime Escape 23:56 Da...

In this episode of Bloody Angola, we deep dive into the realm of serial killers, exploring their twisted minds and chilling actions. From defining a serial killer to examining the rise in serial killings, we analyze the stats and classifications, both in the US and globally. Uncovering demographics like average age for a first kill, youngest and oldest serial killers, and racial composition, we also discuss the link between childhood abuse and becoming a serial killer. We explore different type...

In this episode of "Bloody Angola," we explore the Inspectors General's side of the incidents occurring at Ware Center for Youth from 2019-2022. A New York Times investigation exposing shocking abuse and neglect at the facility, prompted a call for change and spearheaded an investigation of the Juvenile Facility by then Governor John Bell Edwards. Allegations of rape, physical abuse and an unusually high number of suicides are covered in this episode. It is important to note that this episode...

In this episode of "Bloody Angola," we explore the dark history of the Ware Center for Youth and the just released Louisiana Inspector General findings of the conditions within. The focus of this initial episode is on a New York Times investigation exposing shocking abuse and neglect at the facility, prompting a call for change that spearheaded an investigation of the Juvenile Facility by then Governor John Bell Edwards. Allegations of rape, physical abuse and an unusually high number of suici...

In this episode of Bloody Angola Podcast, we answer listener questions. Including preferences in covering historic events, favorite podcast stories, and challenges in researching current prison events. We highlight our favorite episodes and upcoming series possibilities. We reflect on the impact of covering stories like interviewing a former juvenile lifer and so much more! #podcast #historicevents #MemorialDay #interviews #bloodyangola Special Listener Deals! Badlands Ranch: Go watch this 20...

In this episode of Bloody Angola, we explore the distinctions between inmates and convicts in the prison system. Through the lens of various inmates' lives like James "Black Maddie" Robertson, Parnell Smith, Henry Patterson, and others, we unveil the challenges, growth, and survival strategies within Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola's confines. This episode also features intimate interviews with six lifers, offering candid insights on racial dynamics, faith, and personal reflections. Ti...

In this episode of "Bloody Angola," we share Joe Williams' daring escape from Angola prison, detailing his evasion for four days fueled by mushroom tea. Timestamps: 08:17 A Desperate Decision 15:54 Early Life and Upbringing 25:20 Revisiting Clemency 27:14 Recent News: Drug Trafficking Conspiracy 30:06 Smuggling Contraband: Washington Parish Jail Sponsors: Badlands Ranch Air-Dried Nutritious Dog Food Superfood Complete contains some of the healthiest foods on Earth — humanely raised beef,...

In this episode we include 'The Deathmen" series and tell you unknown facts regarding Louisiana's executioners including "The hangman of New Orleans" Harry Meyer and Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola executioners Grady Jarrett and Sam Jones. Timestamps: 02:24 Louisiana's First Legal Execution 04:28 The Hangman of New Orleans 11:42 Transition to the Electric Chair 19:12 The Search for a New Executioner 20:41 Sam Jones: The New Executioner 24:03 Reflection on Historical Execution Metho...

George Thomas shares his family story of dealing with the tragic death of his brother Steve Thomas at the hands of rap star and No Limit Records recording artist Corey Miller also known as C-Murder, the brother of founder Master P. George goes into detail with Woody Overton and Jim Chapman on Bloody Angola Podcast regarding the case itself, responds to calls from Kim Kardashian to "Free C-Murder" and the impact the case has had on his entire family. Timestamps 02:15 Diverse Crime Stories 03:...

In this episode, we delve into the scandal involving NFL star Deshaun Watson, tracing his journey from a promising quarterback to facing multiple lawsuits from massage therapists accusing him of sexual assault. The disturbing allegations reveal a...

In this episode of Bloody Angola Podcast, we explore the dark history of executioners throughout civilizations, from their origins to their roles under tribal leaders and monarchs. Woody and Jim delve into the lives of infamous executioners like Derek and John Crosland, revealing chilling details of their deeds. Various methods of execution over the centuries are discussed, including the guillotine's introduction by Dr. Joseph Guillotine, transforming the landscape and speed of executions. 01:...

In this episode, we explore the life of Lead Belly, a prominent blues singer originating from the infamous Bloody Angola prison. Spanning the 1930s, we witness Lead Belly's turbulent journey from incarceration to musical stardom, showcasing his exceptional 12-string guitar skills and prestigious performances at locales like Carnegie Hall and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We delve into the harsh realities of life in Bloody Angola during the Great Depression, shedding light on in...

Woody and Jim into the history of the electric chair, discussing various executions that took place in the past. William Kemmler's execution in New York in 1890 marked the first time the electric chair was used, aiming to replace the gruesome public hangings of the time. The podcast highlights the mishaps that occurred during electrocutions, such as William Taylor's legs ripping off during the process. It also explores how Louisiana transitioned from hangings to using the electric chair in 1940 ...

In this Part 2 we wraps up this series "The Richest Man in Bloody Angola" . In this episode, we dive into the story of Wilbert Rideau, a man who spent 44 years in prison for a crime he committed in 1961. We explore his journey from a young man involved in a tragic incident to his time in prison, including solitary confinement and his reflections on regret and survival. We discuss his various trials, legal battles, and ultimately his release after being found guilty of manslaughter in his four...

In this episode of Bloody Angola, Jim Chapman delves into the story of Wilbert Rideau, a prisoner with a remarkable journey. Rideau achieved significant accomplishments behind bars, winning prestigious journalism awards and making substantial reforms within the Angola prison. Chapman vividly describes Rideau's background, including his upbringing in Louisiana and his involvement in a fateful armed bank robbery in 1961. The detailed account of the robbery and its consequences on Rideau's life are...