Investigation into “Alphabet Killer” Joseph Naso
Joseph Naso, often referred to as the “Alphabet Killer,” is at the center of a cold case investigation led by retired FBI Task Force investigator Ken Maines. This inquiry is part of a new Oxygen True Crime docuseries titled *Death Row Confidential: Secrets of a Serial Killer*. Naso, now 91, was convicted in 2013 of murdering four women.
Maines believes that Naso’s case may have links to other, unresolved murders. During his investigation, he claims to have gotten a glimpse into Naso’s psyche. Notably, he referenced Caryl Chessman, who was executed in 1960. Interestingly, Naso had corresponded with Chessman during his imprisonment.
“I think Naso targeted women with double initials as a tribute to Chessman,” Maines suggested. This peculiar pattern emerged in Naso’s victims, which included individuals like Roxen Loggash and Pamela Parsons, whose names began with the same letter.
Naso interacted frequently with fellow death row inmate William Noguera, who was tasked with assisting elderly prisoners. Over their years of connection, Noguera shares that Naso admitted to killing 26 individuals, revealing a shocking depth to his criminal history.
Interestingly, Naso seemed to have a fixation on notorious criminals of the past, expressing an admiration for Chessman, referred to as the “Red Light Bandit.” Despite his background, Chessman was not convicted of murder and maintained his innocence. This complex relationship between Naso’s actions and those he idolizes prompts speculation about his motivations.
Maines has gathered extensive documentation from Noguera, containing clues and confessions that could help solve other cold cases tied to Naso’s crimes. He hopes that this investigation might finally bring closure to families who have long awaited answers.
Though a seemingly ordinary man in his day-to-day life—working as a father and photographer—Naso led a double life as a violent criminal who lured victims under false pretenses. Investigators unearthed disturbing evidence, including photographs and a chilling “hit list” of women he claimed to have targeted.
Maines has emphasized the emotional weight of dealing with such painful histories. As he works through these cases, he is hopeful that renewed attention will lead to breakthroughs in cold case investigations.
The docuseries aims to shed light on these unsolved mysteries and encourage discussions about societal responsibility when it comes to addressing such grave issues.
