Bio

Juan David Rodriguez was born on June 26, 1956. He grew up in Dade County, Florida. As a young adult, Rodriguez encountered various legal troubles. He had charges related to possession, racketeering, and theft. These issues often resulted in short jail sentences or probation. 

Rodriguez's background includes a mix of influences that might have impacted his choices later on. He lived in an area where crime was prevalent, and he became involved with individuals who were also engaged in illegal acts.

Murder Story

On May 13, 1988, Juan David Rodriguez committed a robbery at an auto parts store in Dade County, Florida. He approached the store owner, Abelardo Saladrigas, while wielding a gun. Rodriguez demanded Saladrigas's briefcase and watch. When Saladrigas refused to comply, Rodriguez shot him four times, took the briefcase and watch, and fled the scene.

After Rodriguez left the store, he gave half of the $1,200 found in the briefcase to a man named Ramon Fernandez, who was with him during the incident. He kept the Rolex watch for himself. Saladrigas was able to communicate details of the event to family and police before he passed away from his injuries.

The day after the murder, Rodriguez, along with Fernandez and others, attempted to rob a house but was unsuccessful. The homeowner fired a gun at them during the attempted robbery, causing Rodriguez and his accomplices to flee.

Three weeks later, Fernandez was arrested and confessed to his involvement in both the murder and the attempted robbery, naming Rodriguez as the shooter. This led to Rodriguez's arrest. During the investigation, a witness claimed Rodriguez tried to arrange the murder of Fernandez while in jail to eliminate him as a witness.

On January 31, 1990, Rodriguez was found guilty of first-degree murder and several other charges related to the crimes. On March 28, 1990, he was sentenced to death for the murder of Saladrigas.