Family pleads for man accused of killing elderly Fort Lauderdale couple to stay in jail

The family of Major and Claudette Melvin, an elderly couple from Fort Lauderdale, is speaking out, demanding that the man accused of killing them remain behind bars. The couple was tragically murdered in their home back in March 2024, and now, nearly a year later, their family is still grappling with the loss. The suspect, 30-year-old Maurice Anthony Newson, was arrested in August 2024 and charged with two counts of first-degree murder and one count of armed robbery.

Newson, who had previously been in a relationship with the Melvins’ granddaughter, is accused of killing the couple before stealing their car and selling it to a tow yard. The crime shocked the community, and the Melvin family has been left devastated by the brutal act.

Dennis Parker, the couple’s son, shared his grief, saying, “My parents were lovable people. I just can’t understand how someone could come into their home and take their lives like that.” He added that if Newson is responsible, he hopes “he rots in hell.”

Adding to the complexity of the case, Jalisa Hill, the Melvins’ 38-year-old granddaughter, was arrested in September 2024 and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Authorities believe Hill may have conspired with Newson, although details about her exact involvement are still unclear.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the Melvin family is pleading for justice. They hope the individuals responsible for this terrible crime will remain in jail and face the consequences of their actions.