Florida Executes 15th Inmate for 1998 Rape and Murder of Neighbor

Florida recently marked a significant milestone in its judicial history. On October 28, 2025, the state executed its 15th inmate this year, a record under Governor Ron DeSantis. The condemned man, Norman Mearle Grim Jr., was put to death for the rape and murder of his neighbor, Cynthia Campbell, over two decades ago.

Details of the Execution

Grim, aged 65, was pronounced dead at 6:14 PM after receiving a lethal injection at Florida State Prison, located near Starke. His execution was confirmed by a spokesperson for Governor DeSantis, Alex Lanfranconi, who reported there were no complications during the process. Grim opted not to make a final statement before the injection.

Crime Background

Norman Grim was sentenced to death following his conviction for sexual battery and first-degree murder. The case dates back to July 1998 when 29-year-old Cynthia Campbell was reported missing. Her battered body was discovered by a fisherman near the Pensacola Bay Bridge.

• Cynthia Campbell suffered multiple blunt-force injuries consistent with being struck by a hammer.
• She had 11 stab wounds in her chest, with seven penetrating her heart.
• DNA evidence linked Grim to the crime.

Execution Statistics in Florida

This execution contributes to an unprecedented year for Florida in terms of capital punishment. The previous record for the most executions in a single year was eight, set in 2014. As of now, Florida has outpaced all other states for executions in 2025, with Texas and Alabama each executing five inmates this year.

Looking Ahead

Before his execution, Grim waived any right to appeal his conviction, despite opportunities to do so through higher courts. Florida still has more executions scheduled. The next, set for November 13, will involve Bryan Fredrick Jennings, who was convicted of the 1979 rape and murder of a six-year-old girl. Following him, Richard Barry Randolph, convicted of a 1988 murder, is slated for execution on November 20.

Execution Method

Flordia’s lethal injection protocol consists of three drugs: a sedative, a paralytic agent, and a medication that halts the heart. This method has been the subject of scrutiny and debate but remains the state’s chosen approach for capital punishment.