Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

By True Crime TodayNews True Crime News Commentary

Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers episodes

August 17, 2023 Rex Heuermann: Business By Day, Murder By Night?
In a riveting episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski engaged in a thought-provoking discussion with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott. They delved into the intricate psychological workings of individuals with criminal tendencies, offering insights into how these minds operate and the subsequent implications for law enforcement.

Scott highlighted one of the most pressing concerns for law enforcement: the balance between safeguarding society and infringing on personal freedoms. "You know, because it gets into how much can we monitor people in this society?... other than really careful monitoring once someone has committed a sex crime," Scott remarked. She went on to emphasize the importance of stringent post-crime supervision, particularly for those not incarcerated, underscoring the challenges law enforcement faces when a person hasn't been charged.

The topic then transitioned to the disturbing findings at Gilgo Beach, where from 1996 to 2011, remains of nearly two dozen victims were discovered. Brueski questioned the likelihood of different murderers dumping bodies at the same site. Scott responded, "I think they've got to be looking really closely at how they can tie [Rex] if he can be connected to the other ones, because it seems statistically very odd." The mysterious scenario paints a harrowing backdrop, illuminating the dark underbelly of certain locales.

Brueski further inquired about certain objects potentially linked to criminal acts, particularly the intriguing discovery of a belt with the letters "w h" or "hm". Scott suggested that leaving behind such objects can sometimes be a deliberate "signature", a testament to the criminal's grandiosity. "It's almost this need to prove themselves as 'I'm smarter than you are and look what I can do and you can't get me'", she elaborated.

One of the most chilling aspects discussed was the ability of such individuals to compartmentalize their illicit activities. Scott shed light on this perplexing behavior: "That's one of the weirdest qualities that I see in folks like this…they just don't leak. Most normal people would leak when they're thinking about something a lot... And guys like this just really keep secrets well."

Brueski also delved into the practice of criminals keeping "trophies" from their heinous acts. Scott explained that this seemingly counterintuitive behavior stems from a complex interplay of grandiosity, narcissism, and addiction. "Even though this is poor judgment to keep this item, they do it anyway because they get such a sense of power from it," she asserted.

Scott's perspectives provide a unique window into the mind of criminals, revealing not only the twisted logic behind their actions but also the challenges faced by those who seek to bring them to justice. This episode underscores the need for ongoing research and dialogue in criminal psychology. The revelations within it serve as a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in ensuring society's safety without compromising individual freedoms.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
9 min
August 16, 2023 Is Rex Heuermann Responsible For ALL Of The Bodies On Gilgo Beach?
The gruesome discovery of bodies on Gilgo Beach has perplexed authorities for years. In a recent episode of "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski sits down with forensic psychologist Joni Johnston to dissect the enigma surrounding Rex Heuermann and his potential link to the Gilgo Beach murders.

"The fact that the state of the bodies... all very similar... on the beach when they were found," Brueski starts, referring to the conditions of the bodies connected to Heuerman due to the discovery of his and his wife's hair. Yet, there are other victims whose conditions don't match these, raising the question of whether Heuermann was responsible for their deaths.

Johnston admitted the perplexity of the situation, "You look and you kind of go, there's no way this could be the same person." She drew attention to the fact that while some victims were neatly placed and bound, others were gruesomely dismembered and scattered in different areas. These stark differences make it challenging to believe that the same perpetrator committed all the crimes.

However, she emphasized that a serial killer's method of operation (MO) can evolve based on different situations and over time. "Is it possible that the same person starting out in their serial killing career... was very, very concerned about being caught?" she posed. By suggesting that the serial killer may have started by dismembering victims to reduce chances of detection and later evolved to a more "careful" method due to overconfidence, she offers a fresh perspective to the investigation.

"We don't know... how these other women died," she adds. If the other victims' death method matches those linked to Heuerman, it strengthens the possibility of him being responsible for all the crimes. She discussed the possibility that the killer might have viewed the location as a private graveyard to suit their psychological needs, emphasizing that how the killer treated the bodies post-mortem might be less significant than their actual killing method.

Brueski then brought up a curious piece of evidence: a belt left at the crime scene with the initials "WH" or "HM". He asked if this could be a calling card, a signature left intentionally by the killer. Johnston responded that while some killers have left 'calling cards', "it isn't very often that they leave a calling card." She explained that in most cases, it's inadvertent, with the killer possibly dropping something unintentionally in the rush or the darkness.

