A Florida man, Travis Ray Thompson, will spend the rest of his life in prison after being found guilty of murdering a 2-year-old girl, Jacklyn Schwingel, in May 2022. The horrific case shocked the community and drew national outrage over the disturbing details surrounding the child’s death.
Thompson, 27, was convicted of first-degree murder following a swift jury deliberation earlier this week. Jurors took less than two hours to return the guilty verdict. Fifth Judicial Circuit Judge Barbara Kissner handed down a life sentence with no possibility of parole.
State Attorney Bill Gladson did not hold back in expressing his feelings after the sentencing. “This monster stole the life of an innocent child, and today, the justice system made sure he will never walk free again,” Gladson said in a statement. “Life in prison is too good for this kind of evil.”
According to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred just days after the child’s mother ended a romantic relationship with Thompson. On the morning of May 2, 2022, Jacklyn was left in Thompson’s care while her mother went to work.
Authorities reported that Thompson abused Jacklyn with such violent force that her spine was “completely severed.” An autopsy later confirmed that she suffered traumatic injuries leading to a disarticulation of the lumbar spine and severe internal bleeding.
Investigators believe the injuries were caused by “significant, gradual force” applied to both her upper torso and lower body. The sheriff’s office said the injuries indicated the use of a fulcrum-like pressure point, leading to devastating damage to the toddler’s small frame.
Thompson reportedly waited 30 minutes before taking the injured child to the hospital. During that time, several phone calls were made before the girl’s mother arrived, and they both transported Jacklyn to the emergency room.
Sadly, Jacklyn died just three hours after being admitted to AdventHealth Waterman hospital in Tavares, a town about 40 miles northwest of Orlando. Medical staff quickly identified her injuries as suspicious and notified local law enforcement.
Although Thompson repeatedly denied harming the girl, detectives discovered chilling text messages revealing his anger towards the child’s mother. The couple had recently separated, and investigators believe resentment may have fueled the violence.
The arrest report stated Thompson initially claimed Jacklyn was left on a futon while he used the bathroom. He said he heard a noise and came out to find her limp and gurgling, still breathing faintly.
Sheriff Billy Woods praised his department’s Major Crimes Unit for their persistent efforts. “I’m incredibly proud of my detectives for their relentless work on this heartbreaking case. Their dedication helped secure justice for an innocent child,” Woods stated.
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