(Contains strong language and references to violence and sexual assault.)

In 1991, Bronwyn Warwick crossed a line that would define her forever. The transgender former sex worker murdered a Ponsonby pensioner during a botched antiques robbery. But the story didn’t end with her arrest. Decades later, Warwick’s life took even darker and more tragic turns: years behind bars, living as a woman in mens prisons, release and relapse, and finally, a debilitating diagnosis.

In this gripping conclusion to A Moment in Crime: Diary of A Killer senior crime and justice journalist Anna Leask unpacks the murder and Warwick's long road of remorse, addiction, and survival. Through exclusive access to her writings and interviews, this episode reveals the woman behind the headlines.

READ MORE:

A killer’s prison diary: Murderer Bronwyn Warwick on her life and times

A Moment In Crime is written and hosted by Leask — who specialises in crime and justice reporting. She joined the Herald in 2008 and has worked as a journalist for 20 years. This episode was produced by Leask and NZME audio engineer Alastair Boyes.

If you have a crime or case you would like to hear more about, email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz

Since 2019, A Moment in Crime has produced over 55 episodes and has been downloaded over 1 million times, with listeners in over 170 countries. It was nominated for Best True Crime Podcast at the 2024 Radio and Podcast Awards.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

(Contains strong language and references to violence and sexual assault.)

Before she was a convicted killer, Bronwyn Warwick was a child who never stood a chance. Growing up in a family that didn't understand or accept her and facing violence, addiction, and rejection, Warwick’s early years set the stage for a life defined by crime and chaos.

In the first of two episodes about Warwick's life A Moment in Crime: Diary of a Killer senior crime and justice journalist Anna Leask delves into her complex past — from petty offending and time in youth facilities to the moments that shaped her identity as a transgender woman navigating an unforgiving system. Drawing from rare interviews, court records, and Warwick’s own prison diaries, this is the story of a person living on the margins, constantly running from pain and punishment. Before the world knew her name, Warwick was already fighting a losing battle — with herself, the law, and the world around her.

READ MORE:

A killer’s prison diary: Murderer Bronwyn Warwick on her life and times

A Moment In Crime is written and hosted by Leask — who specialises in crime and justice reporting. She joined the Herald in 2008 and has worked as a journalist for 20 years. This episode was produced by Leask and NZME audio engineer Alastair Boyes.

If you have a crime or case you would like to hear more about, email anna.leask@nzme.co.nz

Since 2019, A Moment in Crime has produced over 55 episodes and has been downloaded over 1 million times, with listeners in over 170 countries. It was nominated for Best True Crime Podcast at the 2024 Radio and Podcast Awards.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In May 1992 Brian Schlaepfer shot or stabbed six members of his family to death at their South Auckland farm.

The 64-year-old murdered his wife, three sons, daughter in law and grandson.

His nine-year-old granddaughter, Linda, was the sole survivor, having hidden in a wardrobe and providing crucial information to the police during the ordeal.

The massacre began after a domestic argument and ended when Brian took his own life.

The case remains one of New Zealand’s worst family tragedies.

In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask explains the case and reveals the harrowing 111 call between young Linda Schlaepfer and Stuck.

Where to get help:

• Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7) – lifeline.co.nz

• Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7) – lifeline.org.nz

• Youth services: (06) 3555 906

• Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234 – youthline.co.nz

• What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm) – whatsup.co.nz

• Depression Helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7) – depression.org.nz

• Helpline (Need to talk?): Call or text 1737

• Aoake te Rā (Bereaved by Suicide Service): Call or text 1737 – aoaketera.org.nz

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.