Ep 1. The Execution of Michael Johnson

In "Cold Case Files Classic" season 7 episode 1, "The Execution of Michael Johnson," viewers are taken on a journey through a perplexing and tragic case that involves the brutal murder of a successful businessman in his own home.

The case begins in November of 1984 in Jacksonville, Florida. A man named Richard Lapointe had just returned home from a business trip and was looking forward to spending time with his family. But when he entered his home, he was met with a scene of horror.

Lapointe's wife, Maryanne, had been viciously beaten and sexually assaulted. She was alive, but barely. Lapointe immediately called the police. When they arrived at the scene, they found Richard's mother-in-law, Edna Marron, who had been bludgeoned to death. And, they found the body of Richard's father-in-law, Clifford, stuffed in a closet.

Despite extensive investigations, the case remained cold for many years. That is, until a prostitute named Roxanne Hayes was arrested for a minor drug charge. Hayes claimed that she knew who had killed the Lapointes. Her story led investigators to a man named Michael Johnson, who had been involved in the drug trade with Hayes and had a history of violence.

Johnson was interrogated and eventually confessed to the crime. He said that he had been high on crack cocaine and had broken into the Lapointe's home to steal money and valuables. When he was caught by Marron, he became violent and attacked her. He then assaulted and raped Maryanne Lapointe before killing both her and her father.

Johnson was tried and found guilty on all counts. He was sentenced to death and was executed in 2007. But despite his confession, there were still many questions surrounding the case. There were no fingerprints found at the scene that matched Johnson's, and there was no physical evidence linking him to the murders.

In this episode of "Cold Case Files Classic," viewers are taken on a journey through the evidence and the investigation that ultimately led to Johnson's conviction. Interviews with detectives, prosecutors, and other experts provide insights into the case and shed light on the challenges of investigating and prosecuting violent crimes.

The episode also touches on the controversial topic of the death penalty, as it recounts the events leading up to Johnson's execution and interviews with those who were involved in the process. Viewers will be left with many questions about the case and the justice system, and will undoubtedly come away with a renewed appreciation for the hard work and dedication of law enforcement officers and prosecutors.