You’re describing the case of John Wayne Gacy, one of the most notorious serial killers in American history. Let’s review the facts and legal issues:

Facts of the Case:

John Wayne Gacy, outwardly a respected member of his community, ran a construction business and often performed as “Pogo the Clown” at children’s parties and charitable events. Between 1972 and 1978, he sexually assaulted and murdered at least 33 young men and boys. He often lured his victims to his home under various pretexts, where he would then drug, torture, and kill them. He typically strangled or suffocated his victims. He hid the bodies in the crawl space beneath his house and, when that space was full, disposed of the remaining bodies in the Des Plaines River.

Legal Issues:

The primary legal issues involved were:

• Murder: Gacy was charged with multiple counts of murder.
• Sexual Assault: Many of the murders involved sexual assault, making this a significant aspect of the case.
• Insanity Defense: Gacy’s defense team raised the insanity defense, arguing that he was not criminally responsible for his actions due to mental illness.

Arrest and Charges:

Yes, John Wayne Gacy was arrested. He was arrested by the Des Plaines, Illinois police. He was charged with 33 counts of murder.

Trial Information:

Yes, the case went to trial. It was a jury trial. The trial was held in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois.

Plea Bargain:

No, there was no plea bargain. Gacy pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.

Insanity Defense:

Yes, Gacy claimed insanity. His defense argued that he suffered from a mental disease or defect that prevented him from appreciating the criminality of his conduct.

Insanity Verdict:

No, he was not found insane. The jury rejected his insanity defense and found him guilty on all counts.

Sentence:

Gacy was sentenced to death.

Current Status:

John Wayne Gacy was executed by lethal injection on May 10, 1994, at the Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill, Illinois.