What is gerald friend?

Gerald Friend was an American serial killer who operated in Southern California during the 1970s. He was convicted of the murders of five young boys and was known for preying on young hitchhikers. Friend was sentenced to death in 1974 for his crimes, but his sentence was later commuted to life in prison without parole.

Friend's crimes and the brutality of his killings shocked the community and led to increased awareness of the dangers of hitchhiking. He was known for luring his victims with promises of alcohol or drugs before assaulting and murdering them.

Friend's case is often cited as an example of the need for better mental health services and support for individuals who are at risk of committing violent crimes. He was ultimately convicted through a combination of witness testimony, forensic evidence, and DNA analysis.

Gerald Friend died in prison in 2019 at the age of 82. Despite his death, his crimes continue to be remembered as heinous acts that devastated the lives of his victims and their families.