John Peter Malveaux
Louisiana Serial Killer
CLASSIFICATION: Serial Homicide
LOCATION
Opelousas, Louisiana
TIME PERIOD
February 1996 - October 1997
VICTIMS
4 confirmed
On October 29, 1997, John Peter Malveaux, an American serial killer, committed his final known murder of 38-year-old Tammy Duplechin Smith in a rural area of Evangeline Parish, Louisiana, after meeting her at the Charcoal Lounge in Opelousas. Malveaux's crime spree spanned from February 20, 1996, to October 29, 1997, during which he murdered four women, including Diane Sam, Carolyn Breaux Nichols, and Tamika Blake Wilson, with the bodies of the latter two found near St. Landry Parish Airport. Malveaux was apprehended on November 4, 1997, after a survivor of his attack reported the incident to authorities, leading to his confession and subsequent guilty plea on all counts of first-degree murder and rape. He is currently serving four life sentences without the possibility of parole at the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Significant evidence includes the survivor's testimony and forensic analysis linking Malveaux to the victims, which was crucial in securing his conviction.
Investigators and the public speculate that Malveaux may have had connections to other unsolved cases in the area, particularly due to the timing and nature of his crimes. Some believe that his friendly demeanor and community ties allowed him to evade suspicion for longer than he might have otherwise. There is also discussion about the potential influence of his drinking problems on his violent behavior, suggesting a link between substance abuse and his criminal actions.
The Dark Path of John Peter Malveaux: A Serial Killer's Reign of Terror
John Peter Malveaux, born in 1964 in the quiet community of Opelousas, Louisiana, would become known as one of the most notorious serial killers in the region's history. His life, outwardly ordinary, concealed dark impulses that would lead to the brutal murders of four women from February 1996 to October 1997. This is the chilling narrative of a man whose friendly exterior masked a monstrous reality.
Early Life
Little is documented about Malveaux's early years. As a child, he served as an altar boy, a seemingly benign beginning that belied the path he would later take. He eventually settled in a trailer park in Lafayette, marrying and fathering six sons. Those who knew Malveaux described him as a friendly and well-liked individual, though his relationships with the local Apostolic Church were strained due to his drinking problems.
The Murders Begin
The horror began on January 31, 1996, when Malveaux allegedly strangled Melissa Thomas at the Little Zion Cemetery in Opelousas. Years later, the infamous serial killer Samuel Little confessed to this murder, casting doubt on Malveaux's involvement. However, on February 20, Malveaux's violent spree became undeniable with the murder of 38-year-old Diane Sam. After she refused his advances, Malveaux sexually assaulted and strangled her, leaving her partially clothed body at an apartment complex. Initially misattributed to natural causes, her death wasn't linked to Malveaux until after his arrest.
In July 1997, Malveaux claimed two more victims. He raped and strangled 26-year-old Carolyn Breaux Nichols and Tamika Blake Wilson, a visitor from Baltimore. Their bodies were discarded near the St. Landry Parish Airport, found by a passer-by. Malveaux's brutality escalated on October 19, when he met a woman at a nightclub, raped, and nearly strangled her to death in a storage shed behind Lincoln Street. Believing she had died, he left her behind, but she survived, eventually regaining consciousness and alerting the authorities.
On October 29, Malveaux encountered Tammy Duplechin Smith at the Charcoal Lounge in Opelousas. He raped and strangled her in a rural area of Evangeline Parish, keeping her Dodge Dynasty as a trophy, which ultimately led to his downfall.
Arrest and Investigation
Tammy Smith's disappearance sparked a search that included her missing car. On November 4, officers located the vehicle in Breaux Bridge with Malveaux asleep inside. His arrest was swift and shocking to his family and neighbors, who couldn't reconcile the man they knew with the heinous acts he was accused of committing.
During interrogation, Malveaux confessed to killing Diane Sam, providing details only the murderer could know. Authorities considered exhuming Sam's body to gather more evidence. Meanwhile, Malveaux was held at Evangeline Parish Jail on second-degree murder charges with a $1 million bond. The investigation broadened, linking Malveaux to other unsolved cases, though no charges resulted from these inquiries.
Trials and Imprisonment
In November, Malveaux faced a grand jury in St. Landry Parish, where he admitted to the murders and provided a detailed account. He pleaded guilty to all charges, receiving three life sentences without parole. A special task force formed to investigate further crimes found no additional links to Malveaux.
In December, Malveaux's trial continued in Evangeline Parish for the murder of Tammy Smith. He attempted to recant earlier statements, claiming Smith's death occurred in St. Landry Parish. However, coroner Roderick Perron's report confirmed the murder took place in Evangeline Parish, allowing the trial to proceed.
Under Louisiana law, the theft of Smith's car could qualify Malveaux for the death penalty. However, after discussions with the victim's family, prosecutor Earl Taylor accepted a plea deal: Malveaux pleaded guilty in exchange for a fourth life sentence without parole. Expressing remorse, Malveaux claimed divine guidance led him to confess, though he struggled to articulate why he began killing.
