Stevenson Charles, a 21-year-old from Miami, Florida, engaged in a series of violent crimes between October and November 2022, targeting gay men he met through the dating app Grindr. He lured victims under the pretense of intimate encounters, only to subject them to armed robberies and kidnappings. In one instance, Charles abducted a man in Dania Beach, forced him to drive to the victim's residence in Aventura, and subsequently shot him multiple times near a secluded railroad track; the victim survived. Charles was apprehended in Georgia and, in February 2023, pled guilty to 17 counts related to his crime spree. He was sentenced to life in prison in April 2023. His actions had a profound impact on the victims and the LGBTQ+ community in South Florida, leading to increased awareness and discussions about safety within online dating platforms. As of February 2025, Charles remains incarcerated, serving his life sentence without the possibility of parole.
Stevenson Charles. Autographed Letter, Signed. Handwritten, Commercial #10 (4.125 × 9.5 envelope). Columbia, SC. February 11, 2025. Content unknown. SEALED.
The Double Life of Stevenson Charles:
From Aspiring Musician to Convicted Felon
Basic Information
Stevenson Charles, born on June 15, 1987, in Miami, Florida, is currently incarcerated at a federal penitentiary following multiple convictions related to firearm possession and violent crimes. His criminal record includes charges of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, as well as a series of hate-fueled robberies and kidnappings targeting gay men.
Background
Growing up in Miami's inner city, Charles was raised by a single mother alongside his sister. Despite the challenges of their environment, his family emphasized the importance of education and hard work. Charles attended local public schools and demonstrated a keen interest in music from a young age. After high school, he pursued his passion by performing at local venues, aspiring to make a name for himself in the music industry. However, financial pressures led him to seek alternative means of income, and he became associated with individuals involved in criminal activities.
Criminal Activity
Charles's descent into criminality began in his early twenties. In December 2008, during a routine traffic stop in Miami-Dade County, officers detected the scent of marijuana emanating from his vehicle. Upon further inspection, Charles attempted to flee but was apprehended after discarding a loaded firearm. He was subsequently charged and convicted for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, resulting in a 20-year prison sentence.
While incarcerated, Charles harbored deep-seated prejudices, particularly against the LGBTQ+ community. Upon his release in early 2022, he orchestrated a series of heinous crimes targeting gay men he met through the dating app Grindr. Between October 23 and November 6, 2022, Charles lured five men with promises of intimate encounters, only to subject them to armed robberies and kidnappings. In one particularly egregious incident, he abducted a man in Dania Beach, forced him to drive to the victim's residence in Aventura, and subsequently shot him multiple times near a secluded railroad track. Miraculously, the victim survived.
Legal Proceedings
Following an extensive investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI Miami Field Office and local police departments, Charles was apprehended in Georgia. He faced a litany of charges, encompassing armed robbery, kidnapping, and hate crime enhancements. In February 2023, Charles pled guilty to 17 counts related to his crime spree. U.S. District Judge Paul C. Huck presided over the case, and in April 2023, Charles was sentenced to life in prison.
Impact on Victims and Society
Charles's actions left indelible scars on his victims, both physically and psychologically. The survivor of the shooting endured multiple surgeries and continues to grapple with trauma. The LGBTQ+ community in South Florida was profoundly shaken, leading to heightened awareness and discussions about safety within online dating platforms. Media coverage was extensive, prompting local authorities to implement measures aimed at protecting vulnerable populations and preventing similar crimes in the future.
Current Status
As of February 2025, Charles remains incarcerated, serving his life sentence without the possibility of parole. There have been no reported efforts toward his rehabilitation, and he is considered a continued threat to society, given the violent and targeted nature of his offenses.
Conclusion
The trajectory of Stevenson Charles's life underscores the perilous consequences of unchecked biases and the allure of criminal associations. His case serves as a stark reminder of the necessity for early intervention, community support, and robust protective measures for marginalized groups. To deter similar offenses, it is imperative to foster inclusive environments and ensure that hate crimes are met with swift and decisive justice.
Additional Note
Given the notoriety of his crimes and the life sentence he is serving, obtaining an autographed item from Stevenson Charles would be rare. Such an item could hold significant value for collectors specializing in criminal memorabilia.
VIDEO: Miami Man Pleads Guilty To Grindr Attacks And Theft | https://youtu.be/6EytgpG5gU8
Archiving Protocol:
• Handled with White Gloves ab initio
• Photo Pages/Sheet Protectors: Heavyweight Clear Sheet Protectors, Acid Free & Archival Safe, 8.5 × 11, Top Load
• White Backing Board – Acid Free
Shipping/Packaging: Rigid Mailer 9.5 × 12.5. White, self-seal, stay-flat, Kraft cardboard, no bend. Each rigid mailer is made of heavy cardboard, which has strong resistance to bending and tearing. Thicker than the USPS mailers. Shipping cost never more than it absolutely has to be to get it from me to you.