Ep 5. NorCal Rapist: Phantom Predator, Part 1

In the fifth episode of season one of Very Scary People, viewers are introduced to the case of the NorCal Rapist. This serial rapist terrorized the Sacramento and East Bay areas of California from 1991 to 2006, attacking at least 10 women in their homes. In this two-part episode titled "Phantom Predator," the first half focuses on the years leading up to the first attack and the investigation that followed.

The episode begins by introducing the first victim, who was attacked in her home in Rohnert Park, California in 1991. She describes the terrifying experience of being bound, blindfolded, and raped repeatedly in her own bed. The show then delves into the history of the NorCal Rapist, providing details about the various attacks and the similarities between them. The perpetrator would enter the victim's home late at night, often through a window or unlocked door, and use weapons such as a knife or gun to subdue them before assaulting them.

The investigation into the NorCal Rapist was difficult from the start, as the perpetrator left very little physical evidence behind. However, detectives were able to gather some information about the suspect based on witness statements, including his height and build. The show highlights the tireless efforts of law enforcement officials, who worked around the clock to try and identify the rapist and stop him from attacking again.

Viewers are introduced to several key players in the investigation, including lead detective Ron Van Meter and DNA expert Paul Holes. Holes, who would eventually play a pivotal role in solving the Golden State Killer case, was brought in to assist with the NorCal Rapist investigation due to his expertise in DNA analysis. He describes the frustration of working on a case with so little physical evidence, as well as the determination of the detectives to find a way to catch the perpetrator.

The first half of "Phantom Predator" also explores some of the theories about the NorCal Rapist's identity. One of the most compelling suspects was a man named Darold LeRoy Norris, who was arrested in 1996 for raping a woman in her home in Sacramento. Although he was ultimately convicted of this crime, Norris denied any involvement in the NorCal Rapist attacks. The show examines the evidence against Norris and the circumstances surrounding his arrest, including allegations of police misconduct.

Overall, the first part of "Phantom Predator" provides a detailed look at the NorCal Rapist case and the challenges faced by investigators as they worked to identify and apprehend the perpetrator. Viewers will be drawn in by the emotional interviews with the victims, as well as the gripping police work and forensic analysis that went into the investigation. As the episode comes to a close, viewers are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the conclusion of the story in part two.