This book would not have been possible if Jim Horton hadn’t trusted me with all the information he had been harboring in his soul for years, waiting for the right writer to come along. I want to extend my gratitude and appreciation to Jim and all he has done to make this book what it is. The few people who truly know Jim Horton—of whom I can be added to that short list—understand that the humility he exudes is one of the most distinguishing and profound characteristics that sets him apart. He is extremely protective over his memories of Evans and the thirteen years he spent involved in his life. I want to thank Horton for allowing me into his world, and also Mary Pat, Alison and Jim for always being courteous and answering my questions. Horton’s career—of which only a small fraction was covered in this book—spans more than two decades and is heaving with bravery, honor, respect, dignity and, most important, integrity. Jim has made hundreds of arrests, all of them important.
The psychotherapy checklists of Dr. H. Cleckley and Dr. R. Hare were very helpful to me as I studied Gary Evans. I quoted from those checklists in a few places throughout the book.
I acquired a new literary agent shortly before beginning this book. Peter Miller (PMA Literary & Film Management, Inc.) has been a blessing to me at this point in my career. Like Peter, his entire staff has been kind, gracious and always available to take my calls. I thank all of you for that.
There is no book I can write without thanking…William Acosta, J.G., A.R., R.K.
Gregg Olsen, a brilliant author who has become an inspiration and mentor, thank you for your friendship.
Johnny Crime and editor-in-chief Michaela Hamilton at Kensington have been superb people to work with. I am lucky to have such talented people in my corner. I also owe a considerable amount of gratitude and thanks to copyeditor Stephanie Finnegan, who was really helpful, not to mention instrumental, in shaping the book and making the final product what it is. Copyeditors are hard-working people; their work is often overlooked.
To those of you whose names I changed in the book at your request: thank you for sharing your stories, letters, documents and other helpful memories and materials.
The late great author Jack Olsen once said that a crime book without a few name changes is a crime story not worth telling, simply because the entire story is not being told. In my opinion, this book proves Jack’s theory.
Bill Murphy and Jan Murphy: Thank you for allowing me into your home and sharing with me your anecdotes and memories. That visit changed this book. Also, Tina Spata, Tom Wessels, Kate Murphy.
I need to acknowledge all the law enforcement officers involved in the life and crimes of Gary Evans. Although a lot of you weren’t mentioned by name in the book, it is important to note that your work was instrumental in the entire scope of the Gary Evans saga. In no particular order: Ron Campano, Kevin Chevrier, Jim O’Connor, John Camp, John Couch, Mary DeSantis, Steve Ercole, John Mays, Dennis Moessner, John Carey, John Egan, Jeff Ullman, Drew McDonald, Eric Cullum, George McNally, Leo Blanchard, Walt Goodell, Donte Annicelli, John-Paul Sinclair, Marty Hatch, Patrick Devenger, Darren Annis—and, of course, Thor, the K-9 who ultimately caught Gary Evans.
Doug Wingate: thank you, sir.
Robbie Evans was a treasure trove of information. The letters, photographs, cards and e-mails partly made this book what it is. Thank you, Robbie, for helping me.
Jo Rehm: You are the true hero in this story. Let go and allow yourself the space to accept the fact that you were never responsible for anything Gary Evans did throughout his life. Your help in this project was commendable. Without it, the book would have suffered greatly.
My children and my wife of many years: How can I write a book without thanking you for listening to my stories, allowing me the space to fill the house with horrific tales of Gary Evans’s life, and supporting me 100 percent. I love you all. You know that.
I know I forgot someone, perhaps several. If that is the case, I apologize.