In the South, Old Secrets Still Whisper
Go to the “Sweet Tea Murders” events page here:
Step Onto The Porch…Where the tea is sweet, but the stories aren’t.
From a retired police sergeant & homicide detective turned Southern crime historian & storyteller, come true stories from across the South—told the way they were lived. Michael Earl Simmons brings forgotten cases back into the light—through research, books, live storytelling, and immersive experiences rooted in the South.
Listen to the Stories
Invite a Southern Storyteller to Your Town (Speaking and Keynotes)
Bring an unforgettable evening of Southern history, mystery, and forgotten lore to your community. As a retired detective and author, I leave the dry lectures and PowerPoint slides behind to sit with your audience, open the old case files, and tell the true stories of the Gulf Coast as only a natural-born Southern storyteller can. Perfect for fund-raisers, historical societies, library series, civic banquets, and cultural centers.
Experience a Live Flagship Event or Guided Tour (Live Dates and Walking Tours)
Step directly into the past with our exclusive, limited-run “Sweet Tea Murders” LIVE dinner evenings, special Arcadia Mill historical storytelling events, or join me for an intimate, guided walking tour through the historic brick streets of downtown Pensacola where the old stories still linger.
Explore the Archival Book Catalog (Our Book Series)
Delve into my growing library of published books, featuring historic, atmospheric true crime and law enforcement histories from across West Florida, South Alabama, and the broader Southeast. These are the forgotten, true stories of your home counties—written directly for the people who live there.
The Difference – The “Case File Experience“
We Leave the Projector Behind. You Open the File.
Most speakers rely on slide decks and bullet points. Michael Earl Simmons puts history directly into your hands. Every attendee receives an individual, confidential evidence dossier—complete with archival photographs, original crime scene maps, and primary source documents. Alongside a 30-year veteran investigator, your room examines the records, pieces together the clues, and steps directly into the investigation.
Featured Keynote Briefings
The Last Stop: Ted Bundy’s Pensacola Reckoning
The minute-by-minute tactical stop, the dark roadside struggle, and the pre-database interrogation that ended America’s most infamous manhunt.
The JFK Connection: The Killing that lead back to a presidential assassination
When Hank Killam’s body was found on a main street corner in early 1964, the surrounding circumstances led back to Dallas and President Kennedy’s assassination.
Railroad Bill: A Cold Killer or a Modern Day Robin Hood?
The infamous Morris Slater’s 1890s Crime Spree and the terrible price he eventually paid.
Bring an evening of Southern Crime History to Your Community
Direct Inquiry: booking@sweetteamurders.com (850) 438-2611
(Now accepting calendar inquiries for 2027 regional dates across Florida, Alabama, and the Southeast.)
What People Are Saying About Michael Earl Simmons
“Mike Simmons is a master storyteller and brings Pensacola’s true crime history to Life!” – Kate Hansen
“Mike is a truly gifted storyteller. He knows the cases and pays attention to detail. His style is one that keeps you focused in on what happens next! I highly recommend his sessions to everyone!!” – James Donohoe
Sweet Tea Murders is an operating division of Michael Earl Simmons, LLC.