A critical question posed during their conversation was how someone, potentially like Heuermann, rationalizes their dark actions while leading a seemingly normal life. Johnston discussed the surprising ways some criminals justify their actions, often blaming the victim and diverting responsibility. "It's not my fault, it's the victim's fault," she highlighted as a common theme among many.

Addressing the duality of being a family man by day and a potential killer by night, Johnston pointed out that it's an "exaggerated version" of the compartmentalization everyone experiences. Using the example of law enforcement officers, she explained how people manage to separate their personal and professional lives. Serial killers, in her view, do the same but in a much more extreme manner.

The conversation provided valuable insights into the psyche of serial killers and the challenges involved in connecting seemingly unrelated crimes. As investigations continue, it's imperative to remain open to all possibilities, understanding that the minds of criminals can be as complex as the crimes they commit.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
9 min
August 16, 2023 How Would a Psychotherapist Approach Rex Heuerman?
In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, Tony Brueski hosted Shavaun Scott, an accomplished psychotherapist and author, to delve deep into the psyche of criminals and understand the intricate workings of forensic psychotherapy.

The main focus revolved around individuals like Rex Heuermann, an accused criminal, and the psychological evaluations and therapeutic conversations conducted with such individuals while in custody. "These guys that commit such crimes are generally narcissistic, psychopathic, and sadistic. A trio of very problematic traits," remarked Scott.

According to Scott, individuals like Heuermann possess a dangerous cocktail of personality traits. Their narcissism, psychopathy, and sadism lead them to boast and brag. Interestingly, this very narcissism often becomes their downfall. "If you can get them talking, usually by asking questions appealing to their narcissism, they trip themselves up," Scott explained.

She then laid out the probable approach for forensic interviews. "I'd just want to get the guy talking at first. While you don't reveal the red flags they may be disclosing, careful notes are taken, and one listens, asking a lot of questions," she elaborated. Notably, psychological tests like the MPI and psychopathy checklists are incorporated to further understand their psyche.

But how effective are these tests? The reliability, Scott indicates, depends on the chosen tests and the skill level of the person administering them. Criminals with the aforementioned trio of traits often prove to be master manipulators. "They're storytellers and they're always spinning a tale," said Scott. But even the best of them can't hide their inconsistencies forever, especially if they're under extended scrutiny.

The "Hidden Killers" episode also touched upon the relevance of media coverage in crimes like Heuermann's. "Media can play a role, especially in inspiring the mass shooters, those with a political agenda, or an agenda against women," shared Scott. Such individuals can be influenced by media coverage, attempting to outdo each other.

However, in the case of serial killers, like Heuermann, the impact seems less direct. Scott said, "This kind of pathology develops so early in life. They've usually been having weird sexual fantasies since childhood." It's more ingrained, a deeper issue that's often hard to simply pin on media influence.

The conversation went on to differentiate between serial killers, who've harbored twisted fantasies from a young age, and mass killers, who act out more suddenly, without such a prolonged history. "It's usually not somebody who's been fantasizing about that for years, maybe a couple of years, but not going back to age eight, nine, or 10," explained Scott.

In conclusion, while each criminal is unique, understanding the intricate layers of their psyche and how it functions can be an invaluable tool in investigations and the justice system. As Shavaun Scott's insights suggest, even the most hardened criminals have vulnerabilities. The task for forensic psychotherapists is to find those cracks and help unmask the truth behind the façade.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

7 min
August 16, 2023 Damn Damning DNA That Will Destroy Rex Heuermann
In a recent episode of the acclaimed podcast "Hidden Killers", host Tony Brueski had a riveting conversation with Forensic Psychologist Kate Wallinga. The focal point of their discussion was the ongoing Rex Heuerman case, which has witnessed yet another twist. As per recent developments, Heuerman's DNA is set for another round of testing.

Last week, the case gained attention when the defense argued that there wasn't sufficient probable cause to mandate a DNA test. Their contention was quickly dismissed by a judge, stating, “The court finds contrary to the defendant's contentions. There is probable cause to believe that the defendant committed the crimes charged, and therefore a basis to compel for the buccal swab."

This buccal swab, a procedure where cells are collected from the inside of a person's cheek, is pivotal. The DNA obtained will be compared with the mitochondrial DNA sample that was retrieved from a strand of hair. This hair was found on some of the victims, specifically on the burlap sacks that were used to cover their heads. Another compelling piece of evidence was a pizza crust found outside of Heuerman's office, which eventually led to his arrest.

