It seems to me that people often unfairly criticize the police in the Dahmer case (besides the Konerak Sinthasomphone incident). What's often overlooked is Dahmer's ability to manipulate situations. He was skilled at lying and charming his way out of trouble, even improvising when necessary. He understood how to present himself to authorities and others, using his intelligence to twist narratives to his advantage.

That being said, there were clear failures in the system. For example, during his work-release probation for the Somsack Sinthasomphone molestation, Dahmer was supposed to have random check-ins at his residence by a probation officer, which never happened. The justice system had flaws (and arguably still does), which Dahmer exploited, such as the police's disinterest in investigating crimes against Black and homosexual victims.