Cold Case Solved After Podcast Sparked New Leads

A sixteen‑year‑old girl vanished in 1982 near the St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds, and her body was later found in a wooded area. The police at first said she had been raped and killed, but the lack of evidence and uncooperative witnesses left the case cold for 44 years. In recent times, Louisiana State Police changed tactics by partnering with a local radio host to create a true‑crime podcast. The show, called “Who Killed Roxanne? ” asked listeners for fresh information and encouraged community involvement. The podcast turned out to be a game changer. It prompted new tips, revealed previously unknown witnesses, and helped investigators piece together details that had been missing for decades. Following the renewed investigation, authorities secured arrest warrants in April 2026 against four men from Covington: Perry Wayne Taylor, Darrell Dean Spell, Carlos Cooper, and Billy Williams Jr. Each faces charges of aggravated rape and second‑degree murder.The story shows how modern media can influence justice. By telling the case in a conversational format, the podcast made the mystery accessible and motivated people to share what they knew. This approach highlights a broader trend: using public platforms to revive cold cases. Communities now have tools that were not available in the early 1980s, and this can lead to quicker resolutions. The outcome also underscores the importance of persistence. Even after decades, new evidence can surface if investigators keep looking for innovative ways to engage the public. The case is a reminder that justice can still be served, no matter how long it takes, when fresh ideas and technology meet determination.