Cold Case Files: Who Killed My Father

Host: Paula Barros
Release Date: February 11, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Cold Case Files, Paula Barros delves into the tragic murder of Freddie Farah, a beloved grocery store owner in Jacksonville, Florida. The case, which remained unsolved for over four decades, showcases the relentless pursuit of justice by Freddie’s family and dedicated investigators.

The Crime: May 22, 1974

On the Wednesday before Memorial Day weekend, Freddie Farah was diligently managing his Grand Park Food Market, catering to a tight-knit Palestinian community in Jacksonville. As Freddie attended to his customers, a young man entered the store under the guise of asking for a price check. Moments later, the situation escalated dramatically.

Detective Margaret Ratigan: "The suspect pointed it at Mr. Farah. Mr. Farah stepped to his right... The suspect made a couple statements like give it up. Give me the money."
[03:41]

As Freddie instinctively reached to move the firearm, the young man fired a single shot, striking Freddie in the head. Despite being rushed to Methodist Hospital, Freddie succumbed to his injuries, leaving his family devastated.

Freddie Farah's Family Member: "I took a bullet out of my pocket and I slid it across the table."
[02:22]

Initial Investigation and Cold Case

The immediate aftermath saw police officers scouring the neighborhood for witnesses. Witness Alfonso Bates provided a critical description of the suspect, a Black male approximately six feet tall. A young man named Billy McLeod became a person of interest after being seen fleeing the scene, but insufficient evidence led to his release.

Detective: "When you tell me that you were never there, then your denials are just as good as the confession."
[02:26]

Without concrete evidence or DNA technology, the case quickly went cold, leaving Freddie’s family, especially his son Bobby, yearning for answers.

Decades of Pursuit

For over 40 years, Bobby Farah remained steadfast in his quest to uncover the truth behind his father's murder. His relentless pursuit eventually led him to connect with Sergeant Dan Jansen of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.

Bobby Farah: "I did want to see him face to face, and I knew Bobby was going to ask questions, and I did want to hear his answers."
[36:01]

In 2016, advancements in forensic technology reignited hope. Detective Jansen revisited the case, utilizing enhanced fingerprint analysis techniques that ultimately linked the fingerprints found on evidence to Johnny Miller.

Detective: "He said, 'did you not know that my dad was murdered?' And I said, 'no.' And now that I was a cold case sergeant, 'Did I mind if I would take a look at his father's case?'"
[21:23]

Breakthrough and Arrest

The identification of Johnny Miller marked a significant breakthrough. Despite challenges in locating Miller, persistent detective work led to his arrest in New Orleans. However, the untimely passing of eyewitness Annette Bryant posed a substantial hurdle, as her testimony was pivotal for prosecution.

Detective: "Without Ms. Bryant's testimony, it seemed to us that the likelihood of obtaining a conviction in this case was quite low."
[35:28]

Restorative Justice and Closure

To provide closure for the Farah family, prosecutors proposed a restorative justice session. This innovative approach allowed Miller to meet with Freddie’s family, offering an opportunity for dialogue and understanding.

Bobby Farah: "Mr. Miller kept saying, 'I'm sorry, I'm sorry.' And then I just told him, 'we forgive you.'"
[38:48]

The session proved transformative. Freddie’s mother demonstrated immense forgiveness, while Bobby found peace in releasing his long-held grudge.

Freddie Farah's Family Member: "The fact that he gave me more answers than I've had in 43 years, it just helps me."
[39:46]

Johnny Miller subsequently pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, bringing an end to one of Jacksonville’s oldest cold cases.

Conclusion: The Power of Persistence and Forgiveness

"Who Killed My Father" is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the pursuit of justice. It highlights how advancements in forensic science, coupled with unwavering dedication, can eventually bring resolution to even the most enduring mysteries. The Farah family's journey underscores the profound impact of forgiveness and the closure it can bring, not just to victims' families but to the broader quest for justice.

Notable Quotes:

• Bobby Farah: "He just wanted to know."
  [02:44]

• Freddie Farah's Family Member: "I'm not going to stop asking until they tell me to stop."
  [02:39]

• Detective Ratigan: "With today's fingerprint technology... in 1974, you rolled prints and you looked at them under a magnifying glass."
  [14:15]

• Ryan Backman (Project Cold Case): "The most important thing to Bobby in the world was finding out who did it. That was the thing that he needed and wanted most. He wanted justice."
  [25:28]

This episode encapsulates the heartache of a family left in the dark for decades and the relentless pursuit that eventually shed light on a long-forgotten crime. Through technology, perseverance, and the human capacity for forgiveness, Cold Case Files delivers a poignant narrative of loss, justice, and healing.