Podcast Summary: 20/20 - True Crime Vault: Deadly Dance in Texas

Episode Title: True Crime Vault: Deadly Dance in Texas
Release Date: June 17, 2025
Host/Author: ABC News

Introduction

"Deadly Dance in Texas" delves into the chilling true crime case of Dr. Joseph Sonnier, a respected pathologist whose life was brutally cut short. Set against the backdrop of Lubbock, Texas, a town known for its vibrant community and picturesque sunsets, this episode unpacks the intricate web of relationships, deceit, and vengeance that led to Sonnier's untimely death.

Background: Dr. Joseph Sonnier and Rochelle Shatina

Dr. Joseph Sonnier, a 48-year-old successful businessman and multimillionaire, was a prominent figure in Lubbock's community. Despite his professional success, his personal life was tumultuous. After a long-term marriage to Becky ended abruptly, Becky tragically remarried only to meet a horrifying fate when her second husband murdered her and then took his own life. This series of events left Sonnier devastated and seeking a new direction in life.

Notable Quote:

"I took a chance. I went on a lark to a dance class. Ballroom, salsa, swing—things like that. And within this dance community, I found my confidence again." (12:30)

The Turning Point: Meeting Rochelle Shatina

Seeking to rebuild his life, Sonnier ventured into the dance community, where he met Rochelle Shatina, a 52-year-old single mother of four. Their relationship blossomed quickly, leading Sonnier to believe he had found love once more. Their romantic escapades culminated in a memorable trip to Paris, symbolizing their deep connection.

Notable Quote:

"We put a lock on a bridge. It was a love lock. Joseph wrote his name on it and I wrote my name on it. It's romantic." (22:15)

The Murder: An Unexpected Tragedy

Tragedy struck just weeks after their romantic Parisian gesture. Sonnier was found dead in his home, brutally shot and stabbed. The crime scene bore no signs of robbery, indicating a targeted hit. Lubbock, typically untouched by violent crime, was thrown into chaos as investigators scrambled to uncover the motive behind this heinous act.

Notable Quote:

"It wasn't a burglary. It was an in and out job. Whoever came into this house came in to kill this person specifically." (45:50)

Investigation: Unraveling the Motive

Detective Zach Johnson led the investigation, quickly ruling out robbery due to the lack of theft and the nature of the crime scene. The Sonnier children were left reeling, grappling with the loss of both parents under mysterious circumstances. Initial theories pointed towards a personal vendetta, possibly involving past relationships of Sonnier.

Rochelle expressed unease in the weeks leading up to the murder, fearing she was being watched. Her suspicions opened avenues into Sonnier's past, revealing connections with former girlfriends and individuals who might harbor grudges.

Notable Quote:

"We all love Becky... She's the only one I ever loved." (08:40)

(Note: This quote highlights Sonnier's deep emotional ties and the potential motives stemming from his relationships.)

Key Suspects: Dr. Thomas Michael Dixon

One significant suspect was Dr. Thomas Michael Dixon, a plastic surgeon and former boyfriend of Rochelle. Dixon's obsession with Rochelle and his inability to move past their breakup made him a person of interest. Surveillance and text messages suggested Dixon had motives rooted in jealousy and personal vendettas.

Detective Johnson's investigation led him to Dixon's involvement with Dave Sheppard, a convicted criminal with a history of deceit. Sheppard's testimony initially painted Dixon as the mastermind behind the murder, with Dixon allegedly orchestrating the hit to eliminate Sonnier.

Notable Quote:

"He was obsessed with Rochelle. He wanted to disrupt her new relationship." (34:20)

The Arrests and Trial: A Turbulent Courtroom Battle

Dixon and Sheppard were arrested and charged with Sonnier's murder, with strong evidence pointing towards a calculated hit. Prosecutors believed Sheppard's confession, wherein he detailed the planning and execution of the murder under Dixon's orders, sealed the case.

However, during the trial, Sheppard drastically changed his story, claiming sole responsibility and denying any involvement from Dixon. This unexpected twist cast significant doubt on the prosecution's case, leading to a hung jury and a mistrial.

Notable Quote:

"I did it at my own choosing. I'm the one who decided to go kill Dr. Sonnier." (01:15:40)

Aftermath and Appeals: The Conviction Overturned

Despite a year-long trial and public outcry from Sonnier's family, Dixon was initially convicted of capital murder and sentenced to life in prison. However, the 7th Court of Appeals in Amarillo overturned the conviction due to procedural errors, including inadmissible evidence and courtroom protocol breaches. Dixon was released on bond, reigniting discussions about the case's legitimacy and the justice system's handling of it.

Notable Quote:

"This was a slap in the face to the justice system." (02:45:10)

Renewed Trials and Final Verdict

Prosecutors, undeterred by the overturned conviction, returned with a second trial. This time, they focused on additional evidence and testimonies, including those from Sheppard's daughter, Haley, who provided crucial insights into Sheppard and Dixon's relationship.

Eventually, after presenting a more robust case and overcoming past inconsistencies, Dixon was found guilty in the second trial. The verdict brought some closure to Sonnier's family, though questions about the case's complexities and the initial mistrial lingered.

Notable Quote:

"The jury did their job. Finally, justice was served." (03:30:25)

Conclusion: A Community Shaken

"Deadly Dance in Texas" not only recounts a tragic murder but also highlights the ripple effects such crimes have on families and communities. Lubbock, once serene, became a focal point of suspense and legal drama, underscoring the fragile nature of trust and the devastating impact of obsession and revenge.

Final Quote:

"It's a tragedy beyond words. A reminder of the darkness that can reside even in the most respected individuals." (04:00:00)

Key Takeaways

• Complex Relationships: The intertwining relationships between Sonnier, Rochelle, and Dixon reveal how personal vendettas can escalate to fatal outcomes.

• Justice System Flaws: The initial mistrial and subsequent overturned conviction shed light on potential pitfalls within legal proceedings.

• Community Impact: Lubbock's transformation from a peaceful town to a hub of intense investigative efforts emphasizes the profound community impact of such crimes.

Note: This summary is based on the transcript provided for the "Deadly Dance in Texas" episode of ABC News' 20/20 True Crime Vault. All timestamps correspond to key moments discussed in the podcast.