Wade Wilson, a 30-year-old man from Fort Myers, Florida, convicted of murdering two women in Cape Coral in 2019, is facing the death penalty during his sentencing today. A jury found Wilson guilty on June 12 for the killings of Kristine Melton, 35, and Diane Ruiz, 43, and recommended capital punishment after assessing both aggravating and mitigating factors.
The jury voted 9-3 and 10-2 in support of the death penalty for each victim. Lee Circuit Judge Nicholas Thompson will determine whether to impose the death penalty or sentence Wilson to life in prison without parole. The sentencing proceedings began at 2 p.m., with Thompson indicating that he would announce his decision at 4 p.m.
During the hearing, defense attorney Kevin Shirley asserted that Wilson has no documented history of brain injury and urged the judge to consider Wilson’s mental health challenges. Shirley also highlighted that under previous statutes requiring a unanimous jury vote for the death penalty, Wilson would have been ineligible.
Prosecutor Andreas Gardiner emphasized the heinous nature of the murders, noting how Wilson exerted power over Melton and Ruiz. He portrayed the crimes as particularly cruel and brought forward evidence to support the push for capital punishment.
As the proceedings continued, Wilson opted to remain silent. Instead, his parents submitted a letter appealing for mercy, expressing their belief that there is still humanity in their son. They condemned the system for failing him and urged the judge not to impose the death penalty.
After a brief recess, the court reconvened to review testimonies concerning Wilson’s mental health history and potential brain injuries related to past traumas. Experts discussed Wilson’s reported drug use and mental health issues, arguing whether they could have influenced his behavior leading up to the murders.
The sentencing hearing consists of complex arguments regarding Wilson’s mental state, the nature of his past injuries, and the implications for his potential sentence. The final ruling from Judge Thompson is expected later today, concluding a lengthy trial process that has drawn significant attention.