Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet a True Crime Podcast

Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet a True Crime Podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/black-coffee-crime-and-crochet--6757382enTrue CrimeCopyright Jasmine Princehttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c4570d781327e86c3fbf6469f4a99b7f.jpgBlack Coffee, Crime, and Crochet a True Crime Podcasthttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/black-coffee-crime-and-crochet--6757382Mon, 31 Aug 2026 14:11:17 +0000Jasmine PrinceJasmine Princeblackcoffeecrimeandcrochet@gmail.comBlack Coffee, Crime, and Crochet (BC³) is where true crime meets cozy vibes. Hosted by Jasmine C.L. Prince, this podcast unravels the wildest frauds, scams, and crimes committed by Black women and men—while sipping iced coffee and crocheting. From...false398e282d-c665-545f-bb13-63dc6e437124episodic🎙️Episode 28: Fraud, Family & False Success: The Brandon Simms Storyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-28-fraud-family-false-success-the-brandon-simms-story--71063953EPISODE DESCRIPTION

What happens when healthcare turns into a hustle? In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, we’re breaking down the $12 million Medicaid fraud scheme led by Brandon Sims and members of his own family. This case goes beyond fraud. It raises questions about trust, image, and the systems meant to protect vulnerable communities. Reports suggest Sims also presented himself as a successful entrepreneur, adding another layer to a story that already feels too calculated to be coincidence.

We’re unpacking:

How the scheme worked
The role of family in the operation
The real impact of Medicaid fraud
And how image can be used to build credibility in scams

Plus, this week’s iced coffee is The Paper Trail Latte; and yes, the full recipe is below
When does a hustle become harm?

Main Topics Covered:

Overview of the $12 million Medicaid fraud scheme
How Medicaid fraud operations typically work
The involvement of multiple family members
The role of perceived success and public image
The broader impact on patients and healthcare systems

Iced Coffee of the Week: The Paper Trail Latte
Flavor vibe: smooth, rich, layered… but a little sneaky

Ingredients (24 oz)

2 tsp Nescafé Blonde (or mocha for a deeper flavor)
3 oz hot water
1 oz vanilla syrup (use your Mexican vanilla 👀)
1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
1 tbsp dulce de leche sauce (plus extra for lining the cup)
Ice (ALWAYS last, we stand on that)
Oat milk (fill to top)

Optional Cold Foam

2 oz half & half
Splash of vanilla syrup

Instructions

Dissolve instant coffee in hot water
Stir in vanilla syrup + condensed milk
Line your cup with dulce de leche
Fill cup with ice
Pour coffee mixture over ice
Top with oat milk
Add cold foam and drizzle more dulce de leche on top

Sip or Spill Question
If someone builds an image of success while committing fraud behind the scenes… Is that just part of the scam, or does it cross into something deeper?

SUPPORT THE SHOW
Follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who thinks online romance fraud could never happen to them.

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

SOURCES

U.S. Department of Justice press releases
Local Houston news coverage
Court documents and indictments
Public records related to Medicaid fraud investigations

DISCLAIMER
This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information is based on publicly available sources. Allegations discussed are based on reported findings and legal proceedings. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71063953Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:02:12 +0000Jasmine PrinceEPISODE DESCRIPTION What happens when healthcare turns into a hustle? In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, we’re breaking down the $12 million Medicaid fraud scheme led by Brandon Sims and members of his own family. This case goes...EPISODE DESCRIPTION

What happens when healthcare turns into a hustle? In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, we’re breaking down the $12 million Medicaid fraud scheme led by Brandon Sims and members of his own family. This case goes beyond fraud. It raises questions about trust, image, and the systems meant to protect vulnerable communities. Reports suggest Sims also presented himself as a successful entrepreneur, adding another layer to a story that already feels too calculated to be coincidence.

We’re unpacking:

How the scheme worked
The role of family in the operation
The real impact of Medicaid fraud
And how image can be used to build credibility in scams

Plus, this week’s iced coffee is The Paper Trail Latte; and yes, the full recipe is below
When does a hustle become harm?

Main Topics Covered:

Overview of the $12 million Medicaid fraud scheme
How Medicaid fraud operations typically work
The involvement of multiple family members
The role of perceived success and public image
The broader impact on patients and healthcare systems

Iced Coffee of the Week: The Paper Trail Latte
Flavor vibe: smooth, rich, layered… but a little sneaky

Ingredients (24 oz)

2 tsp Nescafé Blonde (or mocha for a deeper flavor)
3 oz hot water
1 oz vanilla syrup (use your Mexican vanilla 👀)
1 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
1 tbsp dulce de leche sauce (plus extra for lining the cup)
Ice (ALWAYS last, we stand on that)
Oat milk (fill to top)

Optional Cold Foam

2 oz half & half
Splash of vanilla syrup

Instructions

Dissolve instant coffee in hot water
Stir in vanilla syrup + condensed milk
Line your cup with dulce de leche
Fill cup with ice
Pour coffee mixture over ice
Top with oat milk
Add cold foam and drizzle more dulce de leche on top

U.S. Department of Justice press releases
Local Houston news coverage
Court documents and indictments
Public records related to Medicaid fraud investigations

DISCLAIMER
This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only. All information is based on publicly available sources. Allegations discussed are based on reported findings and legal proceedings. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research.]]>2075blackcrimestories,blackpodcasters,blacktruecrime,cozytruecrime,crimepodcast,crimestorytelling,crochetpodcast,financialcrimes,fraudcase,healthcarefraud,houstontexas,icedcoffeepodcast,medicaidfraud,realcrimestories,scamstories,storytellingpodcast,texascrime,truecrime,truecrimepodcast,whitecollarcrimefalse28full🎙️Episode 27 ENCORE: Swipe, Seduce, Scam: The Daylon Pierce Storyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-27-encore-swipe-seduce-scam-the-daylon-pierce-story--70214090
An don't worry, a brand new episode is coming this Tuesday as we continue the Love, Lies, and Laundering series. You do not want to miss what’s next.

Daylon Pierce wasn’t your average online dater. He posed as a wealthy stockbroker looking for love… and ended up scamming multiple women out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.In this episode, Jasmine unpacks the charming deception, the heartbreak, and the massive financial fraud behind Pierce’s “romance investments.”

Plus: iced coffee vibes, a crochet update, and a conversation about why judging scam victims misses the point. We’re sipping Sweet Talker Lattes and stitching our way through the twisted tale of Daylon Pierce, an Arizona-based romance scammer who used dating apps to charm, manipulate, and con multiple women out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.I’m breaking down:

How Daylon Pierce built his fake financial empire on lies and love-bombing

The women who trusted him and what they lost

How he was caught and sentenced

How Daylon Pierce built his fake financial empire on lies and love-bombing

The women who trusted him and what they lost

How he was caught and sentenced

This episode is part true crime deep-dive, part love life PSA; so grab your iced coffee, your latest WIP, and settle in. Drink of the Episode: Sweet Talker Latte (caramel, cinnamon, vanilla)

SUPPORT THE SHOW
Follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who thinks online romance fraud could never happen to them.

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE]]>3741blacktruecrime,catchup,daylonpierce,encoreepisode,financialfraud,fraudstory,lovelieslaundering,romancefraud,romancescams,scamseries,truecrimepodcast,whitecollarcrimefalse217full🎙️Episode 26: Love, Lies, and Laundering Series Part 2: Badetito Obafemi and the Money Mule Networkhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-26-love-lies-and-laundering-series-part-2-badetito-obafemi-and-the-money-mule-network--69966246
In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we continue the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Badetito Obafemi, a Georgia man who acted as a money mule in a multi state romance fraud scheme.

From 2016 to 2018, victims in Missouri, Minnesota, and New Jersey believed they were sending money to men they loved. Instead, more than $300,000 was routed through bank accounts tied to Obafemi and his businesses. He did not write the love letters, but he made sure the money moved.

This episode breaks down how the scam worked, how smaller operators fit inside larger international fraud networks, and why money mules are critical to keeping romance scams alive.

We examine the investigation, indictment, guilty plea, and sentencing, and discuss what this case reveals about the business side of emotional exploitation.

This is Week 2 of the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series.

In this episode, we examine the role of Badetito Obafemi in a romance fraud ring that targeted vulnerable victims across multiple states.

Victims were contacted through social media and dating platforms and convinced they were in legitimate romantic relationships. Over time, they were manipulated into sending large sums of money to help with fabricated emergencies, overseas business ventures, medical crises, and legal troubles.

Rather than wiring funds directly overseas, victims were instructed to send money to U.S. based bank accounts controlled by Obafemi. Through personal and business accounts, he laundered more than $300,000 in victim funds before distributing the proceeds to co conspirators and keeping a portion for himself.

In 2021, a federal grand jury indicted Obafemi on multiple fraud and money laundering charges. In 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. In 2025, he was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $311,000 in restitution.

This episode explores how romance scams function as organized financial systems and why money mules play a crucial role in sustaining international fraud networks.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER

How romance scammers build trust with victims
The role of money mules in fraud operations
Shell companies and laundering tactics
The multi state impact of the scheme
Federal investigation and sentencing
Why smaller operators still cause large harm

ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Iced Latte
This one tastes like dessert in a glass. Sweet. Smooth. Slightly rich. Exactly the kind of drink that makes you forget you are about to hear about financial crimes.
Ingredients
1 cup strong cold brew or double strength coffee, fully chilled
1 cup ice
3/4 cup oat milk or milk of choice
1 oz Torani Cheesecake Syrup
1/2 oz vanilla bean syrup
1 tablespoon half and half or heavy cream
Optional whipped cream
Instructions
Fill a tall glass with ice.
Pour the cold brew over the ice.
Add 1 oz Torani Cheesecake Syrup.
Add 1/2 oz vanilla bean syrup.
Pour in the oat milk.
Add the half and half for extra richness.
Stir thoroughly until everything is fully combined.
Top with whipped cream if you want the full bakery experience.
It is sweet. It is comforting. It feels indulgent.
But underneath that sweetness is a reminder that not everything that looks rich is built honestly.

SUPPORT THE SHOW
Follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who thinks online romance fraud could never happen to them.

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

SOURCES

United States Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Missouri.
“Georgia Man Sentenced for Role in $300,000 Romance Fraud Scheme.” Press release, April 9, 2025.
United States Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Missouri.
“Georgia Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Romance Fraud Scheme.” Press release, April 18, 2024.
United States Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Missouri.
“Georgia Man Indicted for Role in Romance Fraud Scheme.” Press release, July 27, 2021.
United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri.
United States v. Badetito Oluwaseun Obafemi. Case filings, indictment, plea agreement, and sentencing documents.
Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Public statements related to romance scams and the Money Mule Initiative.
United States Department of Justice.
Money Mule Initiative announcements and enforcement summaries.
Federal Trade Commission.
Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book, reports on romance scam losses and trends.
Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Internet Crime Complaint Center Annual Reports on romance fraud statistics.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69966246Wed, 11 Feb 2026 02:16:07 +0000Jasmine PrinceRomance scammers do not just rely on fake profiles and sweet messages. They rely on infrastructure. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we continue the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Badetito Obafemi, a Georgia...
In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we continue the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Badetito Obafemi, a Georgia man who acted as a money mule in a multi state romance fraud scheme.

From 2016 to 2018, victims in Missouri, Minnesota, and New Jersey believed they were sending money to men they loved. Instead, more than $300,000 was routed through bank accounts tied to Obafemi and his businesses. He did not write the love letters, but he made sure the money moved.

This episode breaks down how the scam worked, how smaller operators fit inside larger international fraud networks, and why money mules are critical to keeping romance scams alive.

We examine the investigation, indictment, guilty plea, and sentencing, and discuss what this case reveals about the business side of emotional exploitation.

This is Week 2 of the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series.

In this episode, we examine the role of Badetito Obafemi in a romance fraud ring that targeted vulnerable victims across multiple states.

Victims were contacted through social media and dating platforms and convinced they were in legitimate romantic relationships. Over time, they were manipulated into sending large sums of money to help with fabricated emergencies, overseas business ventures, medical crises, and legal troubles.

Rather than wiring funds directly overseas, victims were instructed to send money to U.S. based bank accounts controlled by Obafemi. Through personal and business accounts, he laundered more than $300,000 in victim funds before distributing the proceeds to co conspirators and keeping a portion for himself.

In 2021, a federal grand jury indicted Obafemi on multiple fraud and money laundering charges. In 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. In 2025, he was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and ordered to pay more than $311,000 in restitution.

This episode explores how romance scams function as organized financial systems and why money mules play a crucial role in sustaining international fraud networks.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER

How romance scammers build trust with victims
The role of money mules in fraud operations
Shell companies and laundering tactics
The multi state impact of the scheme
Federal investigation and sentencing
Why smaller operators still cause large harm

ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE

Vanilla Bean Cheesecake Iced Latte
This one tastes like dessert in a glass. Sweet. Smooth. Slightly rich. Exactly the kind of drink that makes you forget you are about to hear about financial crimes.
Ingredients
1 cup strong cold brew or double strength coffee, fully chilled
1 cup ice
3/4 cup oat milk or milk of choice
1 oz Torani Cheesecake Syrup
1/2 oz vanilla bean syrup
1 tablespoon half and half or heavy cream
Optional whipped cream
Instructions
Fill a tall glass with ice.
Pour the cold brew over the ice.
Add 1 oz Torani Cheesecake Syrup.
Add 1/2 oz vanilla bean syrup.
Pour in the oat milk.
Add the half and half for extra richness.
Stir thoroughly until everything is fully combined.
Top with whipped cream if you want the full bakery experience.
It is sweet. It is comforting. It feels indulgent.
But underneath that sweetness is a reminder that not everything that looks rich is built honestly.

SUPPORT THE SHOW
Follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone who thinks online romance fraud could never happen to them.

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: 2329blacktruecrime,elderfraud,financialcrime,fraudcase,moneylaundering,moneymule,onlinefraud,romancescam,scamawareness,truecrimepodcast,whitecollarcrimefalse216full🎙️Episode 25: Love, Lies, and Laundering Series Part 1: Nadine Jazimne Wade and the Business of Romance Fraudhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-25-love-lies-and-laundering-series-part-1-nadine-jazimne-wade-and-the-business-of-romance-fraud--69750613In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we open the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Nadine Jazimne Wade, a Bronx woman who laundered millions of dollars for an international romance scam ring.

Prosecutors say Wade used shell companies and bank accounts to move more than two million dollars taken from victims who believed they were helping someone they loved. She did not catfish the victims herself, but her role made the scheme possible by turning emotional manipulation into usable cash.

This episode breaks down how the laundering operation worked, how the larger fraud ring functioned, and why her sentence mattered in the broader fight against romance fraud. It also examines why this case stands out and what it reveals about the infrastructure behind online romance scams.

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we begin the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Nadine Jazimne Wade. Wade was convicted for laundering millions of dollars connected to an international romance fraud operation. While victims believed they were sending money to someone they loved, prosecutors say their funds were being routed through bank accounts and shell companies controlled by Wade and her associates.

This episode explores how romance scams depend on more than just fake profiles and emotional manipulation. It examines the financial infrastructure behind these schemes and the role played by people who never spoke to the victims but made the crimes possible.

We break down Wade’s background, her involvement in the laundering network, how the larger fraud ring operated, and how federal investigators uncovered the scheme. We also discuss why her sentence was significant and what her case reveals about the hidden business side of romance fraud.

This episode sets the foundation for understanding how love based scams function as organized financial systems rather than isolated acts of deception.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER

The structure of international romance scam rings
How money laundering supports online fraud
Nadine Jazimne Wade’s role in moving stolen funds
The use of shell companies and bank accounts
Federal charges and sentencing
Why this case stands out in romance fraud prosecutions

ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE

The False Promise Latte
Strong coffee, vanilla syrup, caramel syrup, oat milk, ice, and a pinch of sea salt.

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

Sources:
U.S. Department of Justice, Southern District of New York – Press Release: Bronx Woman Sentenced To 63 Months In Prison For Laundering Over $2 Million For African Romance Scammers (May 28, 2025)
U.S. Department of Justice, Southern District of New York – Press Release: 6 Defendants Charged With Laundering Millions Of Dollars In Proceeds Derived From Romance Scams (June 2, 2021)
Audacy/1010 WINS News – Bronx woman guilty in $2M fake romance scheme, used 'Francisco' alias to scam elderly (2025)
Inner City Press – After Romance Scam Guilty Verdict in SDNY… (Trial coverage by Matthew Russell Lee, Dec 2023)
The Federal Newswire – Bronx woman sentenced for laundering over $2 million in romance scam (May 28, 2025)
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69750613Tue, 03 Feb 2026 06:00:10 +0000Jasmine PrinceRomance scams are usually framed as lonely people tricked by fake lovers online. But behind those fake profiles are real systems moving real money. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we open the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series...In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we open the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Nadine Jazimne Wade, a Bronx woman who laundered millions of dollars for an international romance scam ring.

