39 Facts About Harvey Robinson

Who is Harvey Robinson?

Harvey Robinson is a name that might not be familiar to everyone, but his story is both fascinating and chilling. He is one of the youngest serial killers in American history, and his crimes shocked the nation. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about Harvey Robinson.

1. Harvey Miguel Robinson was born on December 6, 1974, in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

2. Robinson's father was a violent man who was often in trouble with the law, setting a troubling example for young Harvey.

3. At age 17, Robinson committed his first murder, making him one of the youngest serial killers in U.S. history.

4. His first victim was Joan Burghardt, a 29-year-old nurse's aide, whom he killed in August 1992.

The Crimes of Harvey Robinson

Robinson's criminal activities were brutal and terrifying. His spree of violence left a lasting impact on his community.

5. Robinson's second victim was Charlotte Schmoyer, a 15-year-old newspaper carrier, whom he abducted and murdered in June 1993.

6. His third victim was Jessica Jean Fortney, a 47-year-old grandmother, killed in July 1993.

7. Robinson's method of killing often involved breaking into homes and attacking his victims in their sleep.

8. He was known for his extreme violence, often using blunt force trauma to subdue his victims.

Capture and Trial

Robinson's capture was a significant event, bringing relief to a community living in fear.

9. Robinson was arrested in July 1993 after a failed attempt to kill Denise Sam-Cali, who managed to escape and identify him.

10. DNA evidence played a crucial role in linking Robinson to the murders, a relatively new technique at the time.

11. During his trial, Robinson showed little remorse, often smirking and laughing, which shocked the courtroom.

12. He was convicted of multiple charges, including three counts of first-degree murder.

Life in Prison

Robinson's life behind bars has been as eventful as his time outside.

13. Robinson was sentenced to death in 1994, but his sentence has been appealed multiple times.

14. He is currently on death row at the State Correctional Institution – Greene in Pennsylvania.

15. Robinson's case has been featured in various true crime documentaries and TV shows, highlighting the brutality of his crimes.

16. Despite his appeals, Robinson remains one of the most notorious criminals in Pennsylvania's history.

Psychological Profile

Understanding Robinson's mind provides insight into what drove him to commit such heinous acts.

17. Psychologists have studied Robinson extensively, often citing his troubled childhood and violent upbringing as factors.

18. He has been diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder, a condition often linked to serial killers.

19. Robinson's lack of remorse and enjoyment of his crimes suggest he may also have psychopathic tendencies.

20. His intelligence has been noted as above average, making his crimes even more chilling due to their calculated nature.

Impact on the Community

Robinson's actions had a profound effect on Allentown and its residents.

21. The community was gripped by fear during Robinson's killing spree, with many residents taking extra precautions.

22. His crimes led to increased security measures in the area, including more police patrols and neighborhood watch programs.

23. Victim advocacy groups were formed in the wake of his crimes, offering support to those affected by violence.

24. Robinson's case also brought attention to the importance of DNA evidence in solving crimes.

Media Coverage

The media played a significant role in bringing Robinson's story to the public.

25. News outlets extensively covered Robinson's trial, with many reporters describing his demeanor as chilling.

26. True crime shows like "Forensic Files" have featured Robinson's case, bringing it to a wider audience.

27. Books and articles have been written about Robinson, analyzing his crimes and their impact.

Legal Repercussions

Robinson's case has had lasting effects on the legal system.

28. His appeals have raised questions about the death penalty and its application in Pennsylvania.

29. Robinson's use of DNA evidence in his conviction has been cited in other cases, highlighting its importance.

30. His case has been used in law schools as a study in criminal behavior and forensic science.

Personal Life

Despite his notoriety, there are still personal details about Robinson that are less known.

31. Robinson had a troubled childhood, often getting into fights and displaying violent behavior from a young age.

32. He dropped out of school in the ninth grade, further limiting his opportunities for a normal life.

33. Robinson's relationship with his family was strained, with many relatives distancing themselves after his arrest.

34. He has never married or had children, spending most of his adult life in prison.

Public Perception

Robinson's actions have left a lasting impression on those who followed his case.

35. Many people view Robinson as a monster, incapable of redemption.

36. Some believe his troubled upbringing played a significant role in his criminal behavior.

37. Victims' families have expressed relief that Robinson is behind bars, though the pain of their loss remains.

38. Robinson's name is often brought up in discussions about the death penalty and criminal justice reform.

39. His story serves as a grim reminder of the potential for violence in even the youngest individuals.

Final Thoughts on Harvey Robinson

Harvey Robinson's story is both chilling and fascinating. His crimes shocked a community and left a lasting impact on criminal justice. Robinson's case highlights the importance of forensic science and law enforcement collaboration. His capture and conviction were a testament to the dedication of those who seek justice for victims. Understanding Robinson's actions can help in preventing future crimes and improving investigative techniques. His story serves as a grim reminder of the darker aspects of human nature. By studying cases like Robinson's, society can learn valuable lessons about crime prevention and the importance of vigilance. The legacy of his crimes underscores the need for continued advancements in forensic technology and criminal psychology. Robinson's tale is a stark example of how one individual's actions can ripple through a community, leaving a lasting mark on history.