Stephen A. Nash: A Detailed Account of His Crimes
Early Life and Background
Stephen A. Nash, born in 1924, was a transient truck driver with a troubled past. His early life was marked by abandonment and institutionalization, factors that may have contributed to his later criminal behavior. Nash had a history of incarcerations, including time served at San Quentin State Prison for strong-arm robberies. His experiences in these institutions appeared to have a profound impact on his psyche, shaping his violent tendencies in the years that followed.
Criminal Activities and Murders
Nash's criminal activities escalated dramatically between 1955 and 1956, during which he confessed to the murders of 11 individuals. His modus operandi often involved stabbing his victims, and his targets included men and boys. Below is a detailed account of his known victims:
- Floyd Leroy Barnett: In October 1956, 27-year-old Barnett, a cannery worker, was found in the Sacramento River with bludgeon and knife wounds. Nash was suspected due to similarities in the modus operandi.
- Dennis Butler: On November 16, 1956, Nash met Butler on Los Angeles' "skid row." After spending time together, Nash assaulted Butler, stabbing him once in the abdomen. Butler survived the attack.
- John Berg: On November 26, 1956, Nash encountered Berg in Long Beach. After spending the night at Berg's apartment, Nash stabbed him multiple times, resulting in Berg's death.
- Lawrence Rice: On November 29, 1956, Nash befriended 10-year-old Rice on the Ocean Park beach. He later lured the boy under the Santa Monica pier, where he stabbed him multiple times, leading to Rice's death.
While Nash confessed to a total of 11 murders, detailed information about the other victims is limited. His confessions indicated that he killed "just for kicks," highlighting a disturbing lack of remorse.
Arrest, Trial, and Execution
Nash's violent spree came to an end when he was apprehended on November 29, 1956, in Los Angeles. He was subsequently indicted for the murders of Lawrence Rice and John Berg. During his trial, Nash's defense challenged the M'Naghten rule, which pertains to the legal definition of insanity. However, the court upheld the existing standard, and Nash was found guilty of first-degree murder. He was sentenced to death and was executed in the gas chamber at San Quentin State Prison on August 21, 1959.
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