In California, a notorious serial killer who spread fear for over a decade was ultimately apprehended, with his small manhood being a key identifying factor. A recent book by Sacramento County District Attorney Thien Ho titled “The People vs. the Golden State Killer” delves into the chilling investigation that led to the arrest of Joseph DeAngelo, also known as the Golden State Killer, for his heinous crimes spanning from 1974 to 1986.
DeAngelo, now 80 years old, confessed to 13 murders, over 50 rapes, and more than 100 burglaries that plagued California. Formerly a police officer, he utilized his law enforcement background to prey on victims by breaking into homes at night, restraining them, and committing atrocious acts.
Investigators meticulously pieced together evidence to connect the elderly suspect arrested in 2018 to the elusive killer who had eluded capture for decades. One crucial piece of confirmation came from victims themselves, who had described the perpetrator’s unusually small genitalia.
Upon DeAngelo’s arrest at his Citrus Heights residence, authorities obtained a warrant for a thorough medical examination. Officers were tasked with documenting DeAngelo’s anatomy to compare with witness testimonies, leading to a surreal moment where a police photographer struggled to capture images due to the minuscule size of DeAngelo’s genitalia.
Despite the humiliating nature of the detail, it aligned with victim statements from the past, solidifying the prosecution’s case against DeAngelo. His apprehension marked the end of a long pursuit by law enforcement, with his capture being facilitated by DNA evidence uploaded to an ancestry website in 2018, ultimately linking him to the crimes.
DeAngelo, a former police officer dismissed for theft, eventually pleaded guilty to multiple charges, avoiding the death penalty. Survivors and families of victims shared their harrowing experiences during his sentencing, providing closure to those affected. Currently incarcerated at California State Prison in Corcoran, DeAngelo serves consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole.