“We the jury find the aggravating factors are sufficient to warrant a possible sentence of death … answer yes,” a jury representative stated.
Loyd asked for the judge to sentence him today before he was ordered out of the courtroom. Loyd said, “I love you” to his family before leaving.
Loyd was on the run for the murder of Sade Dixon when he killed Lt. Debra Clayton in January of 2017.
Shortly after the sentence recommendation came in, Debra Clayton’s family spoke on camera about the verdict.
“I’m glad this is over. it’s been a long time coming. It’s been five years almost. I’m just happy it’s over,” Seth Clayton said.
John Mina, who was chief of police when Clayton was killed, had a message for Loyd:
“I’m glad that we will never, never hear your pathetic attempts to excuse your criminal and violent behavior … I’m grateful he’s going to spend 23 hours a day thinking about what he’s done.”
Orlando police Chief Orlando Rolon released a statement, saying: “In the years since her death Lieutenant Clayton’s loved ones and entire OPD family waited for the day when the defendant would be held accountable for his heinous crimes. He will now face the highest penalty provided by law.”
Rolon thanked the jury for their service.
“Lt. Clayton believed in building relationships with the community. We will always remember our friend and coworker, & will do our best to live her legacy,” the Orlando Police Department wrote on Twitter.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said Clayton’s sacrifice “will never be forgotten.”
Closing arguments in Markeith Loyd’s sentencing hearing wrapped up Tuesday afternoon.
But before the jury was handed the case — Loyd was almost thrown out of the courtroom for complaining out loud.
“Am I going to hear another word out of you?” Judge Leticia Marques asked Loyd. “If he talks again, he’s out.”
Loyd was allowed to stay.