Brief
Indiana man indicted in 20‑year‑old double‑murder case
Michael Jerome James, 35, was charged with the 2006 murders of Chynna Dickus and her 10‑year‑old stepson Blake, after a $100,000 reward prompted new leads.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Police in Indiana announced that Michael Jerome James, 35, has been indicted by a grand jury for the 2006 murders of Chynna Dickus, 26, and her 10‑year‑old stepson Blake Dickus, according to the Franklin Police Department.
On July 24, 2006, Sean Dickus discovered the bodies of his wife and son in their home. Over the next 20 years, billboards offered a $25,000 reward, later increased to $100,000 in September 2025, which authorities say helped secure the indictment.
Franklin Police Chief Kirby Cochran said investigators relied on forensic science and persistence, while Johnson County Prosecutor Lance D. Hamner noted the case motivated his career and that details of the evidence remain confidential.
Key facts
- Michael Jerome James, 35, was indicted for the murders of Chynna and Blake Dickus. (independent.co.uk)
- The murders occurred on July 24, 2006, in Indiana. (independent.co.uk)
- A reward for information rose to $100,000 in September 2025. (independent.co.uk)
- Franklin Police Chief Kirby Cochran credited forensic science for the breakthrough. (independent.co.uk)
- Prosecutor Lance D. Hamner said the case shaped his decision to run for prosecutor again. (independent.co.uk)
Sources
- [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Suspect arrested in 20-year-old Indiana double murder cold case”
