Crossing the Line with M. William Phelps

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Crossing the Line is a true crime podcast revealing cases of the missing and murdered, told start-to-finish each week. Using the campfire storytelling style that made Paper Ghosts a #1 hit on the charts, host M. William Phelps connects deeply with families touched by violent crime - he understands them, because he is one of them. Having gone through the murder of his own pregnant sister-in-law, Phelps brings not only his personal experience, but also 20-plus years of investigative journalism into the worlds of these stories. Follow and subscribe to Crossing the Line for a weekly dose of murder, mayhem and madness. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Recent Reviews
  • 01Bigtime
    Truth
    The best podcast, documentary, and reporting on the murder of John O’Keefe. The conspiracy theory never made sense to me and, after listening to this, I know why.
  • Brad2444
    34 Fairview Road
    Great series! Need a couple court room updates - an episode why the first case failed and for the second trial!
  • Animal Zoo Reviewer
    Hypocritical?
    You make comments about turtleboy editorializing when he speaks to Jen’s thoughts or ideas. But you do the same when it comes to Karen being “devious.” I don’t know if she did it or not. But you can’t criticize someone for doing something and then do it yourself. And then you use a source “close to Karen at the time” to portray Karen negatively after complaining about someone else’s source? I don’t think Karen comes off as likable. But c’mon. Don’t claim you’re unbiased while clearly being not. Also, Karen’s not being blaming John when she said “in his drunkenness.” He was drunk. It’s a fact. They all were. And it’s gross that cops just drive around drunk and we’re all supposed to be ok with that but horrified by Karen being drunk. Oh, and that woman with the boys-will-be-boys defense of Proctor was also gross.
  • CBibliophile
    Crossing the Line sets the bar
    One of the best researched and presented true crime shows out there. Highly recommend.
  • dave cullinane
    The truth
    Listen if you want the truth about Karen read and turtle boy.
  • Pollutionholiday2235
    Huge fan
    I’ve read several of Phelp’s book and listen to his podcast regularly. I love eveytning about him. He’s a true crime genius. I will continue to be a huge fan for years to come. His candid comments are also hugely appreciated.
  • Dobiewankanobie
    The real truth based on evidence
    Thank you for ignoring the uneducated hate! This is true investigative journalism. I came in with an open mind and have followed the evidence. I have listened/read/watched everything I can find. This is the most thorough and real evidence presented. Good work and ignore the weak minded and vial attacks based on no evidence at all.
  • Orika's Person
    34 Fairview Road
    I held off on listening to this series because I was so tired of hearing about Karen Read. It worked out well to listen to it over the course of a few days. This presentation was vivid and, more importantly, extremely detailed. What a pity she didn’t go for manslaughter and own up. I did not give the series five stars because I think the last few episodes of the series could have been condensed.
  • Golightly23
    Great show!
    He tells it like he sees it and doesn’t kowtow to those that disagree with him.
  • DoxDox50
    A great listen for serious true crime fans
    This is worth listening to. M. W. Phelps is thorough and straightforward as always. Great podcast for serious true crime fans.
  • PC SCJ
    Great Podcast
    Great true crime podcast. Most are short so perfect for a quick listen. Found M. William Phelps after listening to Paper Ghost. He is a great podcaster.
  • Alamakdn
    Don’t trust him anymore
    His 34 Fairview opinion is not aging well
  • Lschmidtga
    Great Podcast!
    It is refreshing to find a podcast that speaks truth about the Karen Reed clown show. So glad I found your podcast!
  • TC-BJJB
    Great
    Very well done, unbiased. MWP seems to have great integrity and insight and only interested in the truth. His series 34 Fairview Road was excellent.
  • karalarae
    Incredible podcast
    My new favorite!
  • LaPatsFan
    Perfect for driving
    First this is a great show! I listen to crossing the line everyday to and from work. Thank You M William Phelps for all your hard work and effort!
