'I am forced to raise my girls without their daddy,' Kissimmee officer's widow testifies

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The sentencing phase of the trial for a man convicted of murdering two Kissimmee police officers was underway Tuesday.

Two months ago, Everett Miller was found guilty of shooting and killing Kissimmee police Officer Matthew Baxter and Sgt. Sam Howard.

Now, it's up to a jury to decide whether he will get the death penalty or serve life in prison.

During opening statements, prosecutors described the aggravating factors they believe have been proven and would make Miller eligible for the death penalty.

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Prosecutors said that these were cold, calculated and pre-meditated murders. During the guilt-phase of the trial, they said Miller basically ambushed the officers.

The defense declined to provide an opening statement, saying it will save its time for later.

Sadia Baxter, Baxter's widow, testified about the night of the shooting and the effect of the loss on her and her daughters since then.

"(That) moment was just the beginning of a nightmare (that) has not ended," she said. "The reality is I am forced to raise my girls without their daddy."

Sadia Baxter said one of their daughters asked her if she could take her to heaven to see her father.

Matthew Baxter's closet friend in the Kissimmee Police Department said he had to leave the agency for the Orange County Sheriff's Office because so much in Kissimmee reminded him of his slain friend.

Jeffrey Surran, Howard's stepfather, described his stepson as a family man.

"Sam was a bright light to this world," he said.

Surran broke down in tears as he described the pain of his loss.

On the stand Tuesday, Miller's friend J.W. Albright described an incident in which Miller had marijuana out in the open in his car, and how Albright told him he didn't think that was a good idea.

Albright said Miller responded saying he wasn't worried about cops because he had something for them, referring to three guns.

Prosecutors also called an expert on anti-government extremist groups to the stand.

During the guilt phase of the trial, prosecutors made it known that they believe Miller had become a Moorish Sovereign Citizen with anti-law enforcement beliefs.

Defense attorneys told jurors that the retired U.S. Marine's life was falling apart and that he suffered from PTSD in hopes t his life circumstances will convince at least one juror to recommend life in prison.

"He had an exemplary career and an exemplary life," defense attorney Frank Bankowitz said.

The sentencing phase of the trial is expected to continue into next week.

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