Griffin

A Lineville man has been charged with murder in the death of an Odenville Middle School librarian.

D’kota Chance Griffin, 27, was arrested after an investigation into the death of Michael Jeffrey Collins, whose body was found at his home with more than 70 stab wounds. He was also strangled, according to Sheriff Terry Surles.

Griffin is being held with no bond in the St. Clair County Jail in Pell City. His initial court appearance is expected later today at the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City.

“It has been a trying and hectic week,” Assistant Sheriff Billy Murray stated at a press conference this morning. “I want to thank Sheriff Terry Surles for his leadership in getting all of the wheels rolling as they needed to.”

While all information in the case has not been released, Murray was able to clarify some key points of the incident that began on Sunday, Aug. 20.

“The case is still under investigation…it is extremely complex,” Murray stated. “You have a situation where Mr. Collins was not only stabbed numerous (over 70) times but he was strangled as well. There was a physical altercation that arose in that (Collin’s) residence. As far as a motive, that is still under investigation.”

Murray confirmed that Collins and Griffin knew each other and had a prior romantic relationship that initially began through social media.

“There was no forced entry into the residence,” Murray explained. “School resource officers were asked by staff from the school to check on Mr. Collins since he did not arrive, which is certainly not something that he did. He was very punctual. They were able to go to the scene and immediately noticed that things were not as they should be.”

Forensic evidence at the scene quickly led investigators to suspect Griffin and officers were able to to locate him  at a residence in Anniston.

Murray also said Griffin has cooperated with law enforcement officials, who have conducted several interviews.

Murray said the case was a joint effort among numerous agencies over a three-county area. Agencies involved in the investigation include the St. Clair County District Attorney’s Office, FBI Gadsden, U.S. Marshall’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, Jacksonville Police Department, Alabama State Fire Marshall’s Office, Oxford Police Department, Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, Calhoun County District Attorney’s Office, and the Center for Applied Forensics at Jacksonville State University.

“We (St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office) will continue to pursue and interview any witnesses and any leads that come as we progress we can release more information,” Murray said.