Florida man accused of murdering Titusville woman asks for death penalty to be dropped from trial
Handwritten manifesto released in murder of Titusville woman: Police
The man accused of kidnapping and murdering a Titusville woman in March had a written step-by-step plan, which was released by officials Monday. The document written by accused killer David Barber included a "what-to-buy" list, a reminder to place fingerprints on a toilet lid and more. Barber is accused of kidnapping and murdering 72-year-old Jessie Kirk.
ORLANDO, Fla. - David Barber, the man accused of kidnapping and murdering a Titusville woman in March, has filed a motion to strike the death penalty due to the media coverage surrounding the release of an alleged manifesto.
The defense claims in the motion that the media coverage "has forever tainted the jury pool".
What was in the alleged "criminal checklist"?
What we know:
On May 12, the State Attorney's Office released Barber's handwritten "manifesto" and buy list. Part of this 12-page document was a "timeline" with dates and what seems to be a step-by-step plan.
The "timeline" includes statements such as:
- "Park across the street, observe and put on disguise"
- "Have in purse: Gun, duct tape, eyes and ears, handcuffs"
- "Gag, blindfold and detain"
- "When leaving after sweeping house after bleaching, place K's fingerprint on toilet lid"
The handwritten document also included a "buy list" and "gather list" including items such as guns, restraints, pills and masks.
The document also seems to include a type of financial plan, which investigators and the State Attorney's Office have determined was a part of the reason Barber allegedly killed Kirk. There is also a list of businesses where gold can be purchased.
Below is the full 12-page handwritten document:
What happened on March 4th?
The backstory:
On March 4, 72-year-old Jessie Kirk of Titusville was reported missing by a friend after failing to show up for a morning walk, authorities said.
Around 9:30 a.m. a vehicle fire was reported in Orange County near State Road 520 and State Road 50.
During a search for Kirk around noon, Titusville police said they encountered a "suspicious" man, later identified as Barber, near her condo. He was arrested on charges of loitering, prowling and grand theft auto.
At 1:09 p.m. the burned vehicle in Orange County was identified as Kirk’s white Lincoln SUV. Almost two hours later, human remains were discovered at Haulover Canal, which were later confirmed to be Kirk's.
Man killed Jessie Kirk then tried to change his identity: deputies
Investigators said David Barber allegedly killed 72-year-old beloved Titusville woman Jessie Kirk and then attempted to change his identity before he was arrested.
Who was Jessie Kirk?
What they're saying:
Kirk, a well-loved community member in Titusville, was active in local philanthropy and known for growing sunflowers and vegetables, which she donated to those in need.
She and her late husband were both celebrated for their community contributions.
State seeks death penalty for Barber
What's next:
David Barber, 35, faces multiple charges in the death of Kirk:
- First-degree premeditated murder, a capital felony punishable by life in prison or the death penalty.
- Kidnapping
- Arson
- Abuse of a dead human body
- Grand theft of a motor vehicle
- Burglary of a dwelling
- Petit theft between $100-$750
- Two counts of tampering with or destroying evidence
Booking photo of David Barber from a previous, unrelated arrest
State Attorney William Scheiner announced that the state will seek the death penalty for Barber for multiple reasons, including:
- The capital felony was committed for pecuniary (financial) gain.
- The crime was "especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel."
- The homicide was committed in a "cold, calculated and premeditated manner without any pretense of moral or legal justification."
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The Source: The information in this article comes from previous coverage from FOX 35 News, the Brevard County Clerk of Courts, as well as new documents shared by the Office of the State Attorney, 18th Judicial Circuit.