Maybe he was struggling with the isolation and his decision to keep away from society. He turns in the TV and it's the Kardashians. 27 years, I get it.
I've read several articles on this case. What I remember was that whole family was a little different. Isolation and solitude were kind of their thing. I don't think his behavior was considered outside the norm for the family.
I left home at almost 16. I didn't communicate with my family until I was 21. They never called the police . They figured I just wanted to be left alone.
He didn't care about them either. He disappeared without telling them anything! And they weren't going around burglarizing people's homes. On balance, they are more ethical and moral than Chris. Honestly, this case has people confused. If he was homeless in a city and breaking into hundreds of homes, everyone would celebrate his incarceration. What the hell is the difference between a homeless burglar in a city and a homeless burglar in the country? They're both criminals who would rather create fear within innocent families and in the wider community that get a job like everyone else has to.
None of his family was curious about what happened to him? Even later in life? That's just odd. Not even an "Oh wait! Didn't we have one more brother"?
I know right? It's not like the old woman in the shoe, who had so many children, she didnt know what to do. She might have lost track of a kid or two from time to time. But they weren't overwhelmed with children.
@@jomama5186 exactly! If you have under 10 kids and one disappears, they should still be on your mind. Most people would want to know what happened. Even if they didn't like that child or sibling. Like, whatever happened to so and so?
@@NikSoren they thought he was dead but never had it investigated? No missing persons report? No nothing? I couldn't imagine just thinking my sibling is dead with no nothing to back it up. That's odd.
But he's living with them now. I mean this is making me wonder. Like I said before, at some point, as a parent of a kid who likes to be alone, you just go OK, and leave 'em to it. But Main winters can kill you. Even getting up and walking around at night aint gonna cut it, even animals don't do that, they snuggle with somebody to keep warm. So this makes me wonder if he didn't wander home to his mom during the worst part, and wander back when it was nicer. And his mom, just being a mom, "sure OK."
If anyone is struggling with mental health issues, and feel that they’re in a state of isolation, I just want to acknowledge you and suggest to you that you aren’t alone. In fact, I am also experiencing mental health issues lately and I’ve found that reading comments like this from strangers is a nice little boost of serotonin (alongside proper therapy and medication) and I hope to provide that to someone today. I don’t know you, but I do know what it’s like to be depressed in a way that’s impossible to articulate to others; and when I feel that way, sometimes just knowing another person somewhere understands the feeling is more helpful than talking about it. Love.
Been there. I am praying for better days ahead. Don’t give up. Many, many people experience what you are going through. Group therapy might be a good option for you if that is possible.
There's a great little book (well-audible book I'm listening to right now) called REASONS TO LIVE BY MATT HAIG. He describes depression so beautifully, starkly, accurately. X
Chris was diagnosed with asperger's, maybe this is the only way he could cope with life. Seeing he saught help at the Camp for children with disabilities, apparently he never received any other help for his disability. Very Interesting that his family never reported him missing. This could say a lot.
He stole from the camp! And didn't seek help there. He was a flipping adult and not some child out in the wilderness. He knew exactly what he was doing when he stole from hundreds of people. Aspergers doesn't allow one to not realize what stealing is.
@@mikelobrien No, he very deliberately stole from hundreds of people! He meticulously staked out places, watched them for days, knew exactly what he wanted, and had no compunctions regarding his thefts. Are you saying he didn't know right from wrong? That was not the case. He was taking from others and not seeking any sort of help! A common criminal.
@@mikelobrien I understand that people are trying to either romanticize this whole "hermit thing" or try to turn it into an Asperger's thing. Which I don't think is fair to those who do have Asperger's. When reading about Asperger's the only thing that seems to fit with his actions is trouble being in social situations. It says nothing about not knowing right from wrong, stealing, or completely removing yourself from civilization. He just sounds like a purely selfish person who took what he wanted without concern for anyone else but himself. The easy way out for him.
His life was horrible. Cold, boring, guilt-ridden and depressing. Awaking in the middle of the night to pace back and forth for hours to avoid freezing to death isn't serenity. Burglarizing houses because you're so desperately hungry isn't serenity.
@@aarondavis8943 he probably had some horrible moments and some amazing moments out there. if life in society for him was just a bleak dull meaningless existence as it is for many people (who usually end up doing more dramatic things to themselves or others than he did) then maybe he had a better life out there than he ever could have had in society. people are different, and sometimes it is impossible to understand other people's motivations and experience.
Then why the robberies, which put him back in contact with society constantly. Wanting to disappear? That's fine. Commiting hundreds of robberies to do it? Not fine.
He could not live if the land. Lacked the skills or it did not yield enough. Living if the land is a lot harder than people think. And also relies on luck. Oncw you break in for food and clothing the temptatuon to steal a nintendo becomes great as you get bored. Winters must hace been cery hard living in a hovel of tarps.
@@KartarNighthawk Yeah, seems like it wasn't so much that he removed himself entirely from society, more like he quietly leeched off of it from the edges. Stop trying to make this man seem admirable, he's not Chris McCandless.
@@thijsjong interestingly he did know how to effectively make a greenhouse to grow plants while using no fuel or electricity considering his family did that growing up, also apparently he had experience hunting and fishing before he took up being a hermit, but he used the excuse that he hadn't brought a gun or fishing pole, which is also strange for him to say considering he has also said he was just too lazy. I think maybe he was so afraid of being a bad person that he warped his perception of the world
It's difficult for people in general to understand that for some individuals, being around people is very taxing, if not down right mentally exhausting. Its because your mind is full of thoughts and there just isn't enough room left in there to deal with people. Its not that you don't like them, its just more relaxing to be alone. I see people with ADD tend to be more comfortable without people around them.
Oh man preach it. My son used to say the same thing. He has autism, and he just hates physical interaction, and he doesn't want to be around a lot of people. No, he doesn't want to go to a concert. No, he didn't want , as a kid after soccer games, to go through the tunnel all us parents formed and we'd hug each kid after the games, he actually yelled at one of the dads to quit making him go through -the guy thought he was being nice - Bob yelled at the poor dad and then stopped, and said the same thing, "Thank you. I like you. GET AWAY." People were shocked, but he was just being honest.
I love the Christopher Knight story, but then ... I have a huge collection of 'hermit' stories and documentaries. I'm fascinated with hermits and fringe-dwellers.
I’ll be honest. If I lived in the area, I probably would have just left out some of the stuff he was always stealing. Like peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. I know his actions were criminal. But I wouldn’t have minded putting out some groceries for him. Basically so he wouldn’t break into my house.
I'm wondering if he actually answered any of the notes that people wrote asking what he wanted. To prevent someone from breaking into my house and stealing stuff like food I'd do that, too. Leave canned veggies and meals like Pasta Sides and Mac and Cheese. Those things are cheap and don't cost much. I'd rather leave him stuff than have him break in. I'd feel violated if he was inside my home when I wasn't there.
@@cturdo I'm surprised no one had surveillance cameras set up outside their camps and homes. Shouldn't have taken 27 years to catch the guy. 40 break ins a year ? That's one every 10 days.
I would have no problem with him, even admire him, if he was just living off the land in a responsible way off grid. But the burglarizing ruins it, especially stealing from the camp for people with disabilities.
I agree with you I think Chris probably didn't know how to do it properly and plan living off grid so he wouldn't have to suffer like he did, specially in the winter at -20 degrees Fahrenheit. 🥶😓
It is not like he had much of a choice, he was on foot, God knows how much hungry he was. When I compare him with people who steal expensive items for the money items or put guns on people faces he seems almost naive in the world we are living. The man was so stoic that jail would be like a free hotel for him.
Taking antisocial to a whole new level -.- I am wide awake with anxiety right now, I don’t know why. This story calmed me right down, thank you. This was a super interesting story and I feel bad that those people who were getting burglarized yet still left notes saying they would buy him food.
I think non-Autistic people often underestimate how debilitating high-functioning autism is. 90% of adults with autism are unemployed. The world isn't built for us.
I don"t have autism but i can relate in a lot of situation. I get overstimulated very quickly due to SPS and interacting with people can be a struggle where as beeing in nature is always good.
It reminds me of a roommate I had that didn't like people or society but used people just fine. I like the list Dr. Grande gave of all the items the 'hermit' stole, especially the food list! Funny!
Agreed. I mean, yeah he was crazy, but he knew what he was doing. He never bothered , in over 20 years, to learn to live on his own in the wilderness or otherwise. He just wanted other people's stuff. That's a jerk.
They were vacation cabins and not full time residences. After people went back to their regular homes, he would sneak into the cabins and scavenge food and small items. Yes, it's stealing. Yes, it's wrong. But it's not like he was terrorizing neighborhoods. He showed remorse and admitted he was wrong. He spent some time in jail and was ordered to counseling. He was deemed not a threat, and therefore not given a harsher sentence.
In the interviews with the people who did have their stuff taken, a lot of them did talk about him like he was some sort of folk lore. We’re they pissed about their stuff? Yes. Did they also kinda understand why he did what he did and what it was all about? Also yes. Were some of them scared to be alone in their cabins at night? Yes unfortunately.
I moved to Maine from New Jersey several years ago and I'm about 20 minutes from Albion. So crazy, and people still talk about this. It's truly amazing he was able to survive for that long on his own by himself without any interaction with people.
Thank you, doc, for all the amazing videos. I was put in a psychiatric clinic for a month over here in México, and your videos helped me survive the experience.
@@tomwhidden8694 Have you ever eaten at Arby's ? I've never tried roadkill but I'd consider it before I ate at any fast food restaurant again. Probably better, better for you and cheaper.
A few years ago there was a guy near Buffalo, NY that dug a hole in the ground and made a living space for himself on some park or unused property. He did that for 3 years before he was caught. I don't know what he did for money or food, but he probably was birds of a feather with this guy. They had a police psychologist examine him. They found him not to be insane, in fact a rather smart and clever guy, just really wanted to be alone.
