Bio

Alpha Otis O'Daniel Stephens was born in 1945. Growing up in Georgia, he had a troubled childhood. As a young adult, Stephens struggled to stay on the right path. He got involved in crime. By the time he was 29 years old, he was already serving sentences for burglary when he escaped from jail in August 1974. This escape marked a significant turning point in his life. After he fled, Stephens committed several crimes, including armed robbery.

His life took a tragic turn on August 21, 1974. During this time, he broke into a house in Twiggs County, although it was reported that he was accompanied by another man. They were in the process of burglarizing the home when the victim, Roy Asbell, arrived unexpectedly.

Stephens' interactions with Asbell escalated quickly. After a brief confrontation, he would later overpower Asbell and force him into his vehicle. They drove to a location in Bleckley County, where a serious crime occurred.

Stephens was arrested the day after his crime spree. He was charged and subsequently convicted, ultimately receiving a death sentence for his actions. On December 12, 1984, he was executed in Georgia. His early life and choices led him down a path that had devastating consequences for both himself and his victim.

Murder Story

On August 21, 1974, Alpha Otis O'Daniel Stephens committed a robbery and murder in Twiggs County, Georgia. He had recently escaped from jail and was involved in a series of crimes. While burglary was in progress at Charles Asbell's home, Roy Asbell, Charles’ father, arrived unexpectedly. Stephens confronted Asbell, who questioned him about what he was doing in the house. When Asbell tried to defend himself, Stephens struck him repeatedly and forced him into his car.

Stephens then drove with Asbell to a remote area about three miles away in Bleckley County. As Asbell attempted to escape, he hobbled toward an abandoned barn. However, Stephens pursued him with a .357 magnum pistol. After taking additional money from Asbell, Stephens shot him twice in the head at close range, leading to Asbell's death.

The following day, law enforcement apprehended Stephens, linking him to the crime through evidence they collected. A murder investigation commenced, and Stephens confessed to the crime during questioning. He was charged with several offenses related to the incident, including murder, armed robbery, and kidnapping.

On January 21, 1975, he was found guilty of murder and sentenced to death. Following his conviction, there were numerous legal proceedings, including appeals. However, the Georgia Supreme Court upheld both the conviction and the death sentence. Stephens' attempts for habeas corpus relief were ultimately denied, and he was executed in Georgia on December 12, 1984.