Bio

Timothy Charles Palmes was born in 1951. He grew up in Florida. As a young person, he seemed to be somewhat troubled and faced various challenges. In the mid-1970s, Palmes began associating with a group of people who would play a significant role in his life. Among them was Ronald Straight. The two forged a friendship that would eventually lead to criminal activities. This period of his life appeared to be characterized by poor choices and a growing disregard for the law.

By 1976, Palmes was involved in a plan that revolved around robbery and violence. Although details of his early life remain vague, it is clear that he struggled with many issues. These issues would later play a part in the tragic events he became involved in during his adult years.

Murder Story

On October 4, 1976, Timothy Charles Palmes, along with Ronald Straight, committed the murder of James N. Stone, a furniture store owner in Duval County, Florida. They had planned the murder for several weeks. The victim was lured to an apartment by Palmes' girlfriend, Jane Alpert, who initiated the encounter.

Once inside the apartment, Straight and Palmes attacked Stone using a hammer. They bound his hands and feet with wire and put him into a heavy wooden box that they had built. For approximately half an hour, they tortured Stone, physically assaulting him and amputating some of his fingers. Stone pleaded for his life during this time.

Eventually, Palmes and Straight used a butcher knife and a machete to stab Stone a total of 18 times. After the murder, they disposed of his body by placing it in the wooden box and sinking it in the St. Johns River. They also stole his money, wristwatch, and car. Jane Alpert took $2,800 from the victim's store as part of their plan.

Palmes, Straight, and Alpert fled to California. Shortly after, they were apprehended. Palmes was eventually indicted for first-degree murder and convicted. He was sentenced to death by electrocution, which took place on November 8, 1984, while Straight was executed later in 1986.