Professor Giannangelo on Herbert Mullin: 13 Murders in Four Months

Herbert Mullin, serial killer, mental illness, spree killer, California, criminal psychology, trial, schizophrenia, crime, murder

Takeaways

Herbert Mullin was born on the anniversary of a major earthquake.

He was well-liked and popular in high school, contrary to typical serial killer profiles.

Mullin developed paranoid schizophrenia after a traumatic event in college.

His killing spree lasted four months, resulting in 13 murders.

Mullin's motivations included delusions about earthquakes and messages from his father.

He killed both strangers and acquaintances, showing a mix of personal and random motivations.

The legal system struggled with his insanity defense due to his actions post-murder.

Mullin's case highlights the complexities of mental illness in violent crime.

He was ultimately convicted of first and second-degree murder.

Mullin's story reflects the unpredictability of serial killers and their motivations.

Summary

This conversation with retired criminal investigator, author & Professor of Criminology at the Univrsity of Springfield IL, Steven Giannangelo, delves into the life and crimes of Herbert Mullin, a lesser-known serial killer whose spree in California resulted in 13 murders over four months. The discussion covers Mullin's early life, his psychological struggles with paranoid schizophrenia, and the motivations behind his violent actions. The hosts explore the complexities of his case, including the legal implications of his insanity defense and the unique characteristics that set him apart from other serial killers. Through a detailed examination of his crimes and the subsequent trial, the conversation highlights the intersection of mental illness and criminal behavior.

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