Ep 59. The Golden State Killer

The Golden State Killer was a notorious serial murderer and rapist who terrorized California for over a decade. This episode of 48 Hours delves into the investigation that led to the arrest of the suspected Golden State Killer, Joseph James DeAngelo.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials, victims, and their families, the episode examines the timeline of the killings and how authorities initially failed to link them together. It was not until DNA evidence was analyzed using newer technology that investigators were able to connect the crimes.

The episode also explores the psychological profile of the Golden State Killer and how his crimes affected the communities where he struck. Victims recount terrifying experiences as the killer stalked them in their homes and authorities explain the challenges they faced in trying to catch him.

In addition, the episode touches on the controversial use of publicly available DNA databases to identify suspects, which ultimately led to DeAngelo's capture. The use of this technology raises important questions about privacy and the ethical implications of using DNA evidence in criminal investigations.

Ultimately, the episode highlights the perseverance of law enforcement agencies and the victims' families in the pursuit of justice for the Golden State Killer's many victims. It is a compelling and emotional exploration of one of the most notorious criminal cases in American history.