Not all free true crime stories are reliable. Some might be based on rumors or misinformation. It depends on the source. For example, if it's from a well - known and respected news outlet or a reputable true crime author, it's more likely to be reliable.
One great free true crime short story is 'The Murders in the Rue Morgue' by Edgar Allan Poe. It's a classic that set the foundation for many true crime and detective stories. Another is 'The Adventure of the Speckled Band' also by Poe. These stories are great because of Poe's masterful use of suspense and mystery.
The case of the Hillside Stranglers is an interesting free short true crime story. Kenneth Bianchi and Angelo Buono were cousins who kidnapped, raped, and murdered multiple women in Los Angeles in the late 1970s. They targeted prostitutes and runaways. Their modus operandi was quite cruel. Also, the story of the BTK Killer (Dennis Rader) is gripping. He killed ten people over a period of time and sent letters to the media, signing them 'BTK' which stood for 'Bind, Torture, Kill'.
You can find free true crime stories on some websites like Reddit. There are specific subreddits dedicated to true crime where users share various real - life crime cases and their details.
The podcast 'Criminal' is also well - known. It features a wide variety of true crime stories, from small - town mysteries to high - profile cases. The production quality is excellent, and the narrators do a great job of bringing the stories to life, all available for free in audio format.
You can try websites like Crime Library. It has a collection of various true crime stories which are often free to read. Also, some local library websites may offer free e - books or articles on true crime stories.
You can try some public library websites. Many libraries offer free e - books and short stories, including true crime ones. Also, some online platforms like Project Gutenberg might have a selection of public - domain true crime short stories that are free to read.