Ep 2. The New Girl

In The 1990s: The Deadliest Decade season 1 episode 2 titled "The New Girl," a young woman named Christa Pike becomes the youngest woman ever sentenced to death in the United States. In 1995, Pike was a 18-year-old high school dropout who was introduced to a group of fellow dropouts and misfits in Knoxville, Tennessee. The group was led by 21-year-old Tadaryl Shipp, who quickly began to manipulate and control Pike.

One day, Pike brought a new girl named Colleen Slemmer into the group. Shipp immediately took a liking to Slemmer and began to flirt with her in front of Pike, causing her to become jealous and resentful. Shipp then instructed Pike to "take care of" Slemmer, which led to a gruesome and senseless murder.

Pike and two male accomplices lured Slemmer to a remote location, where they proceeded to beat, torture, and ultimately kill her. They even carved a pentagram into her chest and attempted to extract her eyes as part of a supposed Satanic ritual. The murder was so brutal that it shocked even seasoned law enforcement officials.

The episode recounts the investigation and trial of Pike and her accomplices, as well as the impact that the crime had on the families of both the victim and the perpetrators. Through interviews with friends, family members, law enforcement officials, and lawyers involved in the case, the episode paints a picture of a troubled young woman who was easily swayed by a charismatic leader and ultimately paid a terrible price for her actions.

"The New Girl" is a sobering reminder of the dark side of human nature and the tragic consequences that can result from a toxic mix of manipulation, jealousy, and violence. The episode is a gripping look at one of the most sensational murder cases of the 1990s and a testimony to the bravery of those who worked to bring justice to the victims and their families.