Did Someone Say, "True Crime?"

Dec 11, 2019
5 min read

Updated: Nov 21, 2020

Not a topic that necessarily qualifies as nerdy, but is dear to my heart. Today we delve into the world of true crime. What we can gain and, more importantly, how we can help.

Maybe we should start by explaining what true crime is. To make this as simple as possible I am just going to use the Wikipedia definition of True Crime: "True crime is a non-fiction literary and film genre in which the author examines an actual crime and details the actions of real people." There, now we are all on the same page. But why are we even on this page to begin with? The simple answer: I love true crime. At least, as much as the next sane person can.

True crime has always been a topic that has intrigued me. When I was younger, it was probably the mystery of it all. Trying to piece together the cases as you listened, read or watched it unfold. As I got older, it began to sink in, that these cases weren't entertainment but the unfolding of another human being's life ending, usually, in tragedy. That realization made it more real, and more heartbreaking. But that didn't deter me- in fact it just pulled me in more. It made me really want to listen to the case with more attention. One, to honor the victims lives and two, to make myself more aware.

Aware of what though? Let's start with the most selfish answer and work our way out.

#1) Being aware of what to look out for, in order to keep yourself safe.

You can learn a lot from these cases when it comes to measures you can take to keep yourself as safe as possible. A commonly known example being for girls not to wear their hair up in buns or ponytails when out alone. That advise came out after a study that was done on convicted serial rapists. But there are many other dangers out there, for both men and women. These criminal accounts can tell us more details. Giving us the who, what, when, where, how, which, why, so hopefully, maybe, outcomes can be changed.

#2) Being aware of what to look out for, in order to keep others safe.

Unfortunately, you could do everything right and still be a victim. Not to sound bleak, but the victims of these crimes didn't end up in their situations simply because "they weren't safe enough". No, that is not at all it. Yes, we should try to do our best still but we should also do our best for others. I have listened to my fair share of cases where people have heard or seen things but "didn't think about it" or "it wasn't their business". If you see something, say something. I know this has gotten heavy but it needs to for a minute. We need to look out for each other, folks. And it really doesn't take that much. If you feel unsafe interfering directly, call the cops (which you should do anyway), take a picture/video, collect as much details as possible and hand it over to the authorities. Just do what you can.

#3) Being aware of those who could still be out there.

Though the true crime most people are used to are on the topic of serial killers, I listen, watch, and read a lot of missing persons cases. If you are interested in true crime I suggest you check this sub-genre out. You never know where these people could be. Even if you aren't into listening/watching/reading missing persons cases, at least take a minute to check out a missing persons board when you see one. They are usually found at local grocery stores, the police station, and online.

I know this post has been heavy. But this is actually some important stuff. I would be lying if I didn't admit that part of me still doesn't just love the thrill of a hard case. But at the end of the day, these are real peoples lives and we need to be respectful of that. Their loved ones deserve answers and the victims deserve to be brought justice.

If you are interested in true crime and are unsure where to start, there are plenty of resources online. From books to shows to podcasts, whatever form of intake of knowledge that you desire. I, at the moment, have been listening to different true crime youtubers, which I will now list for anyone who is interested.

#1) Danelle Hallan- https://www.youtube.com/user/danelledoesitall

Danelle does an amazing job with her case coverage. She does a lot of research and takes each and every case to heart. She specializes in Missing Persons cases but does dabble in a little bit of every sub-genre of true crime.

#2) Bailey Sarian- https://www.youtube.com/user/makeupbyBAILEYSARIAN

Bailey takes a much more light-hearted approach to the delivery of a case. She does "Murder, Mystery, Make-up Mondays". If you are looking for true crime but don't want to necessarily get too invested, she is an amazing pick. She includes a lot of detail while still lightening the mood. She is somehow funny yet respectful at the same time. She usually focuses on closed cases.

#3) John Lordan- https://www.youtube.com/user/GeekenDorx

John Lordan is very dedicated to true crime and is very serious and in depth with all of his cases. If you are looking to go deep into true crime, then he is your guy. He does an amazing job, and honestly, his work speaks for itself. He is really out there to make a difference. He has multiple different playlists depending on what type of case you want to listen to.

Bonus Pick) Cayleigh Elise- https://www.youtube.com/user/cayleighelise

Cayleigh has recently taken a step back from the true crime community, but her channel is still up. Her delivery of cases is a little more theatrically laid out- as if you were watching a true crime tv show- but is very detailed and respectful. I am sad I found her so late but happy I found her at all. She is very passionate about every case she does and you can tell how much hard work she has put in to bring these victims coverage. She covers multiple sub-genres of true crime.

No matter which style you like, one of them is sure to deliver. I highly recommend each and every one but if for some reason they are just not for you, I encourage you to find your right fit. True crime is a unique genre but is one that is not only addictingly intriguing, but is also beneficial to you and those around you. So, take it for a spin and see which journey leaves you hooked and reeling. I guess I should give you that warning: If you start true crime, you are bound to find "your case." Every true crime enthusiast has one, and you will too. So, proceed with caution and be prepared to find yours.

Thank you for joining me on this gloomy episode of Nerdom here on My Mess. I hope this maybe shed some light on a new topic for you or just got you thinking about a case you maybe already have on your heart. Be praying to all the victims and their loved ones, regardless. And I hope to see you guys back on Sunday for another post in The Mess here on My Mess.

This post is dedicated to the one case I will always carry in my heart: Jaryd Atadero. If you have time, please check out his case. His father also wrote a book, from his perspective of everything that has happened, called: Missing: When the Son Sets: The Jaryd Atadero Story. Thank you.