Have you ever wondered how early trauma and untreated medical conditions can shape a criminal mind? Join me, Kevin Bennett, and my guest, Nate Coonfare, on this episode as we promise to unravel the chilling life story of Richard Ramirez, a.k.a., The Night Stalker. Together, we explore his tumultuous upbringing in El Paso, Texas, marked by violence and abuse, and how these early experiences set the stage for his terrifying crimes in Los Angeles during the summer of 1985.

Ramirez's descent into violent behavior, catalyzed by witnessing his cousin Mike commit a murder right before his eyes, began at a young age. By examining his exposure to criminal activities and disturbing influences from family members, we offer a comprehensive view of how Ramirez's promising athletic future was derailed by untreated epilepsy and a toxic environment. Nate shares intimate details about Ramirez's transformation from a troubled teenager into a ruthless killer, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of the experiences that shaped his psyche.

Get ready to hear about the harrowing crimes that defined Ramirez's reign of terror. From his initial attack on Maria Hernandez and her roommate to the vicious murders of Maxon and Lela Kneiding , we explore the brutal methods and significant evidence that led to his capture, including the infamous Avia shoe footprint. Our conversation sheds light on the relentless efforts of law enforcement and the fear that gripped Los Angeles during that summer. Tune in for an eye-opening exploration into the dark mind of Richard Ramirez and the indelible impact of his crimes.

This is part one of two.

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A psych professor's podcast about danger, deception, and desire. From the ugly truth about rage rooms and our unhealthy obsession with serial killers, to the ancestral wisdom of goosebumps and the science behind why we keep playing the lottery, join Dr. Kevin Bennett—Penn State University Beaver Campus Teaching Professor, Psychology Today contributor, and fellow at the Centre for Urban Design and Mental Health (UD/MH)—as we unmask the power of danger, deception, and desire through sensational stories and savvy behavioral science.

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