Episode 19: "The Disturbing Story of Robert Berdella, the Kansas City Butcher"

Crimes from the Peanut Gallery

Summary In this episode, Vic discusses the case of Robert Berdella, also known as the Kansas City Butcher, a serial killer who kidnapped, raped, and tortured six men. Vic warns listeners about the graphic and disturbing content of the episode and shares details about Berdella's childhood, his interest in art and antiques, and his descent into drug abuse and animal torture. Vic provides a detailed account of each of Berdella's victims and the gruesome acts he committed against them. The episode concludes with Berdella's arrest, conviction, and eventual death from a heart attack. Takeaways Robert Berdella, also known as the Kansas City Butcher, was a serial killer who kidnapped, raped, and tortured six men. Berdella had a troubled childhood and struggled with drug abuse and animal torture. He lured his victims to his home, where he subjected them to prolonged periods of torture and abuse. Berdella was eventually arrested, convicted, and sentenced to life in prison without parole. He died from a heart attack while in custody. Sound Bites "We're going to be talking about some really heavy topics." "There are six known victims." "Everything changed in 1988 though with his final victim." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Warning 02:24 Burdella's Background and Childhood 03:52 Burdella's Interest in Art and Antiques 14:01 The Gruesome Acts of Torture and Abuse 32:45 Burdella's Death and Legacy