The True Story of Kelly Bates: A Case That Can’t Be Forgotten episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 20, 2025 · 14 MIN

The True Story of Kelly Bates: A Case That Can’t Be Forgotten

from 10 Minute Murder | Bingeable True Crime Stories · host Joe

The True Story of Kelly Bates: A Case That Can’t Be ForgottenJames Smith looked ordinary. Clean-cut, middle-aged, a non-drinker, non-smoker—just another man in 1980s Manchester who seemed put together. But behind closed doors, he was anything but. What started as domestic abuse escalated into something far worse, as he preyed on younger and younger victims, tightening his grip on each one until there was no way out. His final victim, 17-year-old Kelly Bates, endured a level of torture so extreme that seasoned forensic experts struggled to comprehend it.In this episode, we break down the timeline of James Smith’s crimes, the psychological manipulation he used to trap his victims, and the horrifying reality of what happened behind closed doors. How did he go unchecked for so long? What warning signs were missed? And how does a system meant to protect young women allow predators like Smith to thrive?This is a case that will leave you questioning how evil can hide in plain sight.#TrueCrime #CrimeStory #SerialAbuser #JusticeForKellyBates #CrimePodcast #DomesticAbuseAwareness #TrueCrimeCommunity #WomenDeserveBetterWelcome back to 10 Minute Murder! Your go-to podcast for quick, bingeable true crime stories. Seriously, you tuning in means more to me than my morning caffeine, and if you know me, that’s saying a lot. 💡 Haven’t subscribed yet? Now’s your chance! Hit that subscribe button, and you’ll never miss your favorite bite-sized dose of true crime. 📢 Love true crime? Share the love! Got a friend who’s as obsessed with true crime as you are? Share the podcast with them and let the bingeing marathon begin. 📱 Get Social With Me: Follow along on social media for behind-the-scenes goodies, sneak peeks of upcoming episodes, and the occasional “should I really post this?” moment. 📬 Your Turn! Have a case you’d love for me to cover? Or just want to say hi? Drop me an email—I love hearing from you and might just feature your suggestion in an upcoming episode! Thanks for being here, and let’s make 2025 the year of binge-worthy true crime. 🖤(BTDubs- If you're into the brief and bingeable vibe, search for and subscribe to my other podcast: 10 Minute Mystery)10minutemurder.comemail: [email protected]_______Follow 10 Minute Murder-Facebook:https://facebook.com/10MMpodcastInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/10minutemurder/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@10minutemurderThreads:https://www.threads.net/@10minutemurderYoutube:https://youtube.com/channel/UCkJLUCEZlkn9In3AA46RVxw*******Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/10-minute-murder-bingeable-true-crime-stories--4603604/support.

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The True Story of Kelly Bates: A Case That Can’t Be Forgotten

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