Dwight Mills: Alabama man charged with wife's Christmas Eve murder in 23-year-old cold case

Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.

DOTHAN, ALABAMA: The Dothan Police Department announced the arrest of 69-year-old Dwight Mills in connection with the Christmas Eve murder of his wife, Sharon Mills, more than two decades ago.

Mills was taken into custody on Monday morning, February 26, and now faces charges of murder and abuse of a corpse in the slaying of Sharon, who was 49 years old at the time of her tragic death.

Discovery of body propels investigation across state

The grim saga began on December 30, 2001, when Sharon was reported missing in Dothan, Alabama, by none other than her husband, Mills, as per Al.com.

A month later, her body was discovered in a drainage ditch near the intersection of County Road 173 and Lyons Lane located just north of Bonifay in Holmes County, Florida, bringing the investigation into the jurisdiction of multiple law enforcement agencies.

Dothan Police reopen cold case, and secure warrants with fresh leads and evidence

Dothan police initiated an investigation, but progress stalled as leads were exhausted, according to Lt Scott Owens. However, in a recent review of the old case file, new information emerged, prompting investigators to reexamine all aspects of the case.

With renewed determination and a fresh perspective, current investigators diligently pursued new and old leads, processed various tips, and carefully examined evidence. This concerted effort ultimately led to the issuance of warrants against Mills.

Lt Scott Owens applauds Dothan Police's commitment to solving 'cold cases'

Mills was taken into custody after a collaboration between Dothan police and the US Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Task Force.

“What are commonly referred to as ‘cold cases’ are always on the minds of police investigators,’’ Owens claimed.

“No murder case is ever closed, and the Dothan Police Department will always proceed forward in the prosecution of a case, no matter how much time has passed.”