A Friend Request. A Missing 7-Year-Old. What Every Parent Needs to Know

A Facebook friend request. A mother who blocked him. A 7-year-old who never made it home from her school bus. Hidden True Crime’s Lauren Matthias examines the Joseph Andrew Bragg case in Zimmerman, Minnesota—and the disturbing allegations every parent needs to understand. Through charging documents, reported messages, and accounts from families, we explore how Bragg allegedly sought access to children through babysitting offers, online childcare groups, and contact with mothers. What did parents notice, what raised investigators’ suspicions, and how can someone use familiarity to gain a family’s trust? This episode unpacks the child abduction investigation, alleged grooming of parents, and the warning signs behind offers of free childcare, with practical lessons about social media privacy, vetting babysitters, and talking to children about boundaries and safety.

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About Hidden True Crime

What started as a simple conversation at their dinner table became a captivating podcast. Join the dynamic duo of Dr. John Matthias, a criminal psychologist, and Lauren Matthias, an investigative journalist, as they delve into the psychological facets of unthinkable crimes every week. Their unique perspectives and in-depth analysis offer a fresh take on true crime storytelling.

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