Prosecutors say Wade used shell companies and bank accounts to move more than two million dollars taken from victims who believed they were helping someone they loved. She did not catfish the victims herself, but her role made the scheme possible by turning emotional manipulation into usable cash.

This episode breaks down how the laundering operation worked, how the larger fraud ring functioned, and why her sentence mattered in the broader fight against romance fraud. It also examines why this case stands out and what it reveals about the infrastructure behind online romance scams.

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we begin the Love, Lies, and Laundering Series with the case of Nadine Jazimne Wade. Wade was convicted for laundering millions of dollars connected to an international romance fraud operation. While victims believed they were sending money to someone they loved, prosecutors say their funds were being routed through bank accounts and shell companies controlled by Wade and her associates.

This episode explores how romance scams depend on more than just fake profiles and emotional manipulation. It examines the financial infrastructure behind these schemes and the role played by people who never spoke to the victims but made the crimes possible.

We break down Wade’s background, her involvement in the laundering network, how the larger fraud ring operated, and how federal investigators uncovered the scheme. We also discuss why her sentence was significant and what her case reveals about the hidden business side of romance fraud.

This episode sets the foundation for understanding how love based scams function as organized financial systems rather than isolated acts of deception.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER

The structure of international romance scam rings
How money laundering supports online fraud
Nadine Jazimne Wade’s role in moving stolen funds
The use of shell companies and bank accounts
Federal charges and sentencing
Why this case stands out in romance fraud prosecutions

ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE

The False Promise Latte
Strong coffee, vanilla syrup, caramel syrup, oat milk, ice, and a pinch of sea salt.

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

Sources:

U.S. Department of Justice, Southern District of New York – Press Release: Bronx Woman Sentenced To 63 Months In Prison For Laundering Over $2 Million For African Romance Scammers (May 28, 2025)

U.S. Department of Justice, Southern District of New York – Press Release: 6 Defendants Charged With Laundering Millions Of Dollars In Proceeds Derived...]]>2703blacktruecrime,financialcrime,fraudcase,identityfraud,lovescam,moneylaundering,onlinefraud,romancescam,scamawareness,truecrimepodcast,whitecollarcrimefalse215full🎙️Episode 24: New Year, Same Scams Series - Episode 4: Brittish Williams and the Cost of Shortcutshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-24-new-year-same-scams-series-episode-4-brittish-williams-and-the-cost-of-shortcuts--69630668If you'd like to fill out the listener survey for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card, or just to help me out, you can do so HERE

EPISODE DESCRIPTION

Brittish Williams built a public image as a reality TV star and entrepreneur, but behind the scenes she was committing years of financial fraud involving stolen Social Security numbers, false tax filings, and pandemic loan programs.

In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we revisit Brittish Williams now that her story has reached a new chapter after her release from federal prison. We break down how her schemes worked, the charges she faced, and the sentence that followed.

We also include background Brittish shared in her interview with Carlos King, where she talked about her upbringing, family instability, college struggles, and how a gambling addiction shaped her financial decisions.

This episode closes out the New Year, Same Scams series with a case that sits at the intersection of fame, desperation, and internet hustle culture.

SHOW NOTES

In this episode, we examine the rise and fall of Brittish Williams, from reality television to federal court, as the final chapter of the New Year, Same Scams series.

Brittish Williams became known through Basketball Wives LA and later built a brand as a businesswoman and radio personality. While presenting a successful public image, she was also engaged in multiple fraud schemes that spanned several years.

Federal investigators charged her with bank fraud, wire fraud, misuse of Social Security numbers, and making false statements to the IRS. Prosecutors said she used fake identities to open credit lines and bank accounts, lied on tax returns, submitted false medical claims, and fraudulently obtained pandemic relief funds.

This episode also draws from Brittish Williams’ interview with Carlos King, where she described her upbringing, her college plans, and the moment her education derailed when her mother stopped her student loan. She also spoke openly about her gambling addiction and how it influenced her financial behavior.

As the closing episode of the New Year, Same Scams series, this case brings together many of the themes explored throughout the season, including credit fraud, identity misuse, lifestyle pressure, and the normalization of financial shortcuts online.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER

Brittish Williams’ background and early life
Her rise through reality television and entrepreneurship
The fraud schemes involving Social Security numbers, banks, and tax filings
Pandemic loan and rent relief fraud
Her sentencing and early release
Her own explanations from the Carlos King interview
Why this case closes out the New Year, Same Scams series

ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE

Second Chance Iced Latte
Strong coffee, brown sugar syrup, oat milk, cinnamon, and ice.

SIP OR SPILL

Does serving time mean someone deserves a clean slate, or does financial crime permanently change how we see them?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

If you know someone who is working on their credit, thinking about credit repair, or needs to hear this episode before paying someone promising fast results, share it with them. That matters more than you think.

SOURCES

United States Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Missouri.
Press releases and court documents regarding the indictment, guilty plea, sentencing, and restitution order for Brittish Williams.
United States District Court, Eastern District of Missouri.
Criminal case filings, plea agreement, and sentencing memorandum in United States v. Brittish Williams.
Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Public statements and investigative summaries related to the fraud schemes involving pandemic relief funds and synthetic identity fraud.
Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division.
Guidance and reporting on tax fraud and misuse of Social Security numbers tied to the case.
Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General.
Public warnings and documentation on misuse of Social Security numbers and identity based fraud schemes.
St. Louis Post Dispatch.
Coverage of Brittish Williams’ indictment, guilty plea, sentencing, and appeal.
Associated Press.
Reporting on Brittish Williams’ fraud conviction and federal prison sentence.
Forbes, Frank McKenna.
Analysis articles on synthetic identity fraud and Credit Privacy Numbers.
VH1 and Basketball Wives LA.
Public background information on Brittish Williams’ media career.
Carlos King interview with Brittish Williams.
Primary source interview discussing her upbringing, education, gambling addiction, and explanations of her financial decisions.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69630668Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:00:36 +0000Jasmine PrinceIf you'd like to fill out the listener survey for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card, or just to help me out, you can do so https://bit.ly/BC3Survey EPISODE DESCRIPTION Brittish Williams built a public image as a reality TV star and...If you'd like to fill out the listener survey for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card, or just to help me out, you can do so HERE

EPISODE DESCRIPTION

Brittish Williams built a public image as a reality TV star and entrepreneur, but behind the scenes she was committing years of financial fraud involving stolen Social Security numbers, false tax filings, and pandemic loan programs.

In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we revisit Brittish Williams now that her story has reached a new chapter after her release from federal prison. We break down how her schemes worked, the charges she faced, and the sentence that followed.

We also include background Brittish shared in her interview with Carlos King, where she talked about her upbringing, family instability, college struggles, and how a gambling addiction shaped her financial decisions.

This episode closes out the New Year, Same Scams series with a case that sits at the intersection of fame, desperation, and internet hustle culture.

SHOW NOTES

In this episode, we examine the rise and fall of Brittish Williams, from reality television to federal court, as the final chapter of the New Year, Same Scams series.

Brittish Williams became known through Basketball Wives LA and later built a brand as a businesswoman and radio personality. While presenting a successful public image, she was also engaged in multiple fraud schemes that spanned several years.

Federal investigators charged her with bank fraud, wire fraud, misuse of Social Security numbers, and making false statements to the IRS. Prosecutors said she used fake identities to open credit lines and bank accounts, lied on tax returns, submitted false medical claims, and fraudulently obtained pandemic relief funds.

This episode also draws from Brittish Williams’ interview with Carlos King, where she described her upbringing, her college plans, and the moment her education derailed when her mother stopped her student loan. She also spoke openly about her gambling addiction and how it influenced her financial behavior.

As the closing episode of the New Year, Same Scams series, this case brings together many of the themes explored throughout the season, including credit fraud, identity misuse, lifestyle pressure, and the normalization of financial shortcuts online.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER

Brittish Williams’ background and early life
Her rise through reality television and entrepreneurship
The fraud schemes involving Social Security numbers, banks, and tax filings
Pandemic loan and rent relief fraud
Her sentencing and early release
Her own explanations from the Carlos King interview
Why this case closes out the New Year, Same Scams series

ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE

Second Chance Iced Latte
Strong coffee, brown sugar syrup, oat milk, cinnamon, and ice.

SIP OR SPILL

Does serving time mean someone deserves a clean slate, or does financial crime permanently change how we see them?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify....]]>3277basketballwives,blacktruecrime,cpn,creditfraud,financialcrime,fraudcase,identitytheft,newyear,pandemicfraud,realitytvcrime,samescams,truecrime,whitecollarcrime,wirefraudfalse214full🎙️Episode 23: New Year, Same Scams Series - Episode 3: The “Medicaid” CPN Ringhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-23-new-year-same-scams-series-episode-3-the-medicaid-cpn-ring--69539652EPISODE DESCRIPTION

Credit Privacy Numbers are often sold as a shortcut to financial freedom, privacy, and a clean slate. But when CPNs move beyond credit repair scams and into government programs like Medicaid, the consequences turn federal fast. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we break down the Medicaid CPN ring and how synthetic identities were created using stolen personal information. We explain what CPNs really are, how they are marketed online, why they are illegal, and how they were used to exploit Medicaid systems and financial institutions. We walk through how these schemes operate, who they harm, and why both the sellers and users of CPNs face serious criminal charges. This episode also explores how desperation, misinformation, and social media hustle culture blur the line between empowerment and fraud. Grab your iced coffee, because this one is layered.

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we take a deep dive into the world of CPNs and how they crossed over from credit repair scams into full blown Medicaid fraud. What starts as a promise of financial privacy quickly turns into identity theft, synthetic identities, and federal charges. We break down how Credit Privacy Numbers are marketed online, why they are illegal, and how they were used to exploit Medicaid systems and vulnerable populations. This episode walks through the mechanics of the Medicaid CPN ring, how stolen identities were used to create fake profiles, and how federal investigators unraveled the scheme. We also talk about the real consequences for both the people running these operations and the unsuspecting individuals whose identities were pulled into the fraud. As always, we pause for iced coffee, unpack the ethics behind so called financial shortcuts, and ask whether the internet has normalized fraud under the banner of empowerment.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER
- What CPNs actually are and where they came from
- Why CPNs are illegal under federal law
- How CPNs connect to synthetic identity fraud
- How Medicaid data was exploited in this ring
- The difference between credit repair and credit fraud
- Why these schemes disproportionately impact Black and low income communities
- What federal charges typically follow CPN related fraud
ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Iced Shaken Espresso Strong coffee, brown sugar, cinnamon, oat milk, and ice. Sweet, bold, and a little shady.

SIP OR SPILL: Is using a CPN really taking control of your financial future, or is it fraud wrapped in good marketing?

LISTENER SURVEY
Your voice matters. Take the listener survey linked below to help shape future episodes, series topics, and bonus content. The survey is anonymous and helps keep the podcast aligned with what you actually want to hear.
Fill it out HERE for a chance to win the $20 Amazon Gift Card.

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram: Follow Me
FB: Follow Me
TikTok: Follow Me
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

If you know someone who is working on their credit, thinking about credit repair, or needs to hear this episode before paying someone promising fast results, share it with them. That matters more than you think.

SOURCES
United States Department of Justice, U.S. Attorney’s Office. Press release detailing conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft involving synthetic identities and CPNs tied to Medicaid recipients.
United States Department of Justice. Criminal information and plea agreements related to the Medicaid synthetic identity fraud scheme involving stolen personal data.
Federal Trade Commission. Consumer warnings on Credit Privacy Numbers, file segregation, and new credit identity scams.
Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Reports and analysis on synthetic identity fraud and misuse of Social Security numbers in credit systems.
Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. Public guidance on misuse of Social Security numbers and identity theft schemes.
Forbes, Frank McKenna. Articles detailing the origin of CPNs and their connection to synthetic identity fraud.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Educational resources on credit repair scams and identity theft.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69539652Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:10:57 +0000
Jasmine PrinceEPISODE DESCRIPTION Credit Privacy Numbers are often sold as a shortcut to financial freedom, privacy, and a clean slate. But when CPNs move beyond credit repair scams and into government programs like Medicaid, the consequences turn federal fast....EPISODE DESCRIPTION

Credit Privacy Numbers are often sold as a shortcut to financial freedom, privacy, and a clean slate. But when CPNs move beyond credit repair scams and into government programs like Medicaid, the consequences turn federal fast. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we break down the Medicaid CPN ring and how synthetic identities were created using stolen personal information. We explain what CPNs really are, how they are marketed online, why they are illegal, and how they were used to exploit Medicaid systems and financial institutions. We walk through how these schemes operate, who they harm, and why both the sellers and users of CPNs face serious criminal charges. This episode also explores how desperation, misinformation, and social media hustle culture blur the line between empowerment and fraud. Grab your iced coffee, because this one is layered.

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we take a deep dive into the world of CPNs and how they crossed over from credit repair scams into full blown Medicaid fraud. What starts as a promise of financial privacy quickly turns into identity theft, synthetic identities, and federal charges. We break down how Credit Privacy Numbers are marketed online, why they are illegal, and how they were used to exploit Medicaid systems and vulnerable populations. This episode walks through the mechanics of the Medicaid CPN ring, how stolen identities were used to create fake profiles, and how federal investigators unraveled the scheme. We also talk about the real consequences for both the people running these operations and the unsuspecting individuals whose identities were pulled into the fraud. As always, we pause for iced coffee, unpack the ethics behind so called financial shortcuts, and ask whether the internet has normalized fraud under the banner of empowerment.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE COVER
What CPNs actually are and where they came from
Why CPNs are illegal under federal law
How CPNs connect to synthetic identity fraud
How Medicaid data was exploited in this ring
The difference between credit repair and credit fraud
Why these schemes disproportionately impact Black and low income communities
What federal charges typically follow CPN related fraud
ICED COFFEE OF THE EPISODE
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Iced Shaken Espresso Strong coffee, brown sugar, cinnamon, oat milk, and ice. Sweet, bold, and a little shady.

SIP OR SPILL: Is using a CPN really taking control of your financial future, or is it fraud wrapped in good marketing?

LISTENER SURVEY
Your voice matters. Take the listener survey linked below to help shape future episodes, series topics, and bonus content. The survey is anonymous and helps keep the podcast aligned with what you actually want to hear.
Fill it out HERE for a chance to win the $20 Amazon Gift Card.

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram: Follow Me
FB: Follow Me
TikTok: Follow Me
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: 3121blacktruecrime,cpn,creditfraud,creditrepair,financialcrime,financialliteracy,fraudawareness,governmentfraud,identitytheft,investigation,medicaidfraud,scams,syntheticidentity,truecrime,whitecollarcrimefalse213full🎙️Episode 22: New Year, Same Scams Series - Episode 2:The Credit Repair Operation That Rewrote the Ruleshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-22-new-year-same-scams-series-episode-2-the-credit-repair-operation-that-rewrote-the-rules--69412387HEY BC3 CREW!

Last week I uploaded the listener survey last week but hadn't considered BOTS. I guess that means I made it lol. But if you tried filling it out last week and saw that it wasn't accepting responses, that's because I had to figure out how to weed them out. Hopefully, it's figured out now so PLEASE fill it out for me and be entered into the gift card giveaway! You can fill it out HERE

Okay now back to business!

Banks and lenders rely on accurate information from credit bureaus to decide who gets approved and who gets denied. But what happens when the people feeding information into that system decide to lie for profit? In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, Jasmine continues the New Year, Same Scams series by breaking down the operation run by Edwin Jacquet and Denise Hudson.

Working through two companies, Highway Furniture and New York Funding Group, they became official data furnishers with credit bureaus and used that access to add fake positive tradelines, erase real negative accounts, and artificially inflate thousands of credit scores. The scheme allowed customers to qualify for tens of millions of dollars in loans, mortgages, credit cards, and financing they never should have received.

When the debts went bad, lenders were left with more than nine million dollars in losses, and the conspirators ended up in federal prison. This episode explains how the scheme worked, how they gained access to the credit system, why the fraud went undetected for so long, and what it means for anyone tempted to pay for shortcuts to a better credit score.

