The BSU Evil Minds Research Museum is located in the basement of the FBI Academy. Access to the museum is limited to law enforcement personnel, special guests of BSU, or other designated persons by appointment only. This approach is used—first and foremost—out of respect for the dignity of the victims of these horrible crimes and to ensure that the offenders are not glamorized.

History
In December 2008, Dr. Gregory M. Vecchi, unit chief of the BSU, received a call from a man, who was not involved in law enforcement, who claimed he had been studying serial killers for over 25 years and had a valuable “collection” of serial killer items such as paintings, artwork, and correspondence that he wanted to donate to the BSU. After several telephone conversations, Dr. Vecchi made arrangements to have the items picked up from the man by local field agents. Upon receipt of the items, it was discovered that the serial killer artifacts were indeed one-of-a-kind items, including clown paintings by John Wayne Gacy (the killer clown), greeting cards from Lawrence “Pliers” Bittaker (sexual sadist killer), a manifesto, and thousands of pages of written correspondence from a dozen serial killers, including Danny Rolling, Ottis Toole, and others.
A cursory review of the items revealed a fascinating realization: this was correspondence between the serial killers and their friends and family, rather than information traditionally obtained through interactions with the police (i.e., interviews, interrogations, research, etc.). The materials provide unique insights into the killers’ motivations, personalities, and the meaning behind their behavior simplybecause when corresponding with friends, family, and themselves, there was no apparent reason to put forth a certain socially desirable image; whereas, in their interactions with the police and other authorities, the killers were more likely to feel compelled to present a certain image and demeanor.
Donations
Law enforcement agencies, the public, and other entities are encouraged to donate unneeded evidentiary items, personal effects, or other items of interest that have the potential to provide insight
into the minds of serial killers and other offenders. Donations are accepted at the sole discretion of the BSU. Unless otherwise directed, all donors will be recognized by a plaque in their honor within the museum. Moreover, all donations will be preserved for research purposes, and, as appropriate,
displayed within the museum.
Visiting Scholar Program
The BSU has established the BSU Evil Minds Research Museum Visiting Scholar Program (VSP) for the purpose of analyzing andinterpreting serial killer and other offender artifacts. The VSP seeks established scholars with strong research skill sets in handwriting, content, and statement analysis,
oil painting and artwork interpretation, paint brush stroke pattern analysis, psycholinguistics,
and related specialties. All candidates must be able to pass an FBI background investigation. Travel expenses and lodging will be provided based on available funding.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the Museum Curator and Deputy Unit Chief Mr. Steven R. Conlon at (703) 632-1153, srconlon@fbiacademy.edu or BSU Unit Chief Dr. Gregory M. Vecchi at (703) 632-1132, gmvecchi@fbiacademy.edu.