Real Life Real Crime | Justice For Bradley ep 28
Host: Woody Overton
Date: January 17, 2026
Episode Overview
This episode continues Woody Overton’s deep dive into the ongoing “Justice for Bradley” investigation, with specific focus on Woody’s direct response to Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Kraft’s recently released public statement about the Bradley Striester missing persons case and the death of Austin O’Banion. Woody addresses the details of that release, defends his own reporting, and examines the controversies, rumors, and truths circulating on social media about the investigation and the Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office. The episode is marked by Woody’s trademarked blunt, unfiltered style, a meticulous breakdown of law enforcement communication, and unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for both Bradley and Austin.
Key Discussion Points and Insights
Sheriff Kraft’s Press Release Response
(04:16–08:27)
- Woody analyzes Sheriff Kraft’s explanation of Austin O’Banion’s autopsy results, which showed lethal levels of methamphetamine and Zoloft. Woody reads out, reflects on, and questions the thoroughness and transparency of these official statements.
- Woody criticizes the sheriff's claim that social media posts inaccurately alleged staff were required to sign NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) regarding the Bradley and Austin cases. Woody clarifies he never stated it as certain fact, only reported that multiple sources mentioned it.
- “I never said with a thousand percent certainty that you did it. I said with a thousand percent certainty that people were saying it was done.” (11:44)
Non-Disclosure Agreement Controversy
(08:27–11:58)
- Woody details his investigative process:
- He had his attorney formally request any NDA paperwork via a freedom of information request.
- The sheriff’s legal response categorically denied any such documents exist.
- Woody invited VPSO employees to contact him secretly if they had been made to sign NDAs, but none did.
- Woody repeatedly stresses the fine line between reporting tipster rumors and stating verified facts, emphasizing his transparency in that distinction.
The Hacking Allegations Debunked
(12:01–14:31)
- Woody addresses rumors that a Department of Corrections inmate, “Danny K,” hacked his online accounts. He explains widespread online speculation but firmly denies ever personally accusing “Danny K” or the sheriff’s office of involvement:
- “You never heard Woody Overton say Danny K is responsible for doing this...I never even implied that you have someone that's educated enough in computer skills to hack all my shit, period.” (13:20)
- Woody notes the real-world consequences and online rumors that swirl when true crime cases heat up.
Law Enforcement Data Misuse and Social Media Speculation
(14:33–17:50)
- Sheriff Kraft’s release mentions the recent arrest of a former Allen Parish deputy for numerous counts of illegal dissemination of confidential law enforcement database information. Woody confirms this misconduct, but clarifies the “social media personality” involved is not him but another named Morgan Baggett from the “Criminal Conversations” page.
- “He's 1000% correct on that...I try to, but when I was looking at the stuff on that criminal conversations page, I was like, holy fuck, how are they getting this information?” (15:58)
- Woody discusses the legal and procedural changes in law enforcement regarding access to personal information and stresses the seriousness of these database violations.
Handling Rumors and Defamation
(27:57–32:20)
- Woody methodically rejects the sheriff’s accusation that he or his podcast ever intentionally spread malicious or false allegations implicating the sheriff’s office directly in murder or criminal misconduct.
- He admits, however, that poor police work and detective errors have likely damaged the agency’s reputation and frustrated the investigation.
Defense and Critique of Detective Vance
(29:50–32:22, 47:02–47:59)
- Woody criticizes Detective Vance for unprofessional conduct during the investigation, including leaking information, public comments, and procedural blunders. He shares secondhand stories and recordings from community members, but clarifies these are claims he cannot independently verify.
- Woody reflects, “There's a lot of recording sheriff of Detective Vance saying shit that, that if anybody a detective worked for me and that was said and, and these things were done in this investigation, well that detective wouldn't be working for me anymore. And I stand by that.” (32:08)
On Social Media Pressure and Law Enforcement Integrity
(37:10–40:19)
- Woody agrees that public pressure should not force law enforcement to make hasty arrests or solve a case just to “shut people up.” He underscores the importance of achieving “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
- He cautions against wrongful arrests and false closure, reminding listeners that “justice is not about that.” (40:15)
Willingness for Open Dialogue
(40:19–51:42)
- Woody offers to sit down with Sheriff Kraft for an unedited, unscripted podcast discussion to clear the air and strengthen transparency.