Current Status
As of March 2025, John Peter Malveaux remains incarcerated at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in West Feliciana Parish, a grim reminder of the darkness that once lurked behind his unassuming facade.
Sources
- Bruce Murray (November 5, 1997). "Malveaux described as a nice guy by neighbors." The Daily Advertiser – via Newspapers.com.
- Schexnayder, C.J. (November 25, 1997). "Serial killer cuts deal." The Daily Advertiser.
- Schexnayder, C.J. (November 7, 1997). "Police link another death to suspected serial killer." The Daily Advertiser.
- Griffin, Wayland (November 6, 1997). "Malveaux identified by victim." Daily World.
- "Police arrest Lafayette man for four murders." The Crowley Post-Signal. November 5, 1997.
- "Man confesses to woman's murder." The Times. November 8, 1997.
- "Authorities may exhume woman." Daily World. November 9, 1997.
- "Accused serial killer faces Evangeline Parish judge." Ville Platte Gazette. November 9, 1997.
- C.J. Schexnayder (November 13, 1997). "Police explore accused killer's links to crimes." The Daily Advertiser.
- Wayland Griffin (November 21, 1997). "Malveaux named as suspect in another rape." Daily World.
- C.J. Schexnayder (December 3, 1997). "Malveaux case expanded." The Daily Advertiser.
- "Serial killer says 4th murder was committed in St. Landry." The Daily Advertiser. December 12, 1997.
- Ronnie Pitre (January 11, 1998). "John Peter Malveaux emerged as parish's first serial murderer." Daily World.
- C.J. Schexnayder (February 27, 1998). "Serial killer could face death penalty." The Daily Advertiser.
- "Man gets life sentence for murdering 4 women." The Town Talk. April 6, 1998.
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First Murder Committed
John Peter Malveaux sexually assaults and strangles Diane Sam.
Two More Murders
Malveaux rapes and strangles Carolyn Breaux Nichols and Tamika Blake Wilson.
Surviving Victim Escapes
A woman escapes after being assaulted by Malveaux and reports the attack.
Final Murder
Malveaux rapes and strangles Tammy Duplechin Smith.
Arrest Made
Malveaux is arrested after being found sleeping in Smith's car.
Confession to Murders
Malveaux confesses to killing Diane Sam, providing details only the killer would know.
Trial Begins
Malveaux stands trial and pleads guilty to four counts of murder.
Sentenced to Life
Malveaux is sentenced to four life terms without parole.
On October 29, 1997, John Peter Malveaux, an American serial killer, committed his final known murder of 38-year-old Tammy Duplechin Smith in a rural area of Evangeline Parish, Louisiana, after meeting her at the Charcoal Lounge in Opelousas. Malveaux's crime spree spanned from February 20, 1996, to October 29, 1997, during which he murdered four women, including Diane Sam, Carolyn Breaux Nichols, and Tamika Blake Wilson, with the bodies of the latter two found near St. Landry Parish Airport. Malveaux was apprehended on November 4, 1997, after a survivor of his attack reported the incident to authorities, leading to his confession and subsequent guilty plea on all counts of first-degree murder and rape. He is currently serving four life sentences without the possibility of parole at the Louisiana State Penitentiary. Significant evidence includes the survivor's testimony and forensic analysis linking Malveaux to the victims, which was crucial in securing his conviction.
Investigators and the public speculate that Malveaux may have had connections to other unsolved cases in the area, particularly due to the timing and nature of his crimes. Some believe that his friendly demeanor and community ties allowed him to evade suspicion for longer than he might have otherwise. There is also discussion about the potential influence of his drinking problems on his violent behavior, suggesting a link between substance abuse and his criminal actions.
The Dark Path of John Peter Malveaux: A Serial Killer's Reign of Terror
John Peter Malveaux, born in 1964 in the quiet community of Opelousas, Louisiana, would become known as one of the most notorious serial killers in the region's history. His life, outwardly ordinary, concealed dark impulses that would lead to the brutal murders of four women from February 1996 to October 1997. This is the chilling narrative of a man whose friendly exterior masked a monstrous reality.
Early Life
Little is documented about Malveaux's early years. As a child, he served as an altar boy, a seemingly benign beginning that belied the path he would later take. He eventually settled in a trailer park in Lafayette, marrying and fathering six sons. Those who knew Malveaux described him as a friendly and well-liked individual, though his relationships with the local Apostolic Church were strained due to his drinking problems.
The Murders Begin
The horror began on January 31, 1996, when Malveaux allegedly strangled Melissa Thomas at the Little Zion Cemetery in Opelousas. Years later, the infamous serial killer Samuel Little confessed to this murder, casting doubt on Malveaux's involvement. However, on February 20, Malveaux's violent spree became undeniable with the murder of 38-year-old Diane Sam. After she refused his advances, Malveaux sexually assaulted and strangled her, leaving her partially clothed body at an apartment complex. Initially misattributed to natural causes, her death wasn't linked to Malveaux until after his arrest.
