Philadelphia Investigation into Pornographer's Home Uncovers Possible 'Snuff' Films, Expert Says

A grim investigation into the home of a deceased pornographer in Philadelphia has unearthed disturbing evidence, including alleged "snuff" films and a chemical apparatus connected to the water system, raising concerns of a wider network involved in violent criminal activity. Forensic psychologist Dr. Kris Mohandie stated that the findings at the residence of Raymond "RC" Horsch, an 82-year-old known for producing brutally themed pornography and books, could point to the distribution of such films to underground networks.

Eugene Horsch, 44, the son of RC Horsch, was arrested in June on charges including unlawful firearms and forgery. Following his arrest, police made unsettling discoveries at the family home on Chew Avenue in Philadelphia's Olney neighborhood. The findings include alleged "snuff" videos believed to depict multiple missing women, and a drum of chemicals attached to the water system. Investigators also reportedly found chemicals, ammunition, and drugs inside the home.

The investigation has linked the Horsch home to seven missing women, with at least five believed to be dead. While no homicide charges have been filed as of Friday, police have stated they found over a million pieces of digital evidence, including photos and videos. They have reviewed less than a third of this evidence and have identified four of the missing women in the images.

RC Horsch, who died last year, had a criminal history including methamphetamine production. His books, such as the 2014 volume "Empathy," contained disturbing content, including a chapter detailing the dissolution of a murdered woman's body using boiling chemicals. Amazon and Goodreads have since delisted the book.

Dr. Mohandie explained that beyond the sadistic motives typical of serial murderers, the pornographic industry background of RC Horsch suggests a potential for profit in the distribution of "snuff" films. "There may very well also have been a participation in distributing so-called snuff films to underground networks of people that are into this stuff," Mohandie said. "It's scary, and I'm hoping that the investigators are able to resolve some of those questions."

Authorities reported that at the time of Eugene Horsch's arrest, a woman with him was allegedly carrying the identification of one of the missing women. Excavation crews have been observed searching the exterior and under the home, including the sewers. The younger Horsch has not been charged in connection with the missing women.

Two of the identified missing women are Gabrielle Amarando and Maribel Fresses. The investigation is ongoing, with multiple law enforcement agencies, including Philadelphia police homicide detectives and the FBI, involved in the case.