Ep 6. Kansas Killer

In this episode of Motives and Murder, titled "Kansas Killer," viewers are taken to Wichita, Kansas where a series of murders have occurred over the span of two years. The killer is dubbed the "BTK Killer" due to his signature binding, torture, and kill method. The episode covers the investigation into the case that rocked the community and the man who would go on to plead guilty to the murders.

Viewers are first introduced to the victims, including Joseph and Julie Otero, who were murdered in their own home along with their two children, Joey and Josie. The killer's next victims, Kathryn Bright and Kevin Bright, were attacked while Kevin's sister survived the attack and was able to provide vital information to investigators. Throughout the episode, interviews with detectives and family members of the victims highlight the impact the murders had on those close to the case.

As the investigation progresses, viewers learn about the many missteps that occurred along the way. Detective Greg Rader believed the killer could be someone from the area, while FBI agent Jeff Lanza suggested the killer could have ties to a local hospital due to his knowledge of medical procedures. Despite their different theories, the two worked together to sift through thousands of leads and figure out who the killer could be.

Eventually, the case went cold and the killer fell off the radar. However, in 2004, the killer sent letters and packages to the police department and local media outlets, reigniting interest in the case. Through analysis of the letters and a computer disk, authorities were able to narrow down the list of suspects to one man: Dennis Rader.

Rader, who had worked as a compliance officer for the city, became the prime suspect after his daughter turned in a computer disk she had found in their home. The disk contained metadata that linked it to a church in Wichita where Rader had been a member. When police searched his home, they found evidence linking him to the murders, including jewelry and photos he had taken of his victims.

The episode concludes with Rader eventually pleading guilty to 10 counts of first-degree murder and being sentenced to 10 consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole. Interviews with family members of the victims show that while the pain of their loss will never go away, they are thankful that justice was finally served.

Overall, "Kansas Killer" provides a detailed overview of one of the most infamous serial killers in American history and the investigation that led to his capture. Through interviews with those involved in the case and family members of the victims, viewers gain a greater understanding of the emotional toll these types of crimes have on those affected by them.