Florida Schedules Execution for Man Convicted in Brutal 1998 Neighbor Murder

Florida has set an execution date for Michael Vance, the man convicted decades ago for the brutal murder of his neighbor in 1998. The order from Governor Ron DeSantis marks the culmination of a legal saga spanning more than twenty-five years, bringing the case to its definitive and final chapter.

The crime, which shocked the community of Lakeland, Florida, occurred in June 1998.

Prosecutors detailed how Vance entered the home of his neighbor, Sarah Jenkins, during a robbery attempt that tragically escalated into murder. Jenkins was found deceased at her residence, the victim of a violent assault. Evidence presented at trial, including forensic analysis and witness testimony, overwhelmingly pointed to Vance, who lived just doors away.

Following a swift investigation, Vance was apprehended and subsequently charged with first-degree murder.

His trial, held in 2000, resulted in a guilty verdict and a sentence of death. Since his conviction, Vance has pursued numerous appeals through both state and federal courts, challenging the validity of his conviction and sentence. His legal team consistently raised arguments concerning evidence admissibility and alleged ineffective counsel, all of which have ultimately been denied by higher courts, including the U.S.

Supreme Court.

The victim's family, who have endured decades of legal proceedings, expressed a mix of relief and sorrow upon learning of the impending execution. "It doesn't bring Sarah back, but it brings a measure of closure to a pain that has lasted too long," stated a family spokesperson. This sentiment underscores the profound and lasting impact such violent crimes have on communities and the loved ones left behind, waiting for justice.

The execution is scheduled to take place on October 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Florida State Prison in Raiford.

Vance will be the 120th inmate to be executed in Florida since the reinstatement of capital punishment in 1976. As the date approaches, final legal maneuvers are expected from his defense, but given the extensive review his case has already received, significant obstacles to the execution are considered unlikely, paving the way for the state to carry out its ultimate penalty.