The Southside Rapist was set to be released from prison 34 years after terrorizing an entire city.
Ronnie Johnson terrorized Lebanon until his capture, conviction and life sentence, but Johnson's release has the detectives who put him away concerned.
"South Maple Street where I made the arrest all those years ago," said former Wilson county sheriff Terry Ashe.
Ashe was chief detective for the Lebanon Police Department in 1982. The city was gripped in fear. "A serial rapist was something unique to us," said Ashe.
Ashe said at least eight women were raped in their homes. "The last victim who is still alive today is someone I knew for years. When I went to see her I could not recognize her in the hospital she was beaten so badly," said Ashe.
An 18-month investigation led to the arrest of Ronnie Johnson, linked by blood and a fingerprint. A jury convicted him of raping that final victim sentencing Johnson to life in prison.
"Once he was incarcerated our rapes stopped," said Ashe.
A total of 34 years later, the state granted Johnson parole. Detective Mike Barbee who worked the case with Ashe wondered if Johnson, a convicted sexual predator, would still be a threat.
"Of course there's concern whether he's rehabilitated and no danger to the community," said Barbee.
Ashe knew he'd be on alert. He said over the years, Johnson made threats toward him from behind bars.
"I carry gun every day and that being said it's something you have to live with," said Ashe.
It was unclear where Johnson would go once his parole was finalized, but he still had family in the area and could return to Wilson county.
The 62-year-old Johnson has always maintained his innocence, but his conviction was upheld by the appellate court.
He was expected to be moved to a halfway house as soon as he completed his release plan for where he wants to live.
