Debora Green

Debora Green

Name	Debora Green
Birth name
Birth date	February 28, 1951
Birth place	Liberal, Kansas, United States
Death date
Death place
Alma mater
Occupation	Former physician
Years active
Organization
Known for	Convicted of arson and murder
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Debora Green (born February 28, 1951) is a former American physician who was convicted of arson and the murder of two of her children in 1995. Her case is notable for its complexity, involving issues of mental health, family dynamics, and forensic investigation.

Early Life and Education

Debora Jones was born in Liberal, Kansas, and grew up in a family that valued education. She excelled academically, graduating as valedictorian from her high school. She attended University of Kansas, where she earned a degree in chemistry, and later attended the University of Kansas School of Medicine, obtaining her medical degree.

Medical Career

Green completed her residency in internal medicine and began practicing as a physician. She was known for her intelligence and dedication to her work. However, her career was marred by personal issues, including struggles with mental health and substance abuse.

Personal Life

Debora married Michael Farrar, a fellow physician, and the couple had three children: Timothy, Kate, and Kelly. The marriage was troubled, with allegations of infidelity and domestic discord. These issues escalated over time, contributing to the tragic events that followed.

The Crime

In the early hours of October 24, 1995, a fire broke out at the Green family home in Prairie Village, Kansas. The fire resulted in the deaths of two of Green's children, Timothy and Kelly. Her daughter Kate survived the fire. Investigators determined that the fire was intentionally set, and suspicion quickly fell on Debora Green.

Investigation and Trial

The investigation revealed that Green had purchased large quantities of gasoline, which was used to start the fire. Additionally, evidence suggested that she had attempted to poison her husband, Michael Farrar, with ricin. Green was arrested and charged with arson and murder.

During the trial, the defense argued that Green suffered from mental illness, which impaired her judgment. However, the prosecution presented a strong case, including forensic evidence and testimony about her erratic behavior. In 1996, Green was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Aftermath

Green's case has been the subject of several books and documentaries, exploring the psychological and social factors that contributed to the tragedy. Her story raises important questions about the intersection of mental health and criminal justice.

Also see

• Arson
• Forensic psychology
• Mental health in the criminal justice system
• Family dynamics and crime