In the first half, Charlie Bosworth, co-author of a book on the JonBenét Ramsey case, discussed the evolving perspectives on the infamous 1996 murder investigation. He highlighted the importance of DNA technology in reopening the case, particularly a method called genetic genealogy. Bosworth explained, "This form of DNA not only does scientific examination...but also fills out a family tree," which could potentially lead to identifying a suspect not in the database. He expressed optimism about the Boulder police's renewed efforts under Chief Stephen Redfearn, who has met with JonBenét's father, John Ramsey, leading to a more hopeful outlook on the investigation.
The conversation also touched on a troubling incident that occurred in 1997 involving an assault on a girl from the same dance studio as JonBenét. "The odds against that happening as a coincidence would have to be astronomical," Bosworth remarked.
"The evidence suggests that the individual likely knew the family," he continued, referencing the bizarre ransom note written on a tablet belonging to the Ramsey family. This note, described as "highly personal," was two and a half pages long, a stark contrast to typical ransom notes, which are usually brief and to the point. Bosworth questioned the logic of an intruder's actions, stating, "It just doesn't make sense...to go into a house, locate a child, and then spend 20 or 30 minutes writing a ransom note." He also pointed out the financial aspect of the ransom demand, which was precisely $118,000, coinciding with John Ramsey's Christmas bonus, and noted the odd phrasing in the note that seemed to echo popular films of the time.
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In the latter half, author and cryptozoologist Ken Gerhard spoke about various cryptids and legendary creatures, including Bigfoot, the Chupacabras, Mothman, and Nessie. Gerhard participated in a significant Loch Ness investigation in August 2023, which he described as "the largest expedition since the early '70s." He noted that around 200 researchers gathered to search for evidence of Nessie, employing drones, hydrophones, and scuba divers. Although definitive evidence eluded them, he mentioned, "We recorded some interesting underwater sounds" and investigated a sighting of what appeared to be humps in the water. He also discussed theories about Nessie's identity, noting that while some believe it could be a plesiosaur, perhaps a large eel or even a giant catfish is more plausible.
Gerhard described the Mothman as six and a half feet tall, with a man-like body, a 10-foot wingspan, and "giant red, hypnotic eyes." He noted that sightings persist, with the most recent occurring in 2011, and "dozens of alleged sightings" of a flying humanoid reported in Chicago since 2017. He also touched on reports of other cryptids like the Jersey Devil and Thunderbirds. Sometimes, he noted, "It's very difficult to read the veracity of an eyewitness," acknowledging the potential for mass hysteria and hoaxes.
On the topic of Dogman sightings, he said many witnesses view it as a "supernatural" phenomenon, somewhat akin to Mothman reports. He concluded that adrenaline may distort perceptions, suggesting that "some percentage of Bigfoot sightings... are probably bears." For more, check out Gerhard's online classes in cryptozoology.
News segment guests: John M. Curtis, Catherine Austin Fitts