Where have all the serial killers gone?Where have all the serial killers gone?
All In The Mind
The backpacker killer. The Claremont killer. Ted Bundy. The crimes serial killers commit linger in our memories for decades. But when was the last time you heard about an active serial killer in the news? In our final episode of Criminal Psychology, we probe the lead-crime hypothesis, find out about 'chemical castration' and ask — where have all the serial killers gone? And a heads up that this episode explores some heavy themes including sexual assault, child abuse, suicide and murder. It also contains the names of Aboriginal people who have died. Please take care while listening. If you've got more questions for our forensic psychiatrist Dr Rajan Darjee, please send them to us! We're going to make a special mail-bag episode featuring your burning true crime questions. Get in touch by emailing us at mind_rn@abc.net.au with the subject line "criminal psychology question". Guests: Dr Rajan Darjee Forensic psychiatrist Clinical Director, Forensic Behavioural Assessment and Consultation Services Dr Xanthe Mallett Criminologist Associate Professor of Criminology, Central Queensland University Co-Director, Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research Podcast co-host, Motive and Method Credits: Presenter/producer: Sana Qadar Senior producer: James Bullen Producer: Rose Kerr Sound engineer: Emrys Cronin More information: The lead-crime hypothesis: A meta-analysis Support resources: Beyond Blue Lifeline 13 11 14 1800 Respect
32:07•19 Jul 2025
Where Have All The Serial Killers Gone?
Episode Overview
- Advancements in DNA and surveillance technology help catch potential serial killers early.
- Societal changes have reduced opportunities for serial crimes.
- The Lead Crime Hypothesis suggests environmental factors may impact crime rates.
- Improved offender management prevents repeat offenses.
- Exploration of domestic violence and healthcare-based serial killings.
“The number of serial killers is definitely going down or number of serial killings is going down.”
Serial killers might seem like a relic of the past, with infamous names like Ted Bundy and Ivan Milat etched in our memories. But why don't we hear about them much anymore? This episode of 'All In The Mind' takes a deep dive into the fascinating decline of serial killers.
Forensic psychiatrist Dr Rajan Darji and criminologist Dr Xanthi Mallet unravel the mystery, exploring everything from advances in DNA science to societal changes that make it harder for these criminals to evade capture. Dr Darji shares insights into how surveillance technology, better policing, and improved offender management have played crucial roles in catching potential serial killers early.
The episode also explores theories like the Lead Crime Hypothesis, suggesting environmental factors such as reduced lead exposure might have contributed to the decline in violent crimes. While Dr Darji remains sceptical, the discussion opens up intriguing possibilities about what truly drives human behaviour. Moreover, the conversation touches on sensitive topics like domestic violence and healthcare-based serial killings, adding layers to our understanding of crime and its perpetrators.
With anecdotes and expert opinions, the podcast paints a picture of how society's evolution has impacted crime rates. You'll find yourself pondering the changes in our environment and behaviours that might keep us safer today. As Dr Mallet points out, while the number of serial killers may have dwindled, the spectre of those who prey on society's most vulnerable remains a concern.
If you're curious about where all the serial killers have gone or simply fascinated by criminal psychology, this episode offers a compelling look at how far we've come and what still lies beneath the surface.

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