Going West: True Crime

Episode: Cody Johnson // 501

Release Date: May 9, 2025
Host/Authors: Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman
Produced by: Dark West Productions

Introduction

In Episode 501 of Going West: True Crime, hosts Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman delve into the tragic and complex case of Cody Johnson’s disappearance and subsequent murder. This episode intricately weaves through the personal lives of Cody and his wife Jordan Graham, uncovering the layers of their relationship, the peculiar events leading up to Cody’s untimely death, and the ensuing investigation that ultimately revealed unsettling truths.

Background of Cody Johnson and Jordan Graham

Cody Johnson, born on April 8, 1988, in San Jose, California, was the sole child of Sherry Johnson following her divorce from Cody’s biological father. At a young age, Cody moved with his mother to Kalispell, Montana, seeking a more serene environment away from the bustling Bay Area. Cody thrived in Montana, embracing outdoor activities like hunting, kayaking, and developing a passion for cars. After high school, he secured a job with Nomad Global Communication Solutions, working on specialized tactical vehicles—a role that perfectly blended his technical skills and love for automobiles.

Jordan Graham, born in August 1991, was raised in Kalispell by her mother Lindy and stepfather Steve Rutledge. Active in the Faith Baptist Church from a young age, Jordan was known as a shy, introverted individual who excelled in babysitting and later worked at Blessed Beginnings Daycare. Her involvement in the church and community made her a well-liked and trusted figure among local families.

Their Relationship and Marriage

Cody and Jordan’s paths first crossed at a local Taco Bell after a Sunday night church service in October 2011. Despite their contrasting personalities—Cody being outgoing and the life of the party, and Jordan being reserved—their connection was undeniable. Daphne notes, “[02:18] Daphne, Co-host: In such a beautiful setting as well. So without further ado, let's get into this one.”

Their relationship blossomed quickly, and within a year, Cody proposed to Jordan in December 2012. They married in June 2013 in Woodland Park, Kalispell. However, those close to Cody sensed something amiss. Friends like Cameron and Jeremiah expressed concerns about the rapid pace of their relationship, observing that Cody seemed to be investing heavily without reciprocation from Jordan. This tension culminated in the couple's wedding day, where guests noted Jordan seemed emotionally distant, with Daphne reflecting, “[17:37] Daphne, Co-host: Yeah, it’s kind of strange because people were saying that she looked like she was just hysterically crying.”

Disappearance and Initial Concerns

The day following their wedding, Jordan began exhibiting signs of distress. She sent worried texts to her maid of honor, Kimberly, expressing doubts about her marriage and her ability to cope with intimacy. By July 1, her anxiety escalated, leading her to question the validity of her decision to marry Cody. Heath summarizes, “[19:04] True Crime Host: Well, that week seemed like an absolute blur.”

On July 7, 2013, Cody failed to show up for work, raising immediate alarms given his punctuality and dedication. Jordan reported an altercation that evening, claiming Cody had left with friends in a dark-colored car, an account that quickly began to unravel as inconsistencies emerged.

Investigation and Unraveling the Truth

Detective Corey Clark’s observations marked a turning point in the investigation. On July 10, a cryptic email from an unknown "Tony" suggested Cody had fallen to his death after going for a hike. The email, sent from Jordan’s parents' computer, cast suspicion on Jordan’s narrative. Heath emphasizes, “[46:30] Daphne, Co-host: It was them.”

Surveillance footage contradicted Jordan’s story, showing her entering Glacier National Park with Cody shortly after sunset on July 7. This evidence was pivotal, leading to heightened scrutiny of Jordan’s account of the events.

During the trial, prosecutors presented damning evidence, including the discovery of Cody’s body with severe injuries indicative of a deliberate push rather than an accidental fall. Notably, Cody was found without his wedding ring and near a black cloth resembling a blindfold, suggesting premeditation.

Trial and Conviction

Jordan pleaded not guilty initially but later accepted a plea deal, admitting to second-degree murder. The trial revealed:

• Defense Argument: Jordan acted in self-defense during a heated argument, leading to a push that unintentionally caused Cody’s fall.
• Prosecution Argument: The presence of a blindfold and the positioning of Cody’s body suggested intentionality. Additionally, the email and surveillance footage undermined Jordan’s credibility.

Despite testimonials from friends and family portraying Jordan as a faithful churchgoer, the evidence overwhelmingly indicated her involvement in Cody’s death. On March 27, 2014, Jordan Graham was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to 30 years in prison with 4.5 years of supervised release.

Conclusion and Reflections

The case of Cody Johnson and Jordan Graham serves as a haunting reminder of the complexities within personal relationships and the devastating consequences that can unfold. Daphne poignantly reflects, “[57:26] Daphne, Co-host: Jordan’s brother Michael even explained during the trial, she could have told us the truth, but she kept telling lies to cover it up.”

The episode underscores the importance of listening to concerns expressed by friends and recognizing the signs of turmoil in relationships. As Daphne advises listeners, “[59:33] Daphne, Co-host: Is get a divorce and believe your friends when they're telling you that they see that you don't see.”

Notable Quotes

• Heath Merryman:
  “[02:02] True Crime Host: Yeah, definitely go check it out. But today we have a story for you guys that takes a lot of twists and turns.”

• Daphne Woolsoncroft:
  “[16:50] True Crime Host: And I do think that that's kind of a natural thing. I think that happens with a lot of. A lot of people.”

• Detective Corey Clark:
  “[36:44] True Crime Host: Yeah. So there were already inconsistencies within Jordan's story that she just couldn't explain.”

• FBI Agent Stacy Smidala:
  “[49:16] True Crime Host: ... Detective Smith calmly told Jordan that she wasn't under arrest for anything, but that she needed to ask Jordan a few more questions ...”

Final Thoughts

The tragic demise of Cody Johnson and the unraveling of his marriage to Jordan Graham offer a deeply moving narrative filled with twists and harrowing discoveries. Going West: True Crime masterfully guides listeners through the intricate details of the case, providing a comprehensive understanding of the events that led to this heartbreaking conclusion. Hosts Daphne and Heath invite listeners to reflect on the importance of awareness and intervention in troubled relationships, leaving a lasting impact through their meticulous storytelling.

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