Florida dad Accused of Gruesome Crime: Killing 16 year old son with Grinder
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In a shocking and disturbing case of filicide( when a parent kills their child), 37-year-old Stephen Thomas Rodda stands accused of brutally killing his own 16-year-old son, Stephen Lee Rodda. The crime, which occurred in Lake Wales, Florida, has left the community in shock and mourning. This article delves into the details of this horrific crime, examining the events leading up to the tragedy, the investigation, and the subsequent arrest and charges faced by Stephen Thomas Rodda
The Discovery of a Gruesome Scene
The scene of the crime was discovered by the victim’s grandfather, Thomas Rodda, who had been staying at a mobile home in Lake Wales. Thomas returned home after visiting his wife at a rehabilitation center, only to be met by Stephen Thomas Rodda outside the residence. Stephen Thomas, with an ominous warning, told his father, “I wouldn’t go in there if I were you. I killed someone. You may need to call the police.”
The Brutal Murder
Upon entering the home, Thomas Rodda found his grandson, Stephen Lee Rodda, lifeless in the dining area. The affidavit revealed a scene of absolute horror, with the victim’s body bearing deep cuts and missing teeth. The murder weapon, a broken handheld angle grinder, was found nearby and is believed to have been used with extreme force by Stephen Thomas Rodda. The motive behind this brutal act remains unclear.
A Troubled History
Stephen Thomas Rodda’s troubled history came to light during the investigation. He had a long-standing problem with methamphetamine use, reportedly dating back to his high school years. Additionally, he had a documented history of psychotic episodes, further highlighting his mental instability. The suspect had recently returned to Lake Wales after traveling around the country, with stops in Washington, D.C., Ohio, and South Carolina, where he had an outstanding warrant.
Lack of Remorse
During an interview with detectives, Stephen Thomas Rodda displayed a disturbing lack of remorse or concern for the killing of his own son. He made conflicting statements, including the claim that his son had died years ago when he was a child. These statements, coupled with his history of drug use and mental health issues, paint a chilling picture of a deeply troubled individual.
The Arrest and Charges
Stephen Thomas Rodda attempted to flee the scene of the crime but was apprehended by authorities on Highway 60, approximately a mile away. He was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and taken into custody. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has vowed to ensure that Stephen Thomas Rodda faces justice and spends the rest of his life in prison.
Remembering Stephen Lee Rodda
Stephen Lee Rodda, the innocent victim of this heinous crime, was described by family members and community members as a remarkable young man. He had dreams of becoming an electrician and was set to start working at Burger King to save money for a car. His untimely death has left the community devastated, mourning the loss of a promising young life.
The Impact on the Community
The Lake Wales community has been deeply affected by this tragedy. The Polk County Sheriff, Grady Judd, expressed his heartbreak over the event, emphasizing the incomprehensible nature of the crime. He condemned Stephen Thomas Rodda as an “evil, evil man” and assured the community that every effort would be made to ensure justice is served.
Conclusion
The case of Stephen Thomas Rodda and the murder of his son, Stephen Lee Rodda, represents a chilling instance of filicide that has shocked the Lake Wales community. As the investigation continues and the legal process unfolds, the community mourns the loss of a bright young man and seeks solace in the hope that justice will be served. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health support and intervention in preventing such horrific acts of violence.
