Rawnews1st – Convicted pedophile Willie Seth Crains, Jr., 52, kidnapped and murdered Amanda Brown, 7. She had been taken from her mother’s house in the middle of the night. Her remains have never been found.
On September 9, 1998, Amanda had spent the night at her father’s house. While Amanda had been at her father’s house, Kathryn had gone to a local Tampa bar for a few drinks.
While out, she met Willie Crain, Jr., 52, a local crab fisherman.
Kathryn had known Crain’s daughter, Cynthia, who had introduced the two. After enjoying the evening out, Willie gave Katherine a ride home.
The next day, Amanda was doing her homework when Crain stopped by. He gave her a couple of dollars as an incentive for finishing her homework.
Kathryn invited Crain back for dinner; he returned a couple of hours later and had dinner. After dinner, Crain suggested they watch a movie at his house.
While watching the movie, Kathryn mentioned that her back was hurting and asked Crain if he had anything that she could take for pain. Katherine admitted she had struggled with a painkiller addiction problem. She took 5 valium at 5 milligrams each.
Soon after, Crain drove them home because it was getting late.
Kathryn insisted Crain stay until he sobered up a bit. Katherine got Amanda showered and ready for bed.
Katherine went to sleep at approximately 2:30 a.m. When Katherine woke up around 6:30 a.m., Amanda and Caine were gone.
She searched the house quickly, but Amanda was not there. Katherine called 911. A search was launched, but nothing was found.
During the investigation, it was uncovered Crain had been sentenced to 20 years for 3 counts of sexual battery on a minor under the age of 11 years. He was released after serving 6 years.
Crain agreed to be interviewed. Police also searched his residence. Forensics found traces of blood and faint blood smears were also found on the toilet bowl rim.
Willie Crain was arrested on charges of kidnapping and first-degree murder.
The trial for Willie Crain, Jr. lasted 9 days. The jury found Crain guilty and recommended the death penalty.
The judge agreed, and he was sentenced to death. Willie Crain, Jr. remains on death row in Raiford, Florida. He has been diagnosed with colon cancer.
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