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Podcast Reexamines Edmund Kemper’s Path From Release to Killing Spree

A new podcast probes institutional choices that allowed his spree to unfold.

Overview

  • The coverage revisits Kemper’s case through fresh podcast commentary, highlighting childhood warning signs and his reported 145 IQ.
  • At 15 he murdered his grandparents, was committed to Atascadero State Hospital, persuaded staff he was rehabilitated, and was paroled at 21.
  • After buying a police-style 1969 Ford Galaxie, he cruised California highways in 1972–73 to pick up female hitchhikers, committing murders that included necrophilia and decapitation.
  • He later killed his mother and her friend, called Santa Cruz police from Pueblo to confess, and was arrested in April 1973 before being convicted and sentenced to life.
  • He remains imprisoned with parole eligibility since 2017 and has said he is content living in prison.