Search continues for possible victims of alleged serial killer Darren Vann

GARY, Ind. (WLS) -- Investigators from Gary to the south suburbs of Cook County are using cell phone records to try to track down more possible victims of Darren Deon Vann, an alleged serial killer linked to the deaths of seven women.

Officials have no specific knowledge of any more bodies in abandoned houses, and they won't get anything new because Vann isn't talking - in marked contrast to the first few days after his arrest when Vann was telling police everything.

"He made statements to officers that I can't reveal at this time, he was looking for a type of deal with the prosecution, I won't be specific about that answer though," said Hammond Police Chief John Doughty.

Indiana has the death penalty. Prosecutors haven't decided if that will be in play, but it may be on the mind of an accused serial killer now caught.

"He may be crazy, but he's not insane. He knows what he did was wrong and he's at that point where he realizes maybe it's come to an end and that he's caught and he might be trying to get the best possible outcome for himself," said Dr. Joseph Ferrandino, a criminal justice professor at Indiana University-Northwest.

Ferrandino says serial killers feed on power over victims and circumstances, and that Vann's decision to go mum in court Wednesday may be his way of keeping control and attention.

"If that's what power you're left with over people, you would exercise that, that's all he's got left at that point is not to say anything," Ferrandino said.

Vann expressed displeasure Wednesday that his initial court appearance was held in a courtroom inside the county jail, and he flat out refused to participate. When he is due back in court next week, Vann will appear before a magistrate in a courtroom in the main courthouse. But that does not guarantee that he'll cooperate.

Christine Williams is one of Vann's alleged victims. Her body found in a house that is now boarded up - as are the other houses were bodies were found.

With so many abandoned homes, the board-up process in Gary is overwhelming, but Anthony Disco has decided to do what he can to help. His construction company is buying the plywood, and he and his workers are giving their time to board up as many eyesores as they can.

"I'm just trying to help any way in can," he said. "I'm not looking for re-pay, I'm a Gary guy."