College Stands by Professor Linked to 3 Murders
DECATUR, Ill. – Since 1988, psychology professor James St. James, 61, has been teaching at Millikin University. Last week, however, the Georgetown Advocate revealed that the popular teacher is actually James Wolcott who shot his parents and sister to death in 1967 when he was 15.
A jury in Texas found Wolcott guilty by reason of insanity. He then spent the next six years in a state psychiatric institution.
Upon release, Wolcott changed his last name to St. James and obtained his masters and doctoral degrees in psychology. He was hired by Millikin University 25 years ago, is very popular on campus and has won several awards for his teaching.
In a statement to NBC News, the school praised St. James’ efforts to rebuild his life after a traumatic childhood. Officials said they expect him to remain with the university.
The local mayor and police chief, however, are calling for his removal from the school.
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