Jeffrey Dahmer: The Milwaukee Cannibal’s Life and Crimes
Jeffrey Dahmer, born on May 21, 1960, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was the first of two sons to Joyce Annette (née Flint) and Lionel Herbert Dahmer. His mother, of Norwegian and Irish ancestry, worked as a teletype machine instructor. His father, with German and Welsh roots, was a chemistry student at Marquette University and later became a research chemist.
Despite conflicting reports about his early years, evidence suggests Dahmer had a troubled start to life. His mother, known for her anxiety and combative nature, often sought attention and sympathy. Lionel’s academic commitments kept him away from the family, leaving young Jeffrey feeling uncertain about family stability.
What was Jeffrey Dahmer’s Childhood like?
Once an energetic and cheerful boy, Dahmer’s demeanor changed noticeably after undergoing double hernia surgery just before his fourth birthday. In primary school, he was perceived as shy and quiet, with one teacher noting signs of abandonment due to his father’s absence and mother’s illnesses.
By age 14, Dahmer was consuming alcohol during school hours, hiding it in his jacket. He played tennis and was in the school band but remained mostly uncommunicated despite being polite and of average intelligence.
Disturbing Behaviors of Jeffrey Dahmer
In his early to mid-teens, Dahmer’s fantasies began to take a dark turn. He admitted to fantasizing about dominating submissive male partners, which eventually evolved into thoughts of dissection. At 16, he contemplated attacking a jogger but never followed through.
Dahmer’s grades dropped significantly by 1977, coinciding with his parents seeking marriage counseling. In September 1977, Lionel moved out after discovering Joyce’s infidelity, leading to their divorce in 1978.
Criminal Activities and Arrest
Dahmer’s criminal activities escalated, eventually leading to his arrest. He was known as the “Milwaukee Cannibal” or “Milwaukee Monster.” His crimes often involved necrophilia, cannibalism, and the preservation of body parts.
Despite being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, schizotypal personality disorder, and psychotic disorder, Dahmer was determined to be legally competent to stand trial.
Trial and Sentencing
On February 17, 1992, Dahmer was found guilty of 15 out of 16 murders he was accused of in Wisconsin. He received 15 consecutive life sentences. An additional life sentence was given for a murder committed in Ohio in 1978.
How Did Jeffrey Dahmer Die?
On November 28, 1994, Dahmer was beaten to death by Christopher Scarver, a fellow inmate at the Columbia Correctional Institution in Portage, Wisconsin. The assault occurred while Dahmer was on work detail, unsupervised in the prison gym showers.
Scarver, who claimed to be acting on divine command, used a 20-inch iron bar to attack both Dahmer and another inmate, Jesse Anderson. Dahmer was pronounced dead at a local hospital two days after the assault.
Aftermath and Legacy
Dahmer’s death elicited mixed reactions. While many of his victims’ relatives expressed relief, some cautioned against glorifying Scarver’s actions. Dahmer’s mother, Joyce, gave an impassioned statement to the press, questioning whether his violent death brought satisfaction to everyone.
As per Dahmer’s father’s request, his body was cremated, and no services were held in his honor. His ashes were divided equally between his parents in September 1995.
Jeffrey Dahmer’s Net Worth
Estimates of Jeffrey Dahmer’s net worth at the time of his death ranged from $1 million to $5 million, though the exact figure remains uncertain.
While exact details remain uncertain, Dahmer’s estate reportedly included various assets. These may have encompassed real estate holdings, including rental properties, as well as personal collections. Some sources suggest he owned horror-themed memorabilia and rare coins. However, it’s important to note that information about Dahmer’s financial status is often speculative and should be approached with caution.