He obviously needed treatment, but the people being burglarised probably needed it as well. They didn't know he was some loner foraging for food and small items. He could've been anyone with any kind of intentions, such as hiding in the basement in order to commit a violent crime. Or a stalker, obsessed with a particular occupant of the house. Not knowing what he wanted must have been terrifying. Then again, maybe he didn't understand that fully.
He literally himself admitted he was "too lazy to live off the land" so stealing was an easier route to get what he needed (and apparently wanted as well, because he didn't only just steal food). Also, in several instances, he tried to repair the damage to the spaces he burglarized. That to me would suggest he had a complete and full understanding of what he was doing, but did it anyway and terrorized community for years and years. I agree with Dr Grande's analysis, and that people should reserve their compassion and admiration for more deserving people.
@@ursodermatt8809 I'm not sure how knowing what was happening would make it any less terrifying considering he was unstable and paranoid, I would be afraid of what he would do if he was ever caught (obviously we now know he wouldn't react violently, but how would they know that considering no one had ever caught him, meaning they would no know how he would react to being caught)
Wow Dr. G! I did not expect to see you so strong on an opinion of a case (although I haven't watched all of the cases). I'm on the fence. He did what he could not to hurt people physically. Yet, caused fear and panic. At the same time, he was not mentally sound yet was aware of the consequences of his actions.
Yes, I'm on the fence too. Not liked in school, his family disengaged, seemingly uncaring, he didn't have any reason to connect to humanity. Add his diagnosis of ASD, depending on the severity, he probably did the best he could without any planning. It seems his lifestyle just evolved into what it became.
I think one's opinion about Chris depends on one's opinion on society. The sympatizers are those who know from their own experience how difficult it can be to function within this system. I really do think he did the least amount of damage possible while still being able to live in a way that was fulfilling enough to him to keep wanting to live. He could have done so so much worse. Still, he did do some serious crime, and probably wouldn't have compained if he got a longer sentence as he knew what he had done.
Having just signed up as supporter of yours on Patreon I'm currently feeling gleeful anticipation at the thought of watching the Bonus Videos. I enjoy you thoroughly Dr Grande, thank you!
I'm gleeful of your gleefulness as before I was not feeling any glee I just wanted to flee I felt like I got stung by a bee which made me wanna pee and now it's time for me to see there is no way for me other than to agree it's now time to get down on one knee and put my Titleist on three inch tee.
This is a sad story of a boy who was never loved. His parents may have had physical custody, but Chris felt invisible. I wish I could hug Chris when he was a little boy and tell him he was worthy of love. I loved your analysis Dr. G, 🌵🌵🌵🌵 but it literally made me cry😿.
@@overthehilldill3626 I didn't realize there is so much apathy in the world. Why bring a life into this world? You have to be vetted to adopt a 🐕🐶. (Safe home verification and personal references) but can pop babies out like a gumball machine. There's something wrong with our society.
Aww, let's hear about the refrigerator moms. I love that one. That's my favorite one. Your son is autistic because you don't show him enough love. No no, the best one is, your son is autistic because you don't breast feed enough. That totally rocked. You know autism is a neurological condition and it doesn't matter how much you love or breast feed, you will still have a child that really would rather you didn't and wished that you would let them get on with it without people. It does sound like the whole family might be in the spectrum, which can happen. But it also sounds like he had , mind you, a good job, adept at his job, had preferred his family to leave him alone, so they left him alone. I mean, my son is like that. And as he's gotten older, he just doesn't want to do the social things that other people do, so I don't make him do them. And autism doesn't cause people to steal. What the heck.
@@Hollylivengood autism is real. Chris was neglected during his formative years. No one in his family reported that he was missing 🚩🚩🚩🚩. What message does that send? You are not worthy and we don't care.
I grew up listening to stories about John Tornow, the Wildman of the Wynochee. He was a recluse who lived on the edge of the Olympic Mountains of Washington State.
It's sad that the people he stole from will never fully be paid back and many of them probably don't know what it's like to live without trauma anymore though
When apprehended, Chris was diagnosed with Asperger's disease which explains his extreme need to be alone. No, he is no hero, I agree, but his life in the woods could not have been "easy." This is just a very sad story. I'm surprised at your harsh judgement, Dr Grande, particularly coming from a therapist.
I completely agree. He didn’t hurt anyone knowingly. He had mental issues. So lock him up longer?? Why not have him do physical restitution. Beyond that it’s the mercy issue. It’s unlikely he knew he was causing so much fear and dread.
he's a worthless POS that stole 100 times for a place that helped disabled kids. and terrorized people for almost 30 years. he stayed in cabins in the winter, you CANT be that naïve, and naïve was the kindest word I could think of. Grow up. :)
I think your analysis of this case is thoughtful and well reasoned. I especially appreciate the unbiased approach that you bring to this and many other cases. Thank you Dr. Grande.
He definitely was not a "hero of the wilderness." You said it perfectly in saying "He lived a lifestyle at the expense of other people." I did have to laugh when you said "He admitted that everything on him was stolen, except his glasses." And also had to laugh when you said he stole Marshmallow Fluff. 😅
Why is everyone saying that? Did you not see the same video? He had training with installing security systems. He had tons of skills. He was good at his job, and he had a good job. He just chose to live off of other people, the same as any robber barron. He even knew how to deal with life with his own undiagnosed disabillity, which is more than a lot of autistic people know.
@@Edward-xw8rj Have you ever had friends who took up this job? You learn a ton of skills when you learn professional security electronics. They aren''t certified as electricians, but they know as much. They learn how to do a certain amount of hacking into security systems because that's unofficially part of their job. They learn a good deal of carpentry. It's a good job, he lived well. So he didn't have limited skills. He just wanted to live off other people. Not cool.
@@Edward-xw8rj Do you know those things? He wasn't stupid. He was very smart and had good job skills. He wasn't having a difficult time in society, he managed quite well.
This is not an easy video to comment on. I don't find Chris' actions romantic, nor hardened criminality, arrogant, nor self reliant or wilderness adventurous. I believe it is much deeper emotionally. This started early in childhood of not being able to connect with his fellow man. His comment, even after 27 years, that he had 'screwed his brother on that deal', referring to not paying for the car his brother cosigned for, the Brat. That does show remorse for his actions. I think Chris could not take the overwhelming noise of society, decided on the return trip from Florida that he wanted to go home, to Maine, not his house as I'm sure his parents made it clear he was a grown man and had to make it on his own. Being so young, with 1 job as a referral, no money, no home, he did what hundreds of young people do in Maine, he went to the woods. It was at least fall approaching, so he had to get some type of shelter before winter. This is when survival kicked in, he overcame his revulsion to stealing, and did what he felt he had to, stealing food etc. Being a human, of course through the years he sampled foods and recreational items, and radios, whatever he wanted. Yes, he did commit felonies and when caught he admitted to all his misdeeds, showing his naivety. I don't believe he is a liar, but a person who stole to survive. He had no interactions with humans, so he had no way to know there are programs to help people with disabilities, with food, clothes, housing, ways to grow and harvest vegetables. The judge did say she feared Chris was so distraught being in jail that he would die, starve, waste away. So many young and old people in Maine are homeless, it truly frightens one, breaks your heart. Maine people, most working class, do all they can to help our less fortunate, but if you don't know someone needs help, you cannot offer help. Most mental health facilities have closed in Maine, so where does one go for help. I don't think Chris is a hero, self entitled, a hardened criminal, but an example of what can happen to anyone, especially inexperienced young persons, even more so if they have truly crippling disabilities such as aspergers. I find it a miracle he survived so long alone, with his white glasses, not having talked except to say 'hi' in 27 years, listening to the radio in the woods. He is following rules set by the court, did his jail time, works, attends counseling, apologized to the owners of the places he stole from, so let it be, let him be. That's my take on the story of Christopher Knight, The North Woods Hermit, a monaker he finds repulsive.
I'm kind of surprised that ppl in the area didn't start leaving things out for him He's kind of like the homeless in the city but can't deal with the overstimulation of an urban setting. I lived in a very rural area for a time and these things were known about even if the individual was mysterious and deeply antisocial. He did take non essential items....over a period of 27 yrs lol
They did, in interviews he's said he didn't take that stuff because he was afraid it was a trap, he definitely had some serious paranoia and probably still needs therapy
I read a lot about him years ago to understand him and his motivation. Also very telling is the interview a journalist did with him in jail. I completely believe he lost tract of the decades. He had a poor diet and a lifestyle that would cause that. Being on the spectrum, many are creative problem solvers but not treated nicely for being awkward. Also stimuli that doesn't bother a neurotypical could be unbearable; that was brought up in his jail interview. I read that he works at a mechanic garage in Maine. Had several marriage offers but just wanted to be left alone.
Several marriage offers? Haha, crazy. These people must have really wanted to be rebuffed. "I'm gonna propose to this total stranger who has just spent 27 years in the woods because he hates people, what could possibly go wrong with this?"🤷
Bull. I'm on the spectrum. I'm part of a very wide community of people on the spectrum. Somehow none of us have become professional break in men. Save your sympathy for an inner city kid born into crushing poverty, and stop giving it to people who turn predator by choice
@@KartarNighthawk You're in a lot of comments that aren't even praising this guy throwing a hissy fit that he's a criminal. It is possible for people to find someone interesting without needing to feel sympathy or compassion or think he's the coolest dude ever. His behavior is very unusual and it seems like something sent him into the woods and something kept him there. Maybe he liked stealing but his conditions were pretty abysmal and he seemingly could have left his tent at any time and rejoined society. So it's mildly interesting. It is also possible to find this guy interesting and read about him while still working to help causes that are good for people who need assistance.
So cool to hear you discuss a topic so close to my home. The NPH was captured about 15 minutes from my house, and he actually broke into my at-the-time-girlfriend's camp on Great Pond in Belgrade. People around here had very mixed feelings about his incarceration. I would say the majority of Mainers sympathized with him and didn't want to see him serve any time. He was as respectful as a serial burglar could be, and never damaged any property that I know of. Love the channel Dr. Grande!
eb - Looking through the lens of society, maybe this guy was a bit shortsighted or possibly myopic to the point of needing corrective treatment or eye to eye framework!
Totally fascinated by this one, didn't know the story. Agree he's no hero but also I don't feel he's a criminal, oddly enough. I relate in a wierd way. I have autism, my son was diagnosed with Asperger's and before he was born I lived on my own in quite remote and difficult circumstances during my twenties. This really spoke to me, not because I ever got to the stealing stage but because I get that Chris went feral, in a way I can relate to. I don't get, from Dr Grande's interpretation at least, that Chris was doing things for any other reason but to survive. He basically became a wild animal. Raccoons don't consider the feelings if their neighbours, they take what they need. I remember extreme cold, beautiful patterns of ice on the inside of metal framed windows, wearing several layers of clothes and a hat in bed was the only way you could hope to get to sleep. Fortunately my dog Tink was a half chow and I don't think he understood cold! He was a fantastic blanky and a true friend. Honestly, I absolutely loved it, I miss it in telling it and so I get why Chris, someone who went to a deeper level, would have to take what they need, so would a wolf, a raccoon or a rat. The level I went to was a vital and exhilarating way to live, so I can imagine it was way more addictive for Chris. Isolation is not for everyone but living in the wild speaks to some forgotten part of us and maybe, for some of us who society calls autistic, we may feel at home in those circumstances. Thank you, Dr Grande. I've learned something I'd forgotten today.🙏
I am generous with people in need who ask for help. I have no sympathy for a thief, a parasite. He stole without remorse from those who earned their sustenance.
@@dr.anthonytrabue7426 I get what you mean but it's not like he was a massive crime wave, he just subsisted. If he was taking things like the person who broke in and took my Mum's meagre jewellery or my Dad's wedding ring in the care home, that's cruel. A bit of food isn't really an issue for * most * people but I get that it could be difficult for incredibly poor people, I know that feeling from my own time in the wilderness!
It’s funny you should mention raccoons, because there is a family of raccoons that used to get into my trash bin and make a huge mess in the yard. Well, one day I caught them red-handed and they didn’t run away. They just stopped moving and stared at me. So I went inside and got them some grapes and bananas. Since then, they show up about the same time every 2 or 3 days, but they come to my back door. Sometimes I give them some fruit or nuts, but I try not to do it so often that they become totally dependent on begging humans for food. The biggest male (I assume to be the father) always approaches the food, first, and then he doles it out to the gaze and they never seem to fight over portion sizes. They never mess with my trash bins anymore. They’re more civilized than many of the humans I’ve met in life.
@@AV57 that's extraordinary, thanks so much for sharing. The Pops must know how much everyone needs and doles it out accordingly. How absolutely amazing. Puts me in mind of my dear old Uncle and Aunt's smallholding where he had a family of foxes living happily next door to a family of rabbits, they'd sit outside at night next to each other, the babies would play next to each other. May have had something to do with the home cooking the foxes enjoyed courtesy and of my Uncle and Aunt! Your kindness to your neighbours sounds to be a useful lifeline and you're clearly not overdoing it...like I definitely would, I mean I'd ask them to move in, so...! Please send my love to them and thanks again, you've made my day x❤️x
The outdoor solitude sounds restful, even peaceful. The hunger and cold does not. I remember tent camping once in 28 degree weather. My husband and I snuggled together all night to stay warm. Next morning that coffee and bacon on the campfire was so good! Chris chose to become a thief and a scavenger to survive. A fascinating and thought provoking story Dr Grande.
I disagree. The guy was really no threat in a real sense. He received a fair sentence, relative to what he did. He’s been a saint ever since his release, and that says a lot.
Correct. Here in NYC Nobody goes to jail for anything anymore. People are released after serious crimes like assaulting cops and pushing people on subway tracks. They're emptying the jails. Burglary isn't even a crime anymore.
Have you ever had a stranger sneak into your home? It doesn’t matter what they do or do not do, it terrorizes the residents and destroys their peace of mind. He wasn’t harmless or non threatening at all!
This story is so fascinating. I heard about The Hermit, Chris Knight, on NPR. He would stay up and walk in circles all night to keep his body heat up during the winters. 😳🥶 Excited to hear Dr. Grande’s thoughts! I didn’t realize he took from a special needs camp. That’s horrible. People did romanticize his misadventure. He frankly didn’t break from society due to needing society to survive via stealing. Some people found it intriguing but others who were victims, were angered and fearful. He had to embellish the wintertime survival. To wake up and walk in -20 to keep your core warm and not suffer frostbite is simply not feasible especially after so many years. Finding propane tanks by the hundreds makes one believe that’s how he kept himself warm. Thank you as always Dr. Grande. Your perspective was cut and dry. Chris hurt a community and rationalized his thieving. He was not a hero but a recluse who chose to steal to remain “comfortable”.
Thoreau was and still is an iconic figure in that part of the world. Many people probably made a connection and lightened up on their judgments and desire for punishment. Also, many people have been drawn to do something similar to what Thoreau did, so they could relate and sympathize.
Fascinating case and new to me as so many of yours are. It's really sad that his people didn't report him missing. Kind of explains things to me. I agree he should've had a longer sentence. Love all your content Doc!💙🙌💙
I just read about a case where a fella got 8 years probation for 4 rapes, pled guilty. Right now there's a kid who went to a riot with an asault rifle and killed 2 people and he might walk. These are just the cases I heard about today. Clearly what he did was wrong, but looking at the big picture, I'm not sure if he should have gotten more time or not. Possibly some kind of mental health assistance, (to help him sort out his head and reintegrate) in conjunction with probation after his short term incarceration would have been more appropriate?
@@TheKim369 So many people in prison are there because of mental health issues. But if they break the laws and are cognizant then they have to face some kind of punishment. And yes, like the cases you mentioned, justice is not served evenly or logically. I don't have the answers, I just know what I feel to be right and that I wish someone could fix things. Prison conditions in many places are overcrowded and inhumane. I hope, I pray the death penalty will be abolished in my lifetime.
@@GGiblet Yes, I agree! I am part of society and I don't want anyone killing on my behalf. Many murderers felt justified in their actions, kind of like how the law determines certain killings are justified. There are statistics from many countries that demonstrate that killing "when it's justified" leads to a more violent society.
@@TheKim369 Exactly! And many on death row likely had unfair trials due to race and financial issues .. It's just wrongheaded IMO to murder people. House them for life if necessary (humanely, teaching them skills hopefully, improving them) but stop the state sanctioned murder! Some of the prisoners have the IQ of children and still they are killed, it makes no sense to me.
@@GGiblet "Rector was executed on January 24, 1992. It is unlikely he had any idea what was about to happen. When he had his last meal, Rector set the dessert aside for later, even though there wouldn’t be a later." Yes! This excerpt about the execution of Ricky Ray Rector stands out as an illustration of just what you mentioned about IQ.
My family is dysfunctional like Chris's. When I was a kid, a close family member just disappeared for well over a year. Both sides of the family from all over the country acknowledged they may not be alive anymore but no one ever called the police. There is a history of mental illness and substance abuse going back generations. Thankfulky, this family member did resurface and was in recovery. I think of this often when I see missing posters. I always have hope that they are just out there somewhere dealing with things and will come back when they're ready.
@@longshotkdb He had said , he didn't know survivor skills, and didn't want to take time to learn when he could just take it. He really was honest. There's another video about Chris, and he up and says this without a qualm. He just rather have stolen.
I struggle with believing that he survived nearly 30 Maine winters without shelter or building a fire. I’ve followed enough true survival stories to know that hypothermia is a guarantee in such conditions, even with just a couple days of exposure. Seems to me that he probably spent some time back at home when needed, and then headed back out in survivable weather. There has to be a lot more to this story.
This does remind me of a feature i saw a year or two back. Leave no trace about a dad and daughter that lived of the grid. Sometimes its easier for people to live with little human interaction. I also recollect the case of german rambo that eluded the cops for several days in a wooded area.
I sympathize with his need for solitude, the need for disconnection. I would love it if I didn't have to rely, so heavily, on others and have responsibilities that force me to associate with them. But I can't and, in truth, neither could he. His burglaries are proof of that. He lived a false hermitude.
I definitely agree, the thing that bothers me the most is his unwillingness to fully accept that he was relying on others and only partially acknowledges it, I think deep down he knows though tbh
Once a employee stole my credit card. He charged about 50 bucks worth of stuff at walmart. I was going to press charges until I saw the list of things he bought. No beer, no cigarettes, no junk. About 25 was a big bag of dog food and the rest was mostly canned food for himself. I did have a talk with him and he was very sorry. I put myself in his shoes and thought that if I had to steel to keep my dog from going hungry what would I do? I told the credit card company not to press charges and paid the bill.
"...He foraged for food, he ate partridges that had been killed by vehicles, so road kill. For comparison, this is almost as bad as eating at Arby's." F'ING SAVAGE!!!!! 🤣🤣🤣
Fascinating story Dr. Grande! Thanks for your analysis! At first my heart went out to him but with thought, I agree that he shouldn't have terrorized the area and stolen like he did for so many years. He should have sharpened up his survival skills and depended on himself! TFS
Fascinating case. I don't condone what he did at the expense of people, especially the camp for children with disabilities, which shouldn't be dependent on donations in the first place in the richest coutry in the world. I'm still glad he didn't get a harsher sentence. What would have been the point? It's not like he will do it again or incite others to follow his example.
If the camp weren't dependent on donations alone, then it would have to be dependent on the government. They would have to meet a whole bunch more regulations than they already do. Their funding would be dependent on some far away legislative or regulatory body, subject to the whims of accountants and politically motivated budgets. When the government funding is slashed, the camp would have to start holding fundraisers to get private donations again. This is how I became involved with a local organization that helps people with disabilities: the state cut their funding, and they had to hold a fundraiser to continue offering services. We are a rich country because we have rich people, many of whom like to give generously to youth camps and other charities, without having the funds filtered through the bureaucratic morass of government. Furthermore, if they accept tax money, a faith-based camp or school might be forced to water down or give up the religious component, which for good reason is often central to the mission and vision of youth programs.
