725: Paul Holes | Solving America's Cold Cases

Psychology

The psychological motivations of serial killers reveal a complex interplay of emotions and compulsions. Paul Holes discusses the Golden State Killer, Joseph DeAngelo, who exhibited a bizarre mix of dominance and vulnerability, often crying after his attacks 1. This behavior suggests an internal struggle with his violent compulsions, contrasting with other killers like Dennis Rader, who embraced their identities 1. Serial killers often take breaks due to changes in life circumstances or a temporary satisfaction of their compulsions, as seen with the Green River Killer and BTK 2.

I believe that eventually in 1986, he got on top of that compulsion and he stopped.

--- Paul Holes

The spectrum of serial killers ranges from those who appear outwardly normal, like Ted Bundy, to those who fit the stereotypical image of a predator 3.

   

1970s Era

The 1970s marked a notorious era for serial killers, driven by societal conditions that made it easier for predators to find victims. Paul Holes explains that the lack of modern security measures and the prevalence of hitchhiking created ideal conditions for serial crimes 4. The East Area Rapist, later identified as the Golden State Killer, exploited these vulnerabilities, committing numerous attacks in Northern California during this period 5.

There was a definite spike in serial predator crime in the 1970s.

--- Paul Holes

As technology advanced, the methods of these predators evolved, shifting from physical encounters to online interactions 4.

   

Investigation

Investigating serial killers presents significant emotional and professional challenges. Paul Holes shares his experiences with the Golden State Killer case, highlighting the emotional toll of witnessing crime scenes and the relentless pursuit of justice 6. The satisfaction of capturing DeAngelo after 24 years was profound, yet the journey was fraught with personal sacrifice and media scrutiny 7.

Every time you work, these types of cases, you know, you get a little nick.

--- Paul Holes

The psychological impact on investigators is often underestimated, as they accumulate emotional scars over years of exposure to violence and tragedy 8.