Death investigator identifies lack of human connection as basis of evil

Barbara Butcher, a former death investigator with the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner, has identified the complete absence of human connection as the defining trait of evil. During her career, Butcher investigated approximately 5,500 deaths, including 680 homicides over a ten-year period.

Speaking on the Minutes With series, Butcher described her encounters with serial killers, noting that their outward appearance often contradicted their actions. She recounted a specific case involving a man who murdered young girls, noting he appeared charming, intelligent, and well-spoken. She suggested this demeanor likely helped him lure victims.

Butcher explained that for such perpetrators, victims were not viewed as people, but rather as objects for amusement. She also detailed investigations into a pair of serial killers who posed as assessors of valuables before committing brutal murders, noting that their actions demonstrated an absolute contempt for human life.