Felonious Florida: Special Episode - Case Update + Season 5 Teaser | Episode 9

Introduction

In this gripping special episode of Felonious Florida, host David Shutes teams up with South Florida Sun Sentinel reporter Angie Demichel to provide an in-depth update on one of the most harrowing cases featured in the podcast’s second season: the Encino murders. This episode not only revisits the traumatic events of August 17, 2009, but also sheds light on the nearly three-decade-long pursuit of justice for Camille Hamilton and her family.

The Encino Murders

On a quiet spring day in 2009, Camille Hamilton and her 15-year-old daughter, Nikki, were visiting South Florida from their home in Jamaica. What was meant to be a joyful trip to prepare for Nikki’s Sweet 16 turned into a nightmare.

Camille Hamilton shares her memories:

"We came to shop for because she was going to become 16. November 26, 2009 and we came to shop for our Sweet 16 party and back to school stuff."
(03:03)

Nikki, described as Camille’s "pride and joy," was a top student with aspirations of becoming a pediatrician. Her compassionate nature was evident as she often gave her lunch money to children in need.

Camille Hamilton reflects:

"She was always that kind of warm, loving, caring, giving person. Everything was good about my child. She was so different."
(03:44)

The Attack

On the night of August 16, 2009, Camille, Nikki, Camille's friend Faith Bissasaur, and Faith’s 15-year-old son Davion were brutally attacked at Faith's home on Encino Street in Miramar, Florida. Camille recounts the terrifying moments leading up to the attack:

"This man pull his gun out at the gate, stickers up, and said to the kids, you all get inside. And I dropped the car key in my pocket..."
(04:34)

Despite her efforts to protect her daughter, Camille was overpowered. In the ensuing chaos, the gunman shot Faith, Davion, and Nikki, leaving Camille severely injured and her memory of the night initially fragmented.

Camille Hamilton describes her desperate attempt to save her daughter:

"Don't take my daughter. Don't take my daughter up."
(05:04)

Investigation and Arrest

For months, the investigation stalled until a breakthrough in July 2009 when DNA from a piece of duct tape at the crime scene partially matched Kevin Pratt, a known criminal with a history of violent offenses. After a prolonged search, Pratt was identified and placed in a lineup, where Camille confidently identified him as her attacker.

Camille Hamilton asserts:

"This man. I see him face to face when he came up to the car... It was Kevin Pratt. It was number four. I never forgot that number."
(14:46)

Trial and Plea Deal

Charged with three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder, prosecutors initially sought the death penalty for Pratt. However, doubts about the strength of the DNA evidence and challenges to Camille's memory led to a plea deal. Pratt pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and was sentenced to just 10 years in prison, a decision that left Camille devastated.

Camille Hamilton expresses her anguish:

"I wanted him to get that penalty, to sit in the electric chair, but taking my child, life, Davion’s life and leave me to suffer."
(17:12)

Judge Ari Porth attempted to offer solace by assuring Camille that Pratt would return to prison if he violated any conditions, a promise that ultimately proved unfulfilled.

Pratt's Release and Recidivism

In 2021, after serving his sentence, Kevin Pratt was released. His newfound freedom was short-lived, as he continued his pattern of criminal behavior. Multiple arrests for probation violations, substance abuse, and threats culminated in a court finding him a danger to the community. On April 2, 2025, Pratt was sentenced to an unprecedented 69 years in Florida state prison, effectively ensuring he would spend the rest of his life incarcerated.

Camille Hamilton shares her relief:

"It happened. He's going away. He's not gonna come back."
(21:04)

Despite the legal vindication, Camille continues to live with the physical and emotional scars of that tragic night. She has undergone numerous surgeries and bears permanent injuries, including the loss of vision and hearing in parts of her left side.

Camille Hamilton declares:

"She's my only child. This man took everything from me when he took away my child."
(21:54)

Continuing Struggle and Healing

Camille’s journey of healing is fraught with pain and memories that refuse to fade. She often finds herself conversing with the memory of her daughter, seeking solace in the midst of her profound loss.

Camille Hamilton reflects:

"Sometimes I wake up, I talk to Nikki, I write to her. I tell her every night, mommy love you."
(22:03)

Looking Ahead: Season 5 Teaser

As the episode draws to a close, David Shutes provides a tantalizing glimpse into the upcoming fifth season of Felonious Florida. A new case from 1997 in Miramar, Florida, involving a quadruple homicide, promises to delve deeper into unsolved mysteries and the relentless pursuit of justice that defines the podcast.

David Shutes invites listeners:

"In a new season of Felonious Florida coming May 6th, we go inside that house and retrace the steps of detectives as they search for a cold-blooded killer and explore why this case has been said so difficult to crack."
(22:52)

Conclusion

This special episode of Felonious Florida serves as both a poignant closure to the Encino murders case and a bridge to future investigations. Camille Hamilton's unwavering quest for justice highlights the enduring impact of violent crime on survivors and their families. As season five approaches, listeners can anticipate further explorations into the dark and intricate world of Florida’s most notorious crimes.

Notable Quotes

• Camille Hamilton on identifying her attacker:
  "This man. I see him face to face when he came up to the car... It was Kevin Pratt." (14:46)

• Camille Hamilton expressing frustration over the plea deal:
  "I wanted him to get that penalty... but taking my child... leave me to suffer." (17:12)

• Camille Hamilton on receiving justice:
  "It happened. He's going away. He's not gonna come back." (21:04)

• Camille Hamilton on her enduring pain:
  "She's my only child. This man took everything from me when he took away my child." (21:54)

Stay Connected

For updates on this case and to be notified about the release of season five on May 6, follow Felonious Florida on social media and subscribe via the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify.