Governor Ron DeSantis Friday removed Orange-Osceola State Attorney Aramis Ayala from prosecuting the Nicole Montalvo murder case- transferring the case to neighboring State Attorney Brad King whose district includes Marion County.
Ayala and Osceola County Sheriff Russ Gibson have been feuding about the evidence in the case.
"At the end of the day this is not about a particular sheriff or state attorney or governor," DeSantis said. "This is about Nicole and her memory. She can't speak for herself and so we as Floridians need to ensure that justice is done on her behalf."
The 33 year old Montalvo disappeared October 21st when she went to her in-law's home in St. Cloud to drop off her son. Her dismembered remains were found on the property.
Her estranged husband Christopher Otero-Rivera and his father Angel Rivera were accused of her murder but were never charged. Both remain behind bars on other charges.
Montalvo's brother was by the governor's side at the news conference in Kissimmee to say the family agrees with his decision.
"It breaks our heart to be here today. Nicole was a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend to so many out there. She was a single mother working tirelessly to make a better life for her and her son. We will not rest until justice is served for Nicole."