I laugh more at some of Dr. Grande's quips than that of some professional comedians. I appreciate the analyses and takes on the stories he investigates but the snark and sarcasm is priceless.
I totally agree with you, Dr. Grande. Christopher Knight wanted to avoid society but he did not want to avoid what society produces with hard work. That is hypocrisy. And his sentence was too lenient compared to what he had done for so many years.
Dang, those little one line zingers you put in there are a hoot! "learning about the Kardashian's is quite disorienting".... "....like eating at Arby's".
By his own admission he was too lazy to live off the land. More a thief who just happened to be a hermit. American and Canadian Indians were experts at surviving and even they were known to starve to death during a long, brutal winter. Living off the land with zero outside help is very rarely done and they live to talk about it, especially so in the North country. edit I do have empathy for him. He just seemed hypocritical with his reliance on other peoples property. He could have sold his vehicle and worked occasional temporary jobs to buy his own food being he was too lazy to hunt or fish or tend a garden.
Dr. Grande- I was wondering if you could do an analysis of Sam Vaknin, especially in the film, "I Psychopath", which is available to watch on TH-cam and is less than an hour. As you know Vaknin is a self-proclaimed expert on narcissism, although in the film he was diagnosed with psychopathy. He is a prolific TH-camr and shameless self-promoter. I'm curious to know what you think about his content and diagnosis. One aspect of the film, is that you see narcissistic abuse being documented as Vaknin bullies the filmmaker. While not explicit, it seems that the filmmaker shut down filming sooner than he planned to based on this. He ends the film talking about his experience 6 months on, and seems genuinely traumatized by the experience. I find the whole thing fascinating and it's ripe for some expert commentary!
My foster dad was almost equally unhappy with human contact and taught me many great things. I would love to spend twenty seven years outdoors away from humans.
Interesting story. So many sad lives, I think his strikes a chord with many people for different reasons. Strangely our justice system is not just and is swayed by social norms. Criminals often have sad stories. This doesn’t make them any less guilty. Giving this guy a lighter sentence made the public feel somehow charitable, instead of deterring future “hermits” or even this hermit from reoffending.
@@trees915 guilt is the most contrary of emotions I think those who are clearly guilty, usually don’t feel an ounce of shame or even guilt those who are by no means guilty of this man’s transgressions for example, are the one’s carrying his shame which is not only UNJUST but also damaging to society but that’s just my opinion 😎😂🙃😂🤣😅😆😁🤪😜🤨🤨🤨🤨🤨😎
A longer sentence in an isolated prison cell, perhaps would have served both the needed justice and his personality. Thank you Dr. Grande for another gem of an analysis!
I think people admire how calm and stoic he was. Jail would be a hotel for this man, despite some work he would still be isolated if he wanted. Big chances his fame would get him a lot of social validation in that environment. Besides being pointless we have to consider that many of his crimes could not be punished since they were committed decades ago. Pleading guilty and helping the investigations also worked on his favor.
Maine winters are fairly brutal…Yes they are! This is such a sad story. He never harmed anyone & took only what he needed to survive from the camps. People would leave things for him. He should never have been arrested.
Not sure why you feel that a burglar shouldn't be arrested when caught and face a judge for his crimes ? 27 years of this. He could have been a homeless person and lived on the streets and gotten free meals and a bed to sleep in a lot of times. A long as he didn't drink or do drugs there are many places you can survive and get help. Nobody requires you to be their friend to live that way. Your choice.
@@djg5950 Well, I’m a disability rights attorney who lives in Maine and spent summers near North Pond during the time he was there. He was homeless, alone, & disabled. He needed a community and compassion, not a criminal conviction.
@@AcPh-nc3vz I live in NH so not too far away from there. I know what winters are like. I don't know how he survived unless breaking into camps and sleeping there during the coldest nights. I agree with you about getting help though. I just think that they could have done more than they did and much sooner. 27 years ? That's a long time to be doing that. Authorities should have found this guy a lot earlier than they did and help him. It had to be stressful for people that were getting constantly burglarized and he knew it was wrong.
He wouldn't take what people offered and continued to invade their homes, he also stole many handheld video games, books, and even a TV. I wonder how anyone survived before literature, tv, and video games if that's considered only what's necessary
![ละลาย (LALALYE) - DAOU PITTAYA ต้าห์อู๋ พิทยา [OFFICIAL MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wo6r9TgausI/mqdefault.jpg)
“I think Chris was tired of interacting with people”. I don’t blame him.
I don't blame him either.
That's how most rural Mainers are, and I agree...I don't blame them one bit!
People suck really bad. Worst creatures ever!
I don't either. I'd rather associate with plants and animals anyday. People are mean and cruel and sneaky and selfish and ugly.
@@mikelobrien I should probably move to Maine!
Knowing about the Kardashians is plenty reason for someone to want to get away from society.
I love that Dr. Grande liked this comment as well!
@@Hiker2110 ..TY...😎
Maybe he was struggling with the isolation and his decision to keep away from society. He turns in the TV and it's the Kardashians. 27 years, I get it.
Good one !
As is knowing about Rush Limbaugh. ...😉
Sad that his family cared so little they didn’t report him missing. No wonder he lived like he did for all those years.
Sounds more like a preference to not involve let alone interact with authorities .
he wanted that
I've read several articles on this case. What I remember was that whole family was a little different. Isolation and solitude were kind of their thing. I don't think his behavior was considered outside the norm for the family.
I left home at almost 16. I didn't communicate with my family until I was 21. They never called the police . They figured I just wanted to be left alone.
He didn't care about them either. He disappeared without telling them anything! And they weren't going around burglarizing people's homes. On balance, they are more ethical and moral than Chris.
Honestly, this case has people confused. If he was homeless in a city and breaking into hundreds of homes, everyone would celebrate his incarceration. What the hell is the difference between a homeless burglar in a city and a homeless burglar in the country? They're both criminals who would rather create fear within innocent families and in the wider community that get a job like everyone else has to.
None of his family was curious about what happened to him? Even later in life? That's just odd. Not even an "Oh wait! Didn't we have one more brother"?
I know right? It's not like the old woman in the shoe, who had so many children, she didnt know what to do. She might have lost track of a kid or two from time to time. But they weren't overwhelmed with children.
@@jomama5186 exactly! If you have under 10 kids and one disappears, they should still be on your mind. Most people would want to know what happened. Even if they didn't like that child or sibling. Like, whatever happened to so and so?
@@NikSoren they thought he was dead but never had it investigated? No missing persons report? No nothing? I couldn't imagine just thinking my sibling is dead with no nothing to back it up. That's odd.
But he's living with them now. I mean this is making me wonder. Like I said before, at some point, as a parent of a kid who likes to be alone, you just go OK, and leave 'em to it. But Main winters can kill you. Even getting up and walking around at night aint gonna cut it, even animals don't do that, they snuggle with somebody to keep warm. So this makes me wonder if he didn't wander home to his mom during the worst part, and wander back when it was nicer. And his mom, just being a mom, "sure OK."
"Shhhh! Do you want to split the inheritance with more people?"
If anyone is struggling with mental health issues, and feel that they’re in a state of isolation, I just want to acknowledge you and suggest to you that you aren’t alone. In fact, I am also experiencing mental health issues lately and I’ve found that reading comments like this from strangers is a nice little boost of serotonin (alongside proper therapy and medication) and I hope to provide that to someone today. I don’t know you, but I do know what it’s like to be depressed in a way that’s impossible to articulate to others; and when I feel that way, sometimes just knowing another person somewhere understands the feeling is more helpful than talking about it. Love.
I understand what you're going through. Me, too. Sending hugs.
You expressed that extremely Well. Thank You.
Been there. I am praying for better days ahead. Don’t give up. Many, many people experience what you are going through. Group therapy might be a good option for you if that is possible.
There's a great little book (well-audible book I'm listening to right now) called REASONS TO LIVE BY MATT HAIG. He describes depression so beautifully, starkly, accurately. X
It will improve.
“Learning about the Kardashians is quite disorienting enough for anybody.” 😂😂😂👍🏻💯
Lmao that's true though🤣🤣🤣🤣
Chris was diagnosed with asperger's, maybe this is the only way he could cope with life. Seeing he saught help at the Camp for children with disabilities, apparently he never received any other help for his disability. Very Interesting that his family never reported him missing. This could say a lot.
Total BS
He stole from the camp! And didn't seek help there. He was a flipping adult and not some child out in the wilderness. He knew exactly what he was doing when he stole from hundreds of people. Aspergers doesn't allow one to not realize what stealing is.
@@mikelobrien No, he very deliberately stole from hundreds of people! He meticulously staked out places, watched them for days, knew exactly what he wanted, and had no compunctions regarding his thefts. Are you saying he didn't know right from wrong? That was not the case. He was taking from others and not seeking any sort of help! A common criminal.
@@mikelobrien I understand that people are trying to either romanticize this whole "hermit thing" or try to turn it into an Asperger's thing. Which I don't think is fair to those who do have Asperger's.
When reading about Asperger's the only thing that seems to fit with his actions is trouble being in social situations. It says nothing about not knowing right from wrong, stealing, or completely removing yourself from civilization. He just sounds like a purely selfish person who took what he wanted without concern for anyone else but himself. The easy way out for him.
@@mikelobrien You do realize he had training in a well paying job that he was good at, and he just decided to be selfish, right?
Chris could have been a garden hermit in the 18th century. He would have lived quite well!
LMAO, yes (from Answers with Joe)
Only problem is he would probably be too paranoid to take the job 😂
@@alces_fiend and he has way too much pride
I imagine he experienced a kind of serenity that most people will never know in a lifetime.
He said that he felt totally free but at the same time the solitude made him lose his identity.
