Story perspectives

Former Accomplice Reflects on Life with Serial Killer

8/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Elmer Wayne Henley Jr., 69, reflects on his past as an accomplice to serial killer Dean Corll in the documentary "The Serial Killer's Apprentice," airing August 17.
At 15, Henley helped lure victims for Corll, who killed at least 28 boys in Houston from 1970 to 1973.
Forensic psychologist Katherine Ramsland describes Henley as remorseful and manipulated by Corll.
Henley and his accomplice received life sentences; the accomplice died in 2020. Ramsland stresses the importance of studying such complex cases.

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Story summary

Elmer Wayne Henley Jr., 69, reflects on his past as an accomplice to serial killer Dean Corll in the documentary "The Serial Killer's Apprentice," airing August 17.
At 15, Henley helped lure victims for Corll, who killed at least 28 boys in Houston from 1970 to 1973.
Forensic psychologist Katherine Ramsland describes Henley as remorseful and manipulated by Corll.
Henley and his accomplice received life sentences; the accomplice died in 2020. Ramsland stresses the importance of studying such complex cases.