Victims' rights To A Thorough Investigation by Law Enforcement Of An Unnatural and an Uncharged Death in Florida.

RE: Port St Lucie PD CASE #2021-05365, FLORIDA (772-871-5000)

• Senator Lauren Book, Democrat, Senate - minority leader, Appropriations, Children/Family/Elder Affairs, Judiciary Committee Assignments
• Representative Tobin Overdorf, Republican - Joint Administrative Procedures Committee, Judiciary Committee & Civil Justice Subcommittee

I am writing to thank Senator Book and Representative Overdorf for their time and consideration in my request for their support and sponsorship of a Victims’ Rights To A Thorough Investigation Bill to be introduced in the upcoming legislative session. This bill could be a lifeline for countless families facing circumstances similar to mine.

My twin brother, Calvin Berry, was a dedicated mail carrier who served our community for over 30 years. Tragically, on March 10, 2021, he “disappeared” under suspicious circumstances. The events surrounding his disappearance and the subsequent handling of the case by the local law enforcement agency have left me with grave concerns about the justice system and the rights of victims’ families.

The facts of the case are deeply troubling. Despite glaring inconsistencies in the story presented by Calvin’s wife and adult daughters, the detective handling the case inexplicably closed it as a simple missing person investigation. Even though evidence pointed towards potential foul play, no homicide investigation was initiated.

Furthermore, the toxicology report revealed lethal levels of Benadryl in Calvin’s system, and his body was discovered in a canal behind his house under circumstances that remain unexplained. Three months later the medical examiner ruled Calvin's death as an “accidental drowning complicated by the use of Diphenhydramine’’. His retirement and pension could have been a motive, but without a comprehensive investigation, we are left with more questions than answers.

The situation is made even more challenging by the fact that I, as a twin sister, have limited legal rights in Florida. As next of kin, Calvin’s wife retains the authority, and I am unable to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit or gain access to essential records and information. This inequity in the law is unjust and unacceptable.

I came across Senate Bill 177, passed in Indiana, which offers a potential solution to situations like mine. This bill permits immediate family members to request a new investigation if they reasonably suspect that a death resulted from a criminal act by a third party. I believe that introducing a similar bill, here in Florida, could provide much-needed justice for victims and their families.

I first approached Democratic Senator Lauren Book early 2021 and she immediately started working on drafting the bill. Her support and action in this matter is commendable. Realizing that additional assistance and support is needed in this process, I reached out to Republican Representative Tobin Overdorf who did not hesitate to provide his support. It's inspiring to see both parties collaborate together in this bipartisan process. This shows that someone like myself can advocate for positive change in the legal system.

The next legislative session in Florida will convene on March 7th, 2024. I implore you to consider sponsoring and supporting the introduction of this bill. By doing so, you can ensure that families like mine have the opportunity to seek justice and uncover the truth when faced with suspicious death of a loved one.

By signing and sharing this petition, would you please:

• Help us to make this change a reality.
• Help us to work together to provide victims and their families the rights and investigations they deserve
• Help us to ensure a fair and just legal system for all.
• Help us to bring this important legislation to the Governor’s desk.
• Help us to bring about positive change for our community and its future.

Thanks for your time and consideration!

Dornett Mullings, Twin-less sister!