In today’s episode, Jasmine takes listeners inside the credit system itself. Instead of disputing accounts from the outside, this case focuses on what happens when fraudsters sit in the same position as legitimate lenders and abuse that power to manipulate credit reports for money.

Iced Coffee of the Week

Clean Slate Caramel Cold Brew Ingredients:
1 to 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
Ice
6 ounces strong cold brew or chilled coffee
4 ounces milk or non dairy milk
1 to 2 teaspoons vanilla syrup
Instructions:
Add the caramel sauce to the bottom of your cup.
Add a handful of ice.
Pour in the cold brew.
Add the milk.
Stir until the caramel dissolves into the drink.
Taste and adjust sweetness with vanilla syrup if needed.
Optional: Drizzle more caramel around the inside of the cup before adding ice for a layered look.

This episode covers the multi year credit fraud scheme created by Edwin Jacquet and Denise Hudson through their companies, Highway Furniture and New York Funding Group. By becoming official data furnishers, they gained the ability to report account information directly to credit bureaus. Once inside the system, they created fake tradelines showing perfect payment history for customers who had never opened those accounts.

They also used dispute tools to remove or alter legitimate negative information. The result was a sudden jump in clients’ credit scores, allowing them to obtain millions in loans and credit they would not have qualified for otherwise. The scheme operated at scale, affecting thousands of credit files and leading to more than nine million dollars in confirmed financial losses when the fraudulent debts defaulted. Investigators later described the scheme as one of the largest credit repair fraud cases ever prosecuted.

What You Will Hear In This Episode
How the conspirators became official data furnishers
How fake tradelines were built and inserted into consumer credit files
How real negative debts were deleted or overwritten
How customers used the inflated scores to obtain mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards
How the scheme grew to tens of millions in fraudulent approvals
The consequences for everyone involved
Sip or Spill Question

If you could wipe your credit clean overnight, knowing someone was lying to the bureaus to make it happen, would you still press the button?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram: Follow Me
FB: Follow Me
TikTok: Follow Me
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

If you know someone who is working on their credit, thinking about credit repair, or needs to hear this episode before paying someone promising fast results, share it with them. That matters more than you think.

SOURCES

United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York. Press release announcing the indictment of Edwin Jacquet, Peter Romeo, Edwin J. Mansour Jr., and Denise Hudson for operating a fraudulent credit repair scheme through Highway Furniture and New York Funding Group. July 25, 2011.
United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York. “Leader Of Fraudulent Credit Repair Scheme Pleads Guilty In Manhattan Federal Court,” detailing Edwin Jacquet’s guilty plea. March 21, 2012.
United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York. “Participant In Multi Million Dollar Fraudulent Credit Repair Scheme Sentenced In Manhattan Federal Court To 51 Months In Prison,” detailing sentencing for Edwin J. Mansour Jr. and Denise Hudson. March 20, 2013.
United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of New York. Sentencing press release for Denise Hudson and restitution order in the Highway Furniture and New York Funding case. March 2013.
United States v. Jacquet et al., Southern District of New York. Criminal charging documents and plea agreements related to the fraudulent credit repair scheme conducted through Highway Furniture Inc. and New York Funding Group Inc.
United States v. Mansour Jr., Southern District of New York. Case background summarizing the fake tradeline scheme, furnisher manipulation, and negative item deletion.
Frank on Fraud. “Synthetic Identity’s New Shell Game – Fake Tradelines,” analysis of the Highway Furniture and New York Funding scheme and its impact on lenders. April 30, 2021.
Experian and TransUnion furnisher program documentation noting how data furnishers access and report consumer information, referenced in DOJ descriptions of the scheme.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69412387Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:10 +0000Jasmine PrinceHEY BC3 CREW! Last week I uploaded the listener survey last week but hadn't considered BOTS. I guess that means I made it lol. But if you tried filling it out last week and saw that it wasn't accepting responses, that's because I had to figure out...HEY BC3 CREW!

Last week I uploaded the listener survey last week but hadn't considered BOTS. I guess that means I made it lol. But if you tried filling it out last week and saw that it wasn't accepting responses, that's because I had to figure out how to weed them out. Hopefully, it's figured out now so PLEASE fill it out for me and be entered into the gift card giveaway! You can fill it out HERE

Okay now back to business!

Banks and lenders rely on accurate information from credit bureaus to decide who gets approved and who gets denied. But what happens when the people feeding information into that system decide to lie for profit? In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, Jasmine continues the New Year, Same Scams series by breaking down the operation run by Edwin Jacquet and Denise Hudson.

Working through two companies, Highway Furniture and New York Funding Group, they became official data furnishers with credit bureaus and used that access to add fake positive tradelines, erase real negative accounts, and artificially inflate thousands of credit scores. The scheme allowed customers to qualify for tens of millions of dollars in loans, mortgages, credit cards, and financing they never should have received.

When the debts went bad, lenders were left with more than nine million dollars in losses, and the conspirators ended up in federal prison. This episode explains how the scheme worked, how they gained access to the credit system, why the fraud went undetected for so long, and what it means for anyone tempted to pay for shortcuts to a better credit score.

In today’s episode, Jasmine takes listeners inside the credit system itself. Instead of disputing accounts from the outside, this case focuses on what happens when fraudsters sit in the same position as legitimate lenders and abuse that power to manipulate credit reports for money.

Iced Coffee of the Week

Clean Slate Caramel Cold Brew Ingredients:
1 to 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
Ice
6 ounces strong cold brew or chilled coffee
4 ounces milk or non dairy milk
1 to 2 teaspoons vanilla syrup
Instructions:
Add the caramel sauce to the bottom of your cup.
Add a handful of ice.
Pour in the cold brew.
Add the milk.
Stir until the caramel dissolves into the drink.
Taste and adjust sweetness with vanilla syrup if needed.
Optional: Drizzle more caramel around the inside of the cup before adding ice for a layered look.

This episode covers the multi year credit fraud scheme created by Edwin Jacquet and Denise Hudson through their companies, Highway Furniture and New York Funding Group. By becoming official data furnishers, they gained the ability to report account information directly to credit bureaus. Once inside the system, they created fake tradelines showing perfect payment history for customers who had never opened those accounts.

They also used dispute tools to remove or alter legitimate negative information. The result was a sudden jump in clients’ credit scores, allowing them to obtain millions in loans and credit they would not have qualified for otherwise. The scheme operated at scale, affecting thousands of credit files and leading to more than nine million dollars in confirmed financial losses when the fraudulent debts defaulted. Investigators later described the scheme as one of the largest credit repair fraud cases ever prosecuted.

What You Will Hear In This Episode
How the conspirators became official data furnishers
How fake tradelines were built and inserted into consumer credit files
How real negative debts were deleted or overwritten
How customers used the inflated scores...]]>2283bankfraud,blackcoffeecrimecrochet,creditfraud,creditrepair,experian,financialcrime,furnishers,highwayfurniture,newyear,newyorkfunding,samescams,tradelines,transunion,whitecollarcrimefalse212full🎙️Episode 21: New Year, Same Scams Series - Episode 1:The Credit Repair Scam That Could But Shouldn’t Havehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-21-new-year-same-scams-series-episode-1-the-credit-repair-scam-that-could-but-shouldn-t-have--69314765If you'd like to fill out the listener survey for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card, or just to help me out, you can do so HERE

Every January, people promise themselves a fresh start, especially when it comes to money and credit. But for thousands of consumers, the promise of fast credit repair turned into years of financial damage and federal prison sentences. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, Jasmine kicks off the New Year, Same Scams series with a deep dive into one of the longest running credit repair fraud operations in the United States, led by Kevin Edward Hargrave and his wife Latrese Hargrave. For more than fifteen years, the Hargraves ran a revolving door of credit repair businesses, charged illegal upfront fees, filed false identity theft disputes, ignored federal court orders, and continued scamming consumers even after being permanently banned from the industry. What started as a so called credit repair service eventually became a federal conspiracy involving wire fraud, tax fraud, and millions of dollars in losses. This episode breaks down how the scheme worked, why it targeted financially vulnerable communities, and how ignoring the fine print can cost more than money. It can cost your freedom.

In today’s episode, Jasmine launches a brand new podcast series, New Year, Same Scams, by unpacking the true story behind one of the most persistent credit repair fraud operations ever prosecuted.

Iced Coffee of the Week

Vanilla almond milk cold brew with white chocolate and a splash of caramel. Smooth, dependable, and exactly how credit repair should be. Slow, boring, and legal.

Case Overview

This episode focuses on Kevin Edward Hargrave and Latrese Hargrave, a married couple who jointly operated multiple credit repair businesses that falsely promised consumers fast and guaranteed credit score improvements. Despite being warned, sued, fined, and permanently banned from the credit repair industry by the federal government, the Hargraves continued operating under new business names and front companies for years.

Sip or Spill Question

If the credit system was not built for you, is it wrong to look for shortcuts?
Where does survival end and fraud begin, especially when fast fixes feel like the only option?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

If you know someone who is working on their credit, thinking about credit repair, or needs to hear this episode before paying someone promising fast results, share it with them. That matters more than you think.

SOURCES
Kevin Edward Hargrave and Latrese Hargrave

Department of Justice, Middle District of Florida
Georgia man sentenced to five years in prison for tax fraud and operation of bogus credit repair businesses
Press release dated February 2, 2024 United States v. Kevin Edward Hargrave
Criminal Information and Plea Agreement
Case No. 3:22 cr 113, Middle District of Florida Federal Trade Commission v. Latrese and Kevin Enterprises Inc.
United States District Court, Middle District of Florida
Case No. 3:08 cv 1001
FTC Complaint and Permanent Injunction Federal Trade Commission
Court halts credit repair scammers in response to FTC contempt charges
Press release dated June 7, 2012 Civil Contempt Order
Federal Trade Commission v. Latrese and Kevin Enterprises Inc.
Judgment ordering 6.4 million dollars in consumer redress
Issued November 19, 2012 Florida Times Union
After years of complaints Jacksonville credit repair firm boss draws five year prison term
Coverage of sentencing and case background Get Out of Debt Guy
Steve Rhode
Analysis of Hargrave credit repair contempt case and FTC enforcement history Better Business Bureau
WSA Optimization Firm Inc business profile and consumer complaints Court records and sentencing memoranda
United States District Court, Middle District of Florida]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69314765Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:00:09 +0000Jasmine PrinceIf you'd like to fill out the listener survey for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card, or just to help me out, you can do so https://bit.ly/BC3Survey Every January, people promise themselves a fresh start, especially when it comes to money and...If you'd like to fill out the listener survey for a chance to win a $20 Amazon Gift card, or just to help me out, you can do so HERE

Every January, people promise themselves a fresh start, especially when it comes to money and credit. But for thousands of consumers, the promise of fast credit repair turned into years of financial damage and federal prison sentences. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, Jasmine kicks off the New Year, Same Scams series with a deep dive into one of the longest running credit repair fraud operations in the United States, led by Kevin Edward Hargrave and his wife Latrese Hargrave. For more than fifteen years, the Hargraves ran a revolving door of credit repair businesses, charged illegal upfront fees, filed false identity theft disputes, ignored federal court orders, and continued scamming consumers even after being permanently banned from the industry. What started as a so called credit repair service eventually became a federal conspiracy involving wire fraud, tax fraud, and millions of dollars in losses. This episode breaks down how the scheme worked, why it targeted financially vulnerable communities, and how ignoring the fine print can cost more than money. It can cost your freedom.

In today’s episode, Jasmine launches a brand new podcast series, New Year, Same Scams, by unpacking the true story behind one of the most persistent credit repair fraud operations ever prosecuted.

Iced Coffee of the Week

Vanilla almond milk cold brew with white chocolate and a splash of caramel. Smooth, dependable, and exactly how credit repair should be. Slow, boring, and legal.

Case Overview

This episode focuses on Kevin Edward Hargrave and Latrese Hargrave, a married couple who jointly operated multiple credit repair businesses that falsely promised consumers fast and guaranteed credit score improvements. Despite being warned, sued, fined, and permanently banned from the credit repair industry by the federal government, the Hargraves continued operating under new business names and front companies for years.

Sip or Spill Question

If the credit system was not built for you, is it wrong to look for shortcuts?
Where does survival end and fraud begin, especially when fast fixes feel like the only option?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Ratings and reviews help the show reach new listeners and make it easier for people to find thoughtful, well researched content like this.

If you know someone who is working on their credit, thinking about credit repair, or needs to hear this episode before paying someone promising fast results, share it with them. That matters more than you think.

SOURCES
Kevin Edward Hargrave and Latrese Hargrave

Department of Justice, Middle District of Florida
Georgia man sentenced to five years in prison for tax fraud and operation of bogus credit repair businesses
Press release dated February 2, 2024 United States v. Kevin Edward Hargrave
Criminal Information and Plea Agreement
Case No. 3:22 cr 113, Middle District of Florida Federal Trade Commission v. Latrese and Kevin Enterprises Inc.
United...]]>2893blackcoffeecrimecrochet,consumerfraud,creditfraud,creditrepair,creditrepairscam,creditscore,financialcrime,financialscams,ftc,newyear,samescams,scams,taxfraud,whitecollarcrime,wirefraudfalse211full🎙️Episode 20: Sports Scams & Frauds Series - Episode 3: Varsity Lies - The Rebound Hustle of Sidney Bouvier Gilstrap-Portleyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-20-sports-scams-frauds-series-episode-3-varsity-lies-the-rebound-hustle-of-sidney-bouvier-gilstrap-portley--69246165
This week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, Jasmine unpacks how Gilstrap-Portley enrolled at two Dallas high schools, lived a double life as a teen, and manipulated a system already stretched thin from disaster. From game stats to criminal charges, we’re breaking down how he pulled it off, how he got caught, and why the scandal hit harder than just a forged birth certificate. Pull up with your iced coffee. We’re talking basketball, betrayal, and the dangerous privilege of blending in.

This Week’s Blend:
Iced Coffee of the Week: Brown Sugar Mocha Dream Cold Brew

Crochet Project of the Week: Another update and a sweater cowl

In This Episode:
The climate of Hurricane Harvey and how it enabled enrollment loopholes
Who Sidney Bouvier Gilstrap-Portley really was and how he reinvented himself
The timeline of his enrollment at Hillcrest High School and Skyline High School
How he joined the basketball team and gained trust as “Rashaun Richardson”
The inappropriate relationship with a minor that raised red flags
The school district’s handling of the investigation and fallout
Broader implications of adult impersonation, school safety, and grooming
Commentary on male entitlement, nostalgia, and performance as identity
Sip or Spill:
Would you have spoken up if your high school teammate seemed… too grown? Or would you have stayed quiet, thinking maybe I’m just imagining it?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

Sources Used for This Episode:
Sports Explains the World Pocast: The Imposter Part 1
The Dallas Morning News: “Man accused of posing as Hillcrest High basketball player had stint at Skyline too”
Washington Post: “Man posed as Texas high school student to play basketball, police say”
New York Times: “Former College Athlete Posed as a Teen to Play High School Basketball”
Dallas ISD Press Release and School Safety Statements
Texas court records and local police reports
Commentary from school safety experts and educational policy analysts
Archived social media content and sports footage of Hillcrest High
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69246165Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:09 +0000Jasmine PrinceIn August 2017, Hurricane Harvey left thousands of students displaced across Texas. But amid the chaos and crisis, one man found an opportunity. Sidney Bouvier Gilstrap-Portley, a 25-year-old former college athlete, posed as a 17-year-old high school...
This week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, Jasmine unpacks how Gilstrap-Portley enrolled at two Dallas high schools, lived a double life as a teen, and manipulated a system already stretched thin from disaster. From game stats to criminal charges, we’re breaking down how he pulled it off, how he got caught, and why the scandal hit harder than just a forged birth certificate. Pull up with your iced coffee. We’re talking basketball, betrayal, and the dangerous privilege of blending in.

