Joseph James DeAngelo Jr. identified and pleads guilty as Golden State Killer

In Brief

Former police officer Joseph James DeAngelo Jr. pleaded guilty to multiple murders and rapes in California.

Key Facts

• Joseph James DeAngelo Jr. was identified as the Golden State Killer, responsible for crimes in the 1970s and 1980s
• The Golden State Killer committed at least 12 murders and 45 rapes across California
• DeAngelo was a former police officer at the time of the crimes
• After his arrest, DeAngelo made incriminating statements admitting to the murders
• A prosecutor stated DeAngelo indicated he was driven by an internal force he could not control

What Happened

Authorities identified Joseph James DeAngelo Jr., a former police officer, as the Golden State Killer responsible for a series of murders and rapes in California during the 1970s and 1980s. Following his arrest, DeAngelo pleaded guilty and made statements admitting to the crimes. Prosecutors reported he described being driven by an uncontrollable internal force.

Why It Matters

The identification and guilty plea of DeAngelo brought resolution to decades-old cold cases, providing closure to victims and their families. The case highlights advances in forensic and investigative techniques used to solve long-unsolved crimes. It also raises discussions about criminal psychology and the accountability of law enforcement officers who commit crimes.