FL v. Herbert Swilley
Herbert Swilley was convicted and sentenced to life in prison without parole for the premeditated first-degree murder of his husband, Timothy Floyd Smith. Smith was found deceased in March 2023 after being drugged, strangled, and suffering a fractured cervical spine. Swilley allegedly moved the body, staged a fake crime scene, and attempted to destroy evidence. He is currently serving his life sentence.
Timeline
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Track this story2025
2 updates
2025
2 updatesAfter a week of testimony, a jury finds Herbert Swilley guilty of premeditated first-degree murder.
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The murder trial of Herbert Swilley begins.
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2024
1 update
2024
1 updateFurther investigation reveals Timothy Smith was drugged with a massive dose of diphenhydramine, strangled, and suffered a fractured cervical spine; Swilley is also identified as the beneficiary of a $333,000 life insurance policy on Smith.
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2023
5 updates
2023
5 updatesA grand jury formally indicts Herbert Swilley on charges related to the murder.
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Herbert Swilley is arrested for the murder of Timothy Floyd Smith.
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Authorities publicly identify Herbert Swilley as a suspect in Smith's murder, noting his refusal to cooperate with investigators without immunity.
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An autopsy is performed on Timothy Smith, revealing signs of trauma, including ligature marks and blunt-force trauma, and the presence of cleaning chemicals at the scene.
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Timothy Smith is found deceased in an Ocala apartment during a welfare check after he failed to report to work; Herbert Swilley contacts the Marion County Sheriff's Office.
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Story began · 3 years ago