NewsWPLG Local 10October 24, 2026Miami-Dade County
Judge sentences self-proclaimed healer Shannan Ryan to life in prison for murder of Leila Cavett
Photo: WPLG Local 10
A Florida judge sentenced Shannan Ryan to life in prison on Friday following his second-degree murder conviction for the disappearance and death of 21-year-old Leila Cavett. Ryan maintained his innocence during the hearing, and his defense attorney announced plans to appeal the conviction. Cavett's body has not been recovered since her disappearance six years ago.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
The sentencing concludes a high-profile homicide case involving a missing person whose remains were never found, while leaving the victim's family without a gravesite and prompting an upcoming appeal from the defense.
Key Facts
- Shannan Ryan was sentenced to life in prison on Friday in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
- Ryan was convicted last month of second-degree murder in the disappearance and death of 21-year-old Leila Cavett.
- Cavett disappeared approximately six years ago, and her body has never been found.
- Cavett's young son was found wandering alone on the day of her disappearance.
- Defense attorney Dameka Davis criticized the prosecution's characterization of Ryan as a healer.
- Davis stated that she plans to appeal Ryan's conviction.
- Family members delivered impact statements detailing ongoing emotional trauma prior to the sentencing.
Who's Mentioned
PersonDameka Davis“Abogada defensora de Shannan Ryan”locationFla.“Estado donde se encuentra Fort Lauderdale”locationFORT LAUDERDALE“Ubicación donde ocurrieron los hechos y se dictó sentencia”PersonTyuania Cavett“Hermana de Leila Cavett”PersonShannan Ryan“Autoproclamado curandero condenado por asesinato”PersonLeila Cavett“Joven madre víctima de asesinato”