Crime Stories (English Subtitled) Season 4 Episode 4 The Boardinghouse Killer
- January 19, 2007
- 46 min
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(8)
In season 4 episode 4 of Crime Stories, titled "The Boardinghouse Killer," viewers are taken on a journey through the grisly crimes committed by a man named Gary Heidnik. Heidnik was a mentally ill former mental patient who lived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the late 1980s. He had a twisted plan to create his own "baby factory" by impregnating multiple women and keeping them captive in his basement.
As the episode begins, viewers are introduced to Anne, a woman who was abducted by Heidnik in 1986. Anne endured months of torture and imprisonment in Heidnik's basement, but she managed to escape and bring the police to his doorstep. Heidnik was arrested and eventually convicted of his crimes. He was sentenced to death and executed in 1999.
Through interviews with law enforcement officials, as well as archival footage and reenactments, the episode builds a picture of Heidnik's twisted and sadistic mind. Viewers learn that Heidnik was a loner who had a history of mental illness. He had a fascination with religion and saw himself as a messiah figure. Heidnik believed that it was his divine mission to impregnate as many women as possible so that he could create a race of superhumans.
The episode also explores the reactions of Heidnik's neighbors and acquaintances to his crimes. Many were shocked and horrified that such atrocities could be committed in their own community. Others, however, expressed little surprise given Heidnik's odd behavior and reputation.
Throughout the episode, viewers are forced to confront the very real consequences of mental illness and the dangers that can arise when such illnesses go untreated. They also witness the bravery of Anne and other survivors who were able to overcome their traumatic experiences and bring their abuser to justice.
Overall, "The Boardinghouse Killer" is a chilling and sobering look at the dark side of human nature and the devastating effects of mental illness. It is a reminder that evil can lurk behind even the most unassuming faces and that we must remain vigilant in our efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of our society.