The Capture and Execution of John Francis Roche: The Devil of Yorkville

The chilling tale of the “Devil of Yorkville” came to a dramatic conclusion on January 26, 1956, as John Francis Roche, a notorious serial killer, met his fate in the electric chair at Sing Sing prison. Roche’s reign of terror began with the brutal assault and murder of 14-year-old Dorothy Westwater, known as “Sugar,” in June 1954.

The story of Roche’s capture and confession is a harrowing one. Patrolman Gustave Roniger, on a routine traffic stop in Queens, discovered that the driver fit the description of a wanted criminal in connection with Westwater’s heinous murder. Roche, a career criminal with a troubled past, confessed to not only Westwater’s murder but also to the killings of three other innocent victims in the area.

Despite his attorney’s attempts to paint a picture of a troubled upbringing and a troubled mind, Roche showed little interest in saving himself. He expressed a desire to die rather than face the consequences of his actions. The jury wasted no time in finding him guilty of first-degree murder, sealing his fate with a date in the electric chair.

Roche’s execution in 1956 brought closure to the families of his victims and the residents of Yorkville, who had lived in fear of the “Devil” in their midst. His stony silence and lack of remorse until the very end only solidified his reputation as a cold-blooded killer who got what he deserved.

The story of John Francis Roche serves as a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk in the hearts of men and the swift justice that awaits those who commit unspeakable acts of violence.