The Florida Supreme Court has upheld both the conviction and death sentence of Steven Matthew Wolf, who was found guilty in January 2023 for the brutal murder and sexual assault of Michelle Osborne in the Florida Keys.
Wolf’s sentence, originally handed down by Circuit Judge Mark H. Jones following a unanimous jury recommendation, will remain in effect after the court issued its final mandate affirming the lower court’s ruling.
The case traces back to November 21, 2018, when Osborne’s body was discovered near Vaca Cut Bridge in Marathon. Investigators quickly linked Wolf to the crime through DNA evidence, his van, and his own admissions about cleaning and disposing of evidence. After a six-day trial, a Monroe County jury convicted him of first-degree murder, two counts of sexual battery with force likely to cause injury, and tampering with physical evidence.
Jurors unanimously found that the killing occurred during the commission of a sexual battery and that it was “especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel.” Trial testimony revealed that Osborne suffered severe injuries and was strangled while still alive, emphasizing the extreme brutality of the attack.
During sentencing, Judge Jones called the crime “among the worst of the worst.”
“The aggravating factors far outweigh any mitigating circumstances,” he said. “The scales of justice tip overwhelmingly toward death. You have not only forfeited your right to live among us, but under Florida law, you have forfeited your right to live at all. May God have mercy on your soul.”
State Attorney Dennis Ward welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, calling it a moment of justice and closure.
“This ruling brings closure to a long and painful case,” Ward said. “It validates the hard work of so many dedicated professionals. I want to thank the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, FDLE, FHP, the Statewide Prosecutor’s Office, and our entire SAO team. Their cooperation ensured justice for Michelle Osborne and her family.”
Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield also praised the ruling, saying it reaffirmed the fairness and integrity of the trial.
“The Florida Supreme Court confirmed that this case was tried with overwhelming evidence and the utmost professionalism,” Mansfield said. “Justice takes collaboration, persistence, and commitment. This decision reflects that — and honors the tireless work of everyone involved.”