One of the most disgusting aspects of any major crime, such as the serial-slaying spree by Wichita’s BTK murderer, is when anyone, particularly the perpetrator, is allowed to profit from the situation.

Efforts have been made to prevent killer Dennis Rader from any ill-gotten gains for his 1974-91 spree, but now Kansas is suing to prevent two psychologists hired by state defenders to interview Rader from profiting from the case. Videotape segments of the interview were broadcast by a major network in August, five days before Rader was given consecutive life sentences for 10 killings.

The suit seeks a refund of the $57,314 paid by the state and damages of more than $75,000. An attorney for the psychologists says “not all the allegations are accurate.”

Whatever it takes, the state should make sure that neither Rader nor any of the people with whom he has had close contact, such as family members, are allowed to profit in any way from “inside stories.” If anyone should clear such hurdles, there should be legal machinery to claim the money and give to the families of Rader’s victims.

Getting a foot in the door early in the BTK case is wise and strongly in the best interests of a society that has been fed too many doses of glamorization and compassion for wanton murderers.