How 80-year-old crosswording juror caused a mistrial in Florida Home depot murder case
A Florida judge has granted the defense team’s motion for a mistrial in the Home Depot murder case due to an “unhinged juror.” The case involves Sheila Agee, who is accused of aiding her son in killing the mother of his child at a Pensacola Home Depot store last year. After more than five hours of deliberations, Escambia County Judge Coleman Robinson called for a mistrial.
The mistrial was declared because a juror, Sallie Sue Smith, was found working on a crossword puzzle during witness testimony and again during deliberations. Smith claimed that the puzzle helped her focus, but other jurors expressed concerns about their safety in the jury room.
Judge Robinson questioned each juror individually to determine if they felt safe continuing with deliberations. Nearly 20 witnesses testified during the trial, but due to the jury’s issues, the trial was deemed “hindered beyond repair.”
Sheila Agee, 50, is facing charges in the shooting death of 18-year-old Brooklyn Sims after allegedly helping her son plan the attack. Text messages between Sheila and her son, Keith Agee, revealed her involvement in locating the victim and coordinating the murder.
Keith Agee, 20, was arrested in connection with Sims’ murder. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office released the alleged text messages between mother and son, highlighting Sheila’s knowledge and participation in the plan to kill Sims.
The case is set to be back in court on Feb. 5, where another jury will have to review the evidence and reach a fair verdict. Judge Robinson emphasized the importance of jurors following common sense, the law, and treating each other with respect during deliberations.
It is essential for the justice system to ensure that trials are conducted fairly and justly, without any disruptions or misconduct from jurors. The mistrial in the Home Depot murder case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of the legal process.
