You may have heard of Rodney Alcala, otherwise known as the “Dating Game” killer. He got his nickname from his appearance on the TV show “The dating Game,” in the 1970’s. Ironically, he was the bachelor that beat out the other two contestants- however the woman who selected him did not accept the date offered by the show. Perhaps she had a guardian angel looking out for her….
Mr. Alcala has been convicted in the deaths of six women and a 12 year old girl. His latest conviction is for the two women he killed in New York in the 1970’s. He was a photographer who lured his victims by offering to take their pictures. He was apparently charming enough to fool them and the Dating Game producers and the contestant who chose him. Charm is one of the traits possessed by serial killers- who know how to act very normal and to fake warmth and empathy as well.
Mr. Alcala offers us all a cautionary tale about not being too open or trusting towards strangers. Looks can be very deceiving- and that ragged homeless guy who talks incessantly to himself in a loud and urgent voice could be a very gentle soul while the guy in the three piece suit next to him could be a monster in disguise.
Monsters are also online- trolling dating sites and other places where easy prey can be had. Fortunately, there are not nearly as many of them as there are “normal’ guys- but you only need one to open your profile and send you a wink or a quick note describing the kind of guy he knows you are looking for.
It’s really no more dangerous to meet someone online then it is on the metro, at the beach, car wash or park- as many women who have become victims could tell you, at least those who survived their attacker. Be cautious, safe and skeptical. He isn’t Mr. Right until you have really gotten to know him over time, repeated exposure and in a variety of settings and circumstances.
If any man pushes too hard to move too fast- run, he might be one of the bad guys.
