5 Disturbing Occult Crimes That Shocked the World

In the realm of true crime, some stories stand out not just for their brutality, but for their connection to the occult. This article delves into five of the most disturbing occult crimes that have left a lasting impact on society, revealing the dark underbelly of human nature.

Key Takeaways

• The influence of the occult can lead to horrific crimes.
• Many of these cases involve individuals with troubled backgrounds.
• The intersection of mental illness and criminal behavior is a recurring theme.
• Societal reactions to these crimes often reflect broader cultural fears.

1. The House of Horrors: Pazuzu Algarad

Pazuzu Algarad, born John Lawson, transformed his North Carolina home into a nightmarish sanctuary for outcasts. His life was marked by emotional distress and a rejection of societal norms, leading him to embrace a dark lifestyle that included self-medication and bizarre beliefs about hygiene.

• Background: Born in 1978, Pazuzu changed his name at 23, inspired by a demon from The Exorcist.
• Lifestyle: He believed that dirt and natural oils made him stronger, bathing only once a year and filing his teeth into sharp points.
• Crimes: In 2014, police discovered skeletal remains in his backyard, leading to charges of murder and accessory after the fact.
• Outcome: Pazuzu died in prison in 2015, while his accomplices received lengthy sentences.

2. The Craigslist Killer: Miranda and Elliot Barber

Miranda Barber, alongside her husband Elliot, became infamous for their chilling crime spree that began shortly after their marriage. Their story is a harrowing example of how a troubled past can lead to a life of crime.

• Background: Miranda had a traumatic childhood and claimed to have committed multiple murders while involved in a satanic cult.
• The Crime: In November 2013, they lured Troy LaFerrera through a Craigslist ad, ultimately killing him in a brutal attack.
• Aftermath: Both were arrested and sentenced to life without parole, marking the end of their reign of terror.

3. The Fall River Murders

The late 1970s saw a series of brutal murders in Fall River, Massachusetts, linked to a satanic cult. This period marked the beginning of the infamous satanic panic in America.

• Victims: The murders included Dorene Lavesque, Barbara Raposa, and Karen Marsden, all of whom were young women with troubled lives.
• Cult Connection: Carl Drew, a pimp and cult leader, was implicated in the murders, leading to a convoluted legal battle.
• Cultural Impact: These crimes contributed to widespread fear and hysteria regarding satanic rituals in the U.S.

4. The Tragic Story of Sherri D

Sherri D was a loving wife and mother whose life was cut short by betrayal. Her story highlights the dark side of domestic relationships and the lengths some will go to escape their circumstances.

• Disappearance: Sherri went missing in 1996 after being abducted by a woman posing as a security guard.
• Murder Investigation: Her remains were found weeks later, leading to the discovery of a plot involving her husband Michael and his mistress.
• Legal Consequences: Both were convicted of first-degree murder, revealing a shocking betrayal that shattered a family.

5. The Grizzly Tale of Blake Lael

Blake Lael’s life of privilege took a horrific turn when he committed one of California’s most violent murders. His story serves as a grim reminder of how mental health issues can manifest in tragic ways.

• Background: Blake was a comic book writer with a seemingly perfect life until the birth of his daughter.
• The Crime: In 2016, he murdered his wife Ayan in a fit of rage, leading to gruesome details that shocked the community.
• Trial and Sentencing: Blake was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison, highlighting the tragic consequences of unchecked mental health issues.

These five cases illustrate the disturbing intersection of the occult, mental illness, and crime. They serve as a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of society, often hidden in plain sight. As we reflect on these stories, it’s crucial to consider the broader implications of such crimes and the societal fears they evoke.