Who Was the California State Killer
The California State Killer is a name used for Joseph James DeAngelo, a former police officer linked to a series of crimes spanning decades. He was identified through genetic genealogy and arrested in 2018.
Crimes and Investigation
DeAngelo is connected to multiple homicides, sexual assaults, and burglaries committed in California between the 1970s and 1980s. Investigators later used DNA evidence and public genealogy databases to make the identification.
Legal Outcome and Current Status
In 2020, DeAngelo pleaded guilty to multiple counts and was sentenced to life in prison without parole. He is currently held in a California state prison, where he remains for the rest of his life. Learn more about the case on the official California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation site.
