True Crime Garage – Episode: BTK /// Bind, Torture, Kill /// Part 3

Hosts: Nic and the Captain
Release Date: April 30, 2025

Introduction

In the latest episode of True Crime Garage, hosts Nic and the Captain delve deeper into the chilling case of the BTK Strangler, Dennis Rader. With their characteristic blend of insightful analysis and engaging banter, they unpack the complexities of Rader's crimes, his manipulative communications, and the broader implications on the Wichita community.

Setting the Scene

The episode begins with Nic and the Captain enjoying a Dimwit beer, setting a relaxed yet attentive tone for the intense discussion ahead. They extend their gratitude to listeners from various locations, fostering a sense of community among true crime enthusiasts.

Nic:
"Welcome to True Crime Garage wherever you are, whatever you are doing. Thanks for listening. I'm your host, Nick and with me as always is a man that was not invited but he's certainly glad he made it. He is the Captain."
[00:39]

The Captain:
"I just assumed the invitation got lost in the mail. It's good to be seen and it's good to see you. Thanks for listening. Thanks for telling my friend."
[00:51]

The BTK Case Unfolded

Early Murders and Public Announcement

The episode transitions to February 10, 1978, when the Wichita police chief holds a press conference revealing a series of murders linked to the BTK Strangler. Rader, who had already claimed responsibility for multiple killings, intimates the community with his initials and moniker.

Nic:
"Now, as you can imagine, the police announcing to the public and to the local media that a predatory sexual killer is on the loose sent a wave of widespread panic, shock, and fear across the community."
[02:23]

Listeners are introduced to the initial four murders of the Oturo family, followed by subsequent killings of Shirley Vien and Nancy Fox. Rader's communication, characterized by cryptic letters and drawings, adds a terrifying layer to his persona.

The Creeping Fear: Anna Williams Incident

About 14 months after Rader went silent, he strikes again, attempting to murder Anna Williams. His method involves breaking into her home, waiting for her return, and ultimately leaving behind unsettling evidence including a drawing and a haunting poem.

Nic:
"In that small world of longing, fear, rapture and desperation the game we play fall on devil ears fantasy spring forth mounts to storm fury Then winter clam at end. Oh Anna, why didn't you appear?"
[10:56]

Despite Rader's meticulous planning, Anna survives the initial attack, only to move out fearing the serial killer. Rader's obsession with public attention becomes evident as he continues to seek recognition for his heinous acts.

The Captain:
"He loved being the city's so-called boogeyman, let's say. He loved that he knew the answer to the biggest question around town. Who was BTK?"
[12:30]

Rader's Dual Life

Rader's personal life is explored in depth, showcasing his ability to maintain a facade of normalcy. While he terrorizes Wichita, he simultaneously leads a quiet life with his family, enjoys community activities like the Boy Scouts, and even indulges in peculiar hobbies such as self-bondage.

Nic:
"He is a guy living this quiet and pretty reserved life in Park City, living in a modest home with his wife, son, and daughter and working for the ADT company, rising through the ranks over the years."
[13:03]

This juxtaposition highlights the complexity of Rader's character, embodying the fear that evil can lurk beneath the most unsuspecting exteriors.

Expanding the Web: Suspected Additional Victims

The discussion shifts to other tragic cases that may be linked to Rader's BTK persona. Notable among these are the murders of Marine Wallace Hedge and Vicki Wagerly, whose brutal deaths share similarities with BTK's known methods.

Marine Wallace Hedge

Marine was a 53-year-old widow living on the same block as Rader. Her murders reveal Rader's escalating obsession, culminating in a meticulously planned attack where he ultimately loses control, resulting in her unintended death.

Nic:
"He was really just trying to get control of her and get control of the situation. But because he was so much larger than her, his hands strong, he ended up strangling her to death."
[31:24]

Rader's struggle with his own violent impulses becomes evident as his fantasies spiral beyond his intentions.

Vicki Wagerly

Vicki, a 28-year-old mother, becomes another potential target of Rader. His attempts to disguise his identity and gain access to her home showcase his manipulative tactics and relentless pursuit of victims.

Nic:
"He is looking for a place to ditch this body. So he's looking for a Dumping ground."
[32:28]

The William Butterworth Connection

One of the most intriguing segments of the episode examines the William Butterworth case. Initially a suspect in the Fager family murders, Butterworth's inexplicable flight to Florida and subsequent alibi raises questions about his true involvement.

Nic:
"Maybe, maybe Butterworth did it. Maybe Butterworth has a partner. You know, maybe that would explain some of it, because some of the evidence doesn't match up with him 100%."
[52:25]

The hosts explore the possibility of Butterworth being an accomplice or even a misdirect in the broader BTK narrative, suggesting that the truth behind these murders remains elusive.

Rader's Continued Elusiveness

Despite his arrest and the overwhelming evidence against him, Rader's ability to maintain normalcy underscores the challenges law enforcement faces in capturing such a calculated predator. His communication strategies, including sending letters and maintaining records of his crimes, reveal a disturbing need for recognition and control.

The Captain:
"Thanks for listening and stick around for the finale of BTK tomorrow."
[54:05]

Conclusion and Reflections

Nic and the Captain wrap up the episode by reflecting on Rader's enduring impact on the Wichita community and the unresolved mysteries that continue to haunt true crime enthusiasts. They emphasize the importance of vigilance and community awareness in preventing such tragedies.

Nic:
"Until then, be good, be kind, and don't litter."
[54:05]

Notable Quotes

• Nic:
  "He loved being the city's so-called boogeyman, let's say. He loved that he knew the answer to the biggest question around town. Who was BTK?"
  [12:30]

• The Captain:
  "Thanks for listening and stick around for the finale of BTK tomorrow."
  [54:05]

• Nick:
  "I don't know what was actually said, but according to Dennis Raider, he got very agitated and pretty defensive when that had happened."
  [15:08]

Final Thoughts

This episode of True Crime Garage offers a comprehensive and gripping examination of the BTK Strangler's reign of terror, intertwining detailed case analysis with personal insights from the hosts. For listeners eager to understand the depths of Rader's malevolence and the enduring mysteries surrounding his crimes, this episode serves as an essential resource.

For more detailed discussions and future episodes, visit truecrimegarage.com and follow True Crime Garage on Instagram and Untapped.