
Chapter 1 | Behind the Crown
From Bone Valley by Lava for Good Podcasts
February 4, 2026 · 43 min · Season 4 · Episode 1
About this episode
Beth Shelburne explores the wrongful conviction of Toforest Johnson in the murder of Deputy William Hardy, revealing systemic issues in the justice system.
Earwitness: Chapter 1 | Behind the Crown Beth Shelburne dives into the shocking conviction of Toforest Johnson for the murder of Deputy William Hardy, following a case that never stopped bleeding questions. With former Attorney General Bill Baxley as her guide, she moves through a justice system wired for punishment over truth, uncovering a story built on fear, assumption, and a man who may not belong at its center. To learn more and get involved, visit: www.toforestjohnson.com Toforest on Instagram Earwitness is a production of Lava for Good™ Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
People in this episode
Hosts: Beth Shelburne, Toforest Johnson
Guest: Bill Baxley
Topics covered
- true crime
- wrongful conviction
- justice system
- murder case
- fear and assumption
Keywords
- Toforest Johnson
- Bill Baxley
- murder
- wrongful conviction
- justice system
- true crime
- Alabama
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Lava for Good Podcasts, Signal Co. No1
Places: Alabama
More episodes of Bone Valley
- Chapter 2 | Ride or Die · June 10, 2026 · 32 min
- Chapter 1 | Criminal Mischief · June 10, 2026 · 32 min
- Introducing - Bone Valley Season 5 | The Devil's Quarry · June 3, 2026 · 3 min
- Gilbert King Presents: Bone Valley Season 5 | The Devil's Quarry · May 28, 2026 · 37 min
- Introducing: My Mother's Lies · April 9, 2026 · 9 min
- Introducing - Blood Will Tell · March 19, 2026 · 10 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Bone Valley podcast page.