Small Town Murder: The Sick Ripper - New Britain, Connecticut

Release Date: July 17, 2025 | Hosts: James Pietragallo & Jimmy Whisman

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmy Whisman delve into the haunting case of William Devin Howell, dubbed "The Sick Ripper," who terrorized New Britain, Connecticut. Combining meticulous research with their signature comedic flair, James and Jimmy navigate through the complexities of the investigation, shedding light on one of the state's most infamous serial killer cases.

New Britain, Connecticut: A Brief Overview

New Britain, located in Hartford County, is a diverse suburb approximately an hour and a half from both New York City and Westport. With a population of 74,022, the city boasts a rich industrial history, earning the nickname "Hardware City" due to its association with major manufacturing firms like Stanley Works and the American Hardware Corporation. Notably, New Britain is the birthplace of the wire coat hanger and has a significant Hispanic population (40.9%) alongside other racial groups.

Notable Insights:

• Demographics: 52.5% female, median age of 33.2, influenced by a substantial college student population.
• Economy: Median household income stands at $50,379, with housing costs relatively affordable.
• Community: Hosts events like the Little Poland Festival, which highlights the city's Polish heritage but has origins rooted in strategic marketing to combat rising crime in the 90s and 2000s.

Quote:
James Pietragallo [07:11]: "By 1913, the American Hardware Corporation was the largest employer in Connecticut, making New Britain the hardware capital of the world."

The Disappearance of Nilsa Arizmendi

Nilsa Arizmendi, a 33-year-old mother of four struggling with heroin addiction, was last seen on July 25, 2003. Living in a tumultuous relationship with her boyfriend, Angel Sanchez—a convicted drug dealer—their lives were spiraling due to rampant drug abuse and prostitution.

Key Events:

• On a hot July night, Nilsa and Angel encountered Devin Howell, a landscaper offering rides to individuals in need.
• Nilsa, referred to as "Maria" on the streets, accepted a ride from Howell, expecting a brief interaction.
• Promised transportation to a motel, Nilsa never returned, leading to her disappearance.

Quote:
James Pietragallo [21:16]: "On July 25, 2003, they're having a long night, man. Real long night."

William Devin Howell: The Suspect

William Devin Howell, born on February 11, 1970, hails from Hampton, Virginia. With a troubled past marked by substance abuse, criminal convictions, and a history of relationship turmoil, Howell emerges as the primary suspect in Nilsa's disappearance.

Background:

• Howell's upbringing was marred by his parents' late-in-life marriage and his father's demanding blue-collar job.
• Developed early addictions, beginning with alcohol in his early teens and escalating to heroin and crack cocaine.
• Multiple arrests for drug-related offenses and driving violations, culminating in a reputation as a habitual offender.

Criminal Profile:

• Howell's lifestyle involved constant movement, sleeping in his van ("Murder Mobile"), and engaging in frequent sexual encounters with prostitutes.
• Exhibited a fascination with true crime, particularly forensic investigations, which influenced his methods of committing and concealing murders.

Quote:
Jimmy Wissman [119:00]: "This guy's just. I just liked raping."

The Investigation and Discovery of Bodies

As Nilsa's disappearance remained unresolved, a hunter stumbled upon decomposed remains near the Stop and Shop parking lot, leading authorities to uncover a grisly pattern of murders attributed to Howell.

Findings:

• Blood Evidence: Blood belonging to Nilsa was found in Howell's van, alongside blood from other unidentified victims.
• Confessions: Howell's cellmate, Jonathan Mills, revealed Howell's alter ego, "The Sick Ripper," and detailed his modus operandi, including sexual assaults and mutilations to hinder identification.
• Further Victims: Bodies of women like Joy Martinez, Mary Jane Menard, and Marilyn Gonzalez were discovered between 2003 and 2007, all exhibiting signs of brutal violence and post-mortem mutilation.

Quote:
Jimmy Wissman [130:41]: "She disappeared. They never found her body or anything?"

James Pietragallo [91:19]: "And they find more blood. It has nothing to do with Nilsa or this other woman or him."

The Trial and Conviction

In 2005, Howell stood trial for first-degree manslaughter in Nilsa Arizmendi's case, which later expanded to include six additional murders. Despite his initial denials, DNA evidence and confessions from his cellmate solidified the prosecution's case.

Trial Highlights:

• Evidence: Bloodstains matching Nilsa and other victims were linked to Howell's van.
• Plea Deal: Howell entered an Alford plea, acknowledging sufficient evidence for conviction without admitting guilt.
• Sentencing: Received six consecutive life sentences (totaling 360 years) with no possibility of parole, ensuring his incarceration until 2377.

Quote:
James Pietragallo [156:03]: "In Connecticut, a life sentence is defined as 60 years. So that is 360 years in prison."

Aftermath and Further Revelations

Following his conviction, additional bodies were unearthed, reigniting investigations into Howell's involvement in colder cases dating back to the early 1990s. An author and lawyer, Ann K. Howard, took a keen interest in the case, engaging Howell through correspondence to uncover more about his motivations and crimes.

Additional Insights:

• Secret Garden: Howell referred to the burial sites as his "garden," where he meticulously concealed his victims.
• Psychological Profile: Howell exhibited signs of deep-seated psychological issues, exacerbated by his mother's prolonged illness and death during his formative years.
• Public Impact: The case shook the New Britain community, highlighting flaws in the initial police response and the challenges in identifying and capturing a serial killer without a body.

Quote:
Jimmy Wissman [152:24]: "Has there ever been a serial killer that says it was about the rapes."

James Pietragallo [166:54]: "My headaches."

Conclusion

"The Sick Ripper" episode of Small Town Murder offers a harrowing exploration of William Devin Howell's reign of terror in New Britain, Connecticut. Through detailed storytelling, the hosts illuminate the tragic circumstances that allowed Howell to evade scrutiny for years, ultimately leading to a harrowing trial and conviction. This case underscores the intricate interplay between community vulnerability, law enforcement challenges, and the dark depths of human depravity.

Quote:
James Pietragallo [167:49]: "You know, you're a serial killer. You don't need $2,200."

Notable Quotes

• James Pietragallo [07:11]: "By 1913, the American Hardware Corporation was the largest employer in Connecticut, making New Britain the hardware capital of the world."

• Jimmy Wissman [119:00]: "This guy's just. I just liked raping."

• James Pietragallo [156:03]: "In Connecticut, a life sentence is defined as 60 years. So that is 360 years in prison."

• Jimmy Wissman [152:24]: "Has there ever been a serial killer that says it was about the rapes."

Closing Remarks

James and Jimmy wrap up the episode by acknowledging the severity of Howell's crimes and the lasting impact on the New Britain community. They encourage listeners to reflect on the case's complexities and the importance of vigilant community and law enforcement cooperation in preventing such tragedies.

Quote:
James Pietragallo [167:34]: "You're a serial killer. You don't need $2,200."

Stay Tuned:
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