Authorities in Wisconsin have arrested Benjamin Larson, 47, on charges of felony stalking, following a 13-year campaign of harassment against a woman he briefly dated. Police discovered a disturbing collection of items in his rural Fond du Lac home, including human skulls, a skeleton in a glass casket, and memorabilia related to serial killers. Larson has since been released on $15,000 bail.
The criminal complaint filed on August 18 alleges that Larson stalked the victim for over a decade after their two-month relationship ended in 2013. The victim reported years of unwanted contact, which escalated despite her moving to Canada and ceasing all communication. She described their brief relationship as "very intense" and noted Larson's open fascination with serial killer Ed Gein, death, and gore.
During a search of Larson's home on August 14, investigators found a basement filled with macabre evidence. Items included human skulls, serial killer relics, and a locked shrine dedicated to the victim. A padlocked basement bedroom contained a lifelike silicone doll, letters about the woman, and writings expressing desires for the skulls of her family members. Police also found a nude painting believed to resemble the victim, a clay head seemingly modeled after her, and bags of alleged keepsakes such as an earring and flowers.
Larson's writings detail instances of stalking, including one account where he allegedly drove to the victim's home dressed in black, wearing gloves and a mask, and sat outside with a machete, watching the house. He reportedly described the experience as "a rush" and feeling "powerful."
Further evidence in the basement included binders labeled "Edward Gein Book," containing items purportedly taken from Gein's grave or home, alongside .22-caliber cartridges marked with signs indicating they were similar to those used by the Zodiac Killer. A sign claimed a nearby jar held a piece of John Wayne Gacy's brain. The collection also featured bottles labeled with deadly poisons, including arsenic and cyanide.
Authorities are currently working with a forensic anthropologist to determine the origin of the human remains found in Larson's home. Initial examinations suggest many of the remains may be ancient Native American, but specialized testing is required to confirm their authenticity and origin. The investigation is expected to continue for months.
Larson faces a maximum sentence of three years and six months in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted of felony stalking. His arraignment is scheduled for September 11.