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Blocked on Social Media, She Flew to Florida — Jury Convicts New York Woman of First‑Degree Murder

The Broward County jury convicted 31‑year‑old Sakiyna Thompson of first‑degree murder for the July 13, 2022 stabbing of 23‑year‑old Kayla Hodgson in Tamarac, Florida. Prosecutors say Thompson flew from New York after learning Hodgson was dating her ex and had blocked her on social media, then used a fake ride‑share account to reach the victim’s apartment. Evidence shown at trial included surveillance video, bodycam footage, flight and cellphone records, and items recovered from the scene. Thompson testified she "blacked out" and claimed self‑defense; the prosecution argued the attack was planned.

07:06 AM, 11/26/2025Society
Blocked on Social Media, She Flew to Florida — Jury Convicts New York Woman of First‑Degree Murder

A Broward County jury on Oct. 15 found 31‑year‑old Sakiyna Thompson guilty of first‑degree murder in the July 13, 2022, stabbing death of 23‑year‑old Kayla Hodgson in Tamarac, Florida. Prosecutors say Thompson traveled from New York after learning Hodgson was dating her former boyfriend and had blocked her on social media.

According to court evidence, Thompson flew to South Florida several days before the killing and arrived at Hodgson’s apartment complex in the early morning hours. Investigators say she used a fake ride‑share account to reach the building and that surveillance footage captured a person wearing a wide‑brimmed hat, a face covering and gloves at the door.

Evidence and Trial

At trial, jurors viewed graphic body‑worn camera video and autopsy photographs that illustrated the severity of the assault. Prosecutors argued the disguise, the pre‑dawn timing and other evidence supported a finding of premeditation rather than an impulsive act.

Investigators tied Thompson to the crime through flight records, cellphone location data and items recovered from the apartment. She was arrested in New York on Aug. 3, 2022, and extradited to Broward County to face the murder charge.

Defense Account and Closing Arguments

On the stand, Thompson testified that she "blacked out" during the encounter and said she acted to defend herself and protect an unborn child. The defense asked the jury to view the killing as self‑defense, while the prosecution emphasized planning and intent.

Assistant State Prosecutor Tonya Johnson: "Being violated in your own home, in the sanctity of your own home, is a scary thing. What’s even scarier is being attacked, being brutally murdered in your own home, and that person getting away with it."

Aftermath

Following the verdict, Hodgson’s family said the decision brought them a measure of relief after more than three years. Kayla’s mother said the outcome provided some peace and the sense that justice had been served. Sentencing details were not reported at the time of the verdict.

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