On Wednesday, April 10, 2013, the National Law Enforcement Museum held the seventh event in our Witness to History panel discussion series, which focused on the topic of serial killers—specifically the case of the Green River Killer—through expert analysis and the insights of those involved in the investigation. Many thanks to all who were able to join us.
More than 100 people attended the event, held at the Naval Heritage Center, and sponsored by Target®. The panel discussion was moderated by Craig W. Floyd, Chairman & CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.
Each panelist offered a unique perspective on the case. Congressman Reichert shared the emotional moment he experienced, as Sheriff of King County, when they realized they had finally found the Green River Killer, after a 20-year investigation. “I got ya, asshole” were the Sheriff’s words of relief as Ridgeway was escorted to jail.
Jana Monroe offered her comprehensive understanding of the nature of serial killers, explaining there is no formula that links every serial killer together. She did say that, in her personal and professional opinion, Ridgeway’s motivation “appeared to be a desire for control over his victims,” which was reflected in the horrific way he mangled his victims’ bodies.
Dr. Keppel recalled the letters he received and conversations he had with infamous serial killer Ted Bundy, who reached out to authorities to, apparently, give them information about the psyche of a serial killer. Though, Dr. Keppel said that Bundy did not tell authorities anything they did not already know about the Green River Killer. After the discussion, a Q&A session allowed audience members to interact with the panelists.
“We were thrilled to host yet another successful Witness to History event,” said Memorial Fund Chairman & CEO Craig W. Floyd. “Our excellent panel brought invaluable experience and knowledge to the discussion,” he said. “Thank you to all who were able to join us.”