Christopher Davis Murder Conviction
Christopher Davis was found guilty of second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and multiple counts of fraud in the death of his boyfriend, Barry Schmalbach, on June 27, 2025, in Lee County, Florida. As of July 27, 2025, Davis was sentenced to life in prison plus 45 years, following a jury deliberation of approximately two hours. Prosecutors reflected on the challenges of securing a conviction in a 'no-body' murder case, relying on extensive circumstantial evidence and witness testimonies. Schmalbach was last seen alive with Davis on July 19, 2023, at a Cape Coral bar, and Davis reported him missing on July 22, 2023, but investigators found his account deceptive.
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2025
6 updatesProsecutors involved in the case reflected on the challenges of securing a conviction in a 'no-body' murder case, emphasizing the extensive circumstantial evidence and witness testimonies used.
Christopher Davis has been found guilty of second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and multiple counts of fraud in the death of his boyfriend, Barry Schmalbach. The jury deliberated for approximately two hours before reaching its verdict. Davis was sentenced to life in prison plus 45 years.
On the third day of the trial, witnesses testified about Christopher Davis's suspicious activities, including the purchase of a tarp and the booking of an Airbnb, despite Barry Schmalbach's body never being found.
On the second day of Christopher Davis's murder trial, witnesses testified about surveillance footage, financial records, and statements suggesting Davis used his boyfriend's identity after his disappearance, with investigators noting a three-hour period of phone inactivity.
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The murder trial for Christopher Davis began in Lee County, Florida, with opening statements from the prosecution and defense.
An arrest warrant was formally issued for Christopher Davis in the murder case of Barry Schmalbach.
2024
1 update
2024
1 updateCape Coral police officially charged Christopher Davis with second-degree murder in connection with Barry Schmalbach's disappearance.
2023
3 updates
2023
3 updatesChristopher Davis reported Barry Schmalbach missing to the police, but investigators found his account of events to be deceptive.
Surveillance footage showed Christopher Davis purchasing cleaning supplies, including candles, air fresheners, chemical sprays, and a shovel, from a Walmart and Ace Hardware. He also booked an Airbnb under a fake name in a remote wooded area.
Barry Schmalbach was last seen alive with his boyfriend, Christopher Davis, at a Cape Coral bar. Prosecutors contend Schmalbach had expressed a desire to end the relationship.
Story began · 2 years, 8 mo ago