Karen Conti defended infamous serial killer John Wayne Gacy during his final death row appeals from 1993 to his execution in 1994. Conti believes that Gacy, who was convicted of 33 murders, likely had more victims. She is almost positive that there are additional victims based on Gacy’s travel patterns during his crime spree and meticulous business records. He often traveled to rural areas, making it easier to abduct and bury his victims. Conti suspects that there could be at least 20 more victims beyond where Gacy’s known crimes took place. She is also convinced that Gacy had help from two men who lived with him during his crime spree.
Conti believes that the two men who lived with Gacy likely procured victims for him and helped with the crimes, including burying the bodies. She argues that it would have been impossible for Gacy to act alone, especially given his physical limitations. The lawyer referenced a victim who escaped Gacy’s clutches in 1978, testifying that an accomplice assisted Gacy during the crime. However, prosecutors did not want to bring other suspects into the case, as it could muddy the waters, so potential co-conspirators were never introduced. Conti believes that Gacy’s sense of humor and his ability to manipulate people were key factors in how he was able to commit his crimes without getting caught.
Despite his evil acts, John Wayne Gacy did not appear evil, according to Conti. She noted his dry, cynical sense of humor and affable demeanor. Gacy’s humor often served to deflect attention away from his dark side. Despite the urban legend that his last words were “Kiss my a–,” Conti revealed that this was false and that Gacy remained silent before his death. She believes that Gacy wanted to be caught by the police and was relieved to be behind bars because he feared that he would continue to kill if released. Conti suggests that Gacy’s traumatic childhood experiences and repressed homosexual tendencies played a role in his crimes.
Conti has faced backlash for representing Gacy, receiving death threats and nearly damaging her career. However, years later, the negative attention turned into intrigue from strangers. She has published a book, “Killing Time,” detailing her interactions with Gacy and the challenges she faced as a young lawyer defending him. The book explores the humanity within Gacy, despite his inhumane acts, and his relationship with his family. Conti has been a trial attorney for 37 years, a law professor, and continues to work in Chicago, reflecting on her experiences with one of the most notorious serial killers in history.