He also played a lot of Pokémon on game boy
And at the expense of the terror of those around him making it that much worse
His life was horrible. Cold, boring, guilt-ridden and depressing.
Awaking in the middle of the night to pace back and forth for hours to avoid freezing to death isn't serenity. Burglarizing houses because you're so desperately hungry isn't serenity.
@@aarondavis8943 he probably had some horrible moments and some amazing moments out there. if life in society for him was just a bleak dull meaningless existence as it is for many people (who usually end up doing more dramatic things to themselves or others than he did) then maybe he had a better life out there than he ever could have had in society. people are different, and sometimes it is impossible to understand other people's motivations and experience.
I had heard that he was tired of being ridiculed and excluded, so he took himself out of society where nobody could hurt him.
Makes sense
Then why the robberies, which put him back in contact with society constantly. Wanting to disappear? That's fine. Commiting hundreds of robberies to do it? Not fine.
He could not live if the land. Lacked the skills or it did not yield enough. Living if the land is a lot harder than people think. And also relies on luck. Oncw you break in for food and clothing the temptatuon to steal a nintendo becomes great as you get bored. Winters must hace been cery hard living in a hovel of tarps.
@@KartarNighthawk Yeah, seems like it wasn't so much that he removed himself entirely from society, more like he quietly leeched off of it from the edges. Stop trying to make this man seem admirable, he's not Chris McCandless.
@@thijsjong interestingly he did know how to effectively make a greenhouse to grow plants while using no fuel or electricity considering his family did that growing up, also apparently he had experience hunting and fishing before he took up being a hermit, but he used the excuse that he hadn't brought a gun or fishing pole, which is also strange for him to say considering he has also said he was just too lazy. I think maybe he was so afraid of being a bad person that he warped his perception of the world
"...road kill, almost as bad as eating at Arby's." 🤣🤣🤣 So true!
I like arbys, and if roadkill is fresh theres no reason not to eat it, 100lbs of free venison .
Lmfao he got me fucked up on that one 😂🤣🤣🤣
It's difficult for people in general to understand that for some individuals, being around people is very taxing, if not down right mentally exhausting. Its because your mind is full of thoughts and there just isn't enough room left in there to deal with people. Its not that you don't like them, its just more relaxing to be alone. I see people with ADD tend to be more comfortable without people around them.
Oh man preach it. My son used to say the same thing. He has autism, and he just hates physical interaction, and he doesn't want to be around a lot of people. No, he doesn't want to go to a concert. No, he didn't want , as a kid after soccer games, to go through the tunnel all us parents formed and we'd hug each kid after the games, he actually yelled at one of the dads to quit making him go through -the guy thought he was being nice - Bob yelled at the poor dad and then stopped, and said the same thing, "Thank you. I like you. GET AWAY." People were shocked, but he was just being honest.
Introverts.
I can’t really blame him for wanting to be alone. I like being alone too.
Yes! But to that extreme! 27 years! And just leaving you car!
I don’t mind being alone. But no one wants to be lonely.
Better not steal my Cheetos punk
You dont need to freeze your ass off in the woods to be alone now. But Chris went into the woods long before you could do everything online.
Yes but are you willing to steal and trespass to do so? 🤔 If your answer is yes then *FBI has entered the chat*
I love the Christopher Knight story, but then ... I have a huge collection of 'hermit' stories and documentaries. I'm fascinated with hermits and fringe-dwellers.
What’s a fringe-dweller?
@@steph7738 it's either people who live at the fringes of society, or groups of British folk with bangs. 😉
@@charcoal8 I’m laughing 😂
Check out the story of John Tornow, the Wildman of the Wynochee.
@@charcoal8 Damn, that was funny.
I’ll be honest. If I lived in the area, I probably would have just left out some of the stuff he was always stealing. Like peanut butter and marshmallow fluff. I know his actions were criminal. But I wouldn’t have minded putting out some groceries for him. Basically so he wouldn’t break into my house.
I'm wondering if he actually answered any of the notes that people wrote asking what he wanted. To prevent someone from breaking into my house and stealing stuff like food I'd do that, too. Leave canned veggies and meals like Pasta Sides and Mac and Cheese. Those things are cheap and don't cost much. I'd rather leave him stuff than have him break in. I'd feel violated if he was inside my home when I wasn't there.
And to trap the mouse.
@@cturdo I'm surprised no one had surveillance cameras set up outside their camps and homes. Shouldn't have taken 27 years to catch the guy. 40 break ins a year ? That's one every 10 days.
I don't mind giving food and supplies to someone who doesn't have anything, I'd rather they just asked instead of breaking in
He didn’t care. He broke in anyway.
I loved the book written about him, Stranger in the Woods.
I would have no problem with him, even admire him, if he was just living off the land in a responsible way off grid. But the burglarizing ruins it, especially stealing from the camp for people with disabilities.
I agree with you I think Chris probably didn't know how to do it properly and plan living off grid so he wouldn't have to suffer like he did, specially in the winter at -20 degrees Fahrenheit. 🥶😓
Yes. What he did was the farthest thing from living off the land. He lived off of other's hard work!
I agree
And when people are leaving out signs saying "please don't break in tell us what you need" but he keeps doing it that's when I lost sympathy
It is not like he had much of a choice, he was on foot, God knows how much hungry he was. When I compare him with people who steal expensive items for the money items or put guns on people faces he seems almost naive in the world we are living. The man was so stoic that jail would be like a free hotel for him.
Taking antisocial to a whole new level -.- I am wide awake with anxiety right now, I don’t know why. This story calmed me right down, thank you. This was a super interesting story and I feel bad that those people who were getting burglarized yet still left notes saying they would buy him food.
"For comparison, this is as bad as eating at Arby's " Doctor why are you like this always 😂😂😅
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
🤣
@@frahn1702 I'm still fucking laughing....... Damnit....lol So good.
*this is ALMOST as bad as eating at Arby's. 😂
"Listened to Rush Limbaugh on the radio" oh no.. this poor guy
Atley Meow I'm thinking he couldn't get many stations on that radio.
Yay!!!! it's Dr Grande time to press like and then watch.
Simple but fulfilling!
I think non-Autistic people often underestimate how debilitating high-functioning autism is. 90% of adults with autism are unemployed. The world isn't built for us.
True
I don"t have autism but i can relate in a lot of situation. I get overstimulated very quickly due to SPS and interacting with people can be a struggle where as beeing in nature is always good.
He went grocery shopping in other people's homes.
Very budget friendly
Good social distancing
😆🤣😆
This comment is 100/10
It reminds me of a roommate I had that didn't like people or society but used people just fine. I like the list Dr. Grande gave of all the items the 'hermit' stole, especially the food list! Funny!
Marshmallow fluff!🍥
This all went down right next to my mother and sister's house. Thanks so much for covering!
I'm gonna bet anyone who feels like this guy was some kind of folk hero never had their stuff taken by him.
Sounds like he never helped anyone but himself. That ain't no hero.
@@charcoal8 That would be in keeping to listening to Rush Limbaugh.
Agreed. I mean, yeah he was crazy, but he knew what he was doing. He never bothered , in over 20 years, to learn to live on his own in the wilderness or otherwise. He just wanted other people's stuff. That's a jerk.
They were vacation cabins and not full time residences. After people went back to their regular homes, he would sneak into the cabins and scavenge food and small items. Yes, it's stealing. Yes, it's wrong. But it's not like he was terrorizing neighborhoods. He showed remorse and admitted he was wrong. He spent some time in jail and was ordered to counseling. He was deemed not a threat, and therefore not given a harsher sentence.
In the interviews with the people who did have their stuff taken, a lot of them did talk about him like he was some sort of folk lore. We’re they pissed about their stuff? Yes. Did they also kinda understand why he did what he did and what it was all about? Also yes. Were some of them scared to be alone in their cabins at night? Yes unfortunately.
I moved to Maine from New Jersey several years ago and I'm about 20 minutes from Albion. So crazy, and people still talk about this. It's truly amazing he was able to survive for that long on his own by himself without any interaction with people.
So you're FROM AWAY. Why don't you move to Florida and leave Maine alone. We don't like you.
Thank you, doc, for all the amazing videos. I was put in a psychiatric clinic for a month over here in México, and your videos helped me survive the experience.
Probably better than Arby’s depending on how fresh the roadkill is.
That Arby's Comment Was A Low Blow Dr. Grande😁
@@tomwhidden8694 🤣
@@tomwhidden8694 Have you ever eaten at Arby's ? I've never tried roadkill but I'd consider it before I ate at any fast food restaurant again. Probably better, better for you and cheaper.
At least Arby’s doesn’t stare back at you. 😜😂
Their fries are pretty good
A few years ago there was a guy near Buffalo, NY that dug a hole in the ground and made a living space for himself on some park or unused property. He did that for 3 years before he was caught. I don't know what he did for money or food, but he probably was birds of a feather with this guy. They had a police psychologist examine him. They found him not to be insane, in fact a rather smart and clever guy, just really wanted to be alone.
Was that the guy with the little foxhole that was accessed via a small hole in some dense shrubbery or something similar?
@@bowtiejess80 yes, I think so.
He obviously needed treatment, but the people being burglarised probably needed it as well. They didn't know he was some loner foraging for food and small items. He could've been anyone with any kind of intentions, such as hiding in the basement in order to commit a violent crime. Or a stalker, obsessed with a particular occupant of the house. Not knowing what he wanted must have been terrifying. Then again, maybe he didn't understand that fully.
Yes! I just said this too!
well, he was around for 27 years. after 27 years with no crime excepting burglary, i mean even a fool should start to understand what is going on.
Some people seemed to understand well enough to leave notes saying - 'Let us know what you need and we'll leave it out for you'.
He literally himself admitted he was "too lazy to live off the land" so stealing was an easier route to get what he needed (and apparently wanted as well, because he didn't only just steal food). Also, in several instances, he tried to repair the damage to the spaces he burglarized. That to me would suggest he had a complete and full understanding of what he was doing, but did it anyway and terrorized community for years and years. I agree with Dr Grande's analysis, and that people should reserve their compassion and admiration for more deserving people.
