Bio

Robert Jeffrey Trease was born on January 21, 1953. He grew up in a typical American home. Information about his early life is limited. There are few details about his family or childhood experiences.

As he grew older, Trease moved to Florida. He lived in Sarasota County, where he would later become involved in criminal activities. He had a troubled life, which would lead him down a dark path. Trease struggled with personal issues, and his behavior became more concerning over time.

Murder Story

On August 17, 1985, Robert Jeffrey Trease and his accomplice, Hope Siegel, conspired to rob Paul Edeson. Siegel arranged to meet Edeson to learn where he kept his hidden safe. After spending time with him, Siegel discovered that there was no safe in his home. She then informed Trease that Edeson did not own a safe.

Trease followed Siegel back to Edeson’s house. Upon arrival, he surprised the victim and attacked him to obtain the location of the supposed safe. Despite Trease's aggressive questioning, Edeson insisted he did not have a safe. Trease told Siegel to get a gun. He held the gun to Edeson’s head while continuing to demand information. Edeson remained uncooperative, leading Trease to fire a non-lethal bullet into Edeson’s head.

After this act, Trease asked Siegel to bring him a knife. Using the knife, he cut Edeson’s throat, resulting in the victim's death. After his arrest, Trease denied any involvement in the crime. However, Siegel provided a detailed statement, implicating both of them in the murder and robbery.

The case went to trial, and on December 11, 1996, Trease was found guilty on multiple counts including first-degree murder. He was sentenced to death on January 22, 1997. Following the sentencing, Trease filed a direct appeal with the Florida Supreme Court, which upheld the conviction and death penalty in 2000.