This Week’s Blend:
Iced Coffee of the Week: Brown Sugar Mocha Dream Cold Brew

Crochet Project of the Week: Another update and a sweater cowl

In This Episode:
The climate of Hurricane Harvey and how it enabled enrollment loopholes
Who Sidney Bouvier Gilstrap-Portley really was and how he reinvented himself
The timeline of his enrollment at Hillcrest High School and Skyline High School
How he joined the basketball team and gained trust as “Rashaun Richardson”
The inappropriate relationship with a minor that raised red flags
The school district’s handling of the investigation and fallout
Broader implications of adult impersonation, school safety, and grooming
Commentary on male entitlement, nostalgia, and performance as identity
Sip or Spill:
Would you have spoken up if your high school teammate seemed… too grown? Or would you have stayed quiet, thinking maybe I’m just imagining it?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: JOIN HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet
YouTube: WATCH HERE

Sources Used for This Episode:
Sports Explains the World Pocast: The Imposter Part 1
The Dallas Morning News: “Man accused of posing as Hillcrest High basketball player had stint at Skyline too”
Washington Post: “Man posed as Texas high school student to play basketball, police say”
New York Times: “Former College Athlete Posed as a Teen to Play High School Basketball”
Dallas ISD Press Release and School Safety Statements
Texas court records and local police reports
Commentary from school safety experts and educational policy analysts
Archived social media content and sports footage of Hillcrest High
]]>3943adultinfiltrator,basketballscam,bc3series,blackpodcasters,datelinevibes,educationfraud,fraudalert,highschoolhoops,highschoolsports,imposterscam,investigativepod,podcastdrama,scamstories,schoolscandal,sidneygilstrap,sportsfraud,sportsimposter,teenhoops,texasnews,truecrimepodfalse210full🎙️Episode 19: Sports Scams & Frauds Series - Episode 2: The Parental Hustlehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-19-sports-scams-frauds-series-episode-2-the-parental-hustle--69187304
In This Episode

The rise of William Tank Black from college coach to trusted NFL and NBA agent
How personal loyalty and father figure dynamics were used to bypass financial scrutiny
The three major fraud schemes tied to Tank Black including offshore Ponzi investments, BAOA stock fraud, and Cayman Islands fund diversion
The role of Professional Management Incorporated and affiliated entities in concealing misconduct
The emotional and financial devastation experienced by athletes like Fred Taylor

Peggy Fulford’s long running affinity fraud targeting professional athletes
How fabricated Harvard credentials and a no fee strategy created false trust
The systematic laundering of millions through dozens of bank accounts
Victim impact involving Ricky Williams, Dennis Rodman, Travis Best, and Lex Hilliard
Why Fulford received the statutory maximum sentence and what her early release means

A comparison of how parental language and emotional safety were weaponized in both cases
The broader pattern of athlete vulnerability and systemic failures in financial oversight
Red flags every high earner should recognize before handing over control

This Week’s Blend
Iced Coffee of the Week: Mocha Hustle Cold Brew
Ingredients
1 cup cold brew coffee
½ cup chocolate oat milk or regular milk
1 tablespoon caramel syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla syrup
Ice to fill a 16 to 20 ounce glass
Optional: Light dusting of cocoa powder
Bold, smooth, and deceptively sweet. Perfect for an episode about trust that looks good on the surface and collapses underneath.

Crochet Project of the Week
Husband Sweater Update

Sip or Spill
Would you ever trust someone with your finances simply because they felt like family, or is that now the biggest red flag of all?

Support and Connect with BC³
Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
@blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon
JOIN HERE

If you enjoy the show, consider leaving a 5 Star rating on Spotify, commenting on episodes and leaving 5 star ratings and review on Apple Podcasts as well as supporting on Patreon for bonus content, extended commentary, and behind the scenes updates.

Sources Used for This Episode
Securities and Exchange Commission litigation releases related to William Tank Black and James A. Franklin Jr
Sports Illustrated Vault reporting on the Tank Black fraud
Department of Justice press releases and court records on William Tank Black
Intellex Forensics analysis on athlete financial exploitation
Investor.gov educational materials on Ponzi schemes
Department of Justice press releases on Peggy Ann Fulford
Federal court records from the Southern District of Texas
Courthouse News Service reporting on Dennis Rodman fraud case
The Guardian coverage of Peggy Fulford’s sentencing and release
American Greed episode coverage featuring Peggy Fulford
Legal and financial industry analysis on affinity fraud in professional sports]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69187304Tue, 23 Dec 2025 22:52:26 +0000Jasmine PrinceHey Everyone! Thank you so much for being patient with me during the end of the semester! I'm back on track. I give an update at the beginning of the episode. In This Episode The rise of William Tank Black from college coach to trusted NFL and NBA...
In This Episode

The rise of William Tank Black from college coach to trusted NFL and NBA agent
How personal loyalty and father figure dynamics were used to bypass financial scrutiny
The three major fraud schemes tied to Tank Black including offshore Ponzi investments, BAOA stock fraud, and Cayman Islands fund diversion
The role of Professional Management Incorporated and affiliated entities in concealing misconduct
The emotional and financial devastation experienced by athletes like Fred Taylor

Peggy Fulford’s long running affinity fraud targeting professional athletes
How fabricated Harvard credentials and a no fee strategy created false trust
The systematic laundering of millions through dozens of bank accounts
Victim impact involving Ricky Williams, Dennis Rodman, Travis Best, and Lex Hilliard
Why Fulford received the statutory maximum sentence and what her early release means

A comparison of how parental language and emotional safety were weaponized in both cases
The broader pattern of athlete vulnerability and systemic failures in financial oversight
Red flags every high earner should recognize before handing over control

This Week’s Blend
Iced Coffee of the Week: Mocha Hustle Cold Brew
Ingredients
1 cup cold brew coffee
½ cup chocolate oat milk or regular milk
1 tablespoon caramel syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla syrup
Ice to fill a 16 to 20 ounce glass
Optional: Light dusting of cocoa powder
Bold, smooth, and deceptively sweet. Perfect for an episode about trust that looks good on the surface and collapses underneath.

Crochet Project of the Week
Husband Sweater Update

Sip or Spill
Would you ever trust someone with your finances simply because they felt like family, or is that now the biggest red flag of all?

Support and Connect with BC³
Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
@blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon
JOIN HERE

If you enjoy the show, consider leaving a 5 Star rating on Spotify, commenting on episodes and leaving 5 star ratings and review on Apple Podcasts as well as supporting on Patreon for bonus content, extended commentary, and behind the scenes updates.

Sources Used for This Episode
Securities and Exchange Commission litigation releases related to William Tank Black and James A. Franklin Jr
Sports Illustrated Vault reporting on the Tank Black fraud
Department of Justice press releases and court records on William Tank Black
Intellex Forensics analysis on athlete financial exploitation
Investor.gov educational materials on Ponzi schemes
Department of Justice press releases on Peggy Ann Fulford
Federal court records from the Southern District of Texas
Courthouse News Service reporting on Dennis Rodman fraud case
The Guardian coverage of Peggy Fulford’s sentencing and release
American Greed episode coverage featuring Peggy Fulford
Legal and financial industry analysis on affinity fraud in professional sports]]>3574affinityfraud,agentfraud,athleteexploitation,athletescams,blackcoffeecrimecrochet,crimecommentary,financialabuse,financialcrime,fraudstories,investmentfraud,moneylaundering,parentalhustle,ponzischeme,scamculture,sportsfraud,sportsindustrycrime,sportsscams,truecrimepodcast,trustandbetrayal,whitecollarcrimefalse29full🎙️Episode 18: Sports Scams & Frauds Series - Episode 1: The Player Conspiracies: Health, Wealth & Hustlehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-18-sports-scams-frauds-series-episode-1-the-player-conspiracies-health-wealth-hustle--68837916**DISCLAIMER**

Hey BC3 Crew! I wanted to take the time to address two reviews that I've gotten. I realize that I tend to overuse "umm" throughout the show. I am working on it and took the time to edit this episode so that the filler words have been removed. I will definitely keep that in mind moving forward, but thank you all so much for the opportunity to improve every episode!

The checks stopped. The pain lingered. And the playbook for fraud took center stage. This week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, Jasmine uncovers two massive healthcare schemes led by former pro athletes. Terrence Williams and Robert McCune weren’t just scamming insurance companies, they were defrauding the very systems meant to support them and their teammates after retirement. Jasmine unpacks how these brotherhoods broke bad, why financial desperation thrives in sports, and what these scams reveal about the dark side of life after the game. Grab your coffee and your crochet hook. We are talking pain, power, and the price of hustle.

This Week’s Blend Iced Coffee of the Week:
Mocha Hustle Cold Brew. Before we lace up and hit the field, let’s sip on something that fits the mood.

Today’s blend is The Mocha Hustle Cold Brew — strong, smooth, and deceptively sweet. How to Make It:
1 cup cold brew coffee
½ cup chocolate oat milk (or regular milk if you prefer)
1 tablespoon caramel syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla syrup
Ice to fill your 16–20 oz glass
Optional: dust cocoa powder on top
It’s bold, it’s indulgent, and it’ll keep you sharp while we talk about players who fumbled their integrity, not just the ball.

In This Episode
The NFL Health Care Benefit Program fraud scheme led by former linebacker Robert McCune
Terrence Williams and the NBA Health and Welfare Benefit Plan conspiracy
How fake invoices and fake clinics funneled millions from player benefit plans
The quiet loyalty among athletes that helped these schemes grow
What these cases reveal about post-career insecurity, financial pressure and trust
Sentencing outcomes, lessons in accountability and a glimpse into what retirement looks like when the checks stop coming
Sip or Spill
Do you think former athletes face enough support to avoid these kinds of desperate decisions? Or is this just a case of greed over gratitude?

Support and Connect with BC³
Instagram, Facebook and TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Join here

Sources Referenced in This Episode
U.S. Department of Justice press releases and court filings
NFL indictment press release
Superseding indictment press release
Full indictment for Terrence Williams
ESPN and USA Today coverage on charges and sentencing
SDNY court filings and plea agreements
Additional commentary from sports finance experts and legal analysts
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68837916Tue, 02 Dec 2025 21:14:12 +0000Jasmine Prince**DISCLAIMER** Hey BC3 Crew! I wanted to take the time to address two reviews that I've gotten. I realize that I tend to overuse "umm" throughout the show. I am working on it and took the time to edit this episode so that the filler words have been...**DISCLAIMER**

Hey BC3 Crew! I wanted to take the time to address two reviews that I've gotten. I realize that I tend to overuse "umm" throughout the show. I am working on it and took the time to edit this episode so that the filler words have been removed. I will definitely keep that in mind moving forward, but thank you all so much for the opportunity to improve every episode!

The checks stopped. The pain lingered. And the playbook for fraud took center stage. This week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, Jasmine uncovers two massive healthcare schemes led by former pro athletes. Terrence Williams and Robert McCune weren’t just scamming insurance companies, they were defrauding the very systems meant to support them and their teammates after retirement. Jasmine unpacks how these brotherhoods broke bad, why financial desperation thrives in sports, and what these scams reveal about the dark side of life after the game. Grab your coffee and your crochet hook. We are talking pain, power, and the price of hustle.

This Week’s Blend Iced Coffee of the Week:
Mocha Hustle Cold Brew. Before we lace up and hit the field, let’s sip on something that fits the mood.

Today’s blend is The Mocha Hustle Cold Brew — strong, smooth, and deceptively sweet. How to Make It:
1 cup cold brew coffee
½ cup chocolate oat milk (or regular milk if you prefer)
1 tablespoon caramel syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla syrup
Ice to fill your 16–20 oz glass
Optional: dust cocoa powder on top
It’s bold, it’s indulgent, and it’ll keep you sharp while we talk about players who fumbled their integrity, not just the ball.

In This Episode
The NFL Health Care Benefit Program fraud scheme led by former linebacker Robert McCune
Terrence Williams and the NBA Health and Welfare Benefit Plan conspiracy
How fake invoices and fake clinics funneled millions from player benefit plans
The quiet loyalty among athletes that helped these schemes grow
What these cases reveal about post-career insecurity, financial pressure and trust
Sentencing outcomes, lessons in accountability and a glimpse into what retirement looks like when the checks stop coming
Sip or Spill
Do you think former athletes face enough support to avoid these kinds of desperate decisions? Or is this just a case of greed over gratitude?

Support and Connect with BC³
Instagram, Facebook and TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Join here

Sources Referenced in This Episode
U.S. Department of Justice press releases and court filings
NFL indictment press release
Superseding indictment press release
Full indictment for Terrence Williams
ESPN and USA Today coverage on charges and sentencing
SDNY court filings and plea agreements
Additional commentary from sports finance experts and legal analysts
]]>3015athletecrime,blackcoffeecrimecrochet,blackpodcasters,crimeandculture,crochetandcrime,financialcrime,healthcarefraud,icedcoffeechat,influencerpodcast,nbascam,nflscam,postcareerscams,proathletescams,robertmccune,scamstories,sportsandscams,sportsconspiracies,sportsfraud,terrencewilliams,whitecollarfraudfalse28full🎙️Episode 17: Influencer Scam Era Series Pt. 3- Ramon Abbas: The Billionaire Gucci Masterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-17-influencer-scam-era-series-pt-3-ramon-abbas-the-billionaire-gucci-master--68764783
This week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, Jasmine breaks down how Hushpuppi went from Lagos street hustler to Instagram icon and global cybercriminal. We dig into the four major scams he was involved in, how the FBI tracked him through his social media posts, and what his downfall reveals about online flex culture and digital fraud.

Pull up with your iced coffee. We're talking wealth, wire fraud, and what it means when internet fame is built on a lie.

This Week’s Blend:

Iced Coffee of the Week: The Fraudulent Flex
The “Fraudulent Flex” Iced Coffee
1 cup of cold brew (strong enough to handle drama)
½ cup of oat milk or whatever milk you love
1 tablespoon brown sugar syrup
A dash of vanilla extract
A splash of heavy cream or coconut cream on top
Shake it over ice and pour into your cutest tumbler
Optional: sprinkle a little cinnamon or edible gold dust if you’re feeling Hushpuppi-level extra. Sip slow. Side-eye faster.

Crochet Project of the Week: A very special update!

In This Episode:

The early life of Ramon Abbas and the “Yahoo Boy” scammer subculture
How Hushpuppi built an influencer persona through wealth and status
Detailed breakdowns of four major frauds, including:
$14.7M Maltese bank heist
$124M scam attempt on a UK Premier League team
$922K law firm scam
$15M fake Qatari school loan con
Dubai’s Fox Hunt 2 raid and FBI extradition
How his IG trail led to a federal conviction
Commentary on scam culture, clout chasing, and consequences
Sip or Spill:

Would you get a loan if the loan officer told you there was an upfront fee?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Join here

Sources Used for This Episode:

U.S. Department of Justice press releases (justice.gov)
FBI Criminal Complaint: United States v. Ramon Olorunwa Abbas
Forbes: “How Instagram Star Hushpuppi Was Arrested”
CNN International: Coverage on Fox Hunt 2
Bloomberg: Reports on global BEC fraud
BBC Africa: Analysis on Nigerian scam culture and youth unemployment
YouTube documentaries and breakdowns (e.g. Wondery’s Scamfluencers, BBC Africa Eye)
Court transcripts and filings via PACER
Interpol and Dubai Police official statements
Archived IG posts via Wayback Machine and news screenshots]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68764783Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:29:49 +0000Jasmine PrinceRamon Abbas, better known as Hushpuppi, flaunted wealth like it was a full-time job. From Gucci robes and private jets to Richard Mille watches and luxury penthouses, he sold a rags-to-riches story that captured millions online. But behind the clout...
This week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, Jasmine breaks down how Hushpuppi went from Lagos street hustler to Instagram icon and global cybercriminal. We dig into the four major scams he was involved in, how the FBI tracked him through his social media posts, and what his downfall reveals about online flex culture and digital fraud.

Pull up with your iced coffee. We're talking wealth, wire fraud, and what it means when internet fame is built on a lie.

This Week’s Blend:

Iced Coffee of the Week: The Fraudulent Flex
The “Fraudulent Flex” Iced Coffee
1 cup of cold brew (strong enough to handle drama)
½ cup of oat milk or whatever milk you love
1 tablespoon brown sugar syrup
A dash of vanilla extract
A splash of heavy cream or coconut cream on top
Shake it over ice and pour into your cutest tumbler
Optional: sprinkle a little cinnamon or edible gold dust if you’re feeling Hushpuppi-level extra. Sip slow. Side-eye faster.

Crochet Project of the Week: A very special update!

In This Episode:

The early life of Ramon Abbas and the “Yahoo Boy” scammer subculture
How Hushpuppi built an influencer persona through wealth and status
Detailed breakdowns of four major frauds, including:
$14.7M Maltese bank heist
$124M scam attempt on a UK Premier League team
$922K law firm scam
$15M fake Qatari school loan con
Dubai’s Fox Hunt 2 raid and FBI extradition
How his IG trail led to a federal conviction
Commentary on scam culture, clout chasing, and consequences
Sip or Spill:

Would you get a loan if the loan officer told you there was an upfront fee?

