Spencer Pearson Sentenced to Life in Prison for Attempted Murder of Ex-Girlfriend Madison Schemitz

By Dr. Emily Carter, Criminal Justice Analyst

Introduction

In a case that has gripped the Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, community, 20-year-old Spencer Pearson was sentenced to life in prison for the brutal stabbing of his ex-girlfriend Madison Schemitz, her mother Jacki Rogé, and a bystander, Kennedy Armstrong, who intervened heroically. The attack, which took place outside Mr. Chubby's Wings in June 2023, shocked the local community and ignited broader conversations about domestic violence and mental health.

The sentencing brings to a close a harrowing chapter for the victims and their families, while raising critical questions about criminal behavior, mental health, and justice.

Background: Love Turned Violent

Madison Schemitz and Spencer Pearson’s relationship had been one of young love that ultimately turned toxic, culminating in a tragic act of violence. According to court records, Schemitz ended their relationship due to concerns about Pearson’s possessive and controlling behavior. In the weeks leading up to the attack, Schemitz had reportedly expressed fears for her safety and shared these feelings with friends.

The tipping point came on June 3, 2023, outside a popular local restaurant, Mr. Chubby's Wings. Pearson, seemingly unable to accept the breakup, launched a brutal assault on Schemitz and her mother as they exited the establishment. Witnesses reported seeing him charge at Schemitz and stab her multiple times. Her mother, Jacki Rogé, attempted to intervene and was also severely injured. In a display of remarkable courage, bystander Kennedy Armstrong rushed in to stop the attack, sustaining serious injuries in the process.

Legal Proceedings and Sentencing

Spencer Pearson faced multiple charges, including two counts of attempted first-degree murder and aggravated battery causing serious injury with a weapon. During the trial, Pearson’s defense team argued that his age, lack of prior violent offenses, and possible mental health conditions—including Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) stemming from years of tackle football—should mitigate his punishment. They painted a picture of a young man whose mental health struggles overwhelmed him, leading to tragic consequences.

Despite the defense’s efforts, Judge R. Lee Smith handed down a life sentence, citing the severity of the crime and the lasting impact on the victims. In his ruling, the judge emphasized that the premeditated nature of the attack and the harm caused to multiple individuals necessitated the maximum penalty.

Victim Impact Statements: Stories of Survival and Resilience

One of the most emotional moments of the trial came during the victim impact statements. Madison Schemitz, who has endured a long and grueling recovery, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support she received from her family, friends, and community. She shared how this harrowing experience had taught her the strength of human resilience and the importance of speaking up against violence.

Her mother, Jacki Rogé, reflected on the attack with both sorrow and pride, highlighting her determination to protect her daughter, even in the face of life-threatening danger. She also praised Kennedy Armstrong, whose heroic intervention not only saved lives but also demonstrated the power of selfless acts.

Reflection: Lessons from a Tragic Case

The sentencing of Spencer Pearson is not just the conclusion of a criminal case—it’s a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence. For the Schemitz family and the community of Ponte Vedra Beach, the scars from that day will take time to heal, but their strength and resilience serve as an inspiration to us all.

This case also raises important questions about the intersection of mental health and criminal responsibility. While Pearson’s defense introduced the argument of CTE as a factor in his behavior, it was ultimately overshadowed by the brutality of his actions. The case highlights the need for further research and awareness about how mental health conditions can influence behavior and underscores the importance of early intervention.

Final Thoughts

Spencer Pearson’s life sentence closes a dark chapter, but it also allows the victims and their families to begin the process of healing. The courage displayed by Madison Schemitz, her mother Jacki Rogé, and Kennedy Armstrong serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the community's ability to come together in the face of tragedy.

As we move forward, let this case serve as a call to action to address the causes of domestic violence, support survivors, and prioritize mental health interventions before they escalate into irreversible tragedies.

For more details on the sentencing and victim statements, you can read First Coast News' extensive coverage.