Spencer Pearson Sentenced to Life in Prison for Brutal Stabbing of Ex-Girlfriend Madison Schemitz and Her Mother
Introduction
In a case that shocked the Ponte Vedra Beach community and beyond, Spencer Pearson has been sentenced to life in prison for the brutal stabbing of his ex-girlfriend Madison Schemitz, her mother Jacki Rogé, and a good Samaritan who intervened. The harrowing attack, which unfolded on June 3, 2023, outside Mr. Chubby's Wings, left the community grappling with the horrors of domestic violence. The life sentence handed down to Pearson by Judge R. Lee Smith serves as a powerful statement in the pursuit of justice and the protection of victims.
Background
The violent attack occurred on a Saturday afternoon outside a busy restaurant in Ponte Vedra Beach. Spencer Pearson, then 18, ambushed Madison Schemitz and her family as they exited Mr. Chubby’s Wings. The 17-year-old Schemitz suffered severe, life-threatening injuries from multiple stab wounds, while her mother, Jacki Rogé, was also attacked as she tried to protect her daughter. A heroic passerby, Kennedy Armstrong, intervened, sustaining injuries himself before subduing Pearson.
The assault followed months of troubling behavior from Pearson, who had been stalking Schemitz after she ended their relationship. According to statements presented during the court hearings, Schemitz and her mother had taken preventive measures, such as alerting authorities, but the escalation of Pearson's actions culminated in this brutal attack.
For in-depth details about the incident, visit the First Coast News report on the case.
Legal Proceedings
In court, Spencer Pearson pleaded guilty to the charges of attempted murder and aggravated battery, among others. Judge R. Lee Smith sentenced him to life in prison, citing the ruthless nature of the crime and Pearson’s dangerous disposition. The decision to impose the maximum possible penalty reflected the court’s view that Pearson remained a severe threat to public safety.
The defense presented arguments suggesting that Pearson’s mental state had been impacted by Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a condition potentially linked to years of playing tackle football. However, the court found these claims insufficient to mitigate the severity of the crime.
Victim Impact Statements
During the sentencing, Madison Schemitz delivered a powerful statement recounting the emotional and physical toll the attack has taken on her life. She described the extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and emotional trauma she has endured since that day. In her words, “I am scarred, but I am not broken. With the support of my family and my community, I will continue to rise.”
Schemitz expressed her deepest gratitude to her mother for risking her life to protect her and to Kennedy Armstrong for his bravery in stepping in at a critical moment. These heartfelt statements underscored the enduring strength of the victims and their resolve to overcome the challenges they face. Watch highlights of the courtroom testimonies on First Coast News’ YouTube channel.
Community Response
The tragic events and the resulting trial have left a mark on the Ponte Vedra Beach community. Local law enforcement leaders, including St. Johns County Sheriff Rob Hardwick, praised the courage of the victims and first responders involved in the incident. Sheriff Hardwick emphasized that the community would continue to stand firmly against violence and support victims.
In a ceremony highlighting acts of heroism, both Jacki Rogé and Kennedy Armstrong received the prestigious Carnegie Medal for their bravery. This award, known for honoring civilian heroes, recognized their selfless actions in the face of life-threatening danger. Their efforts, along with the broader support of the community, offer a powerful reminder of the resilience and solidarity in the wake of tragedy.
Read more about the community's response and the Carnegie Medal recipients in this News4Jax article.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Spencer Pearson to life in prison marks the conclusion of a tragic and harrowing chapter for Madison Schemitz, her family, and the Ponte Vedra Beach community. While justice has been served, the scars of that day remain deeply etched in the lives of those affected. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the persistent dangers of domestic violence and the critical importance of community action and support in combating it.
As Madison and her family continue to heal, they stand as a testament to resilience and the power of unity. The bravery of individuals like Kennedy Armstrong and Jacki Rogé has left a lasting impact, inspiring us all to act selflessly in the face of adversity.