Thank you, Casey, for the information. I've continued to research this kind of behaviour and it does seem to be beyond the consensual bondage or S/M community.
My husband who passed away was into bondage. That was one thing he didn't tell me before we were married. I never understood why a man who was held in such high regard in the community, who was a gentle, giant of a man with almost feminine sweetness and kindness could want to be tied up, gagged and other such things...He claimed it was because he lost his father when he was only 10 and had to take on the responsibility of the rest of the family, was ultra responsible and bondage took him out of the role of being in charge.
But, still, my question to anyone who knows is "What would make a person be into or have an interest in sadism? I still don't understand. My friend is trying to stay away from him, but she still cares for him..Casey, I'll tell her what you said about the amateurs.