Spencer Ross Pearson, the Florida man responsible for the brutal stabbing of his ex-girlfriend and her mother in 2023, has been sentenced to life in prison.
The attack, which occurred on June 3, 2023, outside a restaurant in Ponte Vedra Beach, left Pearson’s ex, Madison Schemitz, paralyzed from the chest down and caused severe injuries to her mother, Jaclyn Roge.
Pearson, who was 18 at the time of the attack, pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery causing serious bodily injury with a weapon.
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In addition to Schemitz and her mother, a third victim, Kennedy Armstrong, was injured while intervening to stop Pearson, receiving serious hand injuries.
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The attack was a result of months of stalking and harassment by Pearson, who assaulted Schemitz from behind, stabbing her approximately 15 times.
Schemitz, a former star softball player, has since undergone extensive physical therapy. Despite the traumatic injuries, she managed to walk across the stage to receive her high school diploma less than a year after the attack.
During his sentencing on November 22, 2024, Pearson expressed deep regret for his actions, acknowledging the severity of his crime.
“I need serious help, and I have for a long time,” Pearson said. “It was the worst day of my life, and it’s something I think about constantly.”
He also apologized to the victims, stating that he takes full responsibility for the pain he caused.
In response, Schemitz shared her commitment to healing and moving forward. “This chapter, though challenging, is now behind us,” she said.
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“With the support of those who have stood by me, I’m confident that I will continue to grow stronger each day.”
She emphasized that while her journey is far from over, she is focused on using her strength to help others facing similar struggles.
Pearson’s life sentence brings a conclusion to a case that shocked the community, but for Schemitz, the focus is now on healing and finding peace in the aftermath of the traumatic attack.