Episode 17: Unveiling the Dark Legacy of Joel Rifkin: A Podcast Exploration

Crimes from the Peanut Gallery

Summary In this podcast episode, Vic discusses the case of Joel Rifkin, one of New York's most notorious serial killers. She provides background information on his childhood and the factors that may have contributed to his violent tendencies. Vic goes into detail about each of his known victims and the methods he used to kill and dispose of their bodies. She also highlights the lack of attention given to missing and murdered sex workers by law enforcement at the time. Joel Rifkin was eventually caught and convicted of multiple murders, receiving a sentence of 183 years in prison. Takeaways Joel Rifkin was one of New York's most notorious serial killers, responsible for the murders of at least 17 women, most of whom were sex workers. He had a troubled childhood, facing bullying at school and a strained relationship with his father, which may have contributed to his violent tendencies. Rifkin's victims were strangled and their bodies were often dismembered and disposed of in various locations, making it difficult for authorities to identify them. Law enforcement at the time did not prioritize the cases of missing and murdered sex workers, allowing Rifkin to continue his killing spree for several years. Rifkin was eventually caught after a police chase and confessed to the murders, receiving multiple life sentences in prison. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Joel Rifkin 03:03 Joel Rifkin's Troubled Childhood and School Experiences 10:06 Details of Joel Rifkin's Murders and Legal Proceedings