Jill Bavin-Mizzi - Author of Bible John: A New Suspect

In this episode of Footnotes on Crime, we are joined by Jill Bavin-Mizzi, historian, researcher, and author of Bible John: A New Suspect, a compelling re examination of one of Scotland’s most infamous unsolved murder cases.

With a background in academic history and cold case narrative non fiction, Jill brings a fresh and highly analytical perspective to true crime investigation, combining historical research, genealogy, archival analysis, and ethical inquiry in the search for answers.

About the Episode

Can historians solve cold cases differently from detectives and criminologists?

In this fascinating and deeply detailed conversation, Jill Bavin-Mizzi discusses her extensive research into the Bible John murders and explains how her academic approach uncovered new perspectives on a case that has haunted Scotland for decades.

Drawing on hundreds of documents, primary sources, interviews, and genealogical research, Jill explores how historical methodology can offer valuable tools in cold case investigations and challenge long established assumptions.

Research, History, and Cold Case Investigation

Jill’s work demonstrates how the skills of a historian can intersect with criminal investigation in unexpected and powerful ways.

In this episode, she reflects on the importance of primary sources, the ethical considerations involved in investigating historical crimes, and the responsibility of revisiting cases involving real victims and surviving families.

Our conversation is thoughtful, meticulous, and genuinely eye opening, exploring not only the mystery of Bible John, but the wider question of how truth is uncovered over time. One not to be missed.

What We Cover

• The story behind Bible John: A New Suspect
• The role of historians in cold case investigations
• Primary sources and genealogical research
• Ethical considerations in true crime and historical inquiry
• Challenging established narratives around Bible John
• The intersection of history, research, and criminal investigation

Why This Episode Matters

This is more than a conversation about an unsolved case. It is an exploration of how different disciplines can reshape our understanding of crime, evidence, and historical truth.

Jill Bavin-Mizzi offers a unique perspective on cold case investigation, showing how rigorous research and historical analysis can bring fresh insight to cases long thought beyond resolution.

Listen Now

🎧 Tune in to hear Jill Bavin-Mizzi’s research and reflections on Footnotes on Crime. Links to listen below.