True Crime Garage - Episode: "Hate American Made ////// The Prophet"

Release Date: April 8, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Hate American Made ////// The Prophet," hosts Nic and the Captain delve deep into the tumultuous life of David Koresh and the rise and fall of the Branch Davidians. This comprehensive exploration provides listeners with an in-depth understanding of the events that culminated in the infamous Waco Siege of 1993.

Early Life and Upbringing of David Koresh

David Koresh, born Vernon Wayne Howell on August 17, 1959, in Houston, Texas, had a troubled and abusive childhood. Raised initially by his grandmother, Koresh faced severe bullying and abuse, which shaped his psychological landscape. As Steve Buscemi narrates at [10:02], “He was pretty horribly bullied as well by the other boys at school… Some of the bullying was sexual in nature.”

The instability continued as Koresh's parents separated, and he moved back in with his biological mother, Bonnie Sue Clark, and her new husband. Tragically, Koresh revealed that he was sexually abused by a male relative during this period, further exacerbating his emotional scars.

Religious Awakening and Joining the Branch Davidians

At the age of 20, Koresh experienced a significant religious transformation, becoming a born-again Christian within the Southern Baptist church before joining his mother's denomination, the Seventh Day Adventist Church. This shift marked the beginning of his deepening involvement in religious movements.

In the summer of 1981, Koresh moved to Waco, Texas, and became involved with the Branch Davidians, a sect founded by Benjamin Roden in 1955. By 1983, Koresh began claiming prophetic gifts, asserting himself as a leader within the group. As highlighted at [18:12], “Lois Rhoden allowed David Koresh to begin teaching his own message to the Davidians.”

Ascension to Leadership and Controversial Activities

Koresh's rise within the Branch Davidians was marked by controversial actions and relationships. In 1987, he began a sexual relationship with Lois Rhoden, the widow of Benjamin Roden and then-leader of the sect. Koresh claimed divine inspiration for this union, stating, “I'm closer to God and more involved with God than any of you” ([21:01]).

His provocative teachings and manipulative tactics led to significant infighting within the group. A pivotal moment occurred when George Roden, Lois's son and the designated successor, confronted Koresh after an alleged arson incident at the Mount Carmel compound. The ensuing gunfight resulted in Rhoden being wounded and subsequently declared insane, weakening his position ([37:07]).

Consolidation of Power and Mount Carmel Acquisition

With George Roden incapacitated, Koresh capitalized on the power vacuum to consolidate his authority over the Branch Davidians. By 1989, the group began purchasing the Mount Carmel property in Waco after Roden failed to pay property taxes. This acquisition not only provided a strategic base but also symbolized Koresh's control over the sect.

Koresh's leadership style became increasingly authoritarian, with allegations of child abuse and stockpiling of weapons. As discussed at [47:35], “They are in possession of a bunch of illegal weapons,” raising suspicions and tensions with local authorities.

Events Leading to the Waco Siege

The culmination of Koresh's controversial leadership and the Branch Davidians' activities triggered federal intervention. On February 28, 1993, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) attempted to execute a search warrant at the Mount Carmel compound. The operation, intended to be swift and non-violent, quickly escalated into a deadly standoff.

At [49:21], Buscemi explains, “They wanted to learn what was actually going on inside those four walls. Was there any kind of abuse by David Koresh or any of the other adults in the group?”

The initial firefight resulted in casualties on both sides, setting the stage for an extended and tragic siege that would capture national attention and leave lasting scars on all involved.

Conclusion

"Hate American Made ////// The Prophet" meticulously unpacks the complex layers of David Koresh's life, his manipulative rise to power within the Branch Davidians, and the series of events that led to the catastrophic Waco Siege. Through thorough analysis and engaging storytelling, Nic and the Captain provide listeners with a nuanced perspective on one of America's most infamous true crime cases.

Notable Quotes:

• Steve Buscemi ([10:02]): “He was pretty horribly bullied as well by the other boys at school… Some of the bullying was sexual in nature.”
• Steve Buscemi ([21:01]): “I'm closer to God and more involved with God than any of you.”
• Steve Buscemi ([47:35]): “They are in possession of a bunch of illegal weapons.”

For more detailed discussions and episodes, visit True Crime Garage and join Nic and the Captain in their enthralling true crime journeys.