CrimeCon Dos and Don'ts

Learn something new.

CrimeCon is the perfect place to learn about a new case to obsess over, find new podcasts to listen to, or fine-tune your citizen detective skills. Immersive sessions are a particularly good place to expand your true crime horizons. Learn what happens in a real investigation with Sheila Wysocki’s PI Experienceand learn how to investigate a crime scene with Houston Forensics Science Center's Forensics 101.

Be respectful of different theories and opinions.

The best thing about CrimeCon is the respectful discourse and positivity that you all brought to the table. Too many times in the true crime community we see combative bickering and arguing that doesn’t benefit the victims or the case at the center of discussion. I’m excited to see that wonderful dynamic continue at CrimeCon 2019.

Stop by our sponsor’s booth.

CrimeCon is thrilled to have the support of Oxygen. Following their flawlessly-executed rebranding into the new network for crime, they’ve given us some of the most thoroughly-researched and well-produced true crime programming available. Stop by their booth, get hooked on a new series, and say thanks for helping to make CrimeCon happen!

Make others jealous.

Use #CrimeCon on all social platforms to share your photos and insights. I’ll be feverishly updating our Instagram Storieswith helpful info, live videos, and silly pictures of Carl Marino all weekend, so that's best place to see the action. I'll also be active on Twitter to field questions and provide witty commentary.

Bring a sweater.

It's boiling hot and stupid-humid in New Orleans (but it's raining, so it helps?). The average temperature inside most convention spaces is, based on my experience, about 3 degrees. Bring a sweater or light jacket in case you end up sitting beneath the air vents. If you forget, don’t worry! You can purchase an awesome CrimeCon hoodie at our merch booth to stay cozy!

Clear your May 2020 schedule.

I hear that HQ will be announcing the city choice for 2020 just before we begin CrimeCon 2019 and that tickets will go on sale for 2018 attendees first. The dates for 2020 are May 1-3, so mark your calendar!

Don’t come dressed as your favorite serial killer/TV personality/investigator.

As much as I enjoy rocking my Agent Scully look, CrimeCon is not a cosplay event. We strive to create a respectful and welcoming environment with education at its core. Many survivors and families of victims will be in attendance, and we want to be respectful of their experience. Besides, homicidal maniacs look just like everyone else, so just come as you are. Problem solved.

Don’t steal stuff from mock crime scenes.

While the respectful discourse was the best part of CrimeCon 2017, the worst part was when some STOLE A PIECE OF EVIDENCE FROM THE MURDER MYSTERY CRIME SCENE HOW DARE YOU WHAT KIND OF MONSTER ARE YOU?!

Okay, I feel better. But really, just don’t steal stuff from demonstrations, displays, or mock crime scenes. Stealing is, after all, a CRIME. Fortunately, one dedicated guest was still able to solve the weekend murder mystery in Indianapolis, so your evil plan didn’t work, Stickyfingers McGrabbyhands.

Don’t plan to spend evenings in your room.

There's always something going on at CrimeCon. Check the UNOFFICIAL CrimeCon Fan Pageon Facebook; attendees post excellent intel about podcaster meetups and other fun stuff going on outside of con hours.

Don’t be afraid to fly solo.

I have exactly one friend who shares my enthusiasm for true crime, so I know it can be a lonely indulgence. If you can’t rally your squad to accompany you to CrimeCon 2019, you can confidently show up solo and walk away on Sunday with a dozen new friends.

Don’t take photos if a speaker so requests.

It’s tempting to break out the phone to snap a few pics of your favorite speakers in action at CrimeCon. However, photography is allowed at the discretion of the speaker. If a speaker prefers that the audience does not take photos, they will make an announcement at the beginning of the session. Please be mindful and respectful of their wishes.