Raschke details the Matamoros killings, the Newberry killing in Missouri, the protracted McMartin Preschool case in California, the Fuster case in Florida, and many others. Raschke's frequent references to social values and activities throughout history also bring interesting perspectives to contemporary satanism. However, the serious shortcomings of Painted Black far outweigh its few strengths. Raschke writes like an inflammatory crusader who will put his own biased spin on evidence, argumentation, and quotes. He tries to prove his conspiracy of satanism plus drug rings plus organized crime plus pornography by combining isolated facts and ambiguous evidence.
Fallacious argumentation abounds.
Dismissing contrary testimony by implicit tautology is a favorite technique of conspiracy hunters. Deny what I'm accusing you of, and your very denial becomes a proof I'm right. Satanism is real, powerful, and dangerous. It is enjoying unprecedented success in America today. We can't afford to dismiss its very real threat.