Jacksonville Man Faces Death Penalty in Wife’s Murder Case
Jacksonville, Fla. – A significant legal proceeding began on the morning of December 16, 2024, as Jerry Burns appeared for his sentencing hearing after being found guilty of first-degree murder. This case stems from a tragic event that unfolded on May 9, 2019, when his wife, Velvet Burns, was brutally murdered in their home.
Details of the Crime
According to the evidence presented during the trial, Jerry Burns conspired with his mistress, Amanda Love, to have his wife killed. The plan involved hiring someone to carry out the murder, which ultimately was executed by Love’s on-again, off-again partner, Stephen Hand. Velvet Burns was stabbed 39 times while she slept, shocking the Jacksonville community and leaving the Burns family shattered.
Emotional Testimonies from Family
During the hearing, family members of Velvet Burns took the stand to share their heart-wrenching experiences. Her son expressed profound sorrow, stating, “My mother, Velvet Burns, was a beautiful person inside and out. She put everyone above herself and had the kindest heart of all.” He highlighted the emotional turmoil the family has endured since the tragic death of their mother.
Her daughter also spoke candidly about the challenges of coping with their loss, saying, “I struggle to cut up my food because I wonder if this is the kind of knife that my mom was killed with.” She conveyed the ongoing fear the family experienced after the murder, worrying that they too might be targeted for speaking out.
The Case’s Development
Amanda Love and Stephen Hand were previously convicted in connection with Velvet’s murder. Hand pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and is now serving a life sentence in prison since 2022. The case against Jerry Burns escalated due to incriminating evidence that he sought to spend $30,000 to have his wife killed.
Legal Proceedings and Possible Sentencing Outcomes
The prosecution is pushing for the death penalty, indicating that the jury’s recommendation on sentencing could lead to his execution or life without parole. Under a new law enacted in Florida, jurors are not required to reach a unanimous decision to recommend a death sentence—only an 8 to 4 vote in favor.
On the other hand, the defense team is attempting to paint Jerry Burns as a family man, urging the jury to consider his past and character. A prison warden is expected to testify about the positive impacts Burns made while incarcerated, emphasizing his work ethic and struggles with low self-esteem stemming from childhood abuse. However, the prosecution argued that his alleged low intelligence did not excuse his calculated murder plot.
Awaiting the Jury’s Decision
The jury’s recommendation on Jerry Burns’ sentence is anticipated to be delivered on December 17, marking a crucial moment in a case that has revealed deep family scars and raised questions about morality and justice in society.
This case underscores not only the complexities of human relationships but also the devastating consequences that arise from betrayal and violence. The community of Jacksonville continues to follow this case closely, reflecting on the loss and advocating for justice.
