I have "seen" the show, but never watched it. I agree--exploitative and teaches us nothing. However, the profile of a pedophile falls, I think somewhere between Epstein and the misfits you describe--at least, that's my personal experience.

This happened a long time ago. I was twelve, or thirteen and in the early blossom of adolescence. So green. I'd just moved to NYC. My (older) cousin invited us to the beach that first summer. New experience. He, my cousin, was with a group of friends who also brought family. One of those friends, a father of three, volunteered to teach me how to swim. Another new experience. Once we were out of view and in the water, he said he had to hold me to teach me. He placed his hands strategically. I was so uncomfortable but thought this was just a coincidence. He didn't want me to think that. He had to let me know he was crossing lines--molesting me.

"You don't mind that I touch you there, do you? I have to teach you."...he said something to that effect, but made certain I understood that what he was doing had a purpose. Of course I said I didn't mind. So green. So awkward. Minutes passed. I didn't learn anything about swimming. When he was satisfied, we walked back to the family group together.

I think this was typical 'grooming' behavior. He was in control. I was passive. Fortunately, I never saw him again, but I'm sure there must have been other children he abused in more significant ways. The man was so ordinary. So 'nice'. That, I think is your typical predator.

Don't worry...I wasn't traumatized terribly by the event. Amazed, though, at my passivity and much more cautious in the future.