Off Duty | The Guardian Investigates

Off Duty: The Last Stand

Alex Villa walks free after a decade in prison for a murder he did not commit as systemic failures remain exposed.

Off Duty: The Sentence

A surprise discovery of withheld evidence offers a new lifeline for Alex just as he mourns the murder of his son.

Off Duty: The Prosecutors

Prosecutors dropped murder charges after hidden cell phone data emerged, but a judge denied an innocent man a retrial.

Off Duty: Digital Forensics

In this episode of Off Duty, investigative journalist Melissa Segura explores the case of Tyrone Clay, a man who maintained his innocence for years after being arrested for murder. Central to his defense was an alibi involving his PlayStation, which he claimed he was playing at the time of the crime. Despite his repeated requests for police to examine the console, authorities insisted it was broken and left it in storage for years. The narrative follows attorney Eric Bisby as he takes on the case and challenges the FBI’s initial assessment. Listeners can expect an absorbing deep dive into the intersection of criminal justice and digital forensics, highlighting how overlooked evidence can alter the course of a legal battle. It is a compelling look at the persistent pursuit of truth when the justice system seemingly fails to do its job.

Off Duty: The Police

In this third episode of Off Duty, investigative journalist Melissa Segura continues her deep dive into a troubling criminal case. The narrative shifts focus to Alex Villa, a suspect who maintained his innocence and refused to confess during his initial forty-eight-hour detention. Despite his release, the investigation into his life intensified as authorities scrambled to build a conviction. The state ultimately anchored its case on the testimonies of three individuals who claimed to have overheard Villa admitting to the crime. Listeners are invited to examine the reliability of these witnesses as Segura interrogates whether their accounts hold up under scrutiny. Through meticulous reporting, the episode peels back the layers of a contentious prosecution, challenging the audience to consider the human cost of a case built on questionable foundations and the persistent reach of police investigative tactics.

Off Duty: The Interrogations

In this episode of Off Duty, investigative reporter Melissa Segura delves into the troubling circumstances surrounding the murder of Officer Clifton Lewis. Within 72 hours of the crime, three men provided confessions, yet they each later recanted their statements, claiming they had no involvement in the killing. The narrative examines how and why these individuals admitted to such a serious offense despite their claims of innocence. Listeners are taken through a compelling exploration of interrogation techniques, the psychological pressure of police questioning, and the potential for wrongful convictions. By scrutinizing the events that led to these conflicting testimonies, the episode challenges the reliability of the initial investigation. This deep dive offers a gripping look at the flaws within the justice system and the enduring quest for the truth behind a high-profile case.

Off Duty: The Crime

In the series premiere of Off Duty, investigative journalist Melissa Segura delves into the tragic 2011 murder of Chicago police officer Clifton Lewis. While working a secondary shift as a security guard at a local minimart, Lewis was fatally shot by two assailants who fled the scene with his weapon and badge. Within a week, authorities identified four suspects linked to the Spanish Cobra gang. Despite each of the men maintaining their innocence throughout hours of grueling interrogation, law enforcement moved forward with the case regardless of their persistent denials. This episode sets the stage for a compelling deep dive into the investigation, exploring the complexities of the legal process and the pressure surrounding the pursuit of justice. Listeners can expect a gripping account of a high-stakes criminal investigation and the troubling questions that linger long after the initial arrests.

Off Duty: a new series on a fight for justice from Guardian Investigates – trailer

In this gripping trailer for the new Guardian Investigates series, Off Duty, listeners are introduced to a harrowing story of crime, conviction, and the relentless pursuit of justice. The narrative centers on the 2011 murder of a Chicago police officer and the subsequent arrest of four suspects. While three individuals provided confessions, the fourth suspect maintained his innocence, triggering a grueling 12-year legal battle. This investigative podcast explores the complex challenges of challenging a judicial system that is often unwilling to acknowledge its own errors. Throughout the series, the reporting team peels back the layers of this case to examine whether a grave injustice was committed. Listeners can expect an intense, deeply researched exploration of institutional failures, the courage of one man fighting against the odds, and the high stakes of uncovering the truth behind a decades-old conviction.

