Salina Post
The Salina Public Library will host a book signing for an author who published the story that examines a 1983 Kansas homicide.
According to the Library, Debbie Gassert will be signing copies of her book, Mighty Neighborly, about the homicide case that made state history when a local man was convicted of murder without a witness, a murder weapon, or a recovered body.
The individual convicted in the case, J.T. Garner, was born in Scott County and lived in Dighton before later moving to Washington County, where the homicide occurred. The case continues to raise questions about evidence, justice and the lasting impact criminal cases can have on families and communities.
The signing will take place on Friday, June 5, from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm at the Library (301 West Elm St).
Gassert is a Kansas-based author whose writing blends meticulous research with a deep respect for personal and community history.
Born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, she has made Topeka, Kansas her home since 1977. A retired investigator and human resource professional with more than 35 years of experience in investigations and dispute resolution, Gassert brings a methodical, evidence-driven approach to storytelling.
Her background in examining claims, records, and testimony shapes her careful reconstruction of events and courtroom decisions. In retirement, she turned her focus to writing. Her early works include Gassertstine Castle’s Favorite Recipes, a cookbook centered on the people and stories behind the recipes, and The Stine and Pope Families, a carefully researched family history that builds on generations of ancestral records.
Gassert recently presented a copy of her book to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.
Both books were self-published and made available on Amazon. Click here to purchase a copy on Amazon.
For more information about the event, click here.