News Cast for November 19th:
Woman gets sentenced to life in prison
Venus Bubel shot and killed Pamela Bearden on May 31, 2021, and learned her fate at a sentence hearing before Circuit Court Judge Dan Vaughn on Nov. 12
The state asked for life in prison plus consecutive sentences for second degree murder, aggravated assault and tampering with evidence.
Bubel apologized for her actions but continued to maintain she was in fear for her safety when she shot Bearden.
“It was a tragic day, I didn’t mean to do it. I felt fear, how devastated I am, I’m sorry.”
Both women had apparently dated the same man. Bubel claimed the man had a drug addiction and was abusive.
The shooting was caught on a neighbor’s door bell ring camera. It happened along NE 9th Lane near Bearden’s residence.
Several of the victim’s family members also gave victim impact statements.
Elisabeth Cox said there was nothing she could do to bring her sister back and that she forgives Bubel for what she did. She said Bubel violated the family home and safe space and deprived her sister of many happy moments with her children, like high school and college graduation and weddings.
“You made the choice to wreck your life. I forgive you for me. My sister didn’t deserve what she got.”
She went on to state that women shouldn’t be killing women.
“Women should help each other not tear each other down.”
Defense Attorney John Glenn said this was out of character for Bubel. He said a woman out of the blue kills somebody and nobody saw it coming.
“The maximum sentence doesn’t fit the crime. If there ever was a murder case that justified the minimum sentence, this might be it.”
Prosecutor Ashley Albright said he was happy with the sentence and it was a good ending to the case. He had a different opinion on whether Bubel intended to kill the victim.
“It was obviously a long-term amount of jealousy and hatred. This just wasn’t a one time walk in the door and find something going on. This was going on for months and both sides were aware of it.”
Bubel plans to appeal the conviction.
Several county commissioners planned to reorganize after the election with the swearing in of new commissioners this week.
Highlands, Martin and St. Lucie County planned ceremonies this morning.
Highlands Commissioners also voted to approve the rezoning for the Parks Project west of Lorida.
16 acres will be rezoned to allow housing, cabins, a boarding school, and summer camp facilities near Spring Lake.
Okeechobee lawmen jailed two men accused of trying to solicit sexual activity with minor girls in the past week.
Lesvin Chavez Lopez was held on $150,000 bond. Mr. Lopez allegedly attempted to offer a 15 year old girl cash for certain sexual activity.
Sidney Storey was held on $200,000 bond. He allegedly sent inappropriate messages to a minor child on snapchat including comments and photos.
The sheriff said both cases included cell phone evidence.