Three men from Florida face federal charges for their alleged involvement in a murder-for-hire scheme that resulted in the tragic death of a teenage girl in February.
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement in a press release on Thursday, naming the indicted individuals as Lenard White (36), Sheldon Robinson (21), and Keshawn Woods (22). The charges brought against them include murder for hire and conspiracy to commit murder for hire.
According to authorities, the case unfolded when a 17-year-old and her mother approached the Hernando County Sheriff's Office to report a sexual assault by Lenard White. Prosecutors claim that White then paid Robinson and Woods $10,000 to eliminate the victim to prevent her from pursuing further legal action.
The devastating incident took place the following day, with the victim, later identified as Isabella Angelina Scavelli, being shot and killed at her doorstep. Despite sustaining injuries, the victim's mother survived the attack.
Officials allege that Robinson and Woods carried out the shooting, having knocked on Scavelli's door before opening fire. Janet Williams, Robinson's mother, was also indicted and faces charges for making false statements to federal agents, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's office.
During a press conference, Hernando County Sheriff Al Nienhuis disclosed that a search of Williams' residence led to the discovery of $6,000, while the remaining $4,000 was found at Woods' home.
The victim, Isabella Scavelli, was identified as a junior at Hernando High School, where she was actively involved in the school's tennis team and Student Government, according to the Hernando County School District.
As of now, White and Robinson remain in state custody, awaiting a federal hearing. Woods, on the other hand, appeared in federal court on Wednesday and was ordered to be detained, whereas Williams was released on home detention.
Apart from the murder-for-hire charges, the trio is also accused of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death, and using a firearm to further a violent crime.
Additionally, White and Robinson face charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice, as stated by federal authorities. The current status of the defendants' pleas to the charges remains undisclosed.
For those who have experienced sexual assault or know someone who has, the National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or through rainn.org.
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