Suspected serial killer Matthew Macon was no more than six when his name first appeared in court files. The state removed him and his five siblings from their home amid allegations of physical, sexual, alcohol and drug abuse against his father Jim Macon.

His criminal record began in 1989. Court files note he was just 60 pounds, 3 foot nine, and nine years old. He admitted to breaking into a bike shop, and stealing from inside.

He went to Boys Town, a special youth home in Nebraska where reviews noted his "leadership skills", his "progress," an appearance on the today show. One note does mention "acting out" and says "anger a big problem."

When he returned to Lansing, the crime was grim. In 1993, at 14, he admitted to sexually assaulting a girl younger than 13. Court files say he used a stick in ways too graphic to explain here.

There are references to time served at the Maxey home in Washtenaw county and to Highfields in Onondaga. He received treatment. A therapist notes point out "sexual offending--like an addiction" and recommend "lifetime vigilance" to be healed.

In may 1994, the files say he escaped from Highfields, stole a car from the camp. He was also charged with stealing another car while on the run.

The same court file says he broke into a drug store, drank beer, and, the file notes, showed "no remorse."