This document provides an update on the investigation of Ted Bundy that was sent from SLC to Denver, Butte, and Seattle that references earlier teletypes sent between these offices on January 4th and 5th, 1978 regarding the killer, who was wanted for murder in Denver. The update notes that additional information has been developed identifying Bundy’s use of an alias and vehicle in connection with the crimes under investigation.
This article provides background information about Ted Bundy and his family history. It summarizes that Bundy came from a family with a history of mental illness and domestic violence. Specifically, his maternal grandfather Sam Cowell was described as an extremely violent and frightening man who would physically and verbally abuse his wife and children. Cowell’s behavior caused lasting psychological trauma in the family. This family history helps provide context for Bundy’s own violent criminal acts later in life.
Dr. Emanuel Tanay evaluated Ted Bundy in 1979 and found that he showed signs of a lifelong personality disorder and psychopathic tendencies. During their three-hour evaluation, Bundy was cheerful and jovial but did not meaningfully engage with Tanay, instead trying to impress him. Tanay believed Bundy’s behavior was driven by psychopathology and an inability to control impulses or consider long-term consequences. He acted this way with his lawyers as well, prioritizing attention and defiance over his own defense. In Tanay’s opinion, Bundy’s rejection of a plea deal that could have spared the death penalty was an irrational decision consistent with his underlying mental disorders. Document courtesy of Erin Banks.
David Lee’s Charge Sheet of ‘Kenneth Misner’ that took place on February 14, 1978. Document courtesy of Erin Banks.
According to Kevin Sullivan, Larry Simposn was the lead prosecuting attorney for the Chi Omega murders, and he was the one that offered Ted the best deal he was going to get: life in prison without the possibility of parole. Bundy accepted the deal at first but later rejected it in open court, as a result ensuring his death in Ol’ Sparky in January 1989.
Another Bundy Blog. 