Support & Connect with BC³:

Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Join here

Sources Used for This Episode:

U.S. Department of Justice press releases (justice.gov)
FBI Criminal Complaint: United States v. Ramon Olorunwa Abbas
Forbes: “How Instagram Star Hushpuppi Was Arrested”
CNN International: Coverage on Fox Hunt 2
Bloomberg: Reports on global BEC fraud
BBC Africa: Analysis on Nigerian scam culture and youth unemployment
YouTube documentaries and breakdowns (e.g. Wondery’s Scamfluencers, BBC Africa Eye)
Court transcripts and filings via PACER
Interpol and Dubai Police official statements
Archived IG posts via Wayback Machine and news screenshots]]>4705becscams,blackcoffeecrime,cybercrime,dubaipoliceraid,fbiarrest,fraudulentlifestyle,hushpuppi,influencerscam,influencertruecrime,instagramdeception,instagramscammer,internetfraudcase,luxuryscam,nigerianfraudcase,nigerianscamculture,onlineconartist,ramonabbas,scamfluencer,socialmediafraud,yahooboysfalse27full🎙️Episode 16: Influencer Scam Era Series Pt. 2- Sprinklegate – The Dana Chanel Scamhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-16-influencer-scam-era-series-pt-2-sprinklegate-the-dana-chanel-scam--68648541
This Week’s Blend:
Iced Coffee of the Week: Cold Brew Caramel Mocha Oat Latte
Crochet Project of the Week: Hilarious Polo Update
In This Episode:
The rise of Dana Chanel and her Christian entrepreneur brand
How Sprinkle of Jesus grew into a multi-business influencer empire
What really happened with Credit Exterminators and Alakazam Apps
Lawsuit, settlement, and community backlash
Commentary on influencer trust, faith-based branding, and financial harm in Black communities
Sip or Spill:
Would you trust a business more if it used faith, family, or cultural values to market itself, or does that now raise a red flag?

Support & Connect with BC³:
Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Join here

Videos Refrenced in This Episode

Is Dana Chanel Really Scamming Black Small Business Owners? | TSR Investigates
Social media influencer, Philly-based companies sued for misleading customers
DANA CHANEL & PRINCE DONNELL JESUS SCAM ARTISTS?Prince Donnell/Dana Chanel's NASTY Credit Score Exterminators Repair SCAM ft. Earn Your Leisure
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65QZcKND71w&t=25s

Sources Used for This Episode
Pennsylvania Attorney General Press Release on Dana Chanel Lawsuit
www.attorneygeneral.gov
Entrepreneur.com – “Christian Influencer Accused of Fraud Ordered to Pay $90K”
entrepreneur.com
FOX29 Philadelphia – “Social media influencer accused of scamming Black-owned businesses”
fox29.com
PhillyVoice – “Instagram influencer Dana Chanel settles with Pennsylvania AG”
phillyvoice.com
YouTube commentary and victim testimonials (via creators like Robby Blue and Anti-MLM channels)
Reddit threads and Facebook group discussions documenting customer experiences
Sprinkle of Jesus and Alakazam Apps archived content (via Wayback Machine and app store reviews)
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68648541Thu, 20 Nov 2025 01:49:52 +0000Jasmine PrinceDana Chanel branded herself as a faith-based mogul, the face behind Sprinkle of Jesus, Credit Exterminators, and Alakazam Apps. But behind the curated Instagram grid and family-first entrepreneur image were lawsuits, unfulfilled promises, and...
This Week’s Blend:
Iced Coffee of the Week: Cold Brew Caramel Mocha Oat Latte
Crochet Project of the Week: Hilarious Polo Update
In This Episode:
The rise of Dana Chanel and her Christian entrepreneur brand
How Sprinkle of Jesus grew into a multi-business influencer empire
What really happened with Credit Exterminators and Alakazam Apps
Lawsuit, settlement, and community backlash
Commentary on influencer trust, faith-based branding, and financial harm in Black communities
Sip or Spill:
Would you trust a business more if it used faith, family, or cultural values to market itself, or does that now raise a red flag?

Support & Connect with BC³:
Instagram, FB & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE
Facebook Discussion Group: Join here

Videos Refrenced in This Episode

Is Dana Chanel Really Scamming Black Small Business Owners? | TSR Investigates
Social media influencer, Philly-based companies sued for misleading customers
DANA CHANEL & PRINCE DONNELL JESUS SCAM ARTISTS?Prince Donnell/Dana Chanel's NASTY Credit Score Exterminators Repair SCAM ft. Earn Your Leisure
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65QZcKND71w&t=25s

Sources Used for This Episode
Pennsylvania Attorney General Press Release on Dana Chanel Lawsuit
www.attorneygeneral.gov
Entrepreneur.com – “Christian Influencer Accused of Fraud Ordered to Pay $90K”
entrepreneur.com
FOX29 Philadelphia – “Social media influencer accused of scamming Black-owned businesses”
fox29.com
PhillyVoice – “Instagram influencer Dana Chanel settles with Pennsylvania AG”
phillyvoice.com
YouTube commentary and victim testimonials (via creators like Robby Blue and Anti-MLM channels)
Reddit threads and Facebook group discussions documenting...]]>2449false26full🎙️Episode 15: Influencer Scam Era Series Pt. 1- Blessings In No Time – Faith, Family & the Sou-Sou Schemehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-15-influencer-scam-era-series-pt-1-blessings-in-no-time-faith-family-the-sou-sou-scheme--68505453
But behind the gospel quotes and Zoom calls was a ten-million-dollar pyramid scheme that preyed on trust, community, and culture. We explore how BINT used the familiar language of sou-sous, traditional African and Caribbean savings circles, to mask a modern-day scam, and how desperation, social media, and stimulus checks created the perfect storm.

So grab your iced brown sugar vanilla oat milk latte and settle in, because this one’s part sermon, part scam, and all deception. Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, where iced coffee meets true crime, one stitch and scam at a time.

When “group economics” turns into group exploitation.
Marlon and LaShonda Moore, former 106 & Park DJ and real estate agent, built Blessings In No Time (BINT) during the pandemic.
Pitched as a “faith-based sou-sou,” BINT encouraged members to invest $1,400 in exchange for $11,200 returns.
Members were told it was a blessing circle rooted in community and Black empowerment.
In reality, it was an illegal pyramid scheme that exploited trust and faith.
By 2023, the FTC and Texas Attorney General had ordered the Moores to pay more than $10.7 million and banned them from similar ventures.
Cultural Context:

Sou-sous, also known as esusu, partner, or asue, are legitimate, centuries-old savings systems in West Africa and the Caribbean built on trust, discipline, and community.
Unlike pyramid schemes, no one profits off recruitment. Everyone contributes equally and receives once.

Key Takeaways:
Faith and familiarity can be powerful manipulation tools.
Scammers often use cultural language to create trust.
Real sou-sous build communities; blessing looms destroy them.
Every scam has a sermon.
Iced Coffee of the Week Iced Brown Sugar Vanilla Oat Milk Latte
2 shots espresso or strong coffee
1½ tablespoons brown sugar syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ ounce vanilla syrup
¾ cup oat milk and ice
Crochet Project of the Week

Another upate on the polo for hubby using the 3mm hook.

Sip or Spill

Were Marlon and LaShonda Moore evil masterminds or just greedy influencers who believed their own hype?

Connect and Support
Instagram & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE

Sources & References:

Federal and Legal Documentation:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC). United States of America v. Blessings In No Time, LLC, Marlon Moore, and LaShonda Moore. Case No. 4:21-cv-00518 (E.D. Tex., 2021).
State of Texas v. Blessings In No Time, LLC, Marlon Moore, and LaShonda Moore. Office of the Attorney General of Texas Consumer Protection Division, 2021.
Federal Trade Commission Press Release, “Texas-Based Operators of Alleged Pyramid Scheme to Pay $10 Million in Settlement,” July 2023.
U.S. Department of Justice, Pyramid Scheme and Fraudulent Investment Enforcement Actions, 2021–2023 archive.
News and Media Coverage:
CNBC. American Greed: “Blessings in No Time” (Season 16, Episode 10), originally aired 2024.
The Washington Post. “The ‘Blessings in No Time’ Scam: How a Couple Used Faith and Facebook to Defraud Thousands,” April 2023.
NBC News. “Texas Couple Ordered to Pay $10.7M Over Pyramid Scheme Targeting Black Families,” July 2023.
The Dallas Morning News. “Marlon and LaShonda Moore, Known for ‘Family or Fiancé,’ Face Federal Fraud Judgment,” June 2023.
BET.com. “From 106 & Park to the FTC: The Story of DJ ASAP’s Blessings In No Time Scheme,” August 2023.
Essence Magazine. “Faith, Finances, and Fraud: How the BINT Scandal Shook Black Online Communities,” August 2023.
Academic and Historical Context:
Basu, K. (2015). Rotating Savings and Credit Associations in West Africa: Historical and Economic Perspectives. Journal of African Economies.
Lightfoot, N. (2019). African Diaspora Finance: Sou-Sous, Esusu, and Community Wealth-Building. Routledge Press.
Bank of Jamaica. “Partner, Box Hand, and Asue: Informal Finance in Caribbean Communities,” Economic Review, 2020.
IMF Working Paper: The Economics of Rotating Savings Associations in Africa and the Caribbean, 2018.
U.S. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information Blog. “Blessing Looms: There’s Nothing Blessed About Them,” April 2021.
U.S. Attorney General Consumer Alert. “Illegal Pyramid Schemes Masquerading as Sou-Sous,” April 2021.
Cultural and Community Insights:
Black Enterprise. “Understanding the Sou-Sou Tradition: Its History and Misuse in Modern Times,” February 2021.
The Gleaner (Jamaica). “Sou-Sou: A Caribbean Tradition Rooted in African Cooperation,” June 2020.
NPR. Planet Money Segment: “How Sou-Sous Built Black Wealth Long Before Banks Did,” May 2022.
Vox. “Pandemic Payouts and Pyramid Schemes: Why Blessing Circles Went Viral,” March 2021.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68505453Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:13 +0000Jasmine PrinceWhen faith meets fraud, the fallout hits different. In this episode of Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we unravel the story of Marlon and LaShonda Moore, the Texas power couple behind Blessings In No Time (BINT), a so-called “faith-based wealth...
But behind the gospel quotes and Zoom calls was a ten-million-dollar pyramid scheme that preyed on trust, community, and culture. We explore how BINT used the familiar language of sou-sous, traditional African and Caribbean savings circles, to mask a modern-day scam, and how desperation, social media, and stimulus checks created the perfect storm.

So grab your iced brown sugar vanilla oat milk latte and settle in, because this one’s part sermon, part scam, and all deception. Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, where iced coffee meets true crime, one stitch and scam at a time.

When “group economics” turns into group exploitation.
Marlon and LaShonda Moore, former 106 & Park DJ and real estate agent, built Blessings In No Time (BINT) during the pandemic.
Pitched as a “faith-based sou-sou,” BINT encouraged members to invest $1,400 in exchange for $11,200 returns.
Members were told it was a blessing circle rooted in community and Black empowerment.
In reality, it was an illegal pyramid scheme that exploited trust and faith.
By 2023, the FTC and Texas Attorney General had ordered the Moores to pay more than $10.7 million and banned them from similar ventures.
Cultural Context:

Sou-sous, also known as esusu, partner, or asue, are legitimate, centuries-old savings systems in West Africa and the Caribbean built on trust, discipline, and community.
Unlike pyramid schemes, no one profits off recruitment. Everyone contributes equally and receives once.

Key Takeaways:
Faith and familiarity can be powerful manipulation tools.
Scammers often use cultural language to create trust.
Real sou-sous build communities; blessing looms destroy them.
Every scam has a sermon.
Iced Coffee of the Week Iced Brown Sugar Vanilla Oat Milk Latte
2 shots espresso or strong coffee
1½ tablespoons brown sugar syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract or ½ ounce vanilla syrup
¾ cup oat milk and ice
Crochet Project of the Week

Another upate on the polo for hubby using the 3mm hook.

Sip or Spill

Were Marlon and LaShonda Moore evil masterminds or just greedy influencers who believed their own hype?

Connect and Support
Instagram & TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon: HERE

Sources & References:

Federal and Legal Documentation:
Federal Trade Commission (FTC). United States of America v. Blessings In No Time, LLC, Marlon Moore, and LaShonda Moore. Case No. 4:21-cv-00518 (E.D. Tex., 2021).
State of Texas v. Blessings In No Time, LLC, Marlon Moore, and LaShonda Moore. Office of the Attorney General of Texas Consumer Protection Division, 2021.
Federal Trade Commission Press Release, “Texas-Based Operators of Alleged Pyramid Scheme to Pay $10 Million in Settlement,” July 2023.
U.S. Department of Justice, Pyramid Scheme and Fraudulent Investment Enforcement Actions, 2021–2023 archive.
News and Media Coverage:
CNBC. American Greed: “Blessings in No Time” (Season 16, Episode 10), originally aired 2024.
The Washington Post. “The ‘Blessings in No Time’ Scam: How a Couple Used Faith and...]]>2705false25full🎙️Episode 14: Scandal in the Schools Series Pt. 4- Paper Trails & Power Outages: The Exam Scandals That Rocked Jamaica and Nigeriahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-14-scandal-in-the-schools-series-pt-4-paper-trails-power-outages-the-exam-scandals-that-rocked-jamaica-and-nigeria--68318766
Part 1: Jamaica

When the CXC Math Paper 2 leaked in 2023, panic swept across the Caribbean. From stolen fireproof cabinets to regional re-grading, students faced unfair consequences for a failure far above their pay grade.

Part 2: Nigeria

Two years later, the 2025 NECO scandal revealed mass cheating across 38 schools and 13 states. As Jasmine unpacks the chaos, she connects the dots between corruption, communication breakdowns, and a government that denied the truth until it couldn’t anymore.

This episode covers:
How exam pressure and inequity fuel cheating cultures
The communication breakdown between NECO and the Federal Ministry of Education
How conflict in Adamawa State derailed hundreds of students’ futures
Nigeria’s “Trifecta of Failure”: NECO corruption, JAMB tech fraud, WAEC power outages
The irony of billion-naira budgets and midnight exams under flashlights
Real policy solutions that could restore trust in education
And of course, Jasmine wraps it all up with a heartfelt reflection on what “integrity” really means, followed by a Sip or Spill segment you won’t want to miss.

Sources & References

Jamaica
The Gleaner: “CXC to Review Security Measures After Math Paper Leak” (May 2023)
Loop Jamaica: “CXC Investigates Exam Leak, Promises Students Won’t Be Penalized” (May 2023)
Principal Kurt Weir, quoted in The Gleaner, May 18, 2023
Nigeria
NECO Registrar Press Conference, September 2025 Results Release
Federal Ministry of Education Statement – July 20, 2025 (Press Director Boriowo Folasade)
This Day Nigeria – Editorial: “Examination Malpractice as a National Epidemic,” Oct 2025
Daily Trust: “38 Schools Caught Cheating in 2025 NECO SSCE” (Sept 2025)
The Guardian Nigeria: “Communal Clashes Halt NECO Exams in Adamawa” (July 2025)
Punch Newspapers: “Power Outages Force WAEC Candidates to Write by Torchlight” (Aug 2025)
Channels TV: “JAMB Uncovers 6,000 Cases of Malpractice; Biometric Fraud, AI Impersonation” (April 2025)
Vanguard Nigeria: “Atiku Slams FG Over WAEC Failures, Calls Situation ‘National Disgrace’” (Aug 2025)
Support the Show

If you love Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, leave a 5-star rating on Spotify as well as leave a 5-star rating AND GLOWING review Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. It helps the algorithm bless the BC³ crew!

Support the podcast on Patreon
Stream every episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68318766Tue, 28 Oct 2025 21:47:01 +0000Jasmine PrinceIn the series finale of Scandal in the Schools, Jasmine C.L. Prince takes you on a global ride through two of the most shocking education scandals in recent memory; starting in Jamaica and ending in Nigeria. Part 1: Jamaica When the CXC Math Paper...
Part 1: Jamaica

When the CXC Math Paper 2 leaked in 2023, panic swept across the Caribbean. From stolen fireproof cabinets to regional re-grading, students faced unfair consequences for a failure far above their pay grade.

Part 2: Nigeria

Two years later, the 2025 NECO scandal revealed mass cheating across 38 schools and 13 states. As Jasmine unpacks the chaos, she connects the dots between corruption, communication breakdowns, and a government that denied the truth until it couldn’t anymore.