@@ursodermatt8809 I'm not sure how knowing what was happening would make it any less terrifying considering he was unstable and paranoid, I would be afraid of what he would do if he was ever caught (obviously we now know he wouldn't react violently, but how would they know that considering no one had ever caught him, meaning they would no know how he would react to being caught)
Wow Dr. G! I did not expect to see you so strong on an opinion of a case (although I haven't watched all of the cases). I'm on the fence. He did what he could not to hurt people physically. Yet, caused fear and panic. At the same time, he was not mentally sound yet was aware of the consequences of his actions.
Yes, I'm on the fence too. Not liked in school, his family disengaged, seemingly uncaring, he didn't have any reason to connect to humanity. Add his diagnosis of ASD, depending on the severity, he probably did the best he could without any planning. It seems his lifestyle just evolved into what it became.
I think one's opinion about Chris depends on one's opinion on society. The sympatizers are those who know from their own experience how difficult it can be to function within this system. I really do think he did the least amount of damage possible while still being able to live in a way that was fulfilling enough to him to keep wanting to live. He could have done so so much worse. Still, he did do some serious crime, and probably wouldn't have compained if he got a longer sentence as he knew what he had done.
Having just signed up as supporter of yours on Patreon I'm currently feeling gleeful anticipation at the thought of watching the Bonus Videos. I enjoy you thoroughly Dr Grande, thank you!
Me too. Agreed!
I'm gleeful of your gleefulness as before I was not feeling any glee I just wanted to flee I felt like I got stung by a bee which made me wanna pee and now it's time for me to see there is no way for me other than to agree it's now time to get down on one knee and put my Titleist on three inch tee.
@@quantumpotential7639 🤣 I see your glee and raise you three.
Chris did well in High School, voted most likely to be 'a fucking hermit'.
My daughter went to school with a boy moat likely to succeed. He ended in prison.
@@myunknownland9272 Well I guess he succeeded at something?
I’m assuming he didn’t pick up the award in person
@@jekw23 wow! that's a great comment, thanks very much!
Are you from Maine, too? Cool...
This is a sad story of a boy who was never loved. His parents may have had physical custody, but Chris felt invisible.
I wish I could hug Chris when he was a little boy and tell him he was worthy of love.
I loved your analysis Dr. G, 🌵🌵🌵🌵 but it literally made me cry😿.
Aww. You are so sweet.
Check out the books by Dave Pelzer. Now there's a boy who had it rough.
@@overthehilldill3626 I didn't realize there is so much apathy in the world. Why bring a life into this world?
You have to be vetted to adopt a 🐕🐶. (Safe home verification and personal references) but can pop babies out like a gumball machine.
There's something wrong with our society.
Aww, let's hear about the refrigerator moms. I love that one. That's my favorite one. Your son is autistic because you don't show him enough love. No no, the best one is, your son is autistic because you don't breast feed enough. That totally rocked. You know autism is a neurological condition and it doesn't matter how much you love or breast feed, you will still have a child that really would rather you didn't and wished that you would let them get on with it without people. It does sound like the whole family might be in the spectrum, which can happen. But it also sounds like he had , mind you, a good job, adept at his job, had preferred his family to leave him alone, so they left him alone. I mean, my son is like that. And as he's gotten older, he just doesn't want to do the social things that other people do, so I don't make him do them. And autism doesn't cause people to steal. What the heck.
@@Hollylivengood autism is real.
Chris was neglected during his formative years. No one in his family reported that he was missing 🚩🚩🚩🚩.
What message does that send?
You are not worthy and we don't care.
Not only did no one in high-school like him, but his parents didn't even like him enough to report him missing. 😐
That's actually sad.
That is really sad.
Truth. Sounds like the whole family was kind of offish.
Sad.
I know. How sad.
I grew up listening to stories about John Tornow, the Wildman of the Wynochee. He was a recluse who lived on the edge of the Olympic Mountains of Washington State.
Dr Grande, do you ever take a week off? I think you deserve it. Daily videos and the research and scripting that goes into it must be very taxing.
There's a book about him, but he really just wants to be left alone at this point in his life.
As long as he doesn't steal to maintain his lifestyle, that's fine with me.
It's sad that the people he stole from will never fully be paid back and many of them probably don't know what it's like to live without trauma anymore though
When apprehended, Chris was diagnosed with Asperger's disease which explains his extreme need to be alone. No, he is no hero, I agree, but his life in the woods could not have been "easy." This is just a very sad story. I'm surprised at your harsh judgement, Dr Grande, particularly coming from a therapist.
I think he's taking the perspective of the victims, and the wider crime that was committed against society.
I completely agree. He didn’t hurt anyone knowingly. He had mental issues. So lock him up longer?? Why not have him do physical restitution. Beyond that it’s the mercy issue. It’s unlikely he knew he was causing so much fear and dread.
Well don't steal from people. Harsh? Lol. Dr. Grande isn't harsh on him he has common sense.
Omg yessss! I was not ready for the Arby's shade! 😂😭 You cracked me up with that one!!! Thanks for another awesome video🙏💛
He developed a skill set to move nimbly through the woods. His ability to withstand the cold was the most amazing part. That's stoic.
he's a worthless POS that stole 100 times for a place that helped disabled kids. and terrorized people for almost 30 years. he stayed in cabins in the winter, you CANT be that naïve, and naïve was the kindest word I could think of. Grow up. :)
He robbed everyone in the area.
@@RideAcrossTheRiver And he was damned good at it.
@@ocinprofession No, he was damned bad at it.
@@RideAcrossTheRiver The 27 years stealing and not being caught tells a different story.
"Hey Kirk, do you have any trash bags, a possum drowned in the pool? No, just throw it over the fence and let Arby's take care of it."
Lol 😁😁😁
I think your analysis of this case is thoughtful and well reasoned.
I especially appreciate the unbiased approach that you bring to this and many other cases. Thank you Dr. Grande.
He definitely was not a "hero of the wilderness." You said it perfectly in saying "He lived a lifestyle at the expense of other people."
I did have to laugh when you said "He admitted that everything on him was stolen, except his glasses." And also had to laugh when you said he stole Marshmallow Fluff. 😅
well, all people live a life style on the expense of other people. it is just how society works. some ways are more acceptable and conform though
Having limited skills and multiple emotional problems I think Chris dealt with life as best he could short of drinking hemlock.
Why is everyone saying that? Did you not see the same video? He had training with installing security systems. He had tons of skills. He was good at his job, and he had a good job. He just chose to live off of other people, the same as any robber barron. He even knew how to deal with life with his own undiagnosed disabillity, which is more than a lot of autistic people know.
@@Hollylivengood Besides installing security system what are the tons of skills he had.
@@Edward-xw8rj Have you ever had friends who took up this job? You learn a ton of skills when you learn professional security electronics. They aren''t certified as electricians, but they know as much. They learn how to do a certain amount of hacking into security systems because that's unofficially part of their job. They learn a good deal of carpentry. It's a good job, he lived well. So he didn't have limited skills. He just wanted to live off other people. Not cool.
@@Hollylivengood OK I get it, hacking and carpentry.
@@Edward-xw8rj Do you know those things? He wasn't stupid. He was very smart and had good job skills. He wasn't having a difficult time in society, he managed quite well.
he may have "just wanted to be left alone", wich is completely fine, but as stated, the problem was he didnt leave others alone in return
This is not an easy video to comment on. I don't find Chris' actions romantic, nor hardened criminality, arrogant, nor self reliant or wilderness adventurous. I believe it is much deeper emotionally. This started early in childhood of not being able to connect with his fellow man. His comment, even after 27 years, that he had 'screwed his brother on that deal', referring to not paying for the car his brother cosigned for, the Brat. That does show remorse for his actions. I think Chris could not take the overwhelming noise of society, decided on the return trip from Florida that he wanted to go home, to Maine, not his house as I'm sure his parents made it clear he was a grown man and had to make it on his own. Being so young, with 1 job as a referral, no money, no home, he did what hundreds of young people do in Maine, he went to the woods. It was at least fall approaching, so he had to get some type of shelter before winter. This is when survival kicked in, he overcame his revulsion to stealing, and did what he felt he had to, stealing food etc. Being a human, of course through the years he sampled foods and recreational items, and radios, whatever he wanted. Yes, he did commit felonies and when caught he admitted to all his misdeeds, showing his naivety. I don't believe he is a liar, but a person who stole to survive. He had no interactions with humans, so he had no way to know there are programs to help people with disabilities, with food, clothes, housing, ways to grow and harvest vegetables. The judge did say she feared Chris was so distraught being in jail that he would die, starve, waste away. So many young and old people in Maine are homeless, it truly frightens one, breaks your heart. Maine people, most working class, do all they can to help our less fortunate, but if you don't know someone needs help, you cannot offer help. Most mental health facilities have closed in Maine, so where does one go for help. I don't think Chris is a hero, self entitled, a hardened criminal, but an example of what can happen to anyone, especially inexperienced young persons, even more so if they have truly crippling disabilities such as aspergers. I find it a miracle he survived so long alone, with his white glasses, not having talked except to say 'hi' in 27 years, listening to the radio in the woods. He is following rules set by the court, did his jail time, works, attends counseling, apologized to the owners of the places he stole from, so let it be, let him be. That's my take on the story of Christopher Knight, The North Woods Hermit, a monaker he finds repulsive.
I'm kind of surprised that ppl in the area didn't start leaving things out for him He's kind of like the homeless in the city but can't deal with the overstimulation of an urban setting. I lived in a very rural area for a time and these things were known about even if the individual was mysterious and deeply antisocial. He did take non essential items....over a period of 27 yrs lol
They did, in interviews he's said he didn't take that stuff because he was afraid it was a trap, he definitely had some serious paranoia and probably still needs therapy
@@alces_fiend yes, I understand. it does take work to help others.