In July 1997, Malveaux claimed two more victims. He raped and strangled 26-year-old Carolyn Breaux Nichols and Tamika Blake Wilson, a visitor from Baltimore. Their bodies were discarded near the St. Landry Parish Airport, found by a passer-by. Malveaux's brutality escalated on October 19, when he met a woman at a nightclub, raped, and nearly strangled her to death in a storage shed behind Lincoln Street. Believing she had died, he left her behind, but she survived, eventually regaining consciousness and alerting the authorities.
On October 29, Malveaux encountered Tammy Duplechin Smith at the Charcoal Lounge in Opelousas. He raped and strangled her in a rural area of Evangeline Parish, keeping her Dodge Dynasty as a trophy, which ultimately led to his downfall.
Arrest and Investigation
Tammy Smith's disappearance sparked a search that included her missing car. On November 4, officers located the vehicle in Breaux Bridge with Malveaux asleep inside. His arrest was swift and shocking to his family and neighbors, who couldn't reconcile the man they knew with the heinous acts he was accused of committing.
During interrogation, Malveaux confessed to killing Diane Sam, providing details only the murderer could know. Authorities considered exhuming Sam's body to gather more evidence. Meanwhile, Malveaux was held at Evangeline Parish Jail on second-degree murder charges with a $1 million bond. The investigation broadened, linking Malveaux to other unsolved cases, though no charges resulted from these inquiries.
Trials and Imprisonment
In November, Malveaux faced a grand jury in St. Landry Parish, where he admitted to the murders and provided a detailed account. He pleaded guilty to all charges, receiving three life sentences without parole. A special task force formed to investigate further crimes found no additional links to Malveaux.
In December, Malveaux's trial continued in Evangeline Parish for the murder of Tammy Smith. He attempted to recant earlier statements, claiming Smith's death occurred in St. Landry Parish. However, coroner Roderick Perron's report confirmed the murder took place in Evangeline Parish, allowing the trial to proceed.
Under Louisiana law, the theft of Smith's car could qualify Malveaux for the death penalty. However, after discussions with the victim's family, prosecutor Earl Taylor accepted a plea deal: Malveaux pleaded guilty in exchange for a fourth life sentence without parole. Expressing remorse, Malveaux claimed divine guidance led him to confess, though he struggled to articulate why he began killing.
Current Status
As of March 2025, John Peter Malveaux remains incarcerated at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in West Feliciana Parish, a grim reminder of the darkness that once lurked behind his unassuming facade.
Sources
- Bruce Murray (November 5, 1997). "Malveaux described as a nice guy by neighbors." The Daily Advertiser – via Newspapers.com.
- Schexnayder, C.J. (November 25, 1997). "Serial killer cuts deal." The Daily Advertiser.
- Schexnayder, C.J. (November 7, 1997). "Police link another death to suspected serial killer." The Daily Advertiser.
- Griffin, Wayland (November 6, 1997). "Malveaux identified by victim." Daily World.
- "Police arrest Lafayette man for four murders." The Crowley Post-Signal. November 5, 1997.
- "Man confesses to woman's murder." The Times. November 8, 1997.
- "Authorities may exhume woman." Daily World. November 9, 1997.
- "Accused serial killer faces Evangeline Parish judge." Ville Platte Gazette. November 9, 1997.
- C.J. Schexnayder (November 13, 1997). "Police explore accused killer's links to crimes." The Daily Advertiser.
- Wayland Griffin (November 21, 1997). "Malveaux named as suspect in another rape." Daily World.
- C.J. Schexnayder (December 3, 1997). "Malveaux case expanded." The Daily Advertiser.
- "Serial killer says 4th murder was committed in St. Landry." The Daily Advertiser. December 12, 1997.
- Ronnie Pitre (January 11, 1998). "John Peter Malveaux emerged as parish's first serial murderer." Daily World.
- C.J. Schexnayder (February 27, 1998). "Serial killer could face death penalty." The Daily Advertiser.
- "Man gets life sentence for murdering 4 women." The Town Talk. April 6, 1998.
No Recent News
No recent news articles found for this case. Check back later for updates.
No Evidence Submitted
No evidence found for this case. Be the first to submit evidence in the comments below.
Join the discussion
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First Murder Committed
John Peter Malveaux sexually assaults and strangles Diane Sam.
Two More Murders
Malveaux rapes and strangles Carolyn Breaux Nichols and Tamika Blake Wilson.
Surviving Victim Escapes
A woman escapes after being assaulted by Malveaux and reports the attack.
Final Murder
Malveaux rapes and strangles Tammy Duplechin Smith.
Arrest Made
Malveaux is arrested after being found sleeping in Smith's car.
Confession to Murders
Malveaux confesses to killing Diane Sam, providing details only the killer would know.
Trial Begins
Malveaux stands trial and pleads guilty to four counts of murder.
Sentenced to Life
Malveaux is sentenced to four life terms without parole.