This episode covers:
How exam pressure and inequity fuel cheating cultures
The communication breakdown between NECO and the Federal Ministry of Education
How conflict in Adamawa State derailed hundreds of students’ futures
Nigeria’s “Trifecta of Failure”: NECO corruption, JAMB tech fraud, WAEC power outages
The irony of billion-naira budgets and midnight exams under flashlights
Real policy solutions that could restore trust in education
And of course, Jasmine wraps it all up with a heartfelt reflection on what “integrity” really means, followed by a Sip or Spill segment you won’t want to miss.

Sources & References

Jamaica
The Gleaner: “CXC to Review Security Measures After Math Paper Leak” (May 2023)
Loop Jamaica: “CXC Investigates Exam Leak, Promises Students Won’t Be Penalized” (May 2023)
Principal Kurt Weir, quoted in The Gleaner, May 18, 2023
Nigeria
NECO Registrar Press Conference, September 2025 Results Release
Federal Ministry of Education Statement – July 20, 2025 (Press Director Boriowo Folasade)
This Day Nigeria – Editorial: “Examination Malpractice as a National Epidemic,” Oct 2025
Daily Trust: “38 Schools Caught Cheating in 2025 NECO SSCE” (Sept 2025)
The Guardian Nigeria: “Communal Clashes Halt NECO Exams in Adamawa” (July 2025)
Punch Newspapers: “Power Outages Force WAEC Candidates to Write by Torchlight” (Aug 2025)
Channels TV: “JAMB Uncovers 6,000 Cases of Malpractice; Biometric Fraud, AI Impersonation” (April 2025)
Vanguard Nigeria: “Atiku Slams FG Over WAEC Failures, Calls Situation ‘National Disgrace’” (Aug 2025)
Support the Show

If you love Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, leave a 5-star rating on Spotify as well as leave a 5-star rating AND GLOWING review Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. It helps the algorithm bless the BC³ crew!

Support the podcast on Patreon
Stream every episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.]]>2829false24full🎙️Episode 13: Scandal in the Schools Series Pt. 3 - Kickbacks, Contracts & Consequences: The Devon Horton Indictmenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-13-scandal-in-the-schools-series-pt-3-kickbacks-contracts-consequences-the-devon-horton-indictment--68219004
🧾 Episode Overview
Topic: Federal indictment of Dr. Devon Horton, former Evanston/Skokie D65 superintendent
Theme: When equity advocacy collides with financial fraud
Location: Evanston, IL → DeKalb County, GA
Key Takeaways
Horton rose from equity champion to indicted official in just three years.
The alleged scheme funneled public contracts to three friends’ shell companies.
More than $30 K was spent on personal items via a district credit card.
Institutional trust + pandemic urgency created the perfect cover for misuse.
The fallout spread to Georgia’s third-largest school district.
🧋 Honey Bun Iced Latte (Via TikTok @JessNicole__)
1/2 tbsp Honey
1 tbsp Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup
2 pumps (2 tbsp) White Chocolate Sauce OR 1 pump (1 tbsp White Chocolate Sauce and 1 tbsp White Chocolate Syrup)
Espresso (Instant or Pod-I ended up using 3 shots)
Line cup with White Chocolate Sauce
Add ice, milk of choice, and espresso
Top with cold foam an Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkles
Vanilla Bean Sweet Cream Cold Foam
3 tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream
2 tbsp milk
2 pumps Vanilla Bean Syrup

🧶 Crochet Corner Vintage Peace Sweater Pattern from Kakes Kreations

Kakes Kreations took a classic turtleneck design and gave it a chic, modern twist. This 10 page pattern will walk you through how to create your version of the “Vintage Peace” Sweater. It includes colorful pictures, and helpful notes. Purchase the pattern HERE while it's on sale!

🧠 Episode Highlights
The Ascent: Horton’s decorated career, from Chicago Public Schools to Evanston/Skokie D65
The Breach: Federal prosecutors outline kickbacks & embezzlement totaling $300 K+
The Cover-Up: Alleged tax evasion and oversight failures inside D65
The Fallout: Suspension from DeKalb County Schools (GA) and political uproar
Sip or Spill: Jasmine reflects — “He became the very system he warned us about.”
📰 Sources
Reporting from CBS News
The Daily Northwestern
11Alive
AP News
Official releases from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Evanston-Skokie School District 65 ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68219004Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:12 +0000Jasmine PrinceThis week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we’re heading to Evanston, Illinois — where former superintendent Dr. Devon Horton, once celebrated for championing educational equity, now faces a 17-count federal indictment. From kickbacks and shell...
🧾 Episode Overview
Topic: Federal indictment of Dr. Devon Horton, former Evanston/Skokie D65 superintendent
Theme: When equity advocacy collides with financial fraud
Location: Evanston, IL → DeKalb County, GA
Key Takeaways
Horton rose from equity champion to indicted official in just three years.
The alleged scheme funneled public contracts to three friends’ shell companies.
More than $30 K was spent on personal items via a district credit card.
Institutional trust + pandemic urgency created the perfect cover for misuse.
The fallout spread to Georgia’s third-largest school district.
🧋 Honey Bun Iced Latte (Via TikTok @JessNicole__)
1/2 tbsp Honey
1 tbsp Brown Sugar Cinnamon Syrup
2 pumps (2 tbsp) White Chocolate Sauce OR 1 pump (1 tbsp White Chocolate Sauce and 1 tbsp White Chocolate Syrup)
Espresso (Instant or Pod-I ended up using 3 shots)
Line cup with White Chocolate Sauce
Add ice, milk of choice, and espresso
Top with cold foam an Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkles
Vanilla Bean Sweet Cream Cold Foam
3 tbsp Heavy Whipping Cream
2 tbsp milk
2 pumps Vanilla Bean Syrup

🧶 Crochet Corner Vintage Peace Sweater Pattern from Kakes Kreations

Kakes Kreations took a classic turtleneck design and gave it a chic, modern twist. This 10 page pattern will walk you through how to create your version of the “Vintage Peace” Sweater. It includes colorful pictures, and helpful notes. Purchase the pattern HERE while it's on sale!

🧠 Episode Highlights
The Ascent: Horton’s decorated career, from Chicago Public Schools to Evanston/Skokie D65
The Breach: Federal prosecutors outline kickbacks & embezzlement totaling $300 K+
The Cover-Up: Alleged tax evasion and oversight failures inside D65
The Fallout: Suspension from DeKalb County Schools (GA) and political uproar
Sip or Spill: Jasmine reflects — “He became the very system he warned us about.”
📰 Sources
Reporting from CBS News
The Daily Northwestern
11Alive
AP News
Official releases from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Evanston-Skokie School District 65 ]]>2901false23full🎙️Episode 12: Scandal in the Schools Series Pt. 2 -Detroit Principals’ Kickback Schemehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-12-scandal-in-the-schools-series-pt-2-detroit-principals-kickback-scheme--68112205
The scheme (2002–2015): Fake/partial deliveries → principals certify receipt → district pays → vendor kicks back cash/gift cards to officials.
The money: ~$2.7M in fraudulent billings; ~$908K paid out as bribes; vendor profits off the rest.
How it broke open: FBI/IRS probe; ledgers and manila folders tracking “favors” and payouts; federal charges announced in 2016.
Legal outcomes:
Vendor Norman Shy: 5 years federal prison + $2.7M restitution.
Assistant superintendent & multiple principals: 6–24 months typical; restitution matching kickbacks.
One principal (Josette Buendia) went to trial and was convicted; appeals upheld.
Systemic failures: Excess principal autonomy on purchasing, weak verification of deliveries, chaotic district finances, and gaps in auditing.
Impact on students: Funds diverted from textbooks, tech, and repairs in crumbling buildings; trust in schools eroded.
Reforms: DPS/DPSCD tightened purchasing, paused school-based buying, added audits/ethics oversight, and set up whistleblower channels.
Segments
☕ Iced Coffee of the Week — School Day Slush
Dirty vanilla matcha over ice, topped with sweet cream cold foam (optional almond extract). Smooth, a little shady, and strong.
🧶 Crochet Project — Hall Pass Headband
Quick block-stitch headband: “cute for class, not for crime.”
💬 Sip or Spill
Was this individual greed or a system too easy to exploit? Tell us your take.
Content note Mentions of public corruption, school mismanagement, and financial crimes.

🌐 Where to Find Me
🎧 Stream all episodes: HERE
📱 TikTok & Instagram: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
💌 Join the crew & extras: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet

🗂️ Sources
Department of Justice press materials
FBI/IRS case summaries
Sixth Circuit opinion in U.S. v. Buendia
Detroit Free Press/News coverage
DPS/DPSCD public statements

Special thanks to Momcast Productions for assisting me in writing this episode. If you have a podcast and would like to outsource some aspects, you can contact them at linktr.ee/momcastproductionsllc. Tell them I sent you!

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68112205Tue, 14 Oct 2025 05:00:11 +0000Jasmine PrinceWe pull back the curtain on Detroit’s long-running school corruption case centered on vendor Norman Shy and 13+ school officials who approved phony invoices for undelivered supplies—then took kickbacks in cash, checks, and gift cards. We break down...
The scheme (2002–2015): Fake/partial deliveries → principals certify receipt → district pays → vendor kicks back cash/gift cards to officials.
The money: ~$2.7M in fraudulent billings; ~$908K paid out as bribes; vendor profits off the rest.
How it broke open: FBI/IRS probe; ledgers and manila folders tracking “favors” and payouts; federal charges announced in 2016.
Legal outcomes:
Vendor Norman Shy: 5 years federal prison + $2.7M restitution.
Assistant superintendent & multiple principals: 6–24 months typical; restitution matching kickbacks.
One principal (Josette Buendia) went to trial and was convicted; appeals upheld.
Systemic failures: Excess principal autonomy on purchasing, weak verification of deliveries, chaotic district finances, and gaps in auditing.
Impact on students: Funds diverted from textbooks, tech, and repairs in crumbling buildings; trust in schools eroded.
Reforms: DPS/DPSCD tightened purchasing, paused school-based buying, added audits/ethics oversight, and set up whistleblower channels.
Segments
☕ Iced Coffee of the Week — School Day Slush
Dirty vanilla matcha over ice, topped with sweet cream cold foam (optional almond extract). Smooth, a little shady, and strong.
🧶 Crochet Project — Hall Pass Headband
Quick block-stitch headband: “cute for class, not for crime.”
💬 Sip or Spill
Was this individual greed or a system too easy to exploit? Tell us your take.
Content note Mentions of public corruption, school mismanagement, and financial crimes.

🌐 Where to Find Me
🎧 Stream all episodes: HERE
📱 TikTok & Instagram: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
💌 Join the crew & extras: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet

🗂️ Sources
Department of Justice press materials
FBI/IRS case summaries
Sixth Circuit opinion in U.S. v. Buendia
Detroit Free Press/News coverage
DPS/DPSCD public statements

Special thanks to Momcast Productions for assisting me in writing this episode. If you have a podcast and would like to outsource some aspects, you can contact them at linktr.ee/momcastproductionsllc. Tell them I sent you!

]]>2960blackpodcasters,communitytrust,cozytruecrime,crochetandcoffee,detroitpublicschools,dpskickbackscandal,educationcorruption,ethicsineducation,fakeinvoices,fbiinvestigation,jasmineclprince,k12scandals,michiganschools,normanshy,principalsbribery,publiccorruption,restitutionsentencing,scandalintheschools,schoolprocurementfraud,truecrimepodcastfalse22full🎙️Episode 11: Scandal in the Schools Series Pt. 1- The Atlanta Double: Tech Bribes & Test Scoreshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-11-scandal-in-the-schools-series-pt-1-the-atlanta-double-tech-bribes-test-scores--68024628
First up: Jerome Oberlton, the former Atlanta Public Schools Chief Information Officer who turned tech contracts into kickbacks. Then we dive into Dr. Beverly Hall, the one-time National Superintendent of the Year whose empire crumbled in the infamous Atlanta test-cheating scandal.

These stories intertwine technology, testing, and temptation—each showing what happens when pressure meets opportunity in public education. Grab your iced coffee and your yarn, sis, because this one’s layered like a granny square and messy like a grade-school group project.

☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: Peach Please Cold Foam Brew – sweet, southern, and slightly suspicious.

🧶 Crochet Project of the Week: WIP Updates

🌐 Where to Find Me
🎧 Stream all episodes: HERE
📱 TikTok & Instagram: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
💌 Join the crew & extras: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet

🗂️ Sources
U.S. Department of Justice & Federal Indictment Archives on Jerome Oberlton (2013) – Tech contract bribery case filings and sentencing records.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution coverage on Beverly Hall and the APS Test Cheating Scandal (2009–2015).
New York Times – “Atlanta Educators Convicted in School Cheating Scandal” (2015).
Education Week and The Hechinger Report investigations into systemic pressures behind standardized testing.
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Georgia press releases (2013–2015) regarding Oberlton’s plea deal and Hall’s co-defendants.

🗓️ Note from Jasmine: If you noticed a little mix-up last week—yep, that was me. The Detroit Principals’ Kickback Scheme audio accidentally went up under this title. We fixed it! That Detroit episode is now Episode 2, and this Atlanta deep-dive is now Episode 1 of the series.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68024628Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:10 +0000Jasmine PrinceWelcome back to Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet! I’m your host, Jasmine CL Prince, and we’re kicking off the Scandal in the Schools series with an Atlanta two-for-one. First up: Jerome Oberlton, the former Atlanta Public Schools Chief Information...
First up: Jerome Oberlton, the former Atlanta Public Schools Chief Information Officer who turned tech contracts into kickbacks. Then we dive into Dr. Beverly Hall, the one-time National Superintendent of the Year whose empire crumbled in the infamous Atlanta test-cheating scandal.

These stories intertwine technology, testing, and temptation—each showing what happens when pressure meets opportunity in public education. Grab your iced coffee and your yarn, sis, because this one’s layered like a granny square and messy like a grade-school group project.

☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: Peach Please Cold Foam Brew – sweet, southern, and slightly suspicious.

🧶 Crochet Project of the Week: WIP Updates

🌐 Where to Find Me
🎧 Stream all episodes: HERE
📱 TikTok & Instagram: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
💌 Join the crew & extras: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet

🗂️ Sources
U.S. Department of Justice & Federal Indictment Archives on Jerome Oberlton (2013) – Tech contract bribery case filings and sentencing records.
Atlanta Journal-Constitution coverage on Beverly Hall and the APS Test Cheating Scandal (2009–2015).
New York Times – “Atlanta Educators Convicted in School Cheating Scandal” (2015).
Education Week and The Hechinger Report investigations into systemic pressures behind standardized testing.
U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Georgia press releases (2013–2015) regarding Oberlton’s plea deal and Hall’s co-defendants.

