Jury Recommends Death Penalty for Man Convicted in 1990s Murder
In Tampa-St. Petersburg (Sarasota), a jury has unanimously recommended the death penalty for Jeffrey Norman Crum, who was convicted of the murder, rape, and kidnapping of 12-year-old Jennifer Odom approximately 30 years ago. The victim's family has reacted to this…

Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 25, 2026 —
A jury in the Tampa-St. Petersburg area, specifically Sarasota, has recommended the death penalty for Jeffrey Norman Crum. The recommendation comes after Crum was convicted for the murder, rape, and kidnapping of 12-year-old Jennifer Odom. The crimes occurred approximately 30 years ago.
The jury’s decision was unanimous in recommending the capital sentence for Crum. He was found guilty of multiple charges related to the abduction and death of the young victim.
The victim’s family has responded to the jury’s recommended sentence. Specific details regarding the family’s reaction were not provided in the summary.
Further information regarding the legal proceedings, including the judge’s final sentencing decision, was not available.
Story summarized from the original created by Emi Darquea on www.wfla.com, see more information here.