Robert Joseph Long

Serial Killer

Robert Joseph "Bobby Joe" Long: The Tampa Bay Serial Killer

Background and Escalation

Robert Joseph Long, commonly known as Bobby Joe Long, was an American serial killer, kidnapper and rapist who terrorized women in the Tampa Bay area of Florida during 1984. Born on October 14, 1953, in Kenova, West Virginia, Long later lived in several states before settling in Florida. His known murder series lasted approximately eight months, from March through November 1984, although his pattern of sexual violence began before the killings. Before Long became known as a murderer, investigators connected him to a series of sexual assaults committed after he responded to classified advertisements placed by women selling household items. He used the advertisements as a way to identify women who might be alone at home. This pattern led to the nickname "The Classified Ad Rapist." Long was accused of committing dozens of rapes in Florida and was also suspected of sexual assaults in other states. His crimes became increasingly violent, eventually progressing from home invasions and rape to kidnapping and murder.

The 1984 Murder Series

Long's confirmed and attributed murder victims were young women between the ages of 18 and 28. Many were abducted from streets in or near Tampa, particularly from areas associated with bars, inexpensive motels and prostitution. Long often drove through these neighborhoods in a distinctive red Dodge Magnum while searching for a victim. After getting a woman into his vehicle, Long typically threatened her with a weapon, restrained her and transported her away from populated areas. Several victims were sexually assaulted before they were murdered. Strangulation and asphyxiation were his most frequently documented methods, although some victims suffered other fatal injuries. Their bodies were abandoned in isolated locations such as drainage ditches, fields, wooded areas and rural roadsides across Hillsborough, Pasco and neighboring counties. ...

Confirmed Victims: (10)

Artiss Ann Wick Age: (20), Date of Death: March 27, 1984

Survivors:

Linda Nuttall , Date of Attack: May 1984

Lisa McVey Age: (17), Date of Attack: November 3, 1984

Bobby Joe Long - Wikipedia