This week we talk about one of the most infamous and horrific True Crime cases in American History. Dean Corll was a man beloved by many in the Houston Heights area, he earned the nickname "The Candyman" due to the sweets he would hand out to the local children from his family's candy factory. But when he would turn up murdered, his death would unravel one of the most twisted and macabre discoveries as the bodies over 28 young men would be unearthed.

This episode of Beers with Queers delves into the tragic case of Michelle Mitchell, whose disappearance and murder in 1976 led to the wrongful conviction of Kathy Woods. The conversation explores the complexities of true crime, queer history, and the justice system, highlighting the emotional toll of researching such cases. The hosts discuss the investigation, the confession of Kathy Woods, her mental health struggles, and the eventual exoneration that revealed the true killer, Rodney Halbower. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding wrongful convictions and the impact of societal biases on justice.

Welcome to Beers With Queers, the true crime podcast where we invite you to crack open a cold one (unless you are driving) and dive into the darkest, most twisted cases and involving the LGBTQ+ community and always with a queer perspective. Hosted by Jordi and Brad, we cover everything from notorious serial killers to unsolved mysteries, cults, and bizarre crimes, all while you sit back sipping your favorite brews.

Join us for in-depth storytelling, chilling details, queer history and really gay commentary. So whether you're here for the crimes, the beers, or the queers, you're in the right place. So, grab a drink, get cozy, and let’s talk true crime!

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Cheers, queers! 🍻✨

Takeaways:

True crime can be emotionally taxing for researchers.

The Cambridge Five case illustrates the intersection of queer history and espionage.

Michelle Mitchell's case involved a brutal murder and a long investigation.

Kathy Woods' confession was influenced by her mental health issues.

The justice system often overlooks mental health in criminal cases.

The Gypsy Hill murders were linked to Michelle's case years later.

Kathy Woods was wrongfully convicted for 35 years.

New DNA evidence ultimately exonerated Kathy Woods.

Rodney Halbower was identified as the true killer.

Wrongful convictions highlight flaws in the justice system.

Key Words:

true crime, queer history, wrongful conviction, Michelle Mitchell, Kathy Woods, Gypsy Hill murders, serial killer, LGBTQ+ issues, mental health, justice system, Rodney Halbower

Five elite students. A secret pact. A betrayal that shook the world.

In the heart of Cambridge University during the Cold War, a group of brilliant young men—some queer, some closeted, all conflicted—secretly pledged their loyalty to the Soviet Union. The result? One of the most infamous espionage rings in British history. In this episode, we trace the double lives, dangerous secrets, and lavender ties of the Cambridge Five.

This queer history podcast episode explores how class, sexuality, and secrecy collided in a scandal that revealed more than just treason—it exposed a society built on denial.

Hosted by Jordi and Brad, Beers With Queers brings chilling crimes, queer stories, and twisted justice to light—all with a cold one in hand.

Press play, grab a drink, and join us as we uncover the darkest corners of LGBTQ+ history.