In this chapter, we explore a story that’s grown far beyond its origins, from a simple Raggedy Ann doll to a symbol of modern horror.

The legend of 'Annabelle'.

Join me as we trace her history alongside Ed and Lorraine Warren, the couple who shaped her fame and controversy. We’ll examine the psychology that makes dolls so unsettling, uncover the real events behind the story, and look at how belief, media, and myth turned a children’s toy into a global icon of fear.

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This chapter is sponsored by Scary Story Podcast. Brought to you by Scary FM.

To find out more, visit https://scarystorypodcast.com/

Support the show

• If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this chapter, email us at luke@lukemordue.com.

• For more information on the show, to find all our social accounts and to ensure you are up to date on all we do, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.lukemordue.com/podcast

Urban Legends returns next week, but today, we’re sharing a guest episode from our friends at Weekly Spooky — one that connects closely to our most recent chapter.

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On July 4, 1984, police dogs uncovered a shallow grave in the quiet town of Northport, Long Island. Inside lay the mutilated body of 17-year-old Gary Lauwers—stabbed more than 30 times in a drug-fueled frenzy by his friend Ricky “The Acid King” Kasso. Within days, the story became national news, sparking headlines of Satanic sacrifice and cementing Kasso as the terrifying face of America’s 1980s Satanic Panic.

But was this really the work of a Satanic cult, or simply the grim fallout of teenage drug abuse, mental illness, and neglect? In this episode of Terrifying & True, we dive deep into the disturbing murder in Aztakea Woods, Ricky Kasso’s descent into drugs and occult posturing, and how the media turned one horrific killing into a nationwide moral hysteria.

We’ll examine:

• The brutal murder of Gary Lauwers and Kasso’s infamous demand, “Say You Love Satan.”
• How the case fueled the fire of the Satanic Panic sweeping America.
• The media’s sensational claims versus the grim reality of drugs, rage, and tragedy.
• The trial of Jimmy Troiano and the lasting legacy of the “Acid King” myth.

From grave robbing to cult rumors, from teenage rebellion to national paranoia, this is the chilling true story of Ricky Kasso, the Acid King of Northport.

We’re telling that story tonight.

To find out more, simply search 'Weekly Spooky' in your chosen podcast providers or visit http://WeeklySpooky.com

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Support the show

• If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this chapter, email us at luke@lukemordue.com.

• For more information on the show, to find all our social accounts and to ensure you are up to date on all we do, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.lukemordue.com/podcast

**Trigger Warning: This chapter involves harm to children.**

In this chapter, let's delve into the urban legends that brought forward what is now known as 'The Satanic Panic‘, from the first sensational cases and flawed investigations to the media frenzy and courtrooms that followed. We’ll look at how fear, politics, and culture combined to create a moral wildfire, one that still echoes in today’s conspiracy movements.

Text Me (this is 3rd party & I cannot respond, but I see all messages)

Support the show

• If you have more information or a correction on something mentioned in this chapter, email us at luke@lukemordue.com.

• For more information on the show, to find all our social accounts and to ensure you are up to date on all we do, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.lukemordue.com/podcast