Fort Myers, FL – In a grim conclusion to a prolonged legal battle, Wade Wilson was sentenced to death for the brutal murders of two Florida women. The sentencing occurred Tuesday, marking the end of a case that has captivated and horrified the community. His attorney, Kevin Shirley, announced plans to appeal the ruling, which was handed down at the Lee County Justice Center.
The decision follows a jury’s earlier recommendation for the death penalty, passed by votes of 9-3 and 10-2 for the murders of Kristine Melton and Diane Ruiz, respectively. Under a recent law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the jury no longer needs to reach a unanimous decision; only eight votes are required to recommend the death sentence.
Reacting to the verdict, Shirley expressed a somber acceptance of the outcome, emphasizing the difficulty of overturning a jury’s recommendation without substantial new evidence, which the defense was unable to produce. “We gave what we have,” Shirley remarked, indicating a foreseeable yet foreboding result.
Throughout the trial, Wilson, 30, remained notably unemotive, even as the judgment was read. When questioned immediately after sentencing, Shirley divulged that Wilson had not uttered a single word to his defense team, a silence that underscored his understanding of the legal stakes involved.
The legal proceedings attracted unusual attention, not just for the heinous nature of the crimes but also because of the extensive discussion and support for Wilson on social media platforms. Shirley, also involved in other high-profile cases, noted the unprecedented public engagement with Wilson’s case, mentioning a significant fundraising campaign for Wilson’s legal defense. The campaign aimed to secure a reputed defense team for an appeal slated for August 2024, although the recent developments may not have been reflected on the fundraising page.
The sentencing phase included last-minute testimonies that highlighted contentious expert opinions. Dr. Mark Rubino, a neurologist testifying for the defense, presented findings from recent brain scans suggesting past brain trauma in Wilson which might have impacted his behavior. This testimony was directly countered by Dr. Thomas Coyne, Deputy Chief Medical Examiner of Lee County, who found no evidence of brain atrophy.
Immediately following the sentence, Shirley along with legal partners Lee Hollander and Wendy Perez, filed an appeal against the death sentence. The appeal process, directed to the Florida Supreme Court, is anticipated to be a protracted one.
Previously, a motion filed by Wilson’s defense seeking acquittal or a retrial for Melton’s murder was denied by the judge earlier this month, further complicating the defense’s position.
Wilson’s interactions with his legal team and his overall demeanor have been notable throughout the trial. Shirley remarked on Wilson’s intimidating presence but acknowledged his appreciation for strong legal representation. Complicating Wilson’s public image was his distinctive face tattoos, including swastikas and a Joker-inspired smile, which the defense unsuccessfully attempted to cover during the trial citing mental health concerns.
As the legal saga continues, the case remains a focal topic for legal analysts and a somber chapter for those affected by the tragic deaths of Melton and Ruiz.