The general population of the world knows of a few serial killers, killers who were high profile and/or who’s trials were put on display. Some of these killers include Ted Bundy, Jeffrey Dahmer, and the Zodiac Killer. But not many people know who Ed Kemper is or how he had a hand in shaping the FBI into what it is today.
There is a faction within the Federal Bureau of Investigation that uses ‘profiling’. The method is used to classify and detect personality/behavioral characteristics based upon analysis of crime(s) committed. Often times it’s used to apprehend serial killers before they kill again. Profiling even now is still considered to be recently new.
Back in the very early stages of profiling, Ed Kemper was in and out of the justice system until he was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. Kemper killed eight people, beginning with his grandparents when Kemper was only fifteen years old. Though Kemper killed cats, birds, dogs, and various other animals when he was even younger. The other six human victims were female hitchhikers. He killed in one of the most gruesome ways possible, dismemberment and decapitation. He also participated in necrophilia.
Kemper had an above average IQ of 145, and was known for his intellect, and skills in manipulation. For this reason, Ed Kemper intrigued the growing department of profilers. Most notably were interviews conducted by special agents John Douglas and Bob Ressler. Through talking to Kemper, Douglas and Ressler were able to refine the idea of spree killers, but spree killers who put thought behind this kill; Ed Kemper being one of these spree killers. A consultant for the FBI later said that Ed Kemper’s profile has been used to catch other killers.
Musing Murder Mysteries 