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Description
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Paul Michael Stephani: The Weepy-Voiced Killer

Introduction

Paul Michael Stephani, also known as the "Weepy-Voiced Killer," was an American serial killer active between 1980 and 1982. He earned his nickname due to the remorseful and high-pitched phone calls he made to the police after committing his crimes. Stephani was responsible for the deaths of three women and the brutal attacks on two others in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area.

Background

Born on September 8, 1944, in Austin, Minnesota, Stephani grew up in a large Catholic family. His childhood was marked by abuse from his stepfather. As an adult, he moved to the Twin Cities, where he worked various jobs, including as a janitor. Despite his outwardly religious demeanor, Stephani harbored dark impulses that led to his violent crimes.

Crimes

Stephani's crimes were characterized by extreme violence and his subsequent phone calls to the police, where he expressed guilt and remorse. Below are details of his known victims:
  • Karen Potack: On December 31, 1980, Stephani attacked Karen Potack in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He beat her severely, causing brain injuries. He called the police at 3 a.m. to report the attack, directing them to the location where she was found.
  • Kimberly Compton: On June 3, 1981, 18-year-old Kimberly Compton was stabbed 61 times with an ice pick in Minneapolis. Stephani called the police multiple times after the murder, expressing remorse and pleading for help to stop himself.
  • Kathleen Greening: In July 1982, Kathleen Greening was drowned in her bathtub at her home in Roseville, Minnesota. Stephani later confessed to this murder.
  • Barbara Simons: On August 6, 1982, 40-year-old nurse Barbara Simons was stabbed to death after meeting Stephani at a bar in Minneapolis. He called the police afterward, apologizing for the murder.
  • Denise Williams: On August 21, 1982, Stephani attacked Denise Williams with a screwdriver. She managed to escape, leading to Stephani's arrest when he sought medical attention for injuries sustained during the attack.
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Victims
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Confirmed Victims: (3)
  • Kimberly Compton Age: (18), Date of Death: June 3, 1981
  •     ...View 2 additional victims
    Survivors:
  • Karen Potack , Date of Attack: December 31, 1980
  • Denise Williams Age: (19), Date of Attack: August 21, 1982
  • Killer's Details

    Paul Michael

    Stephani

    September 8, 1944 Austin, Minnesota, United States

    June 12, 1998 (aged 53) Oak Park Heights, Minnesota, United States

    Cancer

    The Weepy-Voiced Man

    Male

    White

    The Weepy-Voiced Killer

    Attempted murder (x2), Murder (x3)

    58 years in prison

    3 killed, 2 survived

    1980 - 1982

    Minnesota, Wisconsin

    August 21, 1982

    Oak Park Heights prison

    07/03/2025