Jacaris Rozier, a 32-year-old resident of Orlando, Florida, tragically lost his life on February 19, 2021. Rozier was involved in a violent incident that occurred during a home invasion robbery. The perpetrators, armed with guns and wearing masks, forced their way into a residence on North Hyer Avenue. They ordered everyone in the home to the floor and demanded their valuables. During the chaos, Rozier was pushed to the ground by the gunmen.
When he attempted to stand, he was shot, resulting in his untimely death.
The investigation into Rozier's death revealed that the suspects had targeted the home after observing a man purchasing expensive items from the Gucci and Louis Vuitton stores at the Millenia Mall. The suspects followed the man to the residence, where they executed their robbery plan. The Orlando Police Department conducted a thorough investigation, utilizing surveillance footage to identify and track the suspects' vehicle. This diligent police work led to the arrest of Ya Ken Maleeq Sowell and his accomplice.
Ya Ken Maleeq Sowell was subsequently charged with first-degree murder with a firearm and conspiracy to commit robbery with a weapon. After a four-day trial, an Orange County jury found Sowell guilty of these charges. Due to his status as a prison release reoffender, Sowell was sentenced to life in prison in the Florida Department of Corrections. This case highlights the tragic consequences of violent crime and the importance of thorough investigative work in bringing perpetrators to justice.