Jul 28, 2026
Before Marcus Spanevelo's federal murder trial begins, we're taking a trip back into the Justice For Podcast vault with one of the cases that has stayed with us since the beginning—Cassie Carli. Cassie disappeared in March 2022 after meeting her ex, Marcus Spanevelo, for a child custody exchange. Days later, she was found buried in a shallow grave in Alabama, leaving behind a young daughter and a family still searching for justice.
Since we originally released this episode, there have been major developments. Federal prosecutors have announced they are seeking the death penalty against Spanevelo on the charge of kidnapping resulting in death. That decision changed the course of the case, turning it into a capital prosecution and adding months of additional legal proceedings
If you've been wondering why this case has taken so long to reach trial, that's a big reason why. Capital cases require extensive preparation by both sides, including additional attorneys, expert investigations, and countless pretrial hearings. While it's frustrating for Cassie's loved ones to continue waiting, these delays are not uncommon in federal death penalty cases.
At this time, Marcus Spanevelo has pleaded not guilty, and no final trial date has been set. Prosecutors have proposed an April 2027 trial, but that timeline could still change as pretrial litigation continues.
As we wait for the next chapter in Cassie's case, we're revisiting her story and remembering the woman at the center of it all. If you missed this episode the first time—or want to refresh your memory before the trial—now is the perfect time to listen. Justice delayed is never easy, and we'll continue following this case until Cassie Carli and her family finally get their day in court. 💜
Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organizations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This podcast is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice or a substitute for professional consultation.
Show Notes
https://www.wfla.com/news/florida/cassie-carlis-death-not-ruled-a-homicide-cause-of-death-undetermined-coroner-says/amp/ autopsy article
https://www.pnj.com/story/news/crime/2022/04/20/cassie-carli-marcus-spanevelo-says-he-dropped-carli-off/7382897001/ arrest affadavit article
https://weartv.com/amp/news/local/timeline-disappearance-of-missing-navarre-mother-cassie-carli - timeline of case(with text message receipts)
https://www.pnj.com/story/news/crime/2022/10/17/cassie-carli-ex-boyfriend-marcus-spanevelo-abuse-of-corpse-navarre-woman-st-clair-county-alabama/10527920002/ - ex-boyfriend charged
https://m.facebook.com/p/Justice-for-Mom-from-Navarre-Florida-Cassie-Carli-100083089851103/ - Facebook page
https://www.fox13news.com/news/cassie-carli-murder-florida-bill-aims-to-make-child-custody-exchanges-safer-after-kidnapping-killing.amp - Florida bill passed to make safe custody exchange locations
https://www.fox13news.com/news/cassie-carli-murder-florida-bill-aims-to-make-child-custody-exchanges-safer-after-kidnapping-killing.amp coworker talks about her
Florida Protective Parents - Cassie Carli custody battle all documents
Fundraiser for ROBERT CARTER by Raeann Carli : A bright future for Saylor ♥️ (gofundme.com) go fund me
