Home / Crime and Justice / Life Sentence for Florida Mother's Murderer
Life Sentence for Florida Mother's Murderer
24 Oct
Summary
- Man sentenced to life without parole for 2020 murder.
- Victim's body has never been found by authorities.
- Family pleads for truth about mother's disappearance.
Shannon Ryan received a life sentence without parole on October 23, 2026, for the 2020 murder of Leila Cavett. Cavett, 21, vanished from Florida in July 2020, and her remains have never been recovered.
During Ryan's sentencing, Cavett's family implored him for the truth, seeking closure and the ability to give her a proper burial. Her sister expressed that Leila was more than a victim, she was a cherished daughter, sister, and mother.
Cavett's son, who was 2 years old when he was found alone shortly after her disappearance, shared a statement expressing his wish for his mother's presence. Ryan, who maintains his innocence and plans to appeal, declined to speak at the hearing.
Cavett was visiting Florida from Georgia when she disappeared. Evidence presented by prosecutors included surveillance footage of Ryan carrying a large garbage bag to a dumpster near where Cavett was last seen.
