Ridiculous Crime

Summary

Think of Ridiculous Crime as the ultimate antidote to the dark, heavy nature of traditional true crime. Hosts Zaron Burnett and Elizabeth Dutton turn the genre on its head by setting aside the typical focus on gore and tragedy in favor of the bizarre, the daring, and the hilariously ill-advised. If a crime involves a massive heist, a legendary con artist, a peculiar historical standoff, or a scheme so audacious it defies logic, you will find it here. Each episode acts as a deep dive into the human penchant for mischief and mayhem. Whether they are unpacking the gritty history of Appalachian moonshiners like Popcorn Sutton, analyzing the surreal, high-stakes embezzlement behind the 1MDB scandal, or recounting the tactical genius of military figures like the White Death, the hosts focus on the human story behind the headlines. They excel at balancing detailed research with a conversational energy that makes even the most complex capers feel like a gripping story told among friends. The show’s recurring theme is simple: criminality is often more fascinating when it is driven by hubris, absurdity, or an irresistible need to challenge authority. If you prefer your mystery with a side of irony and a total lack of bloodshed, this is the destination for you. It is smart, fast-paced storytelling that celebrates the sheer, unvarnished strangeness of the criminal world.

Updated Jun 20, 2026