Monroe County Judge Derek Lewis has sentenced Keith Devon White to 15 years in Florida state prison. The sentence stems from White violating his probation on a 2011 robbery with a firearm case. He also received concurrent 36-month sentences for two new felony cases: the sale of cocaine and lewd or lascivious exhibition in the presence of an employee, along with threats to a law enforcement officer.

Robbery Case Background

The original 2011 investigation detailed how White arranged for a taxi in Marathon during the early morning hours of November 16. After another passenger left the vehicle, White allegedly produced a handgun, demanded money from the driver, and stole approximately $140. He then reportedly threatened the victim's life if law enforcement was contacted. Investigators corroborated the victim's account using surveillance video, phone records, and a photo lineup where another passenger identified White as the perpetrator. Following approximately 12 years served in prison for this offense, White was released on probation.

New Felony Charges and Probation Violation

According to the Keys Weekly, White repeatedly violated the terms of his probation by committing new criminal offenses rather than completing his supervision successfully. As a designated violent felony offender of special concern, these repeated violations led to the revocation of his probation and the imposition of the 15-year sentence. The Keys Weekly reported that this controlling sentence was a result of the probation violation in the 2011 armed robbery.

Additional Cases

The sale of cocaine case originated from a Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations investigation in Marathon. Detectives utilized a confidential informant to make a controlled purchase of cocaine from White, known by the street name “World.” The substance purchased field-tested positive for cocaine. Investigators identified White through surveillance and intelligence gathering.

The third case occurred at the Key West Detention Center on March 22, 2024. A detention deputy reported observing White exposing himself while making eye contact during security rounds. White allegedly refused to stop when ordered and threatened the deputy after she indicated she would pursue charges. He subsequently entered no contest pleas to lewd or lascivious exhibition and threats to a law enforcement officer.

Prosecution and Sentencing Details

Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield stated that White had been given an opportunity to complete probation after serving time for armed robbery but instead repeatedly violated it. Mansfield emphasized that when such offenders reject rehabilitation and continue to pose a risk, prison becomes a necessity. The court also ordered White to pay a total of $2,274 in various fees, including attorney’s fees, court costs, and investigative costs. His driver’s license was suspended or revoked for six months in connection with the two 2024 cases. Assistant State Attorney Jon M. Byrne prosecuted the cases.

The full details of the sentencing and the cases can be found in reporting by Keys Weekly.