TAVARES, FL – A Lake County woman has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of murdering her husband and concealing his body beneath a concrete slab in their backyard. Lori Schaefer received her sentence at the Lake County Courthouse in Tavares, bringing an end to a legal saga that began in 2015.
Michael Schaefer, who was last seen alive in 2015, was discovered buried behind the couple’s home in 2018, following a welfare check that finally unraveled the mystery of his disappearance. The case gained notoriety when authorities arrested Lori Schaefer in 2020, leading to her eventual conviction for second-degree murder with a firearm.
During the sentencing, Michael’s family expressed their grief and loss, describing him as a beloved son, brother, father, and friend. His older brother spoke emotionally in court, lamenting the life that was taken from Michael in his 30s and the future that was stolen from him.
Testimonies revealed that Lori Schaefer had impersonated Michael in communications, ensuring no one would suspect anything amiss. This prolonged deception only added to the family’s anguish, as they believed Michael’s life was not only ended but his memory tainted by Lori’s actions.
The defense argued that the evidence against Lori was circumstantial and sought a reduced sentence of 25 years. However, the jury, having found her guilty as charged, supported the court’s decision to impose a life sentence.
A particularly controversial moment in the trial came when the defense suggested the couple’s seven-year-old daughter had shot Michael to protect Lori from alleged abuse. This claim was dismissed by the jury, who found no merit in the argument.
With the sentencing concluded, Michael’s family expressed a sense of closure, though the pain of their loss remains. They hope the verdict brings them some peace as they continue to grieve.
Lori Schaefer’s family chose not to comment following the sentencing, leaving the courtroom in silence.