Ep 1. The Craigslist Killer

It Takes a Killer is a true crime series that features some of the most famous homicides with the investigation described in detail. The show focuses on the actions leading up to the murder and the meticulous investigation that led the detectives to the killer. Each episode of the show highlights a different case that captured media attention.

In the series' first episode, titled "The Craigslist Killer," the show examines the murder of Julissa Brisman, a young woman who was killed in Boston, Massachusetts in 2009. Julissa was a masseuse who advertised her services on the popular classifieds website, Craigslist.

The episode opens by introducing us to Julissa's background and life story, including her decision to become a masseuse. We also learn about her murderer, Philip Markoff, a Boston University medical student who appeared to have a bright future ahead of him.

The two individuals' paths cross when Philip responds to an ad that Julissa posted on Craigslist. The ad advertised her massage services, and after exchanging some messages with her, Philip arranged to meet Julissa at the Copley Marriott hotel in downtown Boston. This is where the criminal activity begins.

On the day of their meeting, Philip enters the hotel room, wearing gloves and a disguise. Once he was inside with Julissa, he pulls out a gun and demands that she hands over her jewelry. Julissa is terrified and tries to fight back, but Philip overpowers her. He then shoots her three times, killing her.

After the murder, Philip fled the scene and began to take steps to cover his tracks. Through interviews with law enforcement officials and witnesses, the show walks the viewers through the investigation of the murder and the subsequent manhunt for Philip.

The detectives were initially unsure about who the killer was as the crime scene did not offer any clues to identify the murderer. However, they eventually got a break in the case when they identified a man who had responded to Julissa's ad for massage services before the murder. This tip led them to Philip's apartment where they found a gun, zip ties, and the same type of restraints that he had used on Julissa.

The investigation also revealed that Philip had a history of online gambling and large debts. The detectives later found out that he had solicited services from other women he had found through Craigslist under different aliases.

As the investigation progressed, authorities received an anonymous letter from a woman claiming to have been attacked by Philip. This information led them to a security camera footage that showed Philip leaving the hotel room where Julissa was killed. The authorities soon arrested and charged Philip with Julissa's murder. However, he pleaded not guilty and maintained his innocence throughout the trial.

"The Craigslist Killer" episode of It Takes A Killer does an excellent job of shedding light on the dark side of the internet and how people can hide their true identities online. The show highlights how Philip was able to use Craigslist to target and murder Julissa, and how technology played a crucial role in tracking him down.

Overall, It Takes a Killer season 1 episode 1, "The Craigslist Killer," provides a detailed account of a heinous crime and the investigation that brought the killer to justice. The show is perfect for anyone interested in the true crime genre and provides viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at the teamwork, skill, and determination required to solve complex homicide cases.