The Sunshine State is often associated with idyllic beaches and sunny skies. Yet, beneath this facade, a chilling tale of violence and betrayal unfolded, leaving a community reeling and a family shattered.
This is the story of Isabella Scavelli, a 17-year-old girl with a bright future ahead of her. An aspiring military recruit, active in student government, and a devoted tennis player, Isabella embodied the spirit of youthful optimism. “She was energetic, joyful, had a smile that would light up any room,” shared a family friend. “Such a sweet girl that was full of personality and the best daughter, sister, and aunt.” However, fate had a cruel twist in store for Isabella.
It began with a horrific act of sexual assault, allegedly perpetrated by 36-year-old Lonard White. In a courageous stand for justice, Isabella, accompanied by her mother, reported the crime to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office. But their brave act would have tragic consequences.
Just a day after filing the report, a chilling scene unfolded at Isabella’s home. Two individuals, later identified as Sheldon Robinson and Kesan Woods, arrived at the residence. As the door opened, a barrage of gunshots rang out, striking Isabella four times and injuring her mother.
“When you have a 17-year-old, in this particular victim, we have every reason to believe that she was not engaged in any high-risk activity,” stated Sheriff Al Nienhuis. “She was a good kid with a very bright future and to see her life cut short is heart-wrenching to say the least. Words can’t even express it.”
Investigators allege that White, fearing the repercussions of the sexual assault report, contracted Robinson and Woods for a staggering $110,000 to silence Isabella permanently. This heinous act, they assert, was a cold-blooded attempt to obstruct justice and silence a young woman who dared to speak out.
The evidence against the trio appears substantial. K9 units tracked the suspects’ scent from the crime scene, leading to the discovery of a shoe. DNA testing linked the shoe to Woods. Furthermore, authorities found $4,000 of the alleged hit money and a firearm at Woods’ residence. Robinson was found in possession of the remaining $6,000.
Adding another layer to this twisted tale, Robinson’s own mother, Janet Williams, has been charged with making false statements to federal agents.
The prosecution’s case seems strong, with DNA evidence, eyewitness accounts, and even incriminating social media posts where Robinson allegedly sought assistance with a “cleanup job” in exchange for cash and cocaine.
This case stands as a grim reminder of the vulnerability of those who seek justice and the brutal lengths some will go to silence the truth. Isabella’s story underscores the importance of supporting victims of sexual assault and ensuring they have access to the resources and protection they need.
A young woman walks with purpose, her back to the camera, as she leaves a courthouse, symbolizing the courage to report assault
As the legal proceedings continue, one can only hope that justice will be served for Isabella and her family. May her tragic story serve as a catalyst for change, encouraging a society where victims are empowered to speak out and where the pursuit of justice triumphs over violence and intimidation.