In a shocking new documentary, Elmer Wayne Henley Jr., once a teenager caught in a terrifying web of serial murders, is breaking his silence after over 50 years.
The upcoming Investigation Discovery documentary titled The Serial Killer’s Apprentice (premiering August 17) dives into Henley’s disturbing past — and his chilling connection to Dean Corll, the notorious Houston serial killer dubbed the “Candy Man”.
🍬 Who Was Dean Corll — And How Did Henley Get Involved?
Dean Corll was a seemingly friendly Houston local known for handing out candy to kids, thanks to his family’s candy business. But behind closed doors, he was a brutal predator.
Henley met Corll through mutual friend David Owen Brooks at just 15 years old. Brooks, who had already been lured into Corll’s world, introduced Henley to the killer. Soon after, Henley was offered $200 for every boy he could bring in, according to a confession later published by All That’s Interesting.
Henley helped lure victims to Corll’s home (Bettmann/Getty Images)
Initially lured by the money, Henley helped Corll find boys — some even from their own neighborhoods — who were then sexually assaulted and murdered. Over time, Henley became more deeply involved, until everything spiraled out of control.
⚰️ When Did It All End?
By 1973, Henley had had enough. During a heated altercation, he shot and killed Dean Corll — bringing an end to one of the most horrifying killing sprees in Texas history. Henley later led police to the burial sites of Corll’s victims.
Henley was convicted of six killings (Investigation Discovery)
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Though Corll is believed to have killed at least 28 boys, Henley was convicted of six murders. He was sentenced to life in prison, where he remains today.
Brooks, the other accomplice, was also convicted and died in prison in 2020.
🧩 What Does Henley Say Today?
Now 69, Henley is speaking out in The Serial Killer’s Apprentice. In the trailer, he says, “I’m not trying to absolve myself of guilt — I want people to see the truth.” He even recounts what it felt like to kill, admitting, “It’s memorable. It’s poignant. I was horrified.”
The documentary features insights from renowned forensic psychologist Dr. Katherine Ramsland, law enforcement, and victim families. Ramsland explores why Henley became an accomplice — and whether he was groomed or manipulated.
🏛️ Where Is Henley Now?
Henley is still behind bars and is eligible for parole, a fact that continues to upset victims’ families. In 2022, his request for compassionate release was denied, but his new parole review is underway, with a decision expected this fall.
Victims’ families like James Dreymala, father of one of the last known victims, are urging the parole board to keep Henley behind bars.
📚 Sources & References:
- Investigation Discovery – The Serial Killer’s Apprentice
- All That’s Interesting – Elmer Wayne Henley
- Click2Houston Parole Interview
