Felonious Florida: A Stroke of Luck | Episode 6 Summary

Introduction

In the gripping sixth episode of Felonious Florida titled "A Stroke of Luck," host David Shutes delves into one of the Sunshine State's most notorious unsolved cases—the Pillowcase Rapist. This serial predator terrorized South Florida women during the early 1980s, leaving investigators perplexed for decades. However, a breakthrough in familial DNA testing has finally brought clarity and closure to this harrowing saga.

Robert Eugene Kohler: A Troubled Past

Robert Eugene Kohler's early life was fraught with instability. Born in 1959 and adopted by Gloria and Herman Köhler, Kohler's childhood was marked by his father's abandonment when he was just nine years old. Dropping out of Rockaway Middle School, Kohler's tumultuous upbringing laid the groundwork for his later violent tendencies.

In 1980, at the age of 20, Kohler's violent nature surfaced when he was arrested for aggravated assault. After a painful breakup, he confronted his ex-girlfriend with a buck knife, threatening, "I'd just as soon kill you as to look at you" (06:03). This incident highlighted his volatile and confrontational demeanor, traits that would later complicate investigations into his criminal activities.

The Pillowcase Rapist: A Decades-Long Reign of Terror

From May 1981 to February 1986, the Pillowcase Rapist brutally assaulted over 40 women across South Florida. Operating with apparent impunity, the rapes occurred without witnesses or concrete leads, leaving detectives baffled. The last known attack was on February 11, 1986, when a survivor outsmarted her attacker by pretending to be blind, leading to a police sketch that ultimately did not capture the perpetrator.

Despite extensive investigations, including efforts by Detective Dave Simmons, the case remained unsolved, with Kohler's name never emerging as a suspect during that time.

Familial DNA: The Turning Point

The advent of familial DNA testing revolutionized cold case investigations. Christina Servideo, Technical Director at DNA Labs in Deerfield Beach, Florida, explains, "Familial searching is where a database is used. CODIS is what the government labs use, and they're looking for a close family member in that database" (21:30). This method compares DNA profiles to identify potential relatives of an unknown suspect.

In 2019, a familial DNA match linked the Pillowcase Rapist to Robert Eugene Kohler through his son. However, this initial connection required further corroboration to proceed with charges.

Arrest and DNA Confirmation

On January 16, 2020, Kohler's routine visit to a Walmart Supercenter in Palm Bay became the catalyst for his arrest. Unbeknownst to him, undercover detectives were surveilling his movements, hoping to collect DNA evidence from discarded items. When Kohler used a sanitizing wipe to clean a shopping cart handle and discarded it, investigators swiftly analyzed the sample. Two days later, Brevard County deputies apprehended Kohler, initiating a confrontation that would unravel decades-old crimes.

During interrogation, Kohler adamantly denied involvement, exclaiming, "Why the fuck would I want to rape somebody?" (28:32). However, the DNA evidence was irrefutable. The judge mandated blood and saliva samples, which conclusively matched Kohler to the 1983 rape case.

Living Next Door to a Monster

Erica Wenzel, Kohler's neighbor in Palm Bay, Florida, provides a chilling firsthand account of living beside a man she now recognizes as a predator. Initially charmed by Kohler's seemingly normal exterior, Erica's perception shifted as his true nature became evident.

"I think he was patting you on the back, he's sort of looking for the soft spot to stick the knife in. It definitely gives you pause" (38:00).

Erica recounts witnessing Kohler's erratic behavior and confrontations, further solidifying her fears about living next to him. The discovery of his dark secrets only intensified her distress.

Trial and Conviction

The courtroom drama unfolded as evidence mounted against Kohler. Victims, like Eileen Lear, shared their harrowing experiences, emphasizing the long-lasting trauma inflicted by their assaults. Despite Kohler's attempts to fabricate elaborate conspiracy theories, claiming police manipulation and government experiments, the jury remained steadfast.

Nicole Zifchak, foreperson of the jury, stated, "There wasn't one of us that, you know, thought he was innocent. Not one. There wasn't a single one of us." (41:53).

On January 26, 2023, Kohler was found guilty of sexual battery, burglary, and kidnapping related to the 1983 rape. Sentenced to 17 years in prison, this conviction marks a significant victory for justice, though charges in six additional cases remain pending.

Aftermath and Ongoing Investigations

The conviction of Robert Kohler brings closure to many victims who have lived in fear for decades. Sergeant Cammie Floyd of the Broward Sheriff's Office highlights the extensive impact of Kohler's crimes, stating, "The true extent of Kohler's crimes may never be known" (42:41).

Moreover, the case underscores the importance of advancements in forensic science, particularly familial DNA testing, in solving cold cases. As investigations continue, there is hope that more victims will come forward, and additional charges will be filed against Kohler.

Living in the Aftermath

Victims like Eileen Lear stress the significance of speaking out, not only for personal healing but also to aid in the capture of predators. Erica Wenzel echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the emotional burden carried by survivors and the necessity of community support.

"Sharing and talking certainly helps to move the emotion and the energy. It also rallies people around you to help and take care of you" (43:59).

Conclusion

"A Stroke of Luck" poignantly illustrates the intersection of persistence, technological advancement, and the resilience of victims in the pursuit of justice. The fall of Robert Eugene Kohler as the Pillowcase Rapist serves as a testament to the enduring quest to bring closure to those affected by unspeakable crimes. As Felonious Florida Season 5 continues, it promises to explore further depths of Florida's darkest narratives, shedding light on the shadows that once seemed impenetrable.

Notable Quotes:

• Erica Wenzel: "We called the police just as many times as he called the police." (02:20)

• Erica Wenzel: "We truly did live next to the devil." (03:22)

• David Shutes: "It was an unexpected stroke of luck that led to the incredible conclusion of this case." (04:05)

• Erica Wenzel: "If I was going to spend the time to risk my life to do something stupid and heinous like that, you think I would spend only five minutes with a woman?" (37:23)

• Nicole Zifchak: "There wasn't one of us that, you know, thought he was innocent. Not one. There wasn't a single one of us." (41:53)

Key Takeaways:

• Familial DNA Testing: A pivotal tool in solving cold cases, enabling connections between familial DNA matches and unidentified perpetrators.

• Victim Support: Emphasizes the importance of survivors coming forward and the role of community in supporting them.

• Technological Advancements: Highlights how advancements in forensic science can bring long-awaited justice.

• Psychological Impact: Explores the profound and lasting trauma experienced by victims of serial crimes.

For More Information:

To delve deeper into this case and other chilling true crime stories from Florida, listen to Felonious Florida Season 5 on the Wondery app, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify.