Jury Recommends Death Penalty for Ex-Prison Guard in Florida Bank Massacre

Zephen Xaver's execution-style murders of five women in 2019 prompt 9-3 jury vote for capital punishment.

The final sentencing decision will be made by Circuit Judge Angela Cowden, who could impose life imprisonment instead.
Xaver pleaded guilty to five counts of first-degree murder, avoiding a trial delayed by the pandemic and legal issues.
Prosecutors argued the killings were premeditated and driven by Xaver's desire to experience murder.
Defense attorneys claimed Xaver's mental illness and lack of adequate treatment should spare him the death penalty.
The case has reignited discussions on Florida's death penalty laws, recently amended to allow non-unanimous jury recommendations.