Tragic Murder in Birmingham is A Good Reminder About Trusting Those Around You

It's truly heartbreaking when we lose someone, especially in such a horrific way. The tragic murder of Mahogany Jackson in Birmingham, Alabama has left her family and friends devastated and shocked. As a mom to a three-year-old, I can't even imagine the pain her loved ones must be feeling. The fact that her attackers, who she thought were her friends, filmed the crime is beyond disturbing.

Mahogany's case has stirred up a lot of emotions in the Birmingham community, making us question how such senseless violence could happen, especially among friends. It reminds me of the tragic murder of Shanquella Robinson, labeled as "femicide" by Mexican officials. Shanquella, a Charlotte NC native, was brutally attacked and killed by someone she considered a friend while on vacation in Mexico. The fact that her so-called friends stood by and even filmed the incident is chilling.

While we're still learning more about Mahogany's case, the knowledge that her attackers recorded her murder is a harsh reality. It's a stark reminder to all the women out there: not everyone who comes as a friend has your best intentions. Guard your heart and choose your circle wisely.

We are three months into 2024 and the streaming true crime docuseries are on fire! Like most folks, I love a good true crime tale and this year's early crop does not disappoint.  If you are wondering why folks are so obsessed with the evil actions of others, there's actual science behind it.

According to the NY Post: “True crime can have a learning component to it or at least a perceived learning component. We feel like we’re more prepared in these kinds of situations. So if this dangerous situation were to occur, you feel a little more prepared and know what you should or shouldn’t do. This claim is supported by research data collected by OnePoll. The new survey of 2,000 self-reported true crime fans found that 76% feel that consuming content about true crime helps them avoid similar situations happening to them. The average respondent consumes five true crime programs each month, with 75% saying they watch the latest program the instant it’s released and 71% typically binge-watching the entire thing in one sitting.

The survey also found that 44% of respondents admit they have a “favorite” serial killer and 67% would like the opportunity to chat with one.

Over seven in ten of those polled (71%) also admit to feeling less trustworthy of other people due to how much true crime content they consume."

So, it's no surprise that the genre is red hot at the moment.  Check out the newest true crime offerings from all the most popular streaming services!

“In this gripping investigative docuseries, a filmmaker and other former students recall their horrific experiences attending a disciplinary school and expose the horrors of the troubled teen industry.”
How far would you go as a parent to deal with your child's bad behavior? How far is too far? This riveting Netflix documentary tackles the issue of discipline gone too far.

Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV is a four-part docuseries that sheds light on the children's TV empire built by Dan Schneider, the creator of Nickelodeon shows such as iCarly and Zoey 101. Peering behind the smiling faces onscreen on these shows with questionable jokes and over-the-top sketches, Quiet On Set reveals an insidious environment rampant with allegations of abuse, sexism, racism, and inappropriate dynamics with its underage stars and crew. 

A tragic affair of child abuse and judicial disaster, this docuseries revisits the Outreau case, one of the biggest scandals in French history.

What would you do if the forces that are charged to serve and protect its citizens just decide to phone it in? This gripping docuseries will have you asking yourself "What if this happened to me?"

Scoring a perfect 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, this documentary grabs you by the brain and doesn't let go for 90 minutes.  Hint: be careful of who you chat with online........