The Reign of Terror
DeAngelo's crime spree began as the Visalia Ransacker in 1974-1975, escalating to the East Area Rapist and Original Night Stalker. He targeted couples and solo women, often binding victims and ransacking homes.
A chilling incident involved 15-year-old Kris Pedretti in 1976, where he threatened, 'Do what I say or I'll kill you and be gone in the dark.' This phrase inspired Michelle McNamara's book on the case.
His methods showed cunning evasion, including shrieking to escape capture during a 1975 stakeout.
Breakthrough Arrest and Guilty Plea
In April 2018, authorities arrested 72-year-old DeAngelo at his Sacramento home after DNA from GEDmatch linked him to the crimes. This was the first major use of forensic genetic genealogy in a cold case.
Charged with 13 murders and kidnappings, DeAngelo pleaded guilty in June 2020 to avoid the death penalty. On August 21, 2020, he received consecutive life sentences without parole, apologizing briefly to victims.
Prosecutors estimated the case cost $20 million, underscoring its complexity across multiple counties.
2025 Updates and Legacy
As of February 2025, DeAngelo is in protective custody at California State Prison, Corcoran. A November 2025 CNN report details new prosecutor revelations on the case.
Sacramento County DA's new book shares inside stories of the investigation, emphasizing DeAngelo's dual life as a police officer. It highlights impacts on victims' families and law enforcement.
The case revolutionized cold case solving, influencing global investigations with DNA databases and genealogy tools.