American Homicide - Season 1: Bonus Episode 2 Title: Brian Enten Talks True Crime
Release Date: January 14, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and Glass Podcasts

Introduction

In this compelling bonus episode of American Homicide, host Sloan Glass ventures beyond retrospective analyses to spotlight three true crime cases anticipated to shape the landscape of 2025. Joined by Ryan Enten, Senior National Correspondent at News Nation and a seasoned true crime journalist, the episode delves deep into the complexities of each case, examining their current statuses, public perceptions, and the broader implications for the justice system.

1. The Murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson

Overview:
The episode opens with a discussion on the high-profile assassination of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. Luigi Mangione has been charged with his murder but has pleaded not guilty, setting the stage for a prolonged legal battle.

Key Points & Insights:

• Media Frenzy and Public Obsession:
  Ryan Enten highlights the intense media scrutiny surrounding Mangione's case. He recalls, “There was so much interest in the story even before the arrest” ([09:54]). Enten attributes part of this fascination to Mangione's charismatic persona, noting, “A lot of people think he's really attractive” ([09:54]).

• Mangione’s Image vs. Accusations:
  Despite the grave charges, Mangione's background paints a picture of a successful and well-liked individual. Enten explains, “Everything was great about this guy” ([12:08]), underscoring the dissonance between public perception and the accusations against him.

• Martyrdom and Cult-like Following:
  The discussion touches on Mangione’s unintended martyr status among certain groups. Enten observes, “It's disturbing” how mainstream attention has morphed Mangione into a figure surrounded by what he describes as a "cult-like" following ([09:54]).

2. The Mysterious Death of Ellen Greenberg

Overview:
The second case delves into the baffling death of Ellen Greenberg in 2011. Found with 20 stab wounds in her Philadelphia apartment during a blizzard, her death was controversially ruled a suicide despite substantial evidence suggesting foul play.

Key Points & Insights:

• Inconsistencies in Ruling Suicide:
  Enten expresses profound skepticism regarding the suicide ruling, stating, “There's no way she would have stabbed herself 20 times” ([23:09]). He emphasizes the improbability of such an act being self-inflicted, especially with wounds penetrating critical areas like the spinal cord.

• Family’s Pursuit of Justice:
  Ellen’s parents have been relentless in their fight to have the case reexamined. Enten shares, “They’ve spent almost a million dollars of their own money for lawyer fees” ([26:52]), highlighting the financial and emotional toll on the family.

• Critical 911 Call Analysis:
  A pivotal moment discussed is the 911 call where Ellen's fiancé expresses confusion and hesitance, further casting doubt on the suicide narrative. Enten remarks, “It’s completely out of touch, and it’s an insult to the intelligence of the American people” ([16:16]), criticizing the initial investigation's handling.

• Legal Developments:
  The case has escalated to the Pennsylvania State Supreme Court, which will review the suicide ruling. Enten notes, “The Supreme Court is gonna have to decide whether or not Ellen's parents have the right to challenge the cause of death” ([27:12]), indicating significant legal progress.

3. The Trial of Brian Kohberger: Accused of Killing Four University of Idaho Students

Overview:
The final case centers on Bryan Kohberger, who stands accused of murdering four University of Idaho students in 2022. The upcoming trial in August is poised to be a landmark event in true crime journalism.

Key Points & Insights:

• Early Investigation and Arrest:
  Enten recounts receiving a crucial tip via social media that led to Kohberger’s arrest in Pennsylvania. He shares, “I said, what's your phone? A dm, yeah” ([33:54]), illustrating the unconventional methods that sometimes aid in high-profile investigations.

• Kohberger’s Background:
  Despite his alleged crimes, Kohberger's background is portrayed as exemplary. Enten describes him as the “valedictorian” of his boarding school and a “leader of the book club” ([12:08]), challenging stereotypes about perpetrators.

• Trial Expectations and Legal Strategies:
  The discussion anticipates a contentious trial, particularly focusing on the use of investigative genetic genealogy. Enten anticipates, “They used that database to try to figure out who the DNA belonged to” ([38:14]), highlighting potential battlegrounds between prosecution and defense regarding evidence validity.

• Emotional Impact on Families and Journalists:
  Enten shares poignant moments, such as witnessing the victims’ families present at hearings alongside Kohberger. He reflects, “It's awkward” and describes the harrowing experience of seeing a baby during a hearing ([39:20]).

Insights on True Crime Journalism

Throughout the episode, Enten emphasizes the ethical responsibilities of journalists covering true crime:

• Balancing Reporting and Emotional Sensitivity:
  Enten admits the challenges of remaining objective while connecting emotionally with victims' families. He confesses, “I can’t do it all the time” ([04:59]), acknowledging the personal toll of intense investigative reporting.

• Combatting Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories:
  The hosts discuss the rampant spread of conspiracy theories, particularly in high-profile cases like Mangione and Kohberger. Enten states, “It’s like a hobby for people to just come up with every crazy possibility” ([15:17]), critiquing the role of platforms like Reddit and TikTok in perpetuating unfounded speculations.

• Commitment to Justice Through Persistence:
  Enten pledges unwavering dedication to covering these cases, assuring families of continued support. He affirms, “I promise them that I won't stop covering it” ([29:15]), underscoring the journalist’s role in seeking truth and accountability.

Conclusion

This bonus episode of American Homicide offers an in-depth exploration of three significant true crime cases, each with its unique complexities and societal impacts. Through insightful dialogue, grounded analysis, and emotional narratives, Sloan Glass and Ryan Enten provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of these cases and the broader challenges faced in the realm of true crime journalism. As 2025 unfolds, these cases stand as pivotal moments that will undoubtedly influence public discourse, legal proceedings, and media practices in the pursuit of justice.

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Enten ([09:54]): “There was so much interest in the story even before the arrest.”
• Ryan Enten ([12:08]): “Everything was great about this guy.”
• Ryan Enten ([23:09]): “There's no way she would have stabbed herself 20 times.”
• Ryan Enten ([26:52]): “They’ve spent almost a million dollars of their own money for lawyer fees.”
• Ryan Enten ([16:16]): “It’s completely out of touch, and it’s an insult to the intelligence of the American people.”
• Ryan Enten ([27:12]): “The Supreme Court is gonna have to decide whether or not Ellen's parents have the right to challenge the cause of death.”
• Ryan Enten ([33:54]): “I said, what's your phone? A dm, yeah.”
• Ryan Enten ([38:14]): “They used that database to try to figure out who the DNA belonged to.”
• Ryan Enten ([29:15]): “I promise them that I won't stop covering it.”

For more detailed discussions and updates on these cases, tune into American Homicide every Thursday on Apple Podcasts, the iHeart app, or Spotify. Engage with us by rating and reviewing the show to help others discover American Homicide.