The Birth Keepers: Death plan

In this sixth installment of the year-long investigation by journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne, the podcast examines the escalating controversy surrounding Free Birth Society. As the backlash against the organization intensifies, the episode shifts its focus to the organization's leaders, Emilee and Yolande, and their defensive response to the mounting crisis. Listeners are taken behind the scenes of a high-stakes conflict, exploring the dangerous intersection of unregulated home birth advocacy and professional medical scrutiny. This episode provides a gripping look at the real-world consequences of alternative birthing movements and the intense scrutiny their practices have invited. Through thorough reporting and in-depth analysis, the hosts unpack the complex narrative surrounding the movement, offering listeners a clear understanding of the controversy as it reaches a critical turning point.

The Birth Keepers: FBS goes global

In this fifth installment of the year-long investigative series from The Guardian, reporters Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne uncover the international expansion of the ideology surrounding Free Birth Society. What began as a localized investigation into birth practices has evolved into a global story that far exceeds the journalists initial expectations. The hosts trace how founders Emilee and Yolande successfully seeded their philosophy across borders, creating a worldwide network of followers. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the far-reaching influence of this movement and the complex implications of its growth. As the reporters follow the trail of FBS globally, they examine the mechanisms behind its spread and the impact on those who subscribe to its core tenets. This episode provides a compelling look at the power of digital communities to reshape deeply personal experiences like childbirth on a global scale.

The Birth Keepers: Growing an empire

In this fourth installment of the year-long investigative series from The Guardian, journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne delve into the controversial rise of the Free Birth Society. The episode traces the trajectory of founder Emilee Saldaya, examining how she pivoted her business strategy following the tragic death of a member’s baby and a subsequent wave of public outcry. Rather than fading from view, Saldaya successfully transitioned her organization into a private, multimillion-dollar global empire. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the business of unregulated childbirth movements, exploring how the group maintains its influence and operates behind closed doors. Kale and Osborne provide a gripping account of how ideology and entrepreneurship collide in the world of online birth coaching, questioning the ethics and safety protocols of an increasingly powerful digital community that continues to attract followers worldwide.

The Birth Keepers: Journey Moon

In this third episode of a year-long investigation, journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne explore the dangerous intersection of unregulated home birth advocacy and digital influence. The narrative centers on the experience of Lorren Holliday, who became deeply immersed in the Free Birth Society community after joining a Facebook group run by Emilee Saldaya during her 2018 pregnancy. Through Holliday’s story, the hosts examine how online spaces can foster radical ideologies that promote unassisted birth, often dismissing essential medical guidance. Listeners can expect a compelling look at the real-world consequences of this movement, tracing the path from internet community engagement to a devastating personal tragedy. The investigation critically analyzes the allure of these subcultures, questioning the responsibility of online platforms and the individuals who shape these life-altering health beliefs.

The Birth Keepers: When Emilee met Yolande

In the second installment of this year-long investigative series, journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne delve into the controversial origins of the Free Birth Society. The episode traces the professional relationship between the movement’s central figures, Emilee Saldaya and Yolande Norris-Clark, exploring how they first connected and eventually established their influential online platform. Through rigorous reporting, the hosts examine the foundation of the movement and scrutinize the credibility of the claims made by both women regarding their backgrounds and expertise. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the rhetoric surrounding the organization and a critical assessment of the qualifications held by those advocating for unassisted childbirth. By peeling back the layers of this polarizing community, the investigation offers a sobering look at how unconventional movements gain traction and the potential real-world consequences of their guidance.

The Birth Keepers: I choose this

In the first episode of this year-long investigative series, journalists Sirin Kale and Lucy Osborne explore the controversial world of the Free Birth Society. This group advocates for pregnant women to exit the traditional medical system entirely, framing unassisted home birth as an act of personal empowerment. However, the narrative shifts as the investigation highlights the grave dangers hidden behind this ideology. Through the harrowing personal account of Nicole Garrison, whose experience with free birthing nearly turned fatal, the hosts examine the devastating consequences of rejecting professional obstetric care. Listeners can expect a deep dive into the rhetoric of the movement, the risks posed to mothers and infants, and the broader implications of a community that encourages women to bypass medical expertise in favor of an untested, high-stakes philosophy. This episode sets the stage for a compelling and urgent exploration of birth autonomy and safety.

