Ep 15. Ties That Bind

In Forensic Files season 16 episode 15, titled "Ties That Bind," the show examines the murder of Denise Johnson, a 39-year-old clerk at a gas station in North Carolina. Johnson was working alone on the night of August 11, 1993, when she was shot in the head during a robbery. Her body was discovered the following morning by a customer who stopped for gas.

The investigation of Johnson's murder quickly focused on two suspects: brothers Darrell and Marty Lamb. Darrell had worked at the gas station before and knew the routine of the clerks. Witnesses also reported seeing the Lamb brothers near the gas station around the time of the murder.

Police brought in the Lamb brothers for questioning. Marty initially denied any involvement in the crime, but eventually confessed to police. He claimed that Darrell had shot Johnson and that he had only helped plan the robbery. Darrell also eventually confessed, but claimed that he had only intended to rob the gas station and that the shooting was accidental.

The prosecution argued that the Lamb brothers had planned the robbery in advance and that Darrell had intended to kill Johnson from the beginning. They presented evidence including eyewitness testimony, ballistics evidence, and phone records that placed the Lamb brothers near the gas station before and after the murder.

Forensic Files delves into the scientific evidence that was crucial in the conviction of the Lamb brothers. This includes analysis of the bullet that killed Johnson and comparisons to the gun found in the Lamb brothers' possession, as well as analysis of the phone records that placed them near the crime scene.

The show also examines the impact of Johnson's murder on her family and community. Johnson was a beloved mother and wife, and her senseless death had a profound effect on those who knew her.

Overall, "Ties That Bind" is a gripping episode that tells the story of a tragic murder and the scientific evidence that helped bring the perpetrators to justice. It is a testament to the importance of forensic analysis in solving crimes and ensuring that justice is served.