‘Good Girl’ Daughter’s Shocking Confession Unravels Grisly Stabbing of Arkansas Widow in ‘Seduced to Slay’ Episode

In September 2003, Little Rock Police found 58-year-old widow Janie Ballard murdered in a horrific scene. After 40 years in law enforcement, veteran Arkansas investigator Steve Moore termed it a “blitz attack,” stabbing Ballard over 70 times in her home. His hatred and wrath were evident in the brutal crime.

(Photo: Southern Living)

From ‘Good Girl’ to Accused Murderer

Leslie MacKool, Ballard’s only child, was suspected. After marrying Mike MacKool, 23 years her senior, MacKool’s life went downhill from being a “good girl” with a great upbringing. Leslie altered her appearance to satisfy Mike out of passion.

Mike’s troubled past, including a juvenile homicide allegation, tainted the story. Leslie was furious when her mother’s will amendment reduced her bequest as the couple suffered financially. Ballard changed locks and security codes to protect herself as the situation progressed.

After notifying Leslie about Ballard’s murder, cops doubted her response. After first denying involvement, Leslie revealed her husband, Mike, plotted the murder. Leslie was furious after her mother changed her will, and her father’s death touched her.

READ ALSO: Arkansas woman stabbed more than 70 times in ‘blitz attack’ by ‘good girl’ daughter: ‘So much brutality’

MacKool Couple’s Grisly Plot Revealed in ‘Seduced to Slay’ Episode

In court, prosecutors alleged the MacKools expected a fortune if Janie Ballard died within 30 days of her husband’s death. Leslie was accused of stalking her mother in dark clothing, ambushing her, and killing her while Mike planned the operation. Mike received 40 years for first-degree murder and 20 years for theft, while Leslie received life.

After examining the case, Detective Steve Moore wanted to talk to Leslie again, appreciating Mike’s significance. Leslie committed the awful murder despite Mike’s manipulation and other women’s abuse. The case will be addressed in Investigation Discovery’s “Seduced to Slay” episode “The Good Girl,” airing December 18, 2023, at 10 p.m.

READ ALSO: Mother and son grifters who were ‘like a couple’ murdered wealthy socialite over NYC townhouse: ‘Evil energy’