🗓️ Note from Jasmine: If you noticed a little mix-up last week—yep, that was me. The Detroit Principals’ Kickback Scheme audio accidentally went up under this title. We fixed it! That Detroit episode is now Episode 2, and this Atlanta deep-dive is now Episode 1 of the series.]]>3679apsscandal,beverlyhall,blackpodcasters,coffeeandcrochet,dpskickbackscandal,educationcorruption,ethicsineducation,financialcrimes,fraud,jasmineclprince,jeromeoberlton,k12scandals,scams,scandalintheschools,techkickbacks,truecrimepodcast,whitecollarcrimefalse21full🎙️Episode 10: Indicted While Elected Series Pt. 3 – Marilyn Mosby: The Prosecutor Prosecutedhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-10-indicted-while-elected-series-pt-3-marilyn-mosby-the-prosecutor-prosecuted--68016067
The COVID hardship withdrawals
The Florida vacation homes
The mortgage fraud and perjury indictments
Her trial, sentencing, and supervised release
And her ongoing push for a presidential pardon
🎧 This episode includes:
☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: Sunshine State Cold Brew
🧶 Crochet Project: Hodgy Bonnet from @lovinghodgy. Watch the crotorial on her TikTok or YouTube or purchase the written pattern on Etsy.
💬 Sip or Spill: Was Marilyn’s prosecution justice—or retaliation?
⭐ Review Shoutout & Cozy Outro
💛 Support the podcast on Patreon for exclusive “Coffee Break” mini-episodes and early content drops: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet📸 Follow me on Instagram: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet📱 TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet🌐 Website: blkc3.com🎙️ New episodes every Tuesday!]]>0aa58947-5ba1-410f-8b93-69e4abc55218Tue, 27 May 2025 22:38:04 +0000Jasmine PrinceThis week on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, we’re unpacking the rise and reckoning of Marilyn Mosby — Baltimore’s former State’s Attorney who once stood as a national symbol of justice during the Freddie Gray case… and is now facing a federal...
The COVID hardship withdrawals
The Florida vacation homes
The mortgage fraud and perjury indictments
Her trial, sentencing, and supervised release
And her ongoing push for a presidential pardon
🎧 This episode includes:
☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: Sunshine State Cold Brew
🧶 Crochet Project: Hodgy Bonnet from @lovinghodgy. Watch the crotorial on her TikTok or YouTube or purchase the written pattern on Etsy.
💬 Sip or Spill: Was Marilyn’s prosecution justice—or retaliation?
⭐ Review Shoutout & Cozy Outro
💛 Support the podcast on Patreon for exclusive “Coffee Break” mini-episodes and early content drops: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet📸 Follow me on Instagram: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet📱 TikTok: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet🌐 Website: blkc3.com🎙️ New episodes every Tuesday!]]>3451false110full🎙️ Episode 9: Indicted While Elected Series Pt. 2- Catherine Pugh: The Rise and Fall of “Healthy Holly”https://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-9-indicted-while-elected-series-pt-2-catherine-pugh-the-rise-and-fall-of-healthy-holly--68016070
📚 Self-published books used to funnel over $800,000
🏥 Hospital board conflicts of interest
💰 Campaign finance violations
🧸 A press conference featuring baby onesies (yes, really)
👮🏾 FBI raids, federal prison, and a not-so-quiet return

And of course, we’re kicking things off with:

☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: Healthy Holly Cold Brew — smooth, nutty, and a little shady
🧶 Crochet Project of the Week: The Healthy Holly Healing Blanket — because somebody needs to wrap this whole story in a second chance
💬 Sip or Spill: Does Catherine Pugh deserve a shot at redemption or nah?

📚 Self-published books used to funnel over $800,000

🏥 Hospital board conflicts of interest

💰 Campaign finance violations

🧸 A press conference featuring baby onesies (yes, really)

👮🏾 FBI raids, federal prison, and a not-so-quiet return

And of course, we’re kicking things off with:

☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: Healthy Holly Cold Brew — smooth, nutty, and a little shady
🧶 Crochet Project of the Week: The Healthy Holly Healing Blanket — because somebody needs to wrap this whole story in a second chance
💬 Sip or Spill: Does Catherine Pugh deserve a shot at redemption or nah?

🔗 Links & Extras:🎧 Listen + Subscribe: blackcoffeecrimeandcrochet.com
💬 Join the convo: @blackcoffeecrimecrochet on Threads, TikTok, and IG
☕ Support the show: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Sources Read the full news article HEREWatch the full YouTube video HEREDirect quotes and facts were referenced from official reports and news coverage of Catherine Pugh’s case for accuracy. Key sources include the Baltimore Magazine profile of Pugh’s early life baltimoremagazine.com, WBAL and Fox45 news reports on her career and resignation wbaltv.com, foxbaltimore.com, the U.S. Department of Justice press release on her indictment and plea justice.gov, and CBS Baltimore’s reporting on her sentencing, restitution, and release cbsnews.com. The discussion on racial and media dynamics references commentary from the Baltimore Beat and local news incidents 2851false19full🎙️Episode 8: Indicted While Elected Series- Sheila Dixon’s Gift Card Grifthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-8-indicted-while-elected-series-sheila-dixon-s-gift-card-grift--68016072She made history, lowered crime, and cleaned up the streets…
But it all came crashing down over a $500 gift card scandal that had Baltimore clutching their Target receipts.We’re digging into her rise, fall, and comeback attempts, plus asking the big question:
Was it fair to throw her whole legacy away? Or did Baltimore lose one of its best mayors over a minor mistake?👉🏾 Sip or Spill: Share your take on IG or Threads @blackcoffeecrimecrochetSIP if you think Sheila Dixon deserved more grace — she owned up (kinda lol), did her community service, and still made Baltimore better while she was in office. SPILL if you think trust is trust, and you can’t steal from the people and expect to get your seat back — no matter how small the dollar amount was.☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: “Mocha Misconduct”-Chocolate, brown sugar cinnamon, and a little shady energy.Recipe Recap:

1 shot espresso or 2 Tbsp instant coffee
1 cup milk of choice (oat milk slaps)
1 Tbsp chocolate syrup
1 Tbsp brown sugar cinnamon syrup
Ice to fill
Optional: Cold foam with a dusting of cocoa powder

🧶 Crochet Project of the Week: Men's Polo Shirt🗓️ Coming Up Next Week:Catherine Pugh and the Healthy Holly book hustle.💬 Support the Show

🎧 Subscribe + Review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify
☕ Join the Patreon for bonus content: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet

📲 Follow on Social: IG, TikTok, Threads @blackcoffeecrimecrochet#BlackCoffeeCrimeCrochet #TrueCrimePodcast #BaltimorePolitics #PoliticalScandal #SheilaDixon #CozyChaos
Sources will be available on my website within 30 days. For the full legal disclaimer, also head to the website.]]>fdd8bf08-5099-4270-b412-79f133a5d478Tue, 13 May 2025 04:59:00 +0000Jasmine PrinceWelcome to Indicted While Elected !!!! — the brand new series on Black Coffee, Crime & Crochet, where we stitch together stories of Black elected officials who went from power to prosecution.This week, we’re starting in Baltimore, Maryland, with...She made history, lowered crime, and cleaned up the streets…
But it all came crashing down over a $500 gift card scandal that had Baltimore clutching their Target receipts.We’re digging into her rise, fall, and comeback attempts, plus asking the big question:
Was it fair to throw her whole legacy away? Or did Baltimore lose one of its best mayors over a minor mistake?👉🏾 Sip or Spill: Share your take on IG or Threads @blackcoffeecrimecrochetSIP if you think Sheila Dixon deserved more grace — she owned up (kinda lol), did her community service, and still made Baltimore better while she was in office. SPILL if you think trust is trust, and you can’t steal from the people and expect to get your seat back — no matter how small the dollar amount was.☕ Iced Coffee of the Week: “Mocha Misconduct”-Chocolate, brown sugar cinnamon, and a little shady energy.Recipe Recap:

1 shot espresso or 2 Tbsp instant coffee
1 cup milk of choice (oat milk slaps)
1 Tbsp chocolate syrup
1 Tbsp brown sugar cinnamon syrup
Ice to fill
Optional: Cold foam with a dusting of cocoa powder

🧶 Crochet Project of the Week: Men's Polo Shirt🗓️ Coming Up Next Week:Catherine Pugh and the Healthy Holly book hustle.💬 Support the Show

🎧 Subscribe + Review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify
☕ Join the Patreon for bonus content: patreon.com/blackcoffeecrimecrochet

1 shot espresso (or 2 Tbsp instant + 3 Tbsp hot water)
1 cup milk of choice (oat or whole milk is 🔥)
1 Tbsp chocolate syrup
1 Tbsp brown sugar cinnamon syrup
Ice to fill
Optional: Cold foam made with sweet cream + cocoa powder dusted on top

🎤 This iced mocha is smooth, bold, and absolutely guilty of being too good. Just like a certain mayor who’ll remain nameless... for now.
🧶 Crochet Project: Stress an ADHD had me switching WIPs lolComing This May: “Indicted While Elected” Series

May 13: Sheila Dixon – Gift Card Grift Queen
May 20: Catherine Pugh – Healthy Holly, Unhealthy Ethics
May 27: Marilyn Mosby – Prosecutor Turned Defendant

🎧 Subscribe and follow so you don’t miss a stitch.Watch the Fox5 clip covering Briauna Powell HERE.Follow me on TikTok HEREFollow me on IG HEREFollow me on FB HEREVisit my website HEREJoin Patreon HERE]]>b9ba3d91-d8a7-4aeb-b5fd-c03fc79c3161Tue, 06 May 2025 04:59:00 +0000Jasmine PrinceThis week’s episode is short and shady, bestie — because listen… finals are finaling. But I couldn’t leave y’all hanging completely.I’m giving you a quick sip of a wild case featuring Briauna Powell, a Georgia woman charged with identity fraud and...Name: “Mocha Misconduct” Vibe: Rich, smooth, and just shady enough.Recipe (24 oz):

1 shot espresso (or 2 Tbsp instant + 3 Tbsp hot water)
1 cup milk of choice (oat or whole milk is 🔥)
1 Tbsp chocolate syrup
1 Tbsp brown sugar cinnamon syrup
Ice to fill
Optional: Cold foam made with sweet cream + cocoa powder dusted on top

May 13: Sheila Dixon – Gift Card Grift Queen
May 20: Catherine Pugh – Healthy Holly, Unhealthy Ethics
May 27: Marilyn Mosby – Prosecutor Turned Defendant

🎧 Subscribe and follow so you don’t miss a stitch.Watch the Fox5 clip covering Briauna Powell HERE.Follow me on TikTok HEREFollow me on IG HEREFollow me on FB HEREVisit my website HEREJoin Patreon HERE]]>665false17full🎙️Ep. 6: Black Maternal Health Week: The Stories of Angelikque Sutton and Avis Bankshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-6-black-maternal-health-week-the-stories-of-angelikque-sutton-and-avis-banks--68016071In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, today's episode highlights the heartbreaking stories of Angelikque Sutton and Avis Banks — two pregnant Black women whose lives were stolen in acts of violence that continue to reflect the risks Black women face, even beyond the healthcare system.We honor their memories and amplify the need for protection, respect, and justice for Black mothers everywhere.This episode includes:

Iced Coffee of the Week:Brewed fresh with love from Piper’s Brew — a Black woman-owned coffee brand roasting with purpose. Visit pipersbrew.com and use code BC310 for a discount! ☕☕ Faith Fuel Shaken Espresso (Featuring Piper’s Brew Espresso)Ingredients:

◦2 shots Piper’s Brew Espresso (freshly brewed and cooled slightly)◦1 tablespoon brown sugar syrup (or 1 tablespoon brown sugar + a splash of hot water)◦1/2 teaspoon vanilla syrup◦Ice (a lot! Go wild.)◦1/4 cup half & half, oat milk, or your milk of choice◦Optional: sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra cozy vibes

Brew your Piper’s Brew espresso and let it cool just a bit (we don’t want it melting all the ice immediately — patience is a virtue, sis 😂).
In a shaker cup or mason jar, add your ice, brown sugar syrup, and vanilla syrup.
Pour the espresso shots over the ice and syrup.
SHAKE IT like you’re shaking off self-doubt and stepping into your purpose! (About 15–20 seconds.)
Pour everything — ice and all — into your favorite glass.
Top with your milk of choice.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re feeling a little ✨ extra blessed✨.

Instructions:Sip and repeat after me: "I am fueled by faith, family, and fantastic coffee." 🙏🏾
Crochet Project Spotlight:I'm working on the Waffle Stitch Halter Top designed by @shylercrochets! It's beginner-friendly, beautifully textured, and perfect for sunny days.→ Grab your pattern here: ShylerCrochets Etsy Shop

Follow:@blackcoffeecrimecrochet for true crime storytelling stitched with soft chaos@pipersbrew for ethically sourced coffee@shylercrochets for dreamy crochet patternsSupport the show:Visit blkc3.com to learn more, join my email list, and get the sources used for today's episode.
Great effort is made to ensure all materials in this podcast fall within the guidelines of fair use. No copyright infringement is intended. If you are, or represent, the copyright owner of any materials accidentally used in this episode and have an issue with its use, please contact me and I will respond. (FULL DISCLAIMER ON MY WEBSITE.)]]>98b385c5-e2a8-4dff-a7a6-1d3fff2e1944Tue, 29 Apr 2025 04:59:00 +0000Jasmine Prince**Listener Note:**Some parts of today’s episode may be emotionally heavy. Please take care while listening. In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, today's episode highlights the heartbreaking stories of Angelikque Sutton and Avis Banks — two pregnant...In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, today's episode highlights the heartbreaking stories of Angelikque Sutton and Avis Banks — two pregnant Black women whose lives were stolen in acts of violence that continue to reflect the risks Black women face, even beyond the healthcare system.We honor their memories and amplify the need for protection, respect, and justice for Black mothers everywhere.This episode includes:

Iced Coffee of the Week:Brewed fresh with love from Piper’s Brew — a Black woman-owned coffee brand roasting with purpose. Visit pipersbrew.com and use code BC310 for a discount! ☕☕ Faith Fuel Shaken Espresso (Featuring Piper’s Brew Espresso)Ingredients:

Brew your Piper’s Brew espresso and let it cool just a bit (we don’t want it melting all the ice immediately — patience is a virtue, sis 😂).
In a shaker cup or mason jar, add your ice, brown sugar syrup, and vanilla syrup.
Pour the espresso shots over the ice and syrup.
SHAKE IT like you’re shaking off self-doubt and stepping into your purpose! (About 15–20 seconds.)
Pour everything — ice and all — into your favorite glass.
Top with your milk of choice.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg if you’re feeling a little ✨ extra blessed✨.

Instructions:Sip and repeat after me: "I am fueled by faith, family, and fantastic coffee." 🙏🏾
Crochet Project Spotlight:I'm working on the Waffle Stitch Halter Top designed by @shylercrochets! It's beginner-friendly, beautifully textured, and perfect for sunny days.→ Grab your pattern here: ShylerCrochets Etsy Shop

Follow:@blackcoffeecrimecrochet for true crime storytelling stitched with soft chaos@pipersbrew for ethically sourced coffee@shylercrochets for dreamy crochet patternsSupport the show:Visit blkc3.com to learn more, join my email list, and get the sources used for today's episode.
Great effort is made to ensure all materials in this podcast fall within the guidelines of fair use. No copyright infringement is intended. If you are, or represent, the copyright owner of any materials accidentally used in this episode and have an issue with its use, please contact me and I will respond. (FULL DISCLAIMER ON MY WEBSITE.)]]>4819false16full🎙️Ep 5: Crime to Burn Takeover – The Case of Angela Garcia (Pt. 1)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-5-crime-to-burn-takeover-the-case-of-angela-garcia-pt-1--68016077Want to hear the rest?
Catch the full series over on Crime to Burn's podcast feed:
→ Part 2 – Crime to Burn
→ Part 3 – The FinaleTo get involved in assisting formerly incarcerated individuals like Angela, please consider these organizations:https://innocenceproject.org/donate-monthly/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20ways%20to,Project%20in%20your%20estate%20plans.This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended. https://exoneratednation.org/ https://www.lifeafterjustice.org/ https://organizationofexonerees.com/
This episode includes:

Iced coffee of the week: Introducing our FIRST coffee sponsorship, Sibling Rivalry —because sometimes, the only thing stronger than the caffeine is the family drama. They’re five siblings, one roaster, and zero chill. I tried their Golden Child roast, and as a middle child myself? I was lowkey offended by how GOOD it was.But seriously—this coffee is amazing. Each roast has its own chaotic personality, just like your favorite sibling group chat. So whether you're the wild one, the golden one, or the one holding everybody else together… there's a brew for you. Head to siblingrivalry.coffee and use my code BC310 for a little love off your first order. Today’s drink is called the 'Black Mamas Matter Latte'—a cozy iced mocha with a little spice and a whole lot of love. Here’s how I made it:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 1/2 cup oat milk
- 1 tablespoon dark or milk chocolate syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Dash of cayenne (optional, but adds warmth!)
- Ice and a swirl of whipped cream on top
Stir it all up, take a sip, and honor the resilience of Black mothers everywhere.
Crochet project spotlight: The Diva Cardigan by CarvalhoCrochets – designed by Tiffany Carvalho, a bold and colorful statement piece that guarantees constant compliments.Tiffany Carvalho (Car-vel-lo), 34, from Philly and currently live in Maryland is the owner and creator of CarvalhoCrochets. I began crocheting in 2018 and started my business in Dec 2020, now celebrating 4 years in business successfully. My custom clothing and accessories are colorful, handmade, and guaranteed to award you Constant Compliments. Monogram Baby Blankets and my Ariel's Crown Ruffle hats are my signature pieces having sold over 25 of each. CarvalhoCrochets has released 4 easy to use crochet patterns which are available on my Etsy shop and website. Lastly for your vlogging interest, you can find Tiffany on YouTube giving you an inside scoop on her day to day hustle and bustle as a business owner and Professor.
→ Shop the pattern: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1447836819/the-diva-cardigan-crochet-pattern-pdf
→ Follow her: @carvalhocrochets