Brueski expressed astonishment at the defense's argument, considering the substantial evidence already available. He posed a significant question: "I was amazed that anybody could be making the argument if this doesn't reach the level of probable cause, considering everything they pulled out of his house and all the other pieces of evidence that seem to link him to these crimes. What possibly does?"

Wallinga, with her forensic expertise, provided a comprehensive explanation. "The police's job is to find you guilty. Like cops, that's what they do. Their job is to find ways that you are getting in trouble and hold you accountable," she began. She clarified the roles of the police and defense attorneys, stating that while police aim to find guilt, the defense's job is to ensure that every step taken by the police is legitimate and above board. The defense's duty is to hold the police accountable.

She further delved into the intricacies of DNA-related cases, shedding light on the nuances involved. "It's really common in DNA cases like this where they find the mitochondrial DNA in the trash, for instance, because trash becomes public property. And then after that, you have to get a search warrant for a cheek swab," Wallinga explained.

This suggests that while the process may seem straightforward to the public, the legal intricacies and procedures involved can be complex. Both the police and the defense have their specific roles and responsibilities, and ensuring that each party adheres to their duties is crucial for the integrity of the justice system.

As the Rex Heuerman case progresses, it becomes evident that DNA testing and its legal stipulations play an indispensable role. Both Brueski and Wallinga’s conversation underscores the importance of understanding the legal procedures, ensuring that justice is not only done but is also seen to be done. As new evidence unfolds and the legal debate continues, listeners and followers of the case await the next chapter in this intriguing saga.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
11 min
August 15, 2023 How Does A Psychologist Get Heuermann To Talk?
In a recent episode of the "Hidden Killers" podcast, host Tony Brueski engaged in a revealing conversation with Clinical and Forensic Psychologist & licensed private investigator, Joni Johnston, as they grappled with the psychological complexities behind Rex Heuerman. Heuerman is the man now imprisoned amid harrowing allegations.

Brueski began by probing into the mind of such individuals: "As we dive into Rex Heuerman, from a psychological standpoint, how would someone approach the conversation about his mental state now that he's behind bars?"

Johnston's insight into this realm was both enlightening and compelling. She began, "It's hard to imagine a scenario when he would agree to a forensic psychological evaluation." But in the event that he did, Johnston explained, the primary objective is to build rapport. "Unless you can establish some kind of rapport with that person, you are going to get nowhere with them," she said.

She elaborated on her methods, "One of the things I do sometimes in evaluating defendants facing very difficult trials is I try to empathize with their feelings about where they are." Whether innocent or guilty, many defendants often feel trapped, victimized, and overwhelmed by their current circumstances. Approaching from a place of empathy, Johnston conveyed, is key to gaining their trust.

The motive of the psychologist's presence also plays a pivotal role. She stated, "Their reception of me is going to be different if I am coming in as a court-appointed evaluator, or if I'm coming in on behalf of the defense or the prosecutor." Johnston underscored the importance of transparency and ensuring the person understands their rights, including the right not to participate.

Delving deeper, she described her tactic to approach such conversations gradually. "I start really from a subject that's very far away from the current situation... starting with non-threatening questions, talking about their childhood, where they grew up, earliest memories... and I gradually work my way up to the current situation."

However, Johnston highlighted that interviews form just a part of a multifaceted process. She brings in psychological testing as a potent tool. "It gives me a way to compare this particular person to thousands of other people who've taken some of the same instruments." As Johnston shared, these assessments are designed to detect inconsistencies, offering insights into whether someone is feigning mental illness or denying its presence.

She added, "One of the things that really differentiates a forensic evaluation from a clinical evaluation is that person may have a very understandable reason to lie." To counteract potential deceit, Johnston stressed the importance of consulting diverse sources, from custody officers to witness statements, and even to the person's previous acquaintances. This expansive approach provides a rounded view, helping identify patterns in behavior, whether indicating mental health issues or stability.

Johnston concluded, "It really is a pretty comprehensive evaluation that takes that person where they are now. Depending upon what the referral question is, I'm gonna use all those strategies to put together and form some kind of opinion about this person."

The insightful exchange between Brueski and Johnston offers a glimpse into the intricacies of forensic psychology. As the case of Rex Heuerman unfolds, the importance of understanding the mind behind the man becomes ever more crucial, not just for the case but for the broader comprehension of the human psyche.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
5 min
August 15, 2023 Does Kohberger's Attorney Have ANY Control Over Him?
In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski joined forces with psychotherapist and author Shavaun Scott to delve into the perplexing case of Bryan Kohberger. The conversation sought to unravel the psyche of Kohberger amidst a cloud of allegations and questionable actions.

