NewsWFLA (NBC 8) — Hillsborough CountyOctober 30, 2026Hillsborough County
Former neighbor and detective testify in Robert Kessler murder trial
Photo: WFLA (NBC 8) — Hillsborough County
A former neighbor and a detective testified in the Robert Kessler murder trial on Friday regarding statements the defendant allegedly made about the dismemberment of Stephanie Crone-Overholts. The judge also ordered Kessler to be physically present in court on Monday after he appeared via Zoom.
Read the full story at WFLA (NBC 8) — Hillsborough CountyWhy It Matters
The trial addresses the 2021 killing and dismemberment of Stephanie Crone-Overholts, with testimony detailing statements made by the defendant to a neighbor and to law enforcement.
Key Facts
- A former neighbor of Robert Kessler testified on the fifth day of his murder trial regarding a conversation they had while waiting in line at a bank.
- The neighbor stated she asked Kessler if he committed the crime, and his response was allegedly along the lines of 'There’s no evidence.'
- The neighbor testified that Kessler asked her if she could add her name to his checking account.
- Tampa Police Department Detective Andrew Trotta testified that Kessler stated in November 2021 that he knew he had a charge because he chopped up a body and dumped it into the bay.
- The judge ordered Kessler to be physically present in court on Monday after he briefly appeared via Zoom.
Who's Mentioned
locationTampa“City where the trial and waterway investigation took place”OrganizationTampa Police Department“Police department employing Detective Andrew Trotta”PersonRobert Kessler“Defendant accused of killing and dismembering Stephanie Crone-Overholts”PersonAndrew Trotta“Tampa Police Department Detective who testified at trial”PersonStephanie Crone-Overholts“Victim in the murder case who lived with Kessler for a brief period”PersonAnders“Former neighbor of Kessler who testified at trial”