Entertainment
Where is the BTK Killer Now? Inside the Mind of Dennis Rader
A Deadly Alias: The BTK Killer
Denis Rader, known as the BTK killer, terrorized Wichita, Kansas from 1974 to 1991. His modus operandi was to bind, torture, and kill his victims, earning him his chilling nickname. Rader chronicled his crimes through letters and photographs, and managed to evade capture for many years by hiding behind his church and boy scout leader status. But where is he now?
A Twisted Path to Capture
Despite stalking and killing ten people, and even having restraining orders filed against him, Rader remained a free man for years. Poor policing and his community standing, coupled with the belief that religious individuals are inherently good, allowed him to continue his heinous crimes. Eventually, his arrogance led to his downfall.
The Final Mistake
In 2004, Rader started leaving letters and clues in random locations throughout Wichita. Although he didn't manage to kill anyone during this time, his hubris allowed the police to finally track him down. In 2005, at the age of 60, Rader was arrested and given ten consecutive life sentences.
The Body Count and Beyond
While some experts believe Rader may be responsible for more murders, he has not claimed any additional victims. However, suspicions still linger. The names of his ten confirmed victims include Joseph Otero, Julia Maria Otero, Josephine Otero, Kathryn Doreen Bright, Shirley Ruth Vian Relford, Nancy Jo Fox, Marine Wallace Hedge, Vicki Lynn Wegerle, and Dolores Earline Johnson Davis. Rader is currently 78 years old and 13 years into his life sentence.
Behind Bars
Rader is currently incarcerated at the El Dorado Correctional Facility in Kansas. Due to the sadistic nature of his crimes, he is kept in solitary confinement for his own protection. He is allowed one hour of exercise per day and three showers per week. It's unlikely he will be released to the general prison population and may spend the rest of his life in solitary.
An Insight into the Mind
A psychologist who assessed Rader during his trial diagnosed him with multiple disorders, including narcissism, OCD, and an antisocial nature. Despite his life behind bars, Rader still believes he is special.
If you or someone you know is suffering from sexual violence, please contact RAINN or the National Sexual Abuse Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
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