`
Interview by Dennis McCaslin, Owner and Editor of Today in Fort Smith
David McClam, the acclaimed host of True Crime, Authors, and Extraordinary People, Extinguished, and We Are Not Afraid, is no stranger to exploring dark stories and harrowing truths.
But recently, he’s found himself navigating a troubling situation closer to home--enduring targeted harassment from fellow podcaster Javier Leiva and several of his surrogates, including Anthony Christopher, former Today in Fort Smith contributor Patti Rush, and Alecia Lockhart. In an exclusive interview, McClam opens up about this ongoing ordeal and his plans to combat this malicious campaign.
As the harassment has escalated, McClam’s work has been continuously disrupted by false claims and slander aimed at discrediting him and his investigations. "It started with Javier Leiva spreading lies about me and my work," McClam explains. "But it quickly escalated as others joined him, including Anthony Christopher and Alecia Lockhart. Their goal is to undermine my credibility and reputation."
Leiva, known for his podcast Pretend, has previously been criticized for spreading misinformation and sensationalizing cases without fact-checking. McClam’s investigative work exposed several inaccuracies in Leiva’s reporting, triggering an ongoing feud. McClam says he initially hoped the backlash would fade, but Leiva’s retaliation took a disturbing turn.
"Javier has been relentless, encouraging others to join him in this campaign," McClam shares. "They’ve made baseless accusations and attempted to paint me as the villain. Their tactics are underhanded and harmful."
Anthony Christopher, known for his own questionable dealings, has amplified the harassment. Christopher, who faced charges in 2020 for Medicaid fraud, later dropped, has continued to harass McClam and even accused him of issues unrelated to his work.
McClam notes, “Christopher is part of this web of individuals who seem bent on spreading as much chaos as possible, and he’s done the same to others in the true crime community.”
Patti Rush and Alecia Lockhart, both controversial figures in their own right, have also joined the fray. Rush, a former Today in Fort Smith contributor with a track record of spreading misinformation, is alleged to have made false claims regarding McClam’s reporting on the Melissa Witt case.
Lockhart, meanwhile, has been involved in a series of incidents where her credibility was questioned, including issues around her book Strangled, which was recently pulled by Genius Book Publishing.
McClam adds, "The lengths they’ve gone to--misinformation, threats, and harassment--are entirely out of line."
When asked about his plans to put an end to the harassment, McClam is resolute.
“My first step is transparency. I will continue exposing these individuals and their tactics on my platforms. I’m also consulting with legal counsel to understand my options. Harassment, slander, and spreading false claims are serious issues, and they won’t go unchecked,” McClam states. “Listeners and the public deserve the truth, and I intend to continue bringing that truth forward, no matter the obstacles.”
McClam emphasizes that the support of his listeners and the broader true crime community has been invaluable during this challenging time. “Their encouragement reminds me why I do this work. There are people out there who want the truth, who believe in responsible journalism and podcasting,” he shares. “I won’t let a few bad actors derail my commitment to honest reporting.”
As McClam stands firm in the face of these challenges, Today in Fort Smith will continue covering his story and offering support.
The dedication of voices like McClam’s in the true crime world reminds us all of the importance of integrity, accountability, and truth in every story told.