Brueski kicked off the dialogue, highlighting the contradictions in Kohberger's behavior. "Initially, their team [said], we're looking forward to being exonerated. Then it just kept going. Then he has an alibi," Brueski said, expressing skepticism about the strength of Kohberger's alibi which consisted of him just driving around.

Brueski further mused about the influence Kohberger seems to be exerting over his attorney, Ann Taylor. The defense strategy seemed "very odd," and not "in the control" of the attorney. He speculated, "I feel like he's calling some of the shots here and I feel like Ann Taylor is almost being held hostage."

Shavaun Scott proposed that it might be a calculated legal strategy, though it certainly seemed "passive." She suggested that the lawyers might be doing the best they can with the evidence they have.

A significant point of discussion was Kohberger's decision to return to the alleged crime scene, a behavior identified through phone pings the day after the incident. Scott explained, "Part of the fascination with serial killers returning to the crime scene, is that going back... gives them, again, a sense of control, a sense of power, and a sense of pleasure." She further highlighted the habitual nature of offenders to revisit the scene, either physically or through memorabilia and news articles, to relive their "pleasure."

Brueski raised an intriguing point about the geographical proximity of the crime to Kohberger's residence. "Was that something that is intentional because then he gets to soak up all of the attention?" he asked.

Scott confirmed that there's a trend of revisiting, and that it made sense Kohberger would choose a location close to his home, yet not directly on his own turf. "And it wasn't as if he killed someone on his own campus... he really fixated on these young women," she remarked.

However, the most pressing question on Brueski's mind was how Kohlberg's interactions with his defense, especially his statement about looking forward to being exonerated, reflected on his psychological state. In response, Scott suggested, "My guess is that's all legal maneuvering."

She emphasized that Kohberger isn't delusional in the traditional sense. "He knows he did it," she claimed, hinting at the existing evidence and weak alibi. In her professional opinion, Scott concluded that Kohberger isn’t suffering from multiple personalities or any classic signs of delusions. "He's not crazy. So, I think it's just, you know, what does a guilty person do very often the first thing they say is, I didn't do it."

As the episode wrapped, listeners were left with a clearer, albeit still enigmatic, understanding of Bryan Kohberger's psychology. Both Brueski and Scott presented compelling insights into the behavior of alleged criminals, emphasizing that while understanding may be reached, full comprehension remains elusive. Kohberger has pled not guilty to all charges.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
5 min
August 14, 2023 Kohberger And the Pesky DNA, Phone Data And History That Is So Damning
In a recent episode of the renowned podcast "Hidden Killers," host Tony Brueski had an illuminating conversation with Joni Johnston, a clinical and forensic psychologist & licensed private investigator. The focus was the complex and highly debated case against Brian Kohberger.

Kohberger's alibi, that he likes to drive at night, raised eyebrows and led many to question its credibility. As Johnston remarked, "The defense probably worked with what they had." The glaring concern remains: if Kohberger routinely drove at night, why would he turn off his phone, and how frequently did he do so? A crucial detail Johnston pointed out is that modern technology, specifically phone data, can offer insights into his driving patterns. "His phone should be able to tell everybody how often he was driving around at night and where he was driving to," she mentioned.

However, a pattern observed with Kohberger’s nightly drives has been problematic. The route he frequently took allegedly aligns with the vicinity of a house where four murders occurred. "It is a problem if you are a night wanderer only to a specific location," Johnston observed. It would be more believable if Kohberger’s alibi showed he drove to multiple locations consistently, as opposed to focusing mainly on one area.

Yet even with this defense, Brueski raised a pertinent point: "Even if they can establish a pattern of behavior here with other trends on his phone showing that yes, he does drive this route a lot at night, would that be positive or negative for him?" The key issue here is the speculation that Kohberger might have stalked the area before the murders.

Johnston also touched on the challenge the defense will face in trying to discredit cell phone triangulation, which pinpoints a person's location based on their phone's connection to cell towers. "Certainly that will be part of their testimony," Johnston noted. "They're gonna be having experts come on and talk about how inaccurate triangulation is, or the range that these towers can actually reach."

Beyond the alibi and location, Brueski and Johnston delved deeper into the psychological implications of the crimes. The victims were asleep when attacked, highlighting a choice in targeting the vulnerable. "Most people who commit premeditated murder are looking to either murder a vulnerable victim, or they're looking to find someone in a vulnerable position," Johnston explained. The audacity and confidence required to break into someone’s home and attack them in their sleep speak volumes about Kohberger’s state of mind.

