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The Serial Killers of Baton Rouge
When I began researching crimes that occurred in Louisiana, it became clear that Baton Rouge has a unique history with serial killers. A recent article on The Advocate has an in-depth article about Baton Rouge’s history, especially relating to the 1990s and 2000s. In 2009, the state passed a bill making it easier to execute serial killers. Some quoted in the article claim that the local university helps serial killers targeting women create a happy home. Others claim that it’s simply a matter of mental health.
Are there more serial killers in Baton Rouge than in other cities around the country? In truth, I don’t know. Several news articles list Louisiana in the top 15 states for the number of residents killed by serial killers.
Delving into the specific cases provides an interesting look into the state’s most active period for serial killers.
The Crimes of Derrick Todd Lee
Between 1992 and 2003, Derrick Todd Lee committed at least seven murders in the Baton Rouge area.
Lee entered the home of Dianne Alexander on July 9, 2002. Once inside, he beat Dianne and tried to rape her. In the midst of the attack, Dianne’s son walked in, frightening Lee enough for him to leave. Dianne is the only known survivor of Lee. She was also able to get a description of his car and…
