Robert Riggs
My deep dive into reporting real-life criminal cases began in 1991 with an investigation into corruption within the Texas Parole Board. This started a ten-year journey that took me into the darkest corners of the prison system, from maximum security units to Texas death row and the Texas Death Chamber.
I sat across the table from some of the most violent and reprehensible criminals in Texas history to expose widespread corruption in the state’s criminal justice system.
Throughout these inquiries, I built a reputation for uncovering wrongdoing, regardless of where it led. I developed a vast network of trusted sources, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, criminal justice experts, crime victims, and convicted criminals.
In my podcast and audiobooks, you'll hear exclusive interviews in police procedurals as I unravel the complexity and gravity of each case. I am deeply fascinated not just by the 'what' and the 'who' but by the often elusive 'why' behind criminal acts. This fascination drives me to dig deeper into each case. Additionally, I feature interviews with true crime authors and reporters about their books and stories.
I draw from my extensive archive of reporters' notebooks to tell true crime stories that might seem familiar at first glance but reveal unexpected and often overlooked aspects of these stories. I take great pleasure in bringing these historical stories back to life, adding a new dimension to the understanding of these cases.
As the creator of the True Crime Reporter® podcast, Texas Crime Stories Audiobooks, and the "Freed To Kill" Television documentary series, I employ an immersive, investigative, and deeply human storytelling style.
Here are the key elements of his approach:
Immersive Reporting - I take my audience inside the crime scene tape, providing a vivid, first-hand investigation experience. My storytelling is detailed and descriptive, allowing listeners and viewers to feel as if they are part of the unfolding story.
Investigative Depth—Drawing on my extensive background as an investigative reporter, I delve deeply into each case. I meticulously uncover details, often exposing corruption, procedural failures, or overlooked evidence. My thorough research ensures that the stories are comprehensive and well-supported by facts.
Human Focus—I emphasize the human element in my stories. I explore the lives of victims, their families, law enforcement officers, and even the criminals themselves. This approach adds emotional depth and relatability, helping my audience connect with the people behind the headlines.
Police Procedurals – Many of my stories follow the format of police procedurals, detailing the step-by-step process of how investigators solve cases. I provide insights into the methods and technologies used by law enforcement, offering an educational aspect to my storytelling.
Psychological Exploration – I am fascinated by what drives serial killers and criminal psychopaths. I delve into the "why" behind the crimes, exploring the psychological and sociological factors contributing to criminal behavior.
Exclusive Interviews – My access to key figures, including law enforcement officers, prosecutors, crime victims, and even convicted criminals, allows me to provide authenticity and depth, enriching the narrative with diverse perspectives.
Historical Context – I often bring historical stories back to life, providing context and background that enhance the understanding of contemporary cases. My storytelling connects past and present, showing how historical events influence modern criminal justice issues.
Engaging Narrative—Listeners and viewers say my style is engaging and compelling. It is often characterized by a narrative drive that keeps the audience hooked.
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