The Arne Johnson Murder Trial
The first American murder trial to use demonic possession as a defense, connected to the famous Warren investigators.
The Arne Johnson Murder Trial
In 1981, Arne Cheyenne Johnson became the first person in American history to use demonic possession as a defense in a murder trial. The case, investigated by Ed and Lorraine Warren before the killing, was later adapted into “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It.”
The Possession of David Glatzel
The events began not with Arne, but with eleven-year-old David Glatzel. In 1980, David began experiencing what his family interpreted as demonic possession. He saw an old man who threatened him and later exhibited classic possession symptoms: growling voices, knowledge of hidden things, and violent outbursts.
Ed and Lorraine Warren investigated and arranged for Catholic clergy to perform exorcisms. During one session, Arne reportedly challenged the demon to leave David and enter him instead.
The Murder
On February 16, 1981, Arne Johnson stabbed his landlord, Alan Bono, during an altercation. Bono died from the wounds. Witnesses reported that Arne had been behaving strangely, growling and seemingly in a trance-like state.
Johnson’s defense team, at the Warrens’ suggestion, attempted to plead not guilty by reason of possession. The judge ruled the defense inadmissible, stating that the court could not determine whether demonic possession existed.
The Trial
Without the possession defense, Johnson was tried for first-degree manslaughter. He was convicted and sentenced to ten to twenty years in prison. He served five years before being released on parole.
The Controversy
The case generated intense debate. The Warrens stood by their assessment that demonic forces were involved. Skeptics pointed out that Johnson had been drinking heavily before the murder and that the possession claims conveniently emerged to explain away a violent crime.
Assessment
The Arne Johnson case marks a unique intersection of criminal law and paranormal claims. Whether Johnson was truly possessed or simply found a convenient excuse, the case established that American courts would not accept supernatural explanations for criminal behavior.