- “I would be more than willing to sit down, do a podcast with you and you know, I know it's not going to happen...But if you want to, I’m available. I'll come to Burnham Parish again and do whatever and you can say your side, right?” (41:22)
- He continues urging the community to keep sending in credible tips and reiterates his dedication to investigating every substantial lead until justice is served.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
(46:59–51:42)
- Woody affirms that his criticism is directed not at all law enforcement, but at “bad cops” and “stupid police work” which may have hampered the case from the outset.
- He encourages listeners to call in their tips, assures families he will not stop pursuing justice, and expresses optimism that with sufficient credible evidence, the case may finally move beyond mere probable cause to “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- “I never said with a thousand percent certainty that you did it. I said with a thousand percent certainty that people were saying it was done.” — Woody Overton (11:44)
- “You never heard Woody Overton say Danny K is responsible for doing this...I never even implied that you have someone that's educated enough in computer skills to hack all my shit, period.” — Woody Overton (13:20)
- “He's 1000% correct on that...I was like, holy fuck, how are they getting this information?” — Woody Overton (15:58)
- “There's a lot of recording sheriff of Detective Vance saying shit that, that if anybody a detective worked for me and that was said and, and these things were done in this investigation, well that detective wouldn't be working for me anymore. And I stand by that.” — Woody Overton (32:08)
- “Justice is not about that. You don't want that in the that I'm...certain there are some cops that do that...but I don't want that done in Bradley's case. I don't want that done in Austin's case.” — Woody Overton (40:18)
- “The constant thing I've said over and over again is you want me off this case, solve it. Right. But don't. Don't solve it at the expense of an innocent person.” — Woody Overton (40:24)
- “If it ever goes to court...I will produce every piece of it. And...the sheriff's office attorney will have to get these prominent citizens...But I don't think it's gonna get that far. You know why? Because I didn't say anything that I can't come with receipts for. I have the receipts, okay?” — Woody Overton (33:09)
Important Timestamps
- 04:16 – Woody begins deep analysis of Sheriff Kraft’s public release.
- 08:27–11:58 – The NDA controversy: Woody details the FOIA requests, legal denials, and rumors.
- 12:01–14:31 – Addressing hacking rumors and Woody's denial of circulating them.
- 14:33–17:50 – Law enforcement database misuse; confirming the non-involvement of himself with leaked data.
- 27:57–32:22 – Woody pushes back on claims of “malicious” rumors and outlines his cautious, evidence-based approach.
- 32:20–32:22 – Detailing secondhand reports and audio concerning Detective Vance.
- 37:10–40:19 – The dangers of public/media pressure influencing investigations.
- 40:19–41:22 – Open invitation to Sheriff Kraft for unedited podcast dialogue.
- 46:59–47:59 – More criticism of police work and the importance of proper procedure.
Episode Tone
Woody’s narration is direct, candid, and occasionally exasperated. He combines careful, experienced analytical reasoning with the intense emotional drive of an investigator who is both an insider and outsider. He expresses empathy for the families, frustration with law enforcement missteps, and an unwavering faith in truth-seeking—always maintaining integrity as both a voice for victims and as a critic of poorly handled cases.
Conclusion
In this pivotal episode, Woody Overton methodically deconstructs the official narrative, sets the record straight regarding rumors and accusations, and restates his commitment to seeking justice for Bradley Striester and Austin O’Banion. Throughout, Woody clarifies his role—not as a rumor-monger, but as a relentless, ethical investigator determined to avoid shortcuts, wrongful arrests, or the easy way out. The search for truth remains ongoing, and Woody invites listeners to be part of the solution by coming forward with real, verifiable information.
Tip Line: 313-RLRC-TIP
Woody Overton’s closing message: “I want justice for Bradley. I want justice for AO. And I'm going to stay on them until it gets done. I hate bad cops. I hate stupid police work...But when it gets beyond a reasonable doubt, that's when justice can finally happen.”
For anyone invested in the case or the true crime community, this episode provides vital updates, clarity on persistent rumors, and an unwavering reminder that only credible evidence—never gossip—will lead to justice.