Early Life and Background
Joseph James DeAngelo Jr. was born on November 8, 1945, in Bath, New York, as one of four siblings: Connie, John, and Rebecca. His parents, Kathleen and Joseph Sr., moved the family to California, where he spent his childhood. He graduated from Folsom High School in 1964 and served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Afterward, he studied criminal justice, leading to a career as a police officer.
Criminal Activity
From 1974 to 1986, DeAngelo committed a crime spree in California, responsible for at least 13 murders, 51 rapes, and 120 burglaries across regions like Sacramento, Contra Costa, and Santa Barbara. He was known as the ‘East Area Rapist,’ ‘Original Night Stalker,’ and the ‘Golden State Killer.’
Notable Crimes
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East Area Rapist (1976-1979): Primarily operating in the Sacramento County area, DeAngelo terrorized residents by breaking into homes, often while the occupants slept. He would tie up his victims and rape them, leaving behind a traumatized community.
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Original Night Stalker (1979-1986): Expanding his crimes to include murder, DeAngelo struck across Southern California. He was responsible for a series of night-time home invasions leading to the murders of several victims.
Personal Life
Joseph DeAngelo married Sharon Marie Huddle in 1973, having three children. Despite his criminal activities, he led a seemingly normal suburban life. Their marriage lasted until 2019, after his arrest and conviction.
Investigation and Arrest
The Golden State Killer investigation lasted over four decades, with DNA technology breakthroughs enabling the identification of DeAngelo as the perpetrator. Investigator Paul Holes significantly contributed to the case. DeAngelo was arrested on April 24, 2018, at his Citrus Heights, California home. Genetic genealogy, matching crime scene DNA with samples from open-source databases, was key to identifying him.
Legal Proceedings
On June 29, 2020, Joseph James DeAngelo Jr. pleaded guilty to 13 first-degree murders and 13 kidnappings with robbery. He received life imprisonment without parole as the death penalty was removed in a plea deal, concluding a significant chapter in California’s criminal justice history.
FAQ
What was Joseph DeAngelo’s job before his arrest?
Joseph DeAngelo was a police officer when some of his crimes occurred, serving in the Exeter Police Department from 1973 to 1976 and the Auburn Police Department until his firing in 1979.
How was Joseph DeAngelo finally caught?
DeAngelo was identified and arrested using genetic genealogy, matching DNA from crime scenes with profiles from open-source databases.
What nicknames was Joseph DeAngelo known by?
Joseph DeAngelo had several nicknames: ‘Golden State Killer,’ ‘East Area Rapist,’ ‘Original Night Stalker,’ and ‘Diamond Knot Killer.’
Did Joseph DeAngelo have a family?
Joseph DeAngelo was married to Sharon Marie Huddle from 1973 to 2019 and they had three children.
How many crimes did Joseph DeAngelo commit?
Joseph DeAngelo committed at least 13 murders, 51 rapes, and 120 burglaries in California from 1974 to 1986.
How long did Joseph DeAngelo evade capture?
Joseph DeAngelo evaded capture for over 40 years. His crimes took place from 1974 to 1986, and he was arrested on April 24, 2018.
