True Crime Prevention Podcast

"It can happen to anyone."

When Devon Michaels took what he believed was a Percocet, he had no idea it was a fake — and laced with fentanyl. His death devastated his family and sparked a mission to protect other young people from the same danger.

In this powerful episode of True Crime Prevention, Ava Michelle (Netflix’s "Tall Girl," & "Dance Moms") and her mother Jeanette Cota open up about losing their brother and son to a fake pill. They share how their grief turned into advocacy through the Devon Michaels Foundation, dedicated to spreading awareness about the Mental Health and Fentanyl crisis, and the dangers facing teens today.

This episode dives into:

• Devon’s story and the night everything changed

• Why fake pills are everywhere — and why teens are especially at risk

• How fentanyl is fueling a national crisis

• What parents must know about social media drug sales

• How we can prevent more families from suffering this loss

On Thanksgiving night in 2009, what should have been a warm family celebration turned into one of the most shocking and tragic family crimes in modern American history. Paul Merhige arrived at his relatives’ home for dinner but before the night was over, he had executed a calculated plan of murder that left four family members dead, including a 6-year-old Makayla Sitton.

In this powerful episode of True Crime Prevention, host Paul DelPonte is joined by NCPC's Tatiana Peralta for a deep dive on the case and a conversation about the warning signs that went unnoticed.

This isn’t just a recounting of a horrific crime—it's a discussion about what could have been done, what we can learn, and how we can protect our families and communities from similar tragedies. A haunting case. A critical conversation. And a reminder that prevention starts with awareness!

In 2002, the DC Sniper terrorized a city and leaving more than a dozen dead. But behind the headlines was a chilling personal story few knew: Mildred Muhammad, the ex-wife of the sniper, was the real target all along.

In this gripping episode of True Crime Prevention, host Paul DelPonte speaks with Dr. Muhammad as she reveals the chilling reality behind the headlines, the courage it takes to speak out, and her experiences living with a man who would become one of America’s most notorious killers. She shares the warning signs of escalating violence, the psychological toll of living in fear, and how she turned her trauma into advocacy for victims of domestic violence.

This conversation offers an unflinching look at the human side of the DC sniper case, highlighting the importance of recognizing abuse, seeking help, and supporting survivors.

What happens when one survivor refuses to stay silent?

In this episode of True Crime Prevention, host Paul DelPonte speaks with Erin Merryn — a survivor turned national advocate whose story inspired Erin’s Law, landmark legislation that teaches children about safe and unsafe touches. Erin opens up about her personal experience with childhood abuse, the subtle grooming tactics predators use, and why open conversations about personal safety can save lives.

Together, Paul and Erin explore how education, awareness, and community involvement can stop abuse before it starts — and how every parent, teacher, and neighbor can help protect kids.