The Sunshine State is often associated with sunny beaches and carefree vacations. However, even in paradise, darkness can lurk. Today, we delve into a chilling case that shook the community and reminds us that evil can cast a long shadow.
This is the story of Isabella Scavelli, a vibrant 17-year-old with a bright future ahead of her. Sadly, her life was tragically cut short, not once but twice. Isabella was a victim of sexual assault, and when she bravely came forward to report the crime, she became a victim again – this time of a chilling murder plot.
A Young Life Cut Short: The Assault and the Plot
Isabella’s nightmare began when she was sexually assaulted by 36-year-old Lonard White. Showing immense courage, she and her mother reported the crime to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office. Little did they know, this act of bravery would have deadly consequences.
Federal prosecutors allege that upon learning of the report, White, driven by fear and a desire to silence his victim, hatched a sinister plan. He contacted Sheldon Robinson and Kesan Woods, offering them a staggering $110,000 to murder Isabella.
A Night of Terror: The Murder and Its Aftermath
On February 6, the unthinkable happened. Robinson and Woods arrived at Isabella’s home and opened fire, fatally wounding the young girl 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,” shared Sheriff Al Nienhuis in a press conference. “She was a good kid with a very bright future, and to see her life cut short is heart-wrenching, to say the least.”
Adding to the tragedy is the cold-blooded nature of the murder. Autopsy reports reveal Isabella was shot in the back, indicating she was trying to escape when the bullets struck her.
A young woman, Isabella Scavelli, smiles at the camera in a posed photograph
Unraveling the Conspiracy: Evidence and Arrests
Despite attempts to cover their tracks, the perpetrators left a trail of evidence, leading to their swift apprehension. A discarded shoe at the crime scene linked Woods to the murder through DNA analysis. Further investigation uncovered $4,000 of the blood money at Woods’ residence, along with an arsenal of guns and drugs. Robinson was found with the remaining $6,000.
As if the murder itself wasn’t egregious enough, Robinson’s own social media posts further incriminated him. In a shocking display of audacity, he had brazenly sought assistance for a “cleanup job,” offering a $5,000 reward along with cocaine.
Seeking Justice: The Legal Battle Ahead
White, Robinson, and Woods now face charges of conspiracy, murder for hire, and firearm offenses. Robinson and White also face drug-related charges, and Robinson’s mother, Janet Williams, faces charges for providing false statements to federal agents in an attempt to cover up her son’s involvement.
Palm Beach County State Attorney, Dave Aronberg, shared his perspective on the case, “This is a case of stupid criminals doing stupid things and getting the justice ultimately that they deserve.” He believes justice will be served and that the accused, if found guilty, will likely spend the rest of their lives behind bars.
A Life Remembered: Honoring Isabella’s Legacy
Isabella’s tragic story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of believing and supporting survivors of sexual assault. Her bravery in coming forward should be commended, and her untimely death underscores the urgent need for greater protection and support for victims.
Isabella was more than just a victim; she was a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a young woman with dreams and aspirations. She was an active member of her community, involved in student government and a passionate tennis player. She dreamed of serving her country in the military after graduation.
This case serves as a chilling reminder that even in the pursuit of justice, evil can prevail, and innocent lives can be lost. It reinforces the importance of continuing the fight against sexual violence, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable for their heinous actions.
We remember Isabella Scavelli, a young life taken too soon, and we hope her story inspires others to fight for justice and create a world where such tragedies are never repeated.