True Crime fascinates and shocks at the same time – especially women. This fascination lies in a tension between oppressive reality and the need for enlightenment and safety. Because stories about true crimes often reflect structural violence against women.

Violence against Women - every four minutes

Every day a man tries to kill a woman. Tomorrow, at the latest the day after tomorrow, one will have done it. 155 women were killed in 2023 by their partner or an ex-boyfriend in Germany. They were mothers, daughters, girlfriends. Cloaked as relationship crimes, downplayed as family tragedies, justified as honor killings. But they are feminicides: murders of women because they are women. 

The reality of domestic violence and feminicides in our society is shocking. Every four minutes a woman experiences violence from her (ex-)partner. These are crimes that no one talks about. Crimes that remain hidden, along with the patriarchal power and violence structures that run through the DNA of our society. These crimes are not private tragedies; they are expressions of deep-rooted misogyny.

Podimo Podcasts about Crimes against Women:

Feminicides and other crimes against women must be clearly named in order to enable political and social changes and to better protect women. Our podcasts show that crimes against women affect us all. Because every case is one too many, and above all is the question: Why are women victims of violent crimes – just because they are women?

12 Lives - Crimes against Women

The latest crime statistics show: Every third woman in Germany has been affected by physical, psychological, and/or sexual violence at least once in her life. Women from all social classes are affected. Behind these numbers are real cases – real human destinies!

But why are women or those perceived as female more often victims of crimes due to their gender identity? This podcast focuses on lives ended or forever changed by violent acts. In addition to experts, those affected themselves or their survivors speak out.

In the Dark - The Case of Rebecca Reusch

On February 17, 2019, 15-year-old Rebecca Reusch falls asleep on her sister Jessica's couch. The next morning, she does not show up for school. To the investigators, the matter is clear: Rebecca was killed by her brother-in-law Florian. But they can't prove it. Is the case really so clear-cut? Has Florian committed the perfect crime? Or has the police made premature conclusions, possibly missing the chance to find Rebecca?

The hosts Miriam Arndts and Lena Niethammer talk to witnesses who have never publicly expressed themselves, uncover contradictions, and find new leads. What happened that morning on Maurerweg? Did Rebecca really not leave the house? And why was Florian spotted hours later in a forest in Brandenburg?

Female Criminality: Why Women Commit Fewer Crimes

Only about six percent of all inmates in Germany are women. The term "female criminality" is therefore somewhat misleading, as it is hardly existent. In research, it represents the search for explanations. Why are women less criminal than men? Social norms and expectations educate women to behave in a rule-compliant manner. There is strong social pressure to act morally and ethically. Women are more oriented towards idealistic values, accept legal norms, and can better control themselves. Furthermore, they are less frequently active in criminal networks and are less risk-prone. Psychologically, women tend to exhibit empathetic and nurturing behaviors. These factors lead to women becoming less criminal, as reflected in criminal statistics.

When Women Commit Crimes

When women commit crimes, it sparks particular interest. These cases often stand in stark contrast to common gender stereotypes that view women as less aggressive and criminal. Female perpetrators often act out of dire situations, emotional despair, or revenge, unlike the violence-oriented crimes of men.

When women become criminal, it shows that they – despite social and psychological barriers – can resort to illegal actions in extreme situations. These acts not only attract media attention but also lead to an intense societal debate about the causes of female criminality and highlight the challenges within the male-dominated criminal justice system.

15 Percent - When Women Kill 

Only 15% of people apprehended for