LEE COUNTY, Fla. — A Fort Myers man, who was found guilty on two counts of kidnapping and possession of a firearm, is wanted after he took off before the jury found him guilty on Wednesday.
Officials say Therbert Tyron Sweet left after the state rested and he took a break to speak with his attorney and never returned.
A bench warrant was issued, and the jury found him guilty.
On February 12, 2021, the Lee County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call about two people being held hostage in Bonita Springs. The investigation following determined the two victims were planning to meet up with people in the San Carlos park area when they were attacked and abducted while standing in a backyard.
One victim was bound and blindfolded and put in the backseat of a truck while they were robbed. The other victim suffered injuries and was placed into another truck. Both victims were left lying on the floor of a garage for hours with their hands zip-tied behind their backs.
Mr. Therbert Sweet has been out on a $120,000 bond since March 31, 2022, and has been able to come and go from the courthouse during the course of the trial. After the state rested, the court took a break so he could talk to his attorney at which that point he did not return to the courtroom. The judge then issued a bench warrant, hold no bond they proceeded with the trial. Ultimately, the jury did find him guilty. His sentencing is set for March 27, 2023, at 1:00 p.m.