I read a lot about him years ago to understand him and his motivation. Also very telling is the interview a journalist did with him in jail. I completely believe he lost tract of the decades. He had a poor diet and a lifestyle that would cause that. Being on the spectrum, many are creative problem solvers but not treated nicely for being awkward. Also stimuli that doesn't bother a neurotypical could be unbearable; that was brought up in his jail interview. I read that he works at a mechanic garage in Maine. Had several marriage offers but just wanted to be left alone.
Several marriage offers? Haha, crazy. These people must have really wanted to be rebuffed. "I'm gonna propose to this total stranger who has just spent 27 years in the woods because he hates people, what could possibly go wrong with this?"🤷
@@murphychurch8251
they are women i suppose, that explains it
@@ursodermatt8809 So am I...
Bull. I'm on the spectrum. I'm part of a very wide community of people on the spectrum. Somehow none of us have become professional break in men. Save your sympathy for an inner city kid born into crushing poverty, and stop giving it to people who turn predator by choice
@@KartarNighthawk You're in a lot of comments that aren't even praising this guy throwing a hissy fit that he's a criminal. It is possible for people to find someone interesting without needing to feel sympathy or compassion or think he's the coolest dude ever. His behavior is very unusual and it seems like something sent him into the woods and something kept him there. Maybe he liked stealing but his conditions were pretty abysmal and he seemingly could have left his tent at any time and rejoined society. So it's mildly interesting. It is also possible to find this guy interesting and read about him while still working to help causes that are good for people who need assistance.
My good Doc with his usual informed analysis. Appreciating all the way from Kenya.
I clicked on this so fast. This was huge huge news here in Maine. Thanks for looking at the hermit.
So cool to hear you discuss a topic so close to my home. The NPH was captured about 15 minutes from my house, and he actually broke into my at-the-time-girlfriend's camp on Great Pond in Belgrade. People around here had very mixed feelings about his incarceration. I would say the majority of Mainers sympathized with him and didn't want to see him serve any time. He was as respectful as a serial burglar could be, and never damaged any property that I know of.
Love the channel Dr. Grande!
27 years of stealing he could not find a better eyeglasses oh what bad luck!😂
He didn't steal; he was framed.
@@eadweard. huh???
Gee I wonder why he doesn't want to be around people 🙄
@@GrayBlood1331 maybe ppl don’t like things being stolen from them 🤨
eb - Looking through the lens of society, maybe this guy was a bit shortsighted or possibly myopic to the point of needing corrective treatment or eye to eye framework!
I love that youre adding pictures now!!! Great decision looks good.
Totally fascinated by this one, didn't know the story. Agree he's no hero but also I don't feel he's a criminal, oddly enough. I relate in a wierd way. I have autism, my son was diagnosed with Asperger's and before he was born I lived on my own in quite remote and difficult circumstances during my twenties. This really spoke to me, not because I ever got to the stealing stage but because I get that Chris went feral, in a way I can relate to. I don't get, from Dr Grande's interpretation at least, that Chris was doing things for any other reason but to survive. He basically became a wild animal. Raccoons don't consider the feelings if their neighbours, they take what they need.
I remember extreme cold, beautiful patterns of ice on the inside of metal framed windows, wearing several layers of clothes and a hat in bed was the only way you could hope to get to sleep. Fortunately my dog Tink was a half chow and I don't think he understood cold! He was a fantastic blanky and a true friend. Honestly, I absolutely loved it, I miss it in telling it and so I get why Chris, someone who went to a deeper level, would have to take what they need, so would a wolf, a raccoon or a rat. The level I went to was a vital and exhilarating way to live, so I can imagine it was way more addictive for Chris. Isolation is not for everyone but living in the wild speaks to some forgotten part of us and maybe, for some of us who society calls autistic, we may feel at home in those circumstances.
Thank you, Dr Grande. I've learned something I'd forgotten today.🙏
I am generous with people in need who ask for help. I have no sympathy for a thief, a parasite. He stole without remorse from those who earned their sustenance.
@@dr.anthonytrabue7426 I get what you mean but it's not like he was a massive crime wave, he just subsisted. If he was taking things like the person who broke in and took my Mum's meagre jewellery or my Dad's wedding ring in the care home, that's cruel. A bit of food isn't really an issue for * most * people but I get that it could be difficult for incredibly poor people, I know that feeling from my own time in the wilderness!
It’s funny you should mention raccoons, because there is a family of raccoons that used to get into my trash bin and make a huge mess in the yard. Well, one day I caught them red-handed and they didn’t run away. They just stopped moving and stared at me. So I went inside and got them some grapes and bananas. Since then, they show up about the same time every 2 or 3 days, but they come to my back door. Sometimes I give them some fruit or nuts, but I try not to do it so often that they become totally dependent on begging humans for food. The biggest male (I assume to be the father) always approaches the food, first, and then he doles it out to the gaze and they never seem to fight over portion sizes. They never mess with my trash bins anymore. They’re more civilized than many of the humans I’ve met in life.
@@AV57 that's extraordinary, thanks so much for sharing. The Pops must know how much everyone needs and doles it out accordingly. How absolutely amazing. Puts me in mind of my dear old Uncle and Aunt's smallholding where he had a family of foxes living happily next door to a family of rabbits, they'd sit outside at night next to each other, the babies would play next to each other.
May have had something to do with the home cooking the foxes enjoyed courtesy and of my Uncle and Aunt! Your kindness to your neighbours sounds to be a useful lifeline and you're clearly not overdoing it...like I definitely would, I mean I'd ask them to move in, so...! Please send my love to them and thanks again, you've made my day x❤️x
@@AV57 Have they adopted you or have you adopted them.
The outdoor solitude sounds restful, even peaceful. The hunger and cold does not.
I remember tent camping once in 28 degree weather. My husband and I snuggled together all night to stay warm. Next morning that coffee and bacon on the campfire was so good!
Chris chose to become a thief and a scavenger to survive.
A fascinating and thought provoking story Dr Grande.
"Throw it over the fence; let Arby's worry about it." Lol, I love all your Simpson's influence. I notice every one ;)
I disagree. The guy was really no threat in a real sense. He received a fair sentence, relative to what he did. He’s been a saint ever since his release, and that says a lot.
Correct. Here in NYC Nobody goes to jail for anything anymore. People are released after serious crimes like assaulting cops and pushing people on subway tracks. They're emptying the jails. Burglary isn't even a crime anymore.
Have you ever had a stranger sneak into your home? It doesn’t matter what they do or do not do, it terrorizes the residents and destroys their peace of mind. He wasn’t harmless or non threatening at all!
@@briarrose29 Very true. After such a burglary, I felt violated and insecure for a long time afterward.
The dude with the "taxation is theft" profile pic is really defending the actual thief. Hilarious.
@@theeccentric7263 lmao thanks for pointing that out 😂
This story is so fascinating. I heard about The Hermit, Chris Knight, on NPR.
He would stay up and walk in circles all night to keep his body heat up during the winters. 😳🥶
Excited to hear Dr. Grande’s thoughts!
I didn’t realize he took from a special needs camp. That’s horrible.
People did romanticize his misadventure. He frankly didn’t break from society due to needing society to survive via stealing.
Some people found it intriguing but others who were victims, were angered and fearful.
He had to embellish the wintertime survival. To wake up and walk in -20 to keep your core warm and not suffer frostbite is simply not feasible especially after so many years. Finding propane tanks by the hundreds makes one believe that’s how he kept himself warm.
Thank you as always Dr. Grande. Your perspective was cut and dry.
Chris hurt a community and rationalized his thieving. He was not a hero but a recluse who chose to steal to remain “comfortable”.
Claiming to only need to walk around in -20 degree weather to stay alive sounds very much like a huge fabrication. Who can believe anything he says??
I doubt he knew it was a camp for special needs children.
@@garmtpug he def was living in cabins all winter.
I believe if Dr. Grande had read the book, “ A stranger in the Woods” he would have a different perspective.
Thoreau was and still is an iconic figure in that part of the world. Many people probably made a connection and lightened up on their judgments and desire for punishment.
Also, many people have been drawn to do something similar to what Thoreau did, so they could relate and sympathize.
Fascinating case and new to me as so many of yours are. It's really sad that his people didn't report him missing. Kind of explains things to me. I agree he should've had a longer sentence. Love all your content Doc!💙🙌💙
I just read about a case where a fella got 8 years probation for 4 rapes, pled guilty. Right now there's a kid who went to a riot with an asault rifle and killed 2 people and he might walk. These are just the cases I heard about today. Clearly what he did was wrong, but looking at the big picture, I'm not sure if he should have gotten more time or not.
Possibly some kind of mental health assistance, (to help him sort out his head and reintegrate) in conjunction with probation after his short term incarceration would have been more appropriate?
@@TheKim369 So many people in prison are there because of mental health issues. But if they break the laws and are cognizant then they have to face some kind of punishment. And yes, like the cases you mentioned, justice is not served evenly or logically. I don't have the answers, I just know what I feel to be right and that I wish someone could fix things. Prison conditions in many places are overcrowded and inhumane. I hope, I pray the death penalty will be abolished in my lifetime.
@@GGiblet Yes, I agree! I am part of society and I don't want anyone killing on my behalf. Many murderers felt justified in their actions, kind of like how the law determines certain killings are justified. There are statistics from many countries that demonstrate that killing "when it's justified" leads to a more violent society.
@@TheKim369 Exactly! And many on death row likely had unfair trials due to race and financial issues .. It's just wrongheaded IMO to murder people. House them for life if necessary (humanely, teaching them skills hopefully, improving them) but stop the state sanctioned murder! Some of the prisoners have the IQ of children and still they are killed, it makes no sense to me.
@@GGiblet "Rector was executed on January 24, 1992. It is unlikely he had any idea what was about to happen. When he had his last meal, Rector set the dessert aside for later, even though there wouldn’t be a later."
Yes! This excerpt about the execution of Ricky Ray Rector stands out as an illustration of just what you mentioned about IQ.