  • Snake McJake
    Great show
    Great factual analysis and takedown of the free Karen Readtards and turtleprick. It’s horrifying that people that dumb are able to reproduce, vote, and serve on a jury. Can’t wait to see her convicted.
  • Toddtt66
    Fantastic program
    I’m not big into podcasts. In fact, 34 Fairview Lane by M. William Phelps was my first time listening to one. Yes, I am late to the party! Anyway, I first heard about 34 Fairview when Mr. Phelps was a guest on Opening Statements on Court TV. Intrigued, I decided to give it a listen. WOW! I am glad I did. Phelps absolutely nailed this case as far as I am concerned. I watched literally every minute of the first KR trial and I am convinced she is guilty of a DUI hit and run. Simple as that. The rest, from both sides, is just noise and propaganda. KR and team have made a conscious effort to manipulate the jury pool. The prosecution never should have charged murder. Hit and run resulting in death would have been more appropriate. Mr. Phelps drills right down to that simple notion and does it with extensive and yet unheard interviews from the actual people involved. Several I had not heard about previously. After 34 Fairview, I moved on to Paper Ghosts by M. William - again fantastic! Keep up the good work!
  • julesfarr
    One sided take
    If you want to hear a one sided version of the events from the perspective of the Commonwealth this is the show. I don’t believe he took a moment to listen to the defense, using Turtleboy as his only guide. I was disgusted with the take on Proctors texts, and finding a woman who doesn’t mind being called a c**nt being the spokesperson of all women. I was looking for an unbiased take going into the second trial but did not find it here.
  • Mysia5
    Phelps delivers again
    As always, Phelps provides the most objective reporting and analysis on another case. His respectful approach to “both” sides allows the listener to form their own opinion. I truly appreciate his honest reporting style!
  • Jhatf
    Great Show!
    I really like MWP’s presentation and take in the cases.
  • Zilct
    Fantastic
    I loved Paper Ghosts and am now binge listening to Crossing the Line. M. William Phelps is knowledgeable and well spoken. No matter who wants to give him a hard time about his work, he takes a hard look at what he reports and provides the truth. Keep it up, and I’ll recommend to all my friends.
  • GlennBan
    Great listen
    I like William's direct approach getting a lot of information and detail on a story in a short amount of time. Not a lot of fluff, very entertaining and interesting. Highly recommend!
  • Uh🫢Oh
    Biased, Misogynistic, Pathetic, Lazy investigation from a creepy dude
    Terrible “investigation”, biased, dull and boring.
  • IamMN26
    Great!
    I thought this was very factual and well done. Best Karen Read podcast I have heard.
  • grapeape0423
    Very engaging!
    He is one of my favorite podcasters! Keeps me interested-always.
  • Jdjdnd6363
    Unfortunate
    I was looking for an investigative dive into this case that was more critical of innocence or alleged conspiracies unfortunately this was disappointing. Having watched the full first trial and all hearings since, and knowing this podcast was recorded after those dates, it was unfortunate that whole chunks of on the record information were largely ignored or misrepresented. The sound quality was good and it was organized but this podcast wasn’t the investigative work it claimed to be. The journalist actually started to come across hypocritical to me. If you want to fully understand what happened in this case and can’t watch the trial yourself, skip this one.
  • Example3
    Great podcast
    M William Phelps does a great job with this podcast. His insight and experience is professional and very interesting. Enjoy listening… thanks from New Orleans 😊
  • Kmikels
    The Best
    Great podcast! M. William Phelps does an amazing job!!
  • Heather14159
    One of the best
    I love the way Phelps presents each case and the details included. He speaks in a way that tells the facts and gives dignity to the victims and families without giving the limelight to the perpetrators. Great show and I always look forward to each new episode. Keep them coming!!!
  • Jenny6catsMeow
    Researched and respectful.
    I greatly appreciate the empathy M. William Phelps clearly portrays for the victims of these terrible crimes and their families. He doesn’t go about his investigating irresponsibly. He cares ❤️
  • Momma Bear Four
    Great podcast
    Material is presented in a comprehensive and storytelling manner!