Furthermore, there’s the perplexing decision of Kohberger to commit these alleged crimes away from his original residence in Pennsylvania, instead opting for the Washington and Idaho areas. This choice implies a deliberate effort to maintain a distance from familiar territory while still remaining in a recognizable setting. "I think it does Tony, in the sense that he would pick a place that was close enough to be familiar to him but wasn't too close where he would be noticed by people who knew him," explained Johnston.

Johnston's insights into the Kohberger case provided a deep dive into the psyche of an accused, the challenges faced by the defense, and the extensive role that technology plays in modern trials. As the case unfolds, it’s evident that the intersection of psychology, technology, and law will be integral in determining Kohberger's fate.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com

8 min
August 14, 2023 Does Bryan Kohberger 'Wear His Sunglasses At Night' Too?
The podcast "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Brueski, recently delved into a convoluted alibi that has astounded many listeners. In the episode, Brueski discussed the puzzling defense of an individual who claimed to be out for a nighttime drive when a crime occurred. Shavaun Scott, a psychotherapist and author, provided insight into the psychological aspects of this alibi.

Brueski reacted to the revelation of the alibi with astonishment, saying, "I was driving and I almost did a spit take of my Slurpee." The alibi, according to him, seems like a weak proposition, "It almost sounds like an admission of guilt." He emphasized the oddity of the alibi, noting that not being able to pin down a specific location such as a Taco Bell 50 miles away only makes the alibi sound more dubious.

But it's not just the absence of a solid alibi that caught Brueski's attention. He questioned the defense attorney, Anne Taylor's strategy, pointing out that, "A lot of people were giving her credit early on, and I was too of, oh, she really seems to be playing this well. This doesn't seem like a good move."

Shavaun Scott's perspective as a psychotherapist provided listeners with a deeper understanding of the situation. Responding to the alibi's implications, she remarked, "It makes me think of someone who's really creepy out looking for opportunities to kill people at night."

Scott further elaborated on the psychological significance of someone frequently taking nighttime drives. She drew a distinction between teenagers, who might drive at night for the sheer novelty of it, and adults whose nocturnal drives could suggest they're "looking for opportunities for something that is not good."

Scott also provided insight into the mindset of individuals who commit sex crimes. "People who commit sex crimes often have an addictive quality," she explained. "They spend a lot of time looking and planning and thinking about, and then it turns into stalking and picking specific areas or specific victims."

Intriguingly, Scott also touched on the broader category of sexual domination killers. "It's the violence and the murder and the mutilating the victims that's the sexual part for them," she remarked, emphasizing that such individuals derive intense arousal from these violent acts.

The discussion shifted to whether the act of stalking and following victims, even in the absence of a direct sexual assault at the crime scene, could still be categorized as a sex crime. Scott affirmed, clarifying that for sadistic killers, the act of violence itself serves as a source of sexual pleasure. She said, "They find an intense sexual arousal and this then becomes the fuel for masturbation for them."

Shedding light on the warped mindset of these individuals, Scott added, "They get this sense of euphoria, this sense of God-like power, and that's the part that they really become addicted to."

The episode illuminated the profound challenges legal professionals face when dissecting alibis and defense narratives and the crucial role that understanding human psychology plays in the process. As the case unravels, one thing is clear: the lines between normal behavior and potential predatory intent can be terrifyingly thin.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
7 min
August 11, 2023 Dr. Katherine Ramsland Interview: Behind The Mind Of BTK Part 5
An in-depth understanding of notorious serial killer, Dennis Rader, famously known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) Killer, was discussed on the acclaimed podcast, "Hidden Killers," hosted by Tony Bruski. Dr. Katherine Ramsland, author of Rader's autobiography, provided unique insights into his motivations and mindset during her five-part conversation on the show.

"Dennis Rader was in a cat-and-mouse game with the media and the police. He enjoyed the thrill of being in the spotlight, while remaining anonymous," noted Ramsland. This aspect of Rader's behavior emerged after the arrest of three men by the police for the Otero murders, which Rader had committed. Upset by what he saw as a waste of taxpayer money, Rader contacted a reporter to correct the police's mistake and claim the murders for himself.

