From “America’s Most Wanted,” to Capture, to Execution: Edward Thomas James

Edward Thomas James was one of 1,190 criminals caught after appearing on the TV show “America’s Most Wanted,” which helped capture hundreds of dangerous criminals. During one episode of the show, which ran for 24 seasons, a woman in California recognized James and contacted police. He was then arrested and sent back to Florida to face trial for the deaths of eight-year-old Toni Neuner and fifty-eight-year-old Elizabeth (Betty) Dick.

Note: This case contains disturbing content.

On September 20, 1993, James, who rented a room in Betty’s mobile home, returned from a party. According to witnesses, although he had been drinking, he wasn’t completely intoxicated. When he entered the home, he noticed Betty’s four grandchildren sleeping in the living room. Betty often took care of her grandchildren.

James took Toni into his room where he sexually assaulted and killed her. The medical examination showed she died from strangulation and suffered other serious injuries.

James then attacked Betty in her bedroom. When she screamed, Toni’s nine-year-old sister, Wendi, woke up and went to check on her grandmother. Wendi saw James attacking Betty, who kept asking, “Why Eddie, why?”

James put Wendi in the bathroom and tied her hands before going back to sexually assault and kill Betty. Eventually, Wendi freed herself and escaped through the back door. She climbed over a fence, hid from passing cars, and ran to her Uncle Tim’s house with the pillowcase she had been gagged with still around her neck.

By the time police arrived, James had stolen Betty’s car and fled, taking some jewelry and a small amount of money. Investigators found both victims in the home, along with the weapon used in the attack.

James drove to Oklahoma, selling some of Betty’s jewelry along the way. He continued to California where he ran out of money.

After his capture, James was tried and sentenced to death for capital murder. His execution is scheduled for March 20, 2025. While some people oppose the death penalty, many Florida residents believe this punishment is appropriate for such serious crimes.

SOURCES:
Kidnapping, Murder and Mayhem
Cover photo: Florida Department of Corrections