Gina: a real life Succession story, episode 8

In this eighth episode of The Guardian Investigates series on Gina Rinehart, the program examines the profound influence of Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged on the mining magnate’s professional and personal philosophy. Listeners are taken through the practical applications of these capitalist ideals as the episode scrutinizes Rinehart’s contentious proposal to develop a coalmine within Canada’s Rocky Mountains. The narrative shifts to the Australian context, where the series explores the ongoing battle over national environmental regulations. A highlight of the episode features renowned author and environmental campaigner Tim Winton, who offers a sharp critique of Rinehart’s efforts to obstruct legislative reform. This installment provides a compelling look at the intersection of individual ambition, industrial power, and the broader environmental consequences of one of the world’s most influential figures, offering a deep dive into the real-world implications of her global operations.

Gina: a real life Succession story, episode 7

In this episode of Off Duty: The Guardian Investigates, the series continues its deep dive into the complex history of Gina Rinehart and her family dynasty. While Rinehart’s father, Lang Hancock, is famously celebrated as a pioneer of the Australian iron ore industry, this installment uncovers the darker, forgotten chapters of his career. The investigation shifts focus to the 1940s, revealing how Hancock’s mining ambitions began with the extraction of blue asbestos in Wittenoom. Listeners explore the devastating environmental and human cost of these operations, which eventually left the town synonymous with industrial tragedy. By interrogating the narratives that the family chooses to highlight versus those they omit, the episode provides a sobering look at how historical legacies are curated and the stark realities often left out of the official family story.

Gina: a real life Succession story, episode 6

In this gripping episode of Off Duty | The Guardian Investigates, the narrative shifts toward the private life of mining magnate Lang Hancock and the long-standing allegations regarding his family legacy. Following a previous exploration of claims that Hancock fathered children with two Indigenous women, the investigation enters a deeply personal chapter. Listeners hear from the daughter of Sella Robinson, one of the women who asserted that Hancock was her father. Breaking her silence for the first time, she provides a candid and poignant account of her family history. This installment peels back the layers of a real-life succession story, examining the human impact of these historical claims. By centering the voices of those directly affected, the episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of wealth, power, and identity, challenging the established narrative surrounding one of Australia's most prominent dynasties.

Gina: a real life Succession story, episode 5

In this fifth installment of the series, the investigation shifts focus to the immense power and influence wielded by Australian mining magnate Gina Rinehart. The episode examines the controversy surrounding her famous portrait, which became an unexpected global internet sensation and a flashpoint for discussions on wealth, perception, and public image. Beyond the memes, the hosts explore how Rinehart utilizes her vast resources to exert control over her narrative and shape her legacy within the worlds of art and professional sports. The narrative also delves into the deeper, often uncomfortable intersections of personal wealth and Australia’s colonial history. Listeners can expect a critical analysis of how private influence impacts public discourse and historical memory. Please note that this episode includes sensitive subject matter, references to offensive language, and mentions of deceased Indigenous Australians that may be distressing to some listeners.

Gina: a real life Succession story, episode 4

In this episode of Off Duty, the investigation into the life and influence of Gina Rinehart continues with a candid and personal interview featuring her son, John Hancock. Reflecting on a fractured family dynamic, Hancock describes a pivotal dinner twenty years ago that marked the final positive interaction he had with his mother. This conversation offers a rare, intimate look at the breakdown of their relationship, framing the personal fallout within the context of one of Australia's most powerful dynasties. Beyond the family drama, the episode examines the high-stakes legal battle surrounding the Rinehart empire. Listeners will gain insight into how these ongoing court proceedings could potentially challenge the foundations of her vast corporate influence. This installment provides a gripping exploration of power, betrayal, and the complex intersection of private grievances and public wealth.

Gina: a real life Succession story, episode 3

In the third episode of this investigative series, the hosts delve into the complex legacy and intense family dynamics surrounding the Hancock fortune. Listeners are taken behind the scenes of the bitter rivalries and high-stakes court battles that have defined the family history. The episode centers on a fundamental debate regarding Gina Rinehart: is she primarily an heiress leveraging her inheritance, or a self-made mining magnate in her own right? The narrative examines her most significant professional achievement, the development of the Roy Hill iron mine. By successfully owning and operating this massive project, Rinehart accomplished a goal that remained elusive for her father throughout his career. This installment offers a compelling look at the power, ambition, and conflict driving one of the world's wealthiest families and the woman currently at the helm of their massive industrial empire.