Bio

Joseph Philippe was born in 1832. He grew up in France. As a young man, Philippe joined the military. He served for some time but began to struggle with behavioral issues. He was sentenced to one year in prison for misconduct. After serving his time, he was transferred to a punishment battalion in Algeria. He continued to serve until he was finally discharged in 1860.

After leaving military service, he moved to Paris. In the city, he found employment as a warehouse porter, and he also worked as a carver and gilder. During his time in Paris, Philippe faced challenges. He started to develop a drinking problem, which affected his behavior and led him to associate with people involved in illicit activities.

Philippe's appearance was marked by scars from smallpox, which gave him a distinctive look. He had thick black hair and a beard. On his right arm, he had a tattoo that could not be easily removed. Despite the blemishes on his skin, he seemed to maintain a degree of normality in his daily life.

Phillipe was known to have a good temperament when he was sober. People who worked with him described him as honest and hardworking. However, alcohol would change his personality, leading to violent outbursts.

Murder Story

Joseph Philippe was a serial killer active in Paris, France, between 1862 and 1866. He committed a series of murders that shocked the city. His victims included seven women, most of whom were prostitutes, and one child who was only ten years old. He was known for his brutal method of attacking his victims with a knife, often stabbing them.

Philippe was able to evade capture for several years. The police believed he was responsible for multiple murders, with at least ten victims connected to him. He was described as having a distinctive appearance, including thick black hair, a beard, and scars from smallpox. He also had a tattoo on his right arm, which made him easier to identify.

On January 8, 1866, Philippe murdered Marie Bodeux in a bold attack. This crime occurred very close to a police station, highlighting his audacity. An elderly neighbor who entered the building discovered him preparing to leave. This neighbor alerted the police, who realized they were dealing with a repeat offender. Despite having a description of Philippe from a previous survivor, the police struggled to capture him.

Just days after the Marie Bodeux murder, Philippe attempted to attack another woman, Madame Midy, on January 11, 1866. He pretended to search for a lost tool in her apartment, but he quickly revealed his intent by trying to strangle her. Fortunately, she fought back, and a neighbor heard the struggle. This neighbor rushed to help, leading to Philippe's arrest as he tried to escape.

When police searched Philippe's home, they found evidence connecting him to the earlier murders, including bloodstained clothing and the purse belonging to Marie Bodeux. Multiple witnesses identified him, including women who had narrowly escaped his attacks before.

Philippe stood trial for the murders, and the evidence against him was overwhelming. Many of his former employers and acquaintances testified to his dual nature: he could be calm and friendly when sober, but he transformed into a violent person when drinking. Nonetheless, he was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to death.

Joseph Philippe was executed by guillotine in July 24, 1866, at the age of thirty-four. His horrific crimes paired with the fear he instilled in Paris made him one of the most notorious serial killers of his time.