CRIME & LAW

Florida Set to Execute Man Convicted in 1986

▪

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 8

Center 100%

Sources: 8

STARKE, Fla. Officials scheduled execution of Melvin Trotter, 65, for Tuesday evening after his conviction for murdering grocery owner Virgie Langford during a 1986 robbery. He is to receive a three-drug injection at 6 p.m. at Florida State Prison near Starke; first convicted in 1987 and resentenced to death in 1993 after a Florida Supreme Court order. The Florida Supreme Court rejected an appeal on Feb. 17 and a U.S. Supreme Court filing awaits review. Florida carried out a record 19 executions in 2025; this would be the state's second this year. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

1986: Virgie Langford was attacked and later died from injuries.
1987: Melvin Trotter was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death.
1993: After appellate review, Trotter was resentenced to death following a Florida Supreme Court order.
2025: Florida issued and carried out an unprecedented 19 executions under Gov. Ron DeSantis.
Feb. 17–24, 2026: Florida Supreme Court denied a late appeal on Feb. 17; execution scheduled Feb. 24; U.S. Supreme Court filing pending.

Why This Matters to You

Capital punishment remains a hot topic in America. This case, spanning four decades, highlights the lengthy appeals process. If you're interested in legal rights or the death penalty, follow the U.S. Supreme Court's decision on Trotter's final appeal.

The Bottom Line

Florida's execution record is on the rise, with 19 in 2025 alone. This case underscores the state's commitment to capital punishment. Worth forwarding if you know someone passionate about criminal justice reform.