Trial to Begin for 1996 Murder of Tamika Cromer
The capital murder and sexual assault trial for Steven Augusta Ridge is scheduled to start in Dallas on Monday.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Sex Crimes
Steven Augusta Ridge faces trial starting Monday for the 1996 murder of 15-year-old Tamika Cromer. Authorities identified Ridge as a suspect after DNA evidence collected during the autopsy was matched through the CODIS database.
Why it matters
The case highlights the use of advances in forensic genetic technology to resolve decades-old cold cases. Investigations led by the local Cold Case Unit and Sexual Assault Kit Initiative provided the evidence needed to bring charges for the 1996 crime.
Steven Augusta Ridge is currently held on a $1 million bond in Dallas County ahead of his trial. He faces charges related to the 1996 capital murder and sexual assault of Tamika Cromer.
The players
Steven Augusta Ridge
He is the defendant currently facing trial for capital murder and sexual assault in Dallas County.
Tamika Cromer
She was the 15-year-old victim whose murder remained unsolved for decades until DNA evidence identified a suspect.
Cold Case Unit
This is a specialized division within the local law enforcement agency responsible for investigating unsolved homicides.
The details
Tamika Cromer was found dead under a bridge near the Trinity River in 1996. Investigators allege the victim died from blunt force injuries, strangulation, and thermal burns, leading to the eventual arrest of Ridge in October 2023.
Timeline
Tamika Cromer was found murdered in 1996.
Ridge was convicted of intoxication manslaughter in 1997.
Ridge was accused of assaulting a former wife in 2016.
Ridge was arrested and held on bond in October 2023.
The trial for capital murder and sexual assault begins on Monday.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern set by the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative in utilizing advanced forensic technology to pursue justice in cold cases. Such efforts reflect a broader shift in how cold case units utilize genetic evidence to prosecute decades-old crimes.
The upcoming trial and the associated investigation have brought renewed attention to public safety and the status of cold cases in Dallas. Residents may observe increased court activity in Dallas County as the high-profile legal proceedings commence on Monday.
The takeaway
This case demonstrates the enduring impact of modern forensic advances in securing accountability for past crimes. It serves as a reminder of the evolving capabilities law enforcement agencies employ to investigate incidents that occurred decades ago.
Further reading
For more information on similar legal proceedings, visit the Sex Crimes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KERA.
