Throughout history, some of the most dangerous predators have worn masks—not just metaphorical ones, but literal disguises used to deceive, confuse,
Photo by Stefano Pollio
Throughout history, some of the most dangerous predators have worn masks—not just metaphorical ones, but literal disguises used to deceive, confuse, and gain access to their victims.
Among serial killers and murderers who targeted women, a disturbing pattern emerges: some deliberately used cross-dressing, uniforms, or assumed roles to bypass trust, deflect suspicion, or create surprise. The goal wasn’t expression. It was access. It was about control. It was about concealment.
🔪 Examples include:
Ed Gein: A grave robber and murderer who wore “suits” made from women’s skin. His crimes inspired fictional characters like Norman Bates and Buffalo Bill. He was obsessed with becoming his dead mother—an identity he tried to recreate violently.
Jerry Brudos: A fetishist and serial killer who stole women’s shoes and undergarments and sometimes dressed in them while committing murders.
Russell Williams: A respected Canadian military officer who committed a series of violent crimes, including rape and murder, while dressed in women’s clothing stolen from victims.
These killers weren’t misunderstood artists or troubled souls trying to find themselves. They were men using deception to commit acts of extreme violence against women. Their choice of disguise was not incidental—it was strategic.
🎭 When we talk about these cases, we must be clear; predators will use anything—including appearances—to gain access to women.
And when society silences women’s discomfort or dismisses our instincts in the name of politeness or political correctness, it creates an open door for harm.
🚨 Survivors have long warned the world: predators are strategic, patient, and often ordinary in appearance. They may wear uniforms. Carry authority. Smile charmingly. Or even appear vulnerable.
Some wear costumes not because they are confused—but because they are calculating.
At We Survive Abuse, we tell the truth—even when it’s uncomfortable. Women’s boundaries are sacred. And our right to discern, to question, and to say “no” is not up for debate.
🧠 Let’s talk about it. Have you noticed how perpetrators manipulate appearances to confuse, control, or disarm their victims?
Drop a comment, share your thoughts, or send your anonymous story to be featured.
📍 Truth is sacred.