  • rayna.macias
    Always a great listen!
    I’ve listened to this show for about 2 years. And unlike most podcasts Phelps presentation of the cases and real understanding of the missing and the murdered is clear. His take and attention to deal breaks down these cases and I know that I’m getting an unbiased opinion. He also always has the upmost respect for the victims and the families.
  • Green jeany beanie
    Awesome!
    Great podcast! Serial listener!
  • Slinayao
    Great podcast!
    Love how knowledgeable & professional he is!
  • Colossally Bad App
    Respectful and Professionally Done
    M. William Phelps makes this series as an old school journalist would have back in the day. As important, he understands what creating a good audio show is all about - having a conversation with the listener. If you are a fan of this genre, you will enjoy this series!
  • Crimdefense3
    The most infuriating podcast
    I am not a part of the free Karen read movement in anyway but I found this podcast’s coverage of this case to be so unprofessional and irresponsible. He misstates so many facts of the case & legal procedure. He uses so many fallacies like I’ve reviewed this many pages of reports so what I’m saying is accurate. I’m a criminal defense attorney and I’m appalled by his reporting. See what I did there (; But anyway as of today Karen read is innocent unless proven guilty because here in America that’s how it works! I have no idea if she did it but what I know is there is a lot of questionable things happening in the investigation and prosecution & I do not believe the state can meet their burden but I do not think anyone would ever know. Shame on MW PHELPS though for tearing apart turtle boy but then produces just as irresponsible “journalism” I hope anyone who listens to this podcast fact checks every single thing this dude says. I wish I could give this podcast negative stars.
  • 1979Camaro
    Fantastic Podcast
    One of the best true crime podcasts and hosts. M. William Phelps is a true victim advocate who shares his knowledge of intriguing cases including open unsolved mysteries.
  • sweaty-sweatier
    Great
    Awesome!
  • Amandaj88
    TB redemption
    I have listened to this podcast for a long time as well as Paper Ghosts. The work on 34 Fairview Lane was phenomenal. Appreciated the HONESTY
  • Edb0047
    Love listening
    Thank you for providing a well researched podcast.
  • Listening right now
    Facts
    One of the things I love about CTL is how facts are driving the narrative. I listen to multiple crime podcasts and this one is unique due to Phelps ability to let facts and evidence tell the story. When he adds his opinion, it’s clear, he doesn’t pretend his opinion is fact. I look forward to each new episode.
  • AJF2025
    Great podcast
    Great podcast for a quick break in the day. The host is enjoyable to listen to and keeps politics out!
  • FlynnyPop
    Superbly Done
    One of my first podcasts and still one of the best. Stands the test of time. Superbly done Mr. Phelps. Five stars!
  • Sac Leader
    New England Good
    Relaxing and terrifying
  • Oilcan4208
    True Crime Specialist
    Thank you for your incredible reporting and passion for the victims!!
  • True crime 💯
    Phelps
    Great podcast! Keeps me constantly entertained in the gym. He’s honest, realistic and never sugar coats anything. Not just entertainment, there’s a lot to learn in life from tragedies if you choose to listen and learn .
  • cwilkins87
    Love
    I love everything M. William Phelps does. He doesn’t apologize for his opinions and tells it like it is. I love it! He is great at what he does!
  • bethanyJK32
    Incredible journalism and podcasting
    34 Fairview is incredible, factual insight into the Karen Read trial that I had never heard. I love his research and deep investigation into the case. True and accurate facts. Not conjecture or conspiracy. Journalism is not dead, thanks to him.
  • K. Nash
    Excellent True Crime Podcast!!
    M William Phelps is by far one of my favorite podcast hosts. Very passionate and empathetic towards the victims. I’m a huge true crime fan and really have a lot of respect for how Phelps tells the stories. Thank you for putting out a great podcast and always looking forward to the next one.
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