Due to the graphic nature of this episode, listener discretion is advised.

This episode includes discussions of murder, rape, dismemberment and cannibalism.

We advise extreme caution for children under 13.

Police Lieutenant James Hanson didn't spook easily.

As Lieutenant in Philadelphia's homicide division, he'd seen more than a share of disturbing sites.

Keeping your wits about you was part of the job.

But as he and his partner pushed open the back door of a two-story house,

he had an uneasy feeling in his gut.

The place was imposing. There were bars on every window, some adorned with crucifixes,

and the curtains were all closed, though it was the middle of the day.

Then there was the smell. As soon as Hanson walked inside, it was overpowering.

The stench of rot and of burning flesh.

After inspecting the first floor, Hanson drew his gun and made his way towards the door to the cellar.

The young woman had told him all about this house.

Her story had been so far-fetched, so outlandish that he had a hard time believing it was true.

Or maybe he just didn't want to believe it.

But the moment he opened the basement door, he knew she'd been telling the truth.

As he began descending the steps, he called out.

Police! Is anybody down here?

A chorus of panicked voices answered him, and as he reached the bottom step, he saw them.

Three young women, half naked, chained to a pipe.

As Hanson stared into their wide eyes, he struggled to process the nightmarish scene.

...