Mother, Stepfather Changed in 'Precious Doe' Case

'Precious Doe,' a three-year-old girl whose decapitated body was found near a road April 28, 2001 now has a name -- Erica Michelle Marie Green -- and her mother and stepfather have been charged with her murder.

The 'Precious Doe' case had frustrated police for four years and had been featured on several television crime shows, including "America's Most Wanted." In the end, police say, it was a tip from a family member that led to the arrest of Michelle M. Johnson, the 30-year-old mother of Erica, and Harrell Johnson, 25, her stepfather.

Police said Johnson told them he was under the influence of alcohol and PCP when he became angry with Erica when she refused to go to bed. He kicked her, threw her on the floor, and left her there unconscious. Erica remained on the floor unconscious for two days, because the couple refused to seek medical help because they both had warrants out for their arrest, police said.

After Erica died the Johnsons carried her to a church parking lot, then into a wooded area where the stepfather cut her head off with hedge clippers. Erica's body was found near an intersection and two days later her head was found nearby in a plastic trash bag.

Press reports said a grandfather of one of the principles involved came forward last weekend, providing police with photographs of Erica as well as hair samples from the child and the mother.

The Johnsons were arrested and are being held in jail in Muskogee, Oklahoma where they live. Police said they were visiting friends in Kansas City when Erica was killed.

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Murder Charges for Mother, Stepfather of 'Precious Doe'