Florida Seeks Death Penalty After Biden Commutes Federal Sentences

Florida authorities have reopened the investigation into the 2006 execution-style murders of the Escobedo family after former President Joe Biden commuted the federal death sentences of the two convicted men, Daniel Troya and Ricardo Sanchez Jr., in December 2024. The family—parents Jose Luis and Yessica Escobedo and their young sons aged 3 and 4—were found shot alongside Florida’s Turnpike. In response to the commutations, St. Lucie County State Attorney Tom Bakkedahl and Sheriff Richard Del Toro have announced plans to pursue state-level capital charges to seek the death penalty, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the need for justice. Authorities criticize the federal clemency as bypassing due process and express concern that such leniency undermines the justice system. The case, which has left a lasting impact on the community, is being actively prepared for prosecution by local law enforcement, with a news conference planned to provide further details. Florida officials assert that the pursuit of justice now rests with the state, aiming to ensure the sentencing reflects the gravity of the murders.