Netflix has released a true crime documentary series that has left viewers questioning the whereabouts of serial killer Robert Black. The two-part series, titled 'Manhunt: The Child Snatcher', explores the harrowing investigation into Black's crimes.
Robert Black, originally from Scotland, worked as a delivery driver for a London-based poster company. He used his van to kidnap and murder four young girls during the 1980s: Jennifer Cardy, nine, Susan Maxwell, 11, Caroline Hogg, five, and Sarah Harper, ten. Black evaded justice for nine years by crossing police jurisdictions to dispose of the bodies.
In 1990, a member of the public witnessed Black attempting to kidnap another girl, leading to his arrest. He was convicted in 1993 for the murders of Susan Maxwell, Caroline Hogg, and Sarah Harper, receiving life sentences. In 2011, he was also convicted for the murder of Jennifer Cardy, for which he was ordered to serve at least 25 more years.
Black died in 2016 at the age of 68 in Maghaberry Prison, Northern Ireland. Following his death, Devon and Cornwall Police revealed they were weeks away from charging him with the murder of 13-year-old Genette Tate, who disappeared in 1978. Detective Superintendent Paul Burgan confirmed that the Crown Prosecution Service had indicated it was probable they would have charged Black with Genette's murder.
The documentary features interviews with police and victims' families, recounting the investigation that led to Black's arrest. It is now available to stream on Netflix.
