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Depraved Obsession book cover and picture of author Rod Sadler.

Register 29 Seats Remaining

"Depraved Obsession"

with Former Police Officer and Author, Rod Sadler

2026-11-14 10:30:00 2026-11-14 11:30:00 America/New_York "Depraved Obsession" Learn about what drove Ronald Lloyd Bailey's sadistic obsession in this true crime presentation with author and former police office, Rod Sadler. Portage District Library - *Austin/Sugarloaf & West Lake Rooms

Saturday, November 14
10:30am - 11:30am

Portage District Library

*Austin/Sugarloaf & West Lake Rooms

Learn about what drove Ronald Lloyd Bailey's sadistic obsession in this true crime presentation with author and former police office, Rod Sadler.

Registration Required

What drove the inconspicuous sociopath to become a ruthless killer? During his nearly fifteen-year reign of terror, Ronald Lloyd Bailey’s depraved obsession with sexual sadism held communities across southeast Michigan in a shroud of fear. From the early 1970’s to the mid-1980s, the former patient at one of Michigan’s foremost psychiatric hospitals abducted as many as fifteen teens and, over time, became a sadistic serial killer. In this shocking, fast-paced account, retired police officer and true crime author Rod Sadler examines law enforcement's dedicated efforts in connecting the dots to stop an unknown killer, and he poignantly chronicles the determination of the victims' families to triumph over tragedy. Sadler also examines Bailey’s insanity defense that centered on the alleged abuse he endured at the hands of his psychiatrist. In doing so, the bestselling author of KILLING WOMEN asks and answers the question: What drove the inconspicuous sociopath to become a ruthless killer?

Author's Bio 

Rod Sadler worked as a police officer in Mid-Michigan for thirty years, retiring in 2012.  He began researching his first book after discovering the story of a brutal 1897 murder in Williamston, Michigan, a town where he had spent his childhood.  His great grandfather served as the sheriff at the time of the murder, and he was integral part of the investigation. After returning to college late in his law enforcement career, he discovered his love for writing, and he decided to write about what he knows best...true crime. In Rod's books, you'll find an enormous amount of research into the murders he writes about.  His attention to detail allows him to craft intriguing, detailed accounts of a series of Michigan murders.

Accommodations

All participants are welcome. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please email Rachael for assistance in advance of your visit.

Event Contact: Rachael Wiegmann

Location Details: Austin, Sugarloaf, and West Rooms are located on the lower level of the library.

AGE GROUP: | Adult |

EVENT TYPE: | Presentation |

TAGS: | 4:Adult Dept | 3:Standard | 2:In person | 1:Adult (18+) |

Portage District Library

Phone: 269-329-4544

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Mon, Nov 09 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Tue, Nov 10 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Wed, Nov 11 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Thu, Nov 12 9:00AM to 9:00PM
Fri, Nov 13 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat, Nov 14 9:00AM to 5:00PM
Sun, Nov 15 1:00PM to 5:00PM

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Located near the intersection of S. Westnedge and Shaver Rd, Portage District Library offers ample parking, EV charging, and access to the Portage Bikeway.

Upcoming Events

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Wed, Nov 11, 9:30am - 10:00am
Portage District Library - *Austin/Sugarloaf & West Lake Rooms

Wed, Nov 11, 10:30am - 11:00am
Portage District Library - *Austin/Sugarloaf & West Lake Rooms

Wed, Nov 11, 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Portage District Library - **Austin Lake Room
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Wed, Nov 11, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Portage District Library - **Sugarloaf/West Lake Rooms
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Wed, Nov 11, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Portage District Library - **Long Lake Room
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