![World's Most Evil Killers Season 5 Episode 18](https:/images/tv/49688/poster-180x270.jpg)
Ep 18. Arthur Shawcross
- February 16, 2021
- 43 min
Arthur Shawcross is the subject of the 18th episode of the fifth season of World's Most Evil Killers. This episode dives into the life and crimes of a convicted serial killer who terrorized the communities of Rochester, New York, and Sacramento, California.
The episode begins with an introduction to Shawcross' early life. Born in June of 1945, he was raised in poor conditions and had a difficult childhood. He reportedly suffered from bedwetting and was subjected to physical abuse from his mother. But despite these hardships, Shawcross's early life did not foreshadow what was to come.
It wasn't until after his discharge from the army in 1967 that Shawcross's behavior began to change. He was married and had two children, but his wife left him shortly after he returned from Vietnam. That's when he began to exhibit violent behavior and was soon arrested for the rape of two children. Shawcross was eventually sent to prison but served only 14 years of his sentence before being paroled in 1987.
Upon his release, Shawcross moved to Rochester where he began his killing spree. Over the next two years, he would commit 11 murders, primarily targeting sex workers. Some of his victims were found dismembered and floating in various bodies of water. The episode covers the brutal details of his crimes, including how he lured his victims and the methods he used to dispose of their bodies.
Despite a massive manhunt and a FBI investigation, Shawcross was not caught until 1990 when he was stopped by a police officer for a traffic violation. That's when the officer discovered the body of Shawcross's last victim in the back of his truck. Shawcross eventually confessed to all of the murders and was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
The episode also delves into Shawcross's psyche, utilizing interviews with experts who analyze his behavior and motivations. Viewers will get insight into his mental state, including his diagnosis with borderline personality disorder and how his experiences in the military may have contributed to his violent tendencies.
Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive look at the disturbing life and crimes of Arthur Shawcross. From his troubled childhood to his brutal murders and eventual conviction, viewers will gain insight into one of the most notorious serial killers in American history.