The Sheriffs of Florida stand with Governor Rick Scott and Attorney General Pam Bondi today as we condemn the unconscionable decision by State Attorney Aramis Ayala to not seek the death penalty in the prosecution of Markeith Loyd. By refusing to pursue the death penalty in this horrific case, State Attorney Ayala missed an opportunity to ensure that justice was served for the Clayton and Dixon families. The Florida Sheriffs will not stand idly by and watch as Lloyd is not prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law after executing a hero, Orlando Police Lt. Debra Clayton, and murdering his pregnant ex-girlfriend. Orange County Deputy Norman Lewis was also tragically killed during the manhunt. 

Governor Scott has removed State Attorney Ayala from the case and reassigned it to State Attorney Brad King from the 5th Judicial Circuit. We applaud these actions. Justice must be served and must be fitting of the crime. A killer does not deserve a reduced consequence of living while his victims and their families must deal with death.

Sheriff Jerry Demings
President, Florida Sheriffs Association
Sheriff, Orange County