My family is dysfunctional like Chris's. When I was a kid, a close family member just disappeared for well over a year. Both sides of the family from all over the country acknowledged they may not be alive anymore but no one ever called the police. There is a history of mental illness and substance abuse going back generations. Thankfulky, this family member did resurface and was in recovery. I think of this often when I see missing posters. I always have hope that they are just out there somewhere dealing with things and will come back when they're ready.
I was waiting for the McCandless reference. They were both ridiculously unprepared for the lives they were undertaking.
27 years! Seems like he had his shit figured out well enough
Did you ever read the interviews with people who met McCandless? He was actually a pretty selfish guy as well.
@@narcis3720 Right? You'd think he could learn a few skills in that time. But he chose to steal.
@@Hollylivengood the two are not mutually exclusive. stealing doesn't mean he didn't also learn to survive.
@@longshotkdb He had said , he didn't know survivor skills, and didn't want to take time to learn when he could just take it. He really was honest. There's another video about Chris, and he up and says this without a qualm. He just rather have stolen.
Thank you for this analysis. It's sad on so many levels. I feel for Chris and his victims.
Ah! But no loss of life! Refreshing!
Awesome output Dr Grande.
I struggle with believing that he survived nearly 30 Maine winters without shelter or building a fire. I’ve followed enough true survival stories to know that hypothermia is a guarantee in such conditions, even with just a couple days of exposure. Seems to me that he probably spent some time back at home when needed, and then headed back out in survivable weather. There has to be a lot more to this story.
The fact that his family so readily took him in makes me think he spent winters and more with them.
This does remind me of a feature i saw a year or two back. Leave no trace about a dad and daughter that lived of the grid. Sometimes its easier for people to live with little human interaction. I also recollect the case of german rambo that eluded the cops for several days in a wooded area.
'Leave no Trace' was excellent.
I would say pacing at night when it's freezing qualifies as a good survival skill.
I sympathize with his need for solitude, the need for disconnection. I would love it if I didn't have to rely, so heavily, on others and have responsibilities that force me to associate with them. But I can't and, in truth, neither could he. His burglaries are proof of that. He lived a false hermitude.
I definitely agree, the thing that bothers me the most is his unwillingness to fully accept that he was relying on others and only partially acknowledges it, I think deep down he knows though tbh
I also would like not to suffer loneliness. Maybe in future we will be able to change human brains so that we don't fear lack of human contact
Some people are so reclusive that they will literally go to extremes like these to avoid human contact.
Once a employee stole my credit card. He charged about 50 bucks worth of stuff at walmart. I was going to press charges until I saw the list of things he bought. No beer, no cigarettes, no junk. About 25 was a big bag of dog food and the rest was mostly canned food for himself. I did have a talk with him and he was very sorry. I put myself in his shoes and thought that if I had to steel to keep my dog from going hungry what would I do? I told the credit card company not to press charges and paid the bill.
People realized there was a cereal burglar on the loose as soon as they noticed their Froot Loops were missing.
Dad joke!🤣
🤣
"...He foraged for food, he ate partridges that had been killed by vehicles, so road kill. For comparison, this is almost as bad as eating at Arby's."
F'ING SAVAGE!!!!! 🤣🤣🤣
😂😂😂👍
I like the dry humour and wit of Dr Grande's videos.
Fascinating story Dr. Grande! Thanks for your analysis! At first my heart went out to him but with thought, I agree that he shouldn't have terrorized the area and stolen like he did for so many years. He should have sharpened up his survival skills and depended on himself! TFS
He didn't deserve any jail time. He's awesome I applaud Chris.
Fascinating case. I don't condone what he did at the expense of people, especially the camp for children with disabilities, which shouldn't be dependent on donations in the first place in the richest coutry in the world. I'm still glad he didn't get a harsher sentence. What would have been the point? It's not like he will do it again or incite others to follow his example.
If the camp weren't dependent on donations alone, then it would have to be dependent on the government. They would have to meet a whole bunch more regulations than they already do. Their funding would be dependent on some far away legislative or regulatory body, subject to the whims of accountants and politically motivated budgets. When the government funding is slashed, the camp would have to start holding fundraisers to get private donations again. This is how I became involved with a local organization that helps people with disabilities: the state cut their funding, and they had to hold a fundraiser to continue offering services. We are a rich country because we have rich people, many of whom like to give generously to youth camps and other charities, without having the funds filtered through the bureaucratic morass of government.
Furthermore, if they accept tax money, a faith-based camp or school might be forced to water down or give up the religious component, which for good reason is often central to the mission and vision of youth programs.
very interesting. I hadn't heard of the case before, and enjoyed your narrative and analysis.
No one was hurt to any significant degree. It would have cost society more, financially & ethically, to incarcerate him for three years.
I laugh more at some of Dr. Grande's quips than that of some professional comedians. I appreciate the analyses and takes on the stories he investigates but the snark and sarcasm is priceless.
I totally agree with you, Dr. Grande. Christopher Knight wanted to avoid society but he did not want to avoid what society produces with hard work. That is hypocrisy. And his sentence was too lenient compared to what he had done for so many years.
Dang, those little one line zingers you put in there are a hoot! "learning about the Kardashian's is quite disorienting".... "....like eating at Arby's".
Wow, how have I not heard of this case, very interesting, similar to the barefoot bandit case.
By his own admission he was too lazy to live off the land. More a thief who just happened to be a hermit. American and Canadian Indians were experts at surviving and even they were known to starve to death during a long, brutal winter. Living off the land with zero outside help is very rarely done and they live to talk about it, especially so in the North country. edit I do have empathy for him. He just seemed hypocritical with his reliance on other peoples property. He could have sold his vehicle and worked occasional temporary jobs to buy his own food being he was too lazy to hunt or fish or tend a garden.
Glad he at least got a job with his brother and home with his mother in the end
This sounds like a better life than mine...
And here I thought this was about Peter Brady. “Pork chops and applesauce!” 😉
Dr. Grande- I was wondering if you could do an analysis of Sam Vaknin, especially in the film, "I Psychopath", which is available to watch on TH-cam and is less than an hour. As you know Vaknin is a self-proclaimed expert on narcissism, although in the film he was diagnosed with psychopathy. He is a prolific TH-camr and shameless self-promoter. I'm curious to know what you think about his content and diagnosis. One aspect of the film, is that you see narcissistic abuse being documented as Vaknin bullies the filmmaker. While not explicit, it seems that the filmmaker shut down filming sooner than he planned to based on this. He ends the film talking about his experience 6 months on, and seems genuinely traumatized by the experience. I find the whole thing fascinating and it's ripe for some expert commentary!
I read the book The Stranger in the Woods about this guy. Strange dude and strange story...
Pine Tree Camp is a summer camp for disabled adults; I’ve brought my clients there many-a summer, including the one he was caught.
My foster dad was almost equally unhappy with human contact and taught me many great things. I would love to spend twenty seven years outdoors away from humans.
Wow
Interesting story. So many sad lives, I think his strikes a chord with many people for different reasons. Strangely our justice system is not just and is swayed by social norms. Criminals often have sad stories. This doesn’t make them any less guilty. Giving this guy a lighter sentence made the public feel somehow charitable, instead of deterring future “hermits” or even this hermit from reoffending.
I can't stand people who make excuses for criminals! Many people have "Sad" lives and don't hurt others as a result!
@@trees915 guilt is the most contrary of emotions I think those who are clearly guilty, usually don’t feel an ounce of shame or even guilt those who are by no means guilty of this man’s transgressions for example, are the one’s carrying his shame which is not only UNJUST but also damaging to society
but that’s just my opinion
😎😂🙃😂🤣😅😆😁🤪😜🤨🤨🤨🤨🤨😎
A longer sentence in an isolated prison cell, perhaps would have served both the needed justice and his personality. Thank you Dr. Grande for another gem of an analysis!
@@heartlights Good one! 👍 This is why plants usually don't do crime 💚
Bruh no offense but major side-eye to people who thinks American prisons are beneficial to anyone’s personality. Have you not seen the statistics!?
@@heartlights or, locked in their houses due to say, a virus ...
I appreciate the analysis but i appreciate the jokes even more
Yeah. The frosting on the cake. I wait for them. Always good for a laugh.
I think people admire how calm and stoic he was. Jail would be a hotel for this man, despite some work he would still be isolated if he wanted. Big chances his fame would get him a lot of social validation in that environment. Besides being pointless we have to consider that many of his crimes could not be punished since they were committed decades ago. Pleading guilty and helping the investigations also worked on his favor.
Jail is even less of a hotel than a hospital is! Both contain what he least wanted: other people!
He is not burglar . He just wanted to eat and survive .
Maine winters are fairly brutal…Yes they are! This is such a sad story. He never harmed anyone & took only what he needed to survive from the camps. People would leave things for him. He should never have been arrested.
Childish remarks
Not sure why you feel that a burglar shouldn't be arrested when caught and face a judge for his crimes ? 27 years of this. He could have been a homeless person and lived on the streets and gotten free meals and a bed to sleep in a lot of times. A long as he didn't drink or do drugs there are many places you can survive and get help. Nobody requires you to be their friend to live that way. Your choice.
@@djg5950 Well, I’m a disability rights attorney who lives in Maine and spent summers near North Pond during the time he was there. He was homeless, alone, & disabled. He needed a community and compassion, not a criminal conviction.
@@AcPh-nc3vz I live in NH so not too far away from there. I know what winters are like. I don't know how he survived unless breaking into camps and sleeping there during the coldest nights. I agree with you about getting help though. I just think that they could have done more than they did and much sooner. 27 years ? That's a long time to be doing that. Authorities should have found this guy a lot earlier than they did and help him. It had to be stressful for people that were getting constantly burglarized and he knew it was wrong.
He wouldn't take what people offered and continued to invade their homes, he also stole many handheld video games, books, and even a TV. I wonder how anyone survived before literature, tv, and video games if that's considered only what's necessary
Who are the people who come out to dislike such objective, neutral content.