The jury has recommended the death penalty for Jose Antonio Soto Escalera after finding him guilty of killing Tania Esther Wise and her unborn son in St. Lucie County. This decision marks a significant development in a case that has drawn attention throughout Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast.

Death Penalty Recommendation in St. Lucie County Murder Trial

The main keyword, death penalty, is central to the outcome of this high-profile trial in St. Lucie County. On September 25, 2025, a jury reached an 8-4 decision recommending Escalera receive the death penalty for the 2018 murder of Wise and her unborn child. This mirrors other recent cases, such as when a jury recommended the death sentence for Eriese Tisdale in St. Lucie County.

According to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, Wise’s body was discovered on August 24, 2018, along Russo Road near Johnston Road, a rural area in St. Lucie County. A passerby found her face-down and notified authorities at approximately 10:50 a.m.

Details of the Investigation and Arrest

St. Lucie County deputies reported that Wise, who was 23 years old and pregnant, died from a combination of blunt force trauma to the head and sharp force trauma to the neck. The medical examiner determined her throat had been slit.

According to a preliminary report from the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, Escalera, age 48 and a resident of Port St. Lucie, was arrested on September 21, 2018. Investigators linked him to the murders through evidence collected at the scene and subsequent DNA analysis, which confirmed Escalera was the father of the unborn baby.

Trial Proceedings and Jury Deliberation

The penalty phase of the trial began on September 24, 2025. Prosecutors argued that Escalera’s motive included preventing his wife from discovering Wise’s pregnancy. The jury deliberated for one hour and 25 minutes before reaching their recommendation.

According to official court records, the only sentencing options available were life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. The jury’s recommendation now goes to Circuit Judge Lawrence Mirman, who presided over the trial and has the authority to impose the final sentence.

Next Steps in the Sentencing Process

Judge Mirman has scheduled a Spencer Hearing for October 6, 2025. This hearing allows Escalera’s defense team to present additional evidence or arguments before sentencing is finalized. Escalera will also have the right to address the court at this time.

The final sentencing is expected in early November, according to court officials. Judge Mirman will consider the jury’s recommendation but retains discretion to impose either the death penalty or life in prison without parole.

Florida Death Penalty Laws and Recent Cases

Florida law permits the death penalty for capital felony convictions, including cases involving the murder of a pregnant woman and her unborn child. According to the Florida Department of Corrections, judges in Florida may impose death sentences following a jury recommendation, but are not required to do so.

Judge Mirman previously followed a jury’s recommendation in March 2025 to sentence Eriese Tisdale to death for the 2013 killing of St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Sgt. Gary Morales. Tisdale currently remains on Florida’s death row.

Capital Punishment Procedures in Florida

In Florida, after a jury recommends a sentence in a capital case, the presiding judge reviews all evidence and arguments before making a final decision. According to the Florida Supreme Court, the judge’s ruling is subject to appeal and review by higher courts. For more information on recent sentencing outcomes, see the coverage of the jury’s death penalty recommendation for Eriese Tisdale in St. Lucie County.

Details in this case may be updated as the investigation and sentencing process continues, according to official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Death Penalty in St. Lucie County

What is the death penalty process in St. Lucie County?

The death penalty process in St. Lucie County follows Florida law. After a conviction for a capital crime, a jury recommends life in prison or death, and the judge makes the final decision after a hearing.

How much time does it take to sentence someone to death in Florida?

Sentencing can take several weeks or months after a guilty verdict. The judge reviews the jury’s recommendation and holds a Spencer Hearing before issuing a sentence.

Are there recent death penalty cases in Port St. Lucie?

Yes, the case of Jose Antonio Soto Escalera is a recent example. Another case involved Eriese Tisdale, who was sentenced to death for the 2013 killing of a sheriff’s sergeant.

Can you appeal a death penalty sentence in Florida?

Yes, anyone sentenced to death in Florida has the right to appeal. The case is automatically reviewed by the Florida Supreme Court.

Where are death row inmates housed in Florida?

Death row inmates are housed at Florida State Prison in Raiford and Union Correctional Institution. These facilities are managed by the Florida Department of Corrections.

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