Robert Kessler, a 74-year-old murder suspect from Florida, United States, made an unusual offer during jury selection for his trial. He offered to plead guilty to first-degree murder charges in exchange for a Philly cheesesteak, an order of fries, and a Pepsi. Kessler specified that he wanted onions and mayonnaise on the sandwich, alongside a 20-ounce serving of peppers. This offer was made on Monday, October 26, 2026, during the trial proceedings.
Kessler's proposal was in relation to the 2021 death of 47-year-old Stephanie Crone-Overholt. Prosecutors allege that Crone-Overholt had been staying with Kessler and his daughter shortly before she disappeared. Fishermen later discovered her dismembered remains in McKay Bay, Tampa, in November that year. Kessler faces first-degree murder and abuse-of-a-dead-body charges over the incident.
Hillsborough Circuit Judge Nick Nazaretian was presented with Kessler's offer. The judge told Kessler that he could enter an open guilty plea and accept a life sentence, allowing the case to end without a trial. However, Judge Nazaretian refused to make the meal a condition for entering a guilty plea, explaining that offering food as an incentive would be inappropriate.
The judge's response was straightforward: "I can guarantee you can have lunch today, but I can’t guarantee what it would be." Kessler subsequently withdrew his offer and asked the court to proceed with jury selection, saying he would not enter the plea without getting the sandwich. This development prompted the trial to continue.
According to court documents, witnesses reported seeing a man matching Kessler's description throwing bags into the bay. Investigators also examined evidence linked to the victim's disappearance. The case has garnered significant attention due to the unusual nature of Kessler's proposal.
Kessler argued that accepting his offer would save taxpayers the cost of a trial. However, the judge remained firm in his decision, citing the inappropriateness of using food as an incentive for a guilty plea. The trial is ongoing, with jury selection continuing.
The case is being heard in Hillsborough County, Florida. Kessler has not been convicted of the charges. If convicted, he could face severe penalties, including life imprisonment. The trial's outcome remains uncertain as proceedings continue.
Key points
- Robert Kessler, 74, offered to plead guilty in exchange for a Philly cheesesteak, fries, and Pepsi.
- The judge rejected the proposal, citing the inappropriateness of using food as an incentive for a guilty plea.
- Kessler faces first-degree murder and abuse-of-a-dead-body charges over the 2021 death of Stephanie Crone-Overholt.
