Woman Convicted of Murder After Florida Trip for Rival

A New York woman has been convicted of first-degree murder in connection with a violent attack that occurred in Florida in July 2022. Sakiyna Thompson, 31, traveled to South Florida after discovering that Kayla Hodgson, 23, was dating her former boyfriend and had blocked her on social media. Thompson's actions leading up to the killing, including her disguised early-morning arrival at Hodgson's residence, were central to the prosecution's argument of premeditation.

The jury was presented with graphic evidence, including bodycam footage and autopsy photos, detailing the brutality of the attack. Investigators compiled evidence from flight records, cellphone data, and items recovered from the scene to link Thompson to the crime. Thompson's defense claimed she acted in self-defense and "blacked out" during the confrontation, a narrative that contrasted with the prosecution's focus on a planned, retaliatory act.

Following deliberations, the Broward County jury returned a guilty verdict for Thompson. Hodgson's family stated that the verdict provided them with peace and justice after a long wait, emphasizing that their loved one did not deserve to die in such a manner. Thompson was arrested in New York and extradited to Florida to face the murder charges.