Florida has executed Jesse Guardado, a 64-year-old man convicted of murdering a 75-year-old woman during a robbery at her home in 2004. His execution on Thursday, November 5, 2026, brought Florida’s total number of executions this year to 19, matching the state’s modern-era annual record set in 2025.
Guardado was put to death by lethal injection at Florida State Prison in connection with the killing of Jackie Malone in Walton County. The murder occurred on September 13, 2004, when Guardado entered Malone’s home intending to rob her.
According to court records, Malone had previously helped Guardado find accommodation and employment following his release from prison. However, during a period of financial desperation and crack cocaine use, he targeted her home after an unsuccessful attempt to rob a grocery store.
Court documents reveal that Guardado armed himself with a metal breaker bar and a kitchen knife before going to Malone’s residence. He assaulted her, stabbed her, and stole several personal belongings, including her purse, jewelry box, briefcase, and cellphone, along with approximately $80.
Guardado subsequently confessed to the crime and pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and armed robbery. He was sentenced to death in October 2005.
