• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

In a shocking case that stunned Florida, 35-year-old Nichole Maks was sentenced to 35 years in prison for the brutal murder of her 79-year-old roommate, Michael Cerasoli. The incident involved Maks allegedly beating and stabbing Cerasoli to death before attempting to destroy evidence by setting their shared home on fire. Her bizarre and desperate attempt to evade justice included dousing herself in Diet Mountain Dew, hoping to eliminate any trace of DNA evidence.

Authorities found Cerasoli’s lifeless body inside the home he shared with Maks. He had suffered multiple stab wounds and blunt force trauma, leading investigators to suspect foul play. The crime scene was further complicated by signs of an attempted arson, as parts of the home were set ablaze.

Maks was later found wandering nearby, and when questioned by police, she gave inconsistent statements regarding her whereabouts. Initially, she claimed to have been homeless for four years but later admitted to seeing Cerasoli on the day of the murder. Her changing narratives raised suspicions, and investigators decided to obtain DNA evidence from her.

ALSO READ: Shahzadi Khan's Father Seeks MEA Intervention For Daughter On Death Row In UAE, Moves Delhi HC

Mountain Dew Incident

One of the most bizarre aspects of the case unfolded when police informed Maks that they were going to collect DNA samples. She requested a soda, and the officers gave her a can of Diet Mountain Dew. However, instead of drinking it, Maks began to pour the soda over her head and hair in what authorities believe was a desperate attempt to interfere with DNA collection. Detectives quickly intervened and took her into custody as she resisted arrest.

A probable cause affidavit later detailed how Maks not only tried to destroy potential evidence but also physically resisted officers, leading to additional charges of tampering with evidence and resisting arrest with violence.

ALSO READ: Qatar Airways Defends Crew For Leaving Couple Next To Dead Body On 15-Hour Flight: Shocking Reason Revealed

Conviction and Sentencing

Despite her attempts to evade justice, forensic analysis ultimately linked Maks to the crime. DNA evidence from the knife found near Cerasoli’s body matched the samples taken from her, sealing her fate in court.  A Florida court sentenced her to 35 years behind bars, ensuring that she would face the consequences of her actions.