LADONNA HUMPHREY
Book Reviews
Crime Traveller
"Unexpected challenges and unsettling threats would not deter this group of remarkable individuals. LaDonna Humphrey, former Captain of the Fort Smith Major Crimes Unit Jay C. Rider, and former Fort Smith Detective Chris Boyd are driven by a fervent desire to secure the justice that has been denied to an innocent young woman and her family"
Reader's Favorite
"Moreover, it is the dogged tenacity and powerful sense of justice that Humphrey possesses that rockets this work of non-fiction into action and will certainly keep readers flipping pages to see what clue is uncovered next and how these experiences have shaped the author as a person. The Girl I Never Knew is a superb work of true crime narration that no fan should be without."
NewPages Blog
"For over two decades, the identity of Melissa Witt’s killer has been hidden among the dense trees and thorny undergrowth rooted deeply in the uneven ground of a remote mountaintop in the Ozark National Forest. Determined to find answers, LaDonna Humphrey has spent the past seven years hunting for
Melissa’s killer."
Public Statement on the Withdrawal of Strangled from Publication:
​
I am deeply saddened and disappointed by the recent developments involving my former co-author, Alecia Lockhart. The decision by Genius Book Publishing to withdraw our book, Strangled, from publication was made after a thorough investigation into serious allegations and false statements made by Ms. Lockhart.
As an author and a professional, I value honesty and integrity above all else. I have always ensured that my work is rooted in truth and accuracy, especially when dealing with sensitive and potentially damaging content. The allegations of nonpayment of royalties and the subsequent false accusations against both Genius Books and myself are not only untrue but also deeply troubling.
​
Genius Book Publishing conducted a diligent investigation and confirmed that all royalties due to Ms. Lockhart were paid in a timely manner. Despite being presented with this verifiable evidence, Ms. Lockhart chose to continue making false claims on a tabloid podcast. Additionally, the discovery of a false accusation against a third party, which she had provided to law enforcement further called her integrity into question.
​
The decision to withdraw Strangled from publication was not taken lightly. It was a necessary step to uphold the standards of truth and integrity that Genius Books and I firmly stand by. I fully support Genius Book Publishing's commitment to preventing defamation and ensuring that all published content is accurate and trustworthy.
Given these circumstances, I have ceased all contact with Alecia Lockhart and am actively seeking legal remedies to address this unfortunate situation. I regret the impact this has had on our readers and the community. Moving forward, I remain dedicated to my work and to maintaining the highest ethical standards in all my endeavors.
​
To read the official statement by Genius Book Publishing, click here.
Sincerely,
LaDonna Humphrey

