Penalty phase begins in trial of man convicted of killing ex-girlfriend's teen daughter

ORLANDO, Fla. — On Monday, the penalty phase began in the trial of an Orange County man convicted of killing his ex-girlfriend's 16-year-old daughter.

In February, Sanel Saint Simon was convicted of kidnapping Alexandria Chery, killing her and dumping her body in the woods.

Her body was discovered in July 2014 off a road near the Osceola-Polk county line.

Peter Saint Fleur, Chery's cousin, said Monday that he loved her like a sister.

"Alex and I grew up close, like a sister and brother would, with a lot of similarities," he said. "We would both bring a big smile where we went and always carry a happy attitude."

Saint Simon faces the death penalty.

The death penalty requires a unanimous vote. Without that, Saint Simon will spend life in prison.

Watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News at 4 to learn what else happens in court.