Follow @blackcoffeecrimecrochet and @crimetoburn for more.]]>dfacdbd0-5bd5-47b9-8aa9-b26a67bf3ae2Tue, 22 Apr 2025 04:59:00 +0000Jasmine PrinceThis special takeover episode is brought to you by our true crime cousin, Crime to Burn! While I had a full episode recorded for Black Maternal Health Week, the audio unfortunately didn’t make it. But we’re still honoring the week by sharing a...Want to hear the rest?
Catch the full series over on Crime to Burn's podcast feed:
→ Part 2 – Crime to Burn
→ Part 3 – The FinaleTo get involved in assisting formerly incarcerated individuals like Angela, please consider these organizations:https://innocenceproject.org/donate-monthly/#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20ways%20to,Project%20in%20your%20estate%20plans.This podcast is a true crime podcast about arson and criminal fires. Listener discretion is recommended. https://exoneratednation.org/ https://www.lifeafterjustice.org/ https://organizationofexonerees.com/
This episode includes:

Iced coffee of the week: Introducing our FIRST coffee sponsorship, Sibling Rivalry —because sometimes, the only thing stronger than the caffeine is the family drama. They’re five siblings, one roaster, and zero chill. I tried their Golden Child roast, and as a middle child myself? I was lowkey offended by how GOOD it was.But seriously—this coffee is amazing. Each roast has its own chaotic personality, just like your favorite sibling group chat. So whether you're the wild one, the golden one, or the one holding everybody else together… there's a brew for you. Head to siblingrivalry.coffee and use my code BC310 for a little love off your first order. Today’s drink is called the 'Black Mamas Matter Latte'—a cozy iced mocha with a little spice and a whole lot of love. Here’s how I made it:
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 1/2 cup oat milk
- 1 tablespoon dark or milk chocolate syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Dash of cayenne (optional, but adds warmth!)
- Ice and a swirl of whipped cream on top
Stir it all up, take a sip, and honor the resilience of Black mothers everywhere.
Crochet project spotlight: The Diva Cardigan by CarvalhoCrochets – designed by Tiffany Carvalho, a bold and colorful statement piece that guarantees constant compliments.Tiffany Carvalho (Car-vel-lo), 34, from Philly and currently live in Maryland is the owner and creator of CarvalhoCrochets. I began crocheting in 2018 and started my business in Dec 2020, now celebrating 4 years in business successfully. My custom clothing and accessories are colorful, handmade, and guaranteed to award you Constant Compliments. Monogram Baby Blankets and my Ariel's Crown Ruffle hats are my signature...]]>2841false
15full
🎙️Ep. 4: Dr. Love Will See You Now (But He Shouldn’t)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/ep-4-dr-love-will-see-you-now-but-he-shouldn-t--68016079
He wore the lab coat. He printed the diplomas. He gave exams, offered diagnoses, and even “treated” a pregnant woman. But Malachi Love-Robinson—aka Dr. Love—was never a real doctor. He was just a bold teen with a printer and a plan.This episode unpacks the wild saga of one of the most infamous young scammers in recent memory. From shadowing doctors in hospitals, to opening his own fake clinic, to fraudulently buying a Jaguar, Malachi’s story is full of red flags and reckless confidence. And somehow, that’s just the beginning.We’ll talk:
- How a childhood battle with lupus may have shaped his obsession with medicine
- The clinic sting that led to his arrest
- His elderly victims and financial scams
- The Virginia Jaguar scheme and cross-state crimes
- The fraud that landed him back in prison (again)
- What the media got right—and what they missed
All while sipping a cozy iced Fauxcciatto and crocheting through the chaos 🧶☕
Grab your yarn and your iced drink, and let’s get into it.Mentioned in this Episode:
- Reporter: Terri Parker (WPBF)
- Victim Statements: Anita Morrison, Dr. Lisa Cicchetti
- Arrest Info: Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office
- News Footage: WPBF, GMA, CBS12
🎧 Listen + Subscribe:
https://blkc3.com (or wherever you listen to podcasts)📸 Follow the chaos:
TikTok + Instagram → @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon → Join Patreon
Website → HERE☕ Today’s Drink: Iced Fauxcciatto – sweet, fake, and bold… just like Dr. Love.
🧶 Today’s Project: Granny square sweater – layered, old school, and a little messy.

]]>
8e9c31e5-1223-407b-ada7-5f388b016176Tue, 15 Apr 2025 04:59:00 +0000
Jasmine Prince**PLEASE EXCUSE THE AUDIO. I DIDN'T REALIZE IT UNTIL EDITING.** He wore the lab coat. He printed the diplomas. He gave exams, offered diagnoses, and even “treated” a pregnant woman. But Malachi Love-Robinson—aka Dr. Love—was never a real doctor. He...He wore the lab coat. He printed the diplomas. He gave exams, offered diagnoses, and even “treated” a pregnant woman. But Malachi Love-Robinson—aka Dr. Love—was never a real doctor. He was just a bold teen with a printer and a plan.This episode unpacks the wild saga of one of the most infamous young scammers in recent memory. From shadowing doctors in hospitals, to opening his own fake clinic, to fraudulently buying a Jaguar, Malachi’s story is full of red flags and reckless confidence. And somehow, that’s just the beginning.We’ll talk:
How a childhood battle with lupus may have shaped his obsession with medicine
The clinic sting that led to his arrest
His elderly victims and financial scams
The Virginia Jaguar scheme and cross-state crimes
The fraud that landed him back in prison (again)
What the media got right—and what they missed
All while sipping a cozy iced Fauxcciatto and crocheting through the chaos 🧶☕
Grab your yarn and your iced drink, and let’s get into it.Mentioned in this Episode:
Reporter: Terri Parker (WPBF)
Victim Statements: Anita Morrison, Dr. Lisa Cicchetti
Arrest Info: Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Stafford County Sheriff’s Office
News Footage: WPBF, GMA, CBS12
🎧 Listen + Subscribe:
https://blkc3.com (or wherever you listen to podcasts)📸 Follow the chaos:
TikTok + Instagram → @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
Patreon → Join Patreon
Website → HERE☕ Today’s Drink: Iced Fauxcciatto – sweet, fake, and bold… just like Dr. Love.
🧶 Today’s Project: Granny square sweater – layered, old school, and a little messy.

]]>4573false14full
🎙️Episode 3: Swipe, Seduce, Scam: The Daylon Pierce Storyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-3-swipe-seduce-scam-the-daylon-pierce-story--68016074
🎙️ Episode 3: Swipe, Seduce, Steal: The Daylon Pierce Romance ScamThis week on Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, we’re sipping Sweet Talker Lattes and stitching our way through the twisted tale of Daylon Pierce, an Arizona-based romance scammer who used dating apps to charm, manipulate, and con multiple women out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.I’m breaking down:
- How Daylon Pierce built his fake financial empire on lies and love-bombing
- The women who trusted him and what they lost
- How he was caught and sentenced
This episode is part true crime deep-dive, part love life PSA—so grab your iced coffee, your latest WIP, and settle in.🧃 Drink of the Episode: Sweet Talker Latte (caramel, cinnamon, vanilla)
🧶 Current WIP: Finishing the granny square cardigan☕ Connect with Me:🔗 blkc3.com
📸 @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
📧 Join the Email List
💬 Tag me in your drink + stitch setup and use #BC3Podcast!🔐 DisclaimerI’m not a licensed psychologist—just a research-loving SAHM who’s digging into the deeper stuff behind the scam to help us all stay a little wiser (and a lot safer).Plus: ☕️ Iced Coffee Recipe: The Love Bomb Latte 🧶 Crochet Project: Chunky granny square cardigan 🔥 Segment: Sip or Spill – Is this just game gone wrong, or emotional fraud on a whole new level?—🔗 Visit blkc3.com for sources, to leave a review & more 🧵 New episodes every Tuesday🎚️ Produced and mixed by LeTarius Prince 🎶 Beats by LeTarius Prince]]>
bdccdf72-5a99-41cb-9ad1-e02f715fa47cTue, 08 Apr 2025 04:59:00 +0000
Jasmine PrincePodcast Episode 3-Swipe, Seduce, Scam: The Daylon Pierce StoryDaylon Pierce wasn’t your average online dater. He posed as a wealthy stockbroker looking for love… and ended up scamming multiple women out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.In this...🎙️ Episode 3: Swipe, Seduce, Steal: The Daylon Pierce Romance ScamThis week on Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet, we’re sipping Sweet Talker Lattes and stitching our way through the twisted tale of Daylon Pierce, an Arizona-based romance scammer who used dating apps to charm, manipulate, and con multiple women out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.I’m breaking down:
How Daylon Pierce built his fake financial empire on lies and love-bombing
The women who trusted him and what they lost
How he was caught and sentenced
This episode is part true crime deep-dive, part love life PSA—so grab your iced coffee, your latest WIP, and settle in.🧃 Drink of the Episode: Sweet Talker Latte (caramel, cinnamon, vanilla)
🧶 Current WIP: Finishing the granny square cardigan☕ Connect with Me:🔗 blkc3.com
📸 @blackcoffeecrimecrochet
📧 Join the Email List
💬 Tag me in your drink + stitch setup and use #BC3Podcast!🔐 DisclaimerI’m not a licensed psychologist—just a research-loving SAHM who’s digging into the deeper stuff behind the scam to help us all stay a little wiser (and a lot safer).Plus: ☕️ Iced Coffee Recipe: The Love Bomb Latte 🧶 Crochet Project: Chunky granny square cardigan 🔥 Segment: Sip or Spill – Is this just game gone wrong, or emotional fraud on a whole new level?—🔗 Visit blkc3.com for sources, to leave a review & more 🧵 New episodes every Tuesday🎚️ Produced and mixed by LeTarius Prince 🎶 Beats by LeTarius Prince]]>3741false13full
🎙️Episode 2: Luxury Lies & Credit Schemes (Part 2- Ayana Bean)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-2-luxury-lies-credit-schemes-part-2-ayana-bean--68016069
🎚️ Produced & mixed by LeTarius Prince
💻 www.blackcoffeecrimecrochet.comWelcome back to Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet—a true crime podcast where the vibes are cozy and the scams are anything but.Today’s episode is Part 2 of Luxury Lies & Credit Schemes, and we’re stitching through the story of Ayana Bean—a Boston native whose bold credit schemes and flashy lifestyle landed her in the spotlight… and then in prison. We'll break down:
- Her early life and street credibility in Boston
- How she got involved in the hip-hop and event scene
- The stolen education grants and nonprofit fraud
- Her TV appearance on American Gangster: Trap Queens
- What she’s doing now post-conviction
Plus:
☕ A cozy iced drink called “Sweet. Soft. Scammer.”
🧶 And the latest updates on my granny square sweater crochet project!🔗 Visit blackcoffeecrimecrochet.com for full sources, and to support the show
🎧 New episodes every Tuesday]]>
c48d3de2-7ac2-4471-9526-ffed26aacb2fTue, 01 Apr 2025 04:59:00 +0000
Jasmine PrinceLuxury Lies & Credit Schemes – Part 2: The Rise & Fall of Ayana BeanAyana Bean had the hustle, the looks, and the drive—but beneath the designer fits and fast money was a paper trail of fraud that eventually caught up. In this episode, we...🎚️ Produced & mixed by LeTarius Prince
💻 www.blackcoffeecrimecrochet.comWelcome back to Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet—a true crime podcast where the vibes are cozy and the scams are anything but.Today’s episode is Part 2 of Luxury Lies & Credit Schemes, and we’re stitching through the story of Ayana Bean—a Boston native whose bold credit schemes and flashy lifestyle landed her in the spotlight… and then in prison. We'll break down:
Her early life and street credibility in Boston
How she got involved in the hip-hop and event scene
The stolen education grants and nonprofit fraud
Her TV appearance on American Gangster: Trap Queens
What she’s doing now post-conviction
Plus:
☕ A cozy iced drink called “Sweet. Soft. Scammer.”
🧶 And the latest updates on my granny square sweater crochet project!🔗 Visit blackcoffeecrimecrochet.com for full sources, and to support the show
🎧 New episodes every Tuesday]]>2600false12full
🎙️ Episode 1: Luxury Lies & Credit Schemes (Part 1 – Ashley Grayson)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-1-luxury-lies-credit-schemes-part-1-ashley-grayson--68016080
Hosted by Jasmine CL PrinceDescription:
**SKIP AHEAD TO 13:08 IF YOU WANT TO GET RIGHT TO THE STORY.**In this premiere episode, Jasmine unravels the rise and fall of Ashleigh Grayson, a woman who built a luxury lifestyle brand by promising financial miracles—but whose methods and motives have come under fire. From credit coaching claims to drama involving real estate and a shocking murder-for-hire plot, this story kicks off a multi-part look at women selling the dream and scamming behind the scenes.This is Part 1 of a multi-episode series on luxury lies, credit schemes, and the blurred lines between hustle and harm.☕ This week’s iced coffee: Caramel Cold Brew
🧶 Crochet project: A large granny square sweater
📅 New episodes every TuesdayIn This Episode:
- Ashleigh Grayson’s rise as a credit “miracle worker”
- Allegations surrounding house purchases and property drama
- A wild murder-for-hire plot that shocked the timeline
- Jasmine’s real-life brush with a scam that nearly cost her $10K
- Red flags to watch for in financial coaching spaces
- Sip or Spill: Was Ashleigh misunderstood—or out of control?
Sources used can be found on my website, blkc3.com, within 30 days of the episode airing.
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer:Great effort is made to ensure all materials in Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet fall within the guidelines of fair use. This podcast includes commentary, research, public reporting, and opinion for educational and entertainment purposes only. No copyright infringement is intended.If you are—or represent—the copyright owner of any materials used and have concerns regarding their inclusion, please contact me and I will respond promptly.
CXkKdilKnfqG2FxkBf5m]]>
f2313527-09ee-4d6f-bde0-659230fa2aadTue, 25 Mar 2025 18:02:31 +0000
Jasmine PrinceBlack Coffee, Crime, and Crochet Hosted by Jasmine CL PrinceDescription: **SKIP AHEAD TO 13:08 IF YOU WANT TO GET RIGHT TO THE STORY.**In this premiere episode, Jasmine unravels the rise and fall of Ashleigh Grayson, a woman who built a luxury...Hosted by Jasmine CL PrinceDescription:
**SKIP AHEAD TO 13:08 IF YOU WANT TO GET RIGHT TO THE STORY.**In this premiere episode, Jasmine unravels the rise and fall of Ashleigh Grayson, a woman who built a luxury lifestyle brand by promising financial miracles—but whose methods and motives have come under fire. From credit coaching claims to drama involving real estate and a shocking murder-for-hire plot, this story kicks off a multi-part look at women selling the dream and scamming behind the scenes.This is Part 1 of a multi-episode series on luxury lies, credit schemes, and the blurred lines between hustle and harm.☕ This week’s iced coffee: Caramel Cold Brew
🧶 Crochet project: A large granny square sweater
📅 New episodes every TuesdayIn This Episode:
Ashleigh Grayson’s rise as a credit “miracle worker”
Allegations surrounding house purchases and property drama
A wild murder-for-hire plot that shocked the timeline
Jasmine’s real-life brush with a scam that nearly cost her $10K
Red flags to watch for in financial coaching spaces
Sip or Spill: Was Ashleigh misunderstood—or out of control?
Sources used can be found on my website, blkc3.com, within 30 days of the episode airing.
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer:Great effort is made to ensure all materials in Black Coffee, Crime, and Crochet fall within the guidelines of fair use. This podcast includes commentary, research, public reporting, and opinion for educational and entertainment purposes only. No copyright infringement is intended.If you are—or represent—the copyright owner of any materials used and have concerns regarding their inclusion, please contact me and I will respond promptly.
CXkKdilKnfqG2FxkBf5m]]>3083false11full
Black Coffee, Crime and Crochet Trailerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/black-coffee-crime-and-crochet-trailer--68016073Beat by LeTarius PrinceCover Art by Josie La Corte Dresser
CXkKdilKnfqG2FxkBf5m]]>a01c9458-5b3b-489d-88c6-4a37340be26fThu, 06 Mar 2025 01:11:08 +0000Jasmine PrinceBlack Coffee, Crime, and Crochet (BC³) is where true crime meets cozy vibes. Hosted by Jasmine C.L. Prince, this podcast uncovers fraud, scams, and crimes committed by Black women and men, from romance cons to influencer deception, high-stakes fraud,...Beat by LeTarius PrinceCover Art by Josie La Corte Dresser
CXkKdilKnfqG2FxkBf5m]]>84false1trailer