The tragic death of Isabella Scavelli, a Florida teen who was allegedly murdered to silence her after reporting a sexual assault, is a stark reminder of the importance of protecting victims’ rights and ensuring justice is served.
Isabella, a bright and promising young woman with dreams of joining the military, did everything right. After enduring a horrific experience, she bravely came forward with her mother to report the assault to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office. Tragically, her courage was met with unimaginable violence.
A Shocking Turn of Events
Just one day after reporting the assault, Isabella and her mother were victims of a targeted shooting at their home. Gunmen opened fire, fatally wounding Isabella and injuring her mother.
“[She] was a good kid with a very bright future,” stated Sheriff Al Nienhuis, expressing the collective heartbreak felt by the community and law enforcement. “To see her life cut short is heart-wrenching, to say the least.”
Unraveling the Conspiracy
The investigation quickly pointed towards a chilling possibility: Isabella’s alleged assailant, 36-year-old Lonard White, had contracted a hit on her to prevent further legal action. He allegedly paid Sheldon Robinson $10,000 to carry out the murder.
“This is a case of stupid criminals doing stupid things,” remarked Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronburg. He pointed to the trail of evidence left behind, including DNA on a shoe found at the crime scene, a social media post by Robinson seeking help for a “cleanup job” in exchange for $5,000 and cocaine, and inconsistent alibis.
Robinson further implicated himself by involving another individual, Kesan Woods, who accepted the offer. This web of communication, payment trails, and social media activity provided law enforcement with substantial evidence.
“They’re going to play the burden of proof,” Aronburg commented, anticipating the defense strategy. “But the evidence is pretty powerful.”
A Community Mourns, Justice Prevails?
Isabella’s death sent shockwaves through the community, sparking outrage and calls for justice. The brazen nature of the crime, coupled with the alleged attempt to obstruct justice, highlighted the urgent need for increased support for victims of sexual assault and stronger consequences for perpetrators.
White, Robinson, and Woods have been charged with conspiracy, murder for hire, and firearm offenses. Robinson’s mother, Janet Williams, also faces charges for allegedly making false statements to federal agents.
Image of a courtroom
“These folks… there’s no zone of privacy anymore in this world,” Aronburg noted, referencing the incriminating social media posts. “Everything is an open book.”
While nothing can bring Isabella back, her case serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of speaking up against injustice and the need for a society that believes and protects those who do. The hope now is that the legal proceedings will deliver justice for Isabella, her family, and her community.