Criminal Podcast Episode Summary: "Kids on the Case"

Released on August 8, 2025 by Vox Media Podcast Network

Introduction

In the "Kids on the Case" episode of Criminal, host Phoebe Judge explores remarkable instances where children have played pivotal roles in solving crimes. Highlighting the innate curiosity and determination of young minds, the episode delves into inspiring stories of young detectives who went above and beyond to bring justice to their communities.

1. Jessica Maple: Junior District Attorney Extraordinaire

Timestamp: 01:03 – 15:04

Jessica Maple, a 12-year-old attendee of the Junior District Attorney (DA) Camp in Atlanta, Georgia, exemplifies the profound impact specialized youth programs can have on nurturing investigative skills. Initially reluctant to attend the DA camp—preferring policy debate instead—Jessica's perspective shifted dramatically after her first day at camp.

• Camp Experience: Under the leadership of District Attorney Paul Howard, the camp immersed students in the workings of the criminal justice system, including observing trials and visiting police stations. Campers donned uniforms and adhered to the Junior DA creed, fostering a sense of professionalism and responsibility.

  "We had this giant, oversized blazer with a police badge. We wore khaki pants and polos, so we were all matching."
  — Jessica Maple ([02:15])

• A Personal Crisis: The narrative takes a turn when Jessica's family faces a distressing burglary at her great grandmother's house in Fitzgerald, Georgia. Valuables were stolen, and the violation of this cherished family space left everyone feeling vulnerable.

  "Someone broke into her grandmother's house. They took a lot of things... having someone invade a space that's special to you is very emotional."
  — Jessica Maple ([02:57])

• Determined Investigation: Disheartened by the police's slim prospects of solving the case, Jessica decided to take matters into her own hands. Leveraging the skills acquired at camp, she meticulously cataloged missing items and identified potential evidence, including fingerprints at the scene.

  "I have the tools and the knowledge on how to solve this crime."
  — Jessica Maple ([05:19])

• Confronting the Suspect: Jessica's investigation led her to a pawn shop where she identified stolen furniture linked to her grandmother. Through persistence and keen observation, she obtained the IDs of the individuals responsible and confronted one of them directly.

  "Is this you? ... Yes, I did. I was like, well, did you, you know, break into this house, you know, my grandmother's house?"
  — Jessica Maple ([12:37])

• Resolution and Recognition: Jessica's bravery and intellect culminated in the recovery of her family's possessions and the apprehension of the perpetrator. Her success story resonated with her peers at Junior DA camp, culminating in national recognition and an interview alongside District Attorney Paul Howard.

  "Jessica, you are so smart, you're so bright, you are so intelligent... you're amazing for solving this."
  — Jessica Maple's mother ([14:34])

2. Griffin Steele: Unearthing the Unexpected

Timestamp: 17:00 – 23:01

Griffin Steele's tale is one of youthful serendipity intertwining with crime solving. At the tender age of seven, Griffin stumbled upon a shocking discovery that would later culminate in a significant police breakthrough.

• The Discovery: While accompanying his father to Lowe's and subsequently stopping by a local gas station, Griffin noticed an unusual abundance of money in a trash can—over $10,000 in cash, much of it stained with red dye from exploded dye packs used in bank robberies.

  "It was still hot, you know, the money was still hot. So, it obviously just. That dye pack just went off maybe 15 minutes at the most before we found it."
  — Shane Steele, Griffin's father ([20:28])

• Responsible Action: Recognizing the gravity of his find, Griffin and his father contacted a police officer friend. The discovery was linked to a recent bank robbery, leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

  "We just folded it up, tied it up and put it in the back of my truck. But you know, the whole time it was like answering that question, like, what would you do if you found a bunch of money on the side of the road?"
  — Shane Steele ([19:03])

• Community Impact: Griffin, now ten, became a local hero. His proactive approach earned him a $250 reward in the form of a large novelty check, which proudly hangs in his bedroom. His story emphasizes the importance of instilling civic responsibility and the potential every child has to make a difference.

  "I like helping, except if it's chores."
  — Griffin Steele ([33:11])

3. Rory Niblock: The Unexpected Helpers from the Ground

Timestamp: 23:06 – 28:38

The episode further explores the role of children in aiding law enforcement through the insightful account of Rory Niblock, a tactical flight officer with the National Police Service in a small village near London.

• The Incident: Responding to a call about a break-in at an industrial facility, Rory and his colleague Neil Parrock scouted the area from a helicopter. Despite initial leads suggesting the presence of suspects, their search seemed futile until an extraordinary observation was made.

• Children to the Rescue: Rory noticed a group of children engaged in an Easter egg hunt, forming an arrow shape that inadvertently guided the police toward the fleeing suspects. This unintentional yet effective signaling by the children played a crucial role in apprehending the criminals.

  "These kids in the field are lying in the shape of an arrow... they were actually trying to assist, saying, the other suspect has gone this way."
  — Rory Niblock ([26:22])

• Acknowledgment and Gratitude: Upon successfully capturing the suspects, Rory expressed immense gratitude toward the children, acknowledging their critical contribution to the investigation.

  "The parents said it was the children's idea. They said we should form an arrow."
  — Rory Niblock ([28:14])

4. Logan Holtman: A Young Search Party Leader

Timestamp: 28:43 – 35:02

Logan Holtman's story illustrates the steadfast determination of youth in ensuring community safety. At ten years old, Logan took initiative upon hearing a helicopter announcement about a missing elderly woman with dementia.

• The Mission: Motivated by a sense of duty, Logan and his friends organized a search party, scouring trails and public areas despite minor setbacks like injuries. Their efforts were instrumental in locating and safely returning the missing woman.

  "Because she needed help."
  — Logan Holtman ([34:48])

• Recognition and Rewards: The successful rescue led to accolades from local authorities, including a heartfelt thank-you package featuring treats and novelty items, acknowledging their invaluable assistance.

  "I packed up some snacks and we went looking again."
  — Logan Holtman ([32:03])

• Family and Community Support: Logan's parents expressed immense pride in his actions, highlighting his innate altruism and the positive influence of community and family in fostering such admirable traits.

  "I wasn't shocked that he decided to go out and try to help."
  — Alyssa Holtman, Logan's mother ([33:25])

Reflections and Impact

The "Kids on the Case" episode underscores the remarkable capabilities of children when provided with the right tools, education, and encouragement. Whether through structured programs like the Junior DA camp or spontaneous acts of courage, these young individuals demonstrate that age is no barrier to making meaningful contributions to society.

Notable Quotes:

• "I have the tools and the knowledge on how to solve this crime." — Jessica Maple ([05:19])
• "These kids are trying to assist." — Rory Niblock ([27:18])
• "Because she needed help." — Logan Holtman ([34:48])

Conclusion

"Kids on the Case" is a testament to the profound impact that youth can have on their communities. Through the stories of Jessica, Griffin, Rory's collaborating children, and Logan, Criminal celebrates the ingenuity, bravery, and compassion of young detectives. These narratives not only inspire but also challenge societal perceptions of children's roles in serious matters, highlighting the boundless potential that lies within the younger generation.