"He wrote a long description of the Otero murders and said, 'I'm the only one who did this'," Ramsland elaborated, adding that Rader had even placed his confession in an engineering book at the Wichita State University Library. This marked the beginning of Rader's obsession with notoriety, leading him to model his actions after infamous killers like Jack the Ripper and Ted Bundy.

Ramsland explained that Rader often sent letters to the media about his crimes and even wrote poems about his victims. Despite this, he remained silent about his last three victims. He emerged from his silence only when an attorney planned to write a book about his murders. "Rader decided he did not want someone writing his story," said Ramsland, which prompted him to re-engage in his cat-and-mouse game with the media.

Regarding Rader's view of society, Ramsland disclosed, "he does have a fan club because lots and lots of people write to him. Send him money. Want some kind of association with him. Lots of people do. So he still enjoys seeing his name." Even after his arrest and imprisonment, Rader continues to yearn for the notoriety that his heinous crimes have granted him.

Despite his desire for infamy, Ramsland firmly believes that Rader does not have any undisclosed victims. She clarified, "I know that the ones that he is currently being questioned about, there's no evidence linking him to them. I would never say that's it. He's telling us the full truth. But that doesn't mean, I think the case is currently under investigation will be successfully resolved with him indicted."

One of the key lessons Ramsland learned from her work with Rader is the need to move beyond established norms when examining serial killers. Rader, an active member of his community and a Boy Scout volunteer, didn't fit the typical serial killer profile. She argued, "We need to learn that our formulas are strictly trying to make us feel safe, and they're not necessarily true. Raider's case shows us that."

As for Rader's future plans, Ramsland stated, "I don't think he has aspirations like, oh, I wanna be a commentator." Instead, he sees his participation in the book as a way of making a positive contribution, potentially aiding in the early intervention and prevention of criminal behavior like his own.

For further insight into the mind of the BTK Killer, be sure to tune into the rest of Dr. Ramsland's five-part series on the "Hidden Killers" podcast.
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The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com
14 min
August 11, 2023 The Impact Murder Makes On A Home's Future
In a recent episode of the podcast "Hidden Killers" with host Tony Brueski and guest Shavaun Scott, a psychotherapist and author, they discussed the psychological impact and emotional reactions people may experience when living in a home where a violent crime had previously taken place.

Brueski broached the subject by referring to the Brian and Anna Walsh property in Washington DC, which is entering foreclosure after Anna's death and Brian's imprisonment. This home had been the site of a "horrific" crime. Brueski added that such properties are often stigmatized, with people uneasy about occupying spaces with a dark past.

Scott stated, "We have strong associational cues with places and when we've had a wonderful experience, we always have good feelings when we go back to that place or remember that place." She noted, however, that the same applies in reverse when we know something terrible has occurred. The negative association can be so strong that it complicates re-occupancy or normal use of such homes.

To illustrate her point, Scott cited notorious properties, such as the home where JonBenet Ramsey was found murdered and the infamous Amityville house, where a gruesome murder occurred prior to the infamous ghost story. The term "haunted house," she stated, is essentially a metaphor for properties where terrible acts have taken place.

Intriguingly, Brueski touched on instances where new inhabitants, unaware of a home's grim history, had sensed something unsettling about the place. This led them to conduct their own research and discover the property's past. "What is that?" Brueski wondered, "When people can feel that sort of energy without necessarily even knowing that the crime took place in a stigmatized home."

Shavaun Scott acknowledged that these are valid instances, even though they verge on the paranormal, something beyond her professional expertise. She shared a personal experience where she felt unease in an old Victorian house she had bought as a young newlywed, later learning that a person had died there.

Scott added that nowadays, "realtors are legally required to disclose" if a death has occurred in a property that's up for sale, due to the widespread discomfort people experience about residing in a home where something tragic has happened. Brueski interjected that there is even a website called Died in Home, which he used when buying a property, indicating how pervasive this concern has become.

In their discussion, Brueski and Scott validated the reality of these emotional reactions and the complexity of navigating such scenarios. As Scott put it, "Associational cues are powerful. This is a real thing, and there are definitely times we get creepy vibes. I don't think psychology has a good explanation for that, but certainly, lots of people would attest to it." This conversation indicates that while the laws and real estate practices have started to adapt to these emotional responses, the impact of a home's dark history on new inhabitants remains a topic of intrigue and concern.

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6 min

About Mind Behind The Crime | The Psychology Of Killers

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Welcome to Mind Behind The Crime, the authoritative podcast that grants you exclusive access to the profound insights of respected psychologists, psychotherapists, and mental health experts as they…