‘Torso Killer’ admits killing 5 women decades ago near NYC
Richard Cottingham makes a remote appearance at a courtroom in Mineola, N.Y., Monday, Dec. 5, 2022. The serial murderer known as the "Torso Killer" admitted Monday to killing a 23-year-old woman outside a Long Island shopping mall in 1968 and four other women decades ago. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
MINEOLA, N.Y. (AP) — A serial slayer already serving a life sentence for murder has also admitted to killing five women on Long Island decades ago.
Richard Cottingham was sentenced on Monday to 25 years to life in connection with Diane Cusick’s death in February 1968.
As part of a plea deal, Cottingham received immunity from prosecution for the four other killings.
The 76-year-old prisoner attended the hearing via a video feed from a New Jersey prison.
Cottingham is believed to be one of America’s most prolific serial killers. He is known as the “Torso Killer” because authorities say he cut off the heads and limbs of some of his victims.
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