In a shocking tale of deception and horror, Richard Daniel Starrett led a dual life—one as a seemingly ordinary husband and father and the other as a ruthless rapist and murderer. Unearthed through the Investigation Discovery documentary ‘Evil Lives Here: While I Was Gone,’ the story unveils Starrett’s sinister deeds during his wife Michele Ward’s frequent visits to her family.
The Double Life of Richard Daniel Starrett
Richard Daniel Starrett, a design engineer at a nuclear power plant, concealed his dark side beneath the façade of an ordinary life. Operating out of Martinez, Georgia, he committed heinous crimes against young women during his wife Michele Ward’s visits to her family in California. Starrett’s sinister acts included sexual assault, abduction, and even murder.
The Horrific Crimes Unveiled
Starrett’s crimes came to light when a courageous 17-year-old girl, held captive by him, managed to escape and alert authorities. A subsequent investigation exposed Starrett’s involvement in the sexual assault, abduction, and killing of multiple girls. His victims were often chosen from homes advertising second-hand goods in classified ads.
Starrett’s Association with Infamous Figures
The shocking revelation unfolded that Starrett considered himself a “disciple” of Ted Bundy, the notorious serial killer and rapist. Starrett’s dark side involved not only the crimes but also creating disturbing videos where he would chain his victims together. He admitted to seven kidnappings or assaults, leading to his conviction on charges including murder and sexual assault.
Justice Served: Starrett’s Current Whereabouts
Richard Daniel Starrett is currently serving nine life terms in the Perry Corrections Department of Greenville County, South Carolina. His incarceration, a consequence of the heinous acts he committed, serves as a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk behind seemingly ordinary lives.
Michele Ward: Unwittingly Tied to a Monster
Michele Ward, Starrett’s wife, was oblivious to the sinister side of her husband when they first met. Working at a local restaurant, their relationship led to marriage and the birth of their daughter. Michele’s routine visits to California left the house in Starrett’s care, unknowingly providing him with the opportunity to commit his crimes.
Michele’s Shocking Discovery
The revelation of Starrett’s actions came as a profound shock to Michele when authorities informed her about his dark secrets. Even as subtle changes in Starrett’s behavior became apparent, including increased alcohol consumption, Michele had no inkling of the horrors unfolding in her absence. Her grief for the victims, especially the 15-year-old girl murdered by Starrett, remains a haunting presence in her life.
Michele Ward’s Life After the Nightmare
In her first on-camera interview, Michele Ward shared her experience as Richard’s wife and the profound shock she experienced upon learning the truth. Despite facing immense pain and grief, Michele sought a divorce after meeting Starrett once following his arrest. Choosing to stay out of the public eye, she has silently navigated the aftermath of a marriage intertwined with unimaginable darkness.
Conclusion: A Tale of Resilience and Reflection
The tale of Richard Daniel Starrett serves as a chilling reminder of the capacity for darkness hidden within the seemingly ordinary. As Michele Ward continues her journey away from the spotlight, the story prompts reflection on the resilience of those unwittingly tied to monsters and the enduring impact of unspeakable crimes on their lives.
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