Hearing to Set BTK Killer's Prison Restrictions

A hearing is scheduled Wednesday that could determine how and where Dennis Rader, the confessed BTK serial killer, will serve his 10 consecutive life sentences and if he will be denied materials which could be used to satisfy his sexual fantasies.

Prosecutors are expected to ask Judge Greg Waller to deny Rader anything -- pens, markers or even crayons -- that could be used to draw pictures of people or animals. At an earlier hearing, District Attorney Nola Foulston asked the Judge to recommend that Rader:

• "Be prohibited from possessing, receiving or creating any visual images of human beings or animals."

• Not be allowed to "possess, receive or create any typed or handwritten or computer-generated documents that describe sexual or murderous fantasies or intent."

• "Not be able to possess or receive or create inanimate objects that can be used to resemble human or animal forms."

• "Not be permitted to view or listen to or read any media press story or report regarding the murders" he committed.

Defense attorneys are expected to argue that the proposed restrictions violated Rader's First Amendment rights and "are far too broad and vague to be constitutionally permissible." Ultimately, prison officials will determine the conditions of Rader's incarceration, but the judge's recommendations will be considered.

See Also:
Hearing: Will Rader Get Media?

Background:
BTK's Chilling Confession (Transcript)
The BTK Serial Killer
BTK Killer Crime Quiz