Ep 5. The Gentleman Killer

In A Crime to Remember season 4 episode 5, titled "The Gentleman Killer," viewers are taken back to the 1950s in Los Angeles. The episode explores the case of a serial killer known for preying on young women, who captured the attention of the entire nation.

The episode starts off by introducing the killer, who was dubbed "The Gentleman Killer" by the media due to his suave demeanor and polite way of speaking. The first victim is a young woman named Jeanne French, who disappeared after leaving a dance with a stranger. Her body was discovered a few days later, brutally beaten and strangled.

The investigation into French's murder is led by LAPD detective Pierce Brooks, who quickly realizes that he is dealing with a serial killer. The killer's modus operandi becomes clear as more victims are found. They are all young, attractive women who were picked up by a charming stranger and then brutally murdered.

Despite the killer's best efforts to avoid detection, the police are able to gather enough evidence to identify their suspect as Harvey Glatman, a freelance photographer. Glatman was known for luring young models to his studio under false pretenses and then sexually assaulting and murdering them.

The episode delves into Glatman's background, revealing that he was a loner who had a troubled childhood and had a fascination with bondage and asphyxiation. His crimes were the result of a deep-seated desire for power and control over his victims.

Through interviews with investigators, journalists, and family members of the victims, the episode paints a vivid picture of the fear and panic that gripped the city during the killer's reign of terror. The media fanned the flames of hysteria, running sensationalized stories about the killer and warning young women to stay indoors at night.

The episode also explores the impact of the killer's crimes on the families of the victims, many of whom were left with unresolved grief and a sense of injustice. But there are also stories of resilience and hope, as survivors of Glatman's attacks courageously come forward to tell their stories and seek justice.

Overall, "The Gentleman Killer" is an engrossing and suspenseful episode that highlights the chilling true story of one of America's most notorious serial killers. It provides a detailed look at the investigation, the killer's twisted motivations, and the impact of his crimes on the wider community. Whether you're a true crime buff or just a curious viewer, this episode is not to be missed.