Decades-Old Sacramento Cold Case Solved by DNA
The original case collapse with a key witness fled to Ohio
A Sacramento County jury on convicted Arties Johnson of first-degree murder for the brutal 1981 slaying of 66-year-old Clara Miller, a verdict secured decades after the original case faltered, thanks to advances in DNA technology.
The jury delivered its verdict on September 30, 2025, also finding true the allegations that Johnson personally used a knife in the commission of the murder and that the murder was committed during a burglary.
Miller was murdered on December 16, 1981, after her front door was kicked in, leaving a distinct boot print. Evidence presented showed Miller was beaten, strangled, and stabbed multiple times in the stomach. The attacker left the knife inside the victim's genitalia before fleeing with her purse and car.
At the time, Johnson had a friend who lived across the street from the victim. The night of the homicide, Johnson and the friend passed Miller’s burning car. Johnson allegedly pointed out the vehicle to his friend, confessing, "it was the car of the lady he just killed."
The next morning, the two disposed of the boots used to kick in the door by throwing them in the levee, destroying a critical piece of evidence. In May 1982, an anonymous caller led police to Johnson's friend, who ultimately identified Johnson as the killer.
Johnson was arrested and charged, but the case collapsed when the friend fled to Ohio to avoid testifying. Johnson had reportedly told the friend to "get rid" of the anonymous caller and leave town.
Without the key witness, the case was dismissed at the preliminary hearing. The case remained cold for more than 40 years until 2024, when technological advances allowed for new DNA analysis.
Testing revealed Johnson's DNA on the knife that had been left in the victim. This forensic evidence proved to be the key to resurrecting the prosecution.
Johnson now faces a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole. Sentencing is scheduled for November 7, 2025, before the Honorable Helena Gweon.
