Two teenagers from Florida, Lois Olivios Lippert, 14, and Isabel Aurelia Valdez, 15, are facing serious charges for allegedly planning a violent “blood ritual” mass murder at a high school. After their arrest, they were filmed joking and laughing in the back of a police vehicle.
This video emerged during a bail hearing where prosecutors argued for their detention, citing the teens’ behavior as concerning. They claimed that the young individuals posed a threat to the community, and thus should remain in custody.
Reports suggest that Valdez harbored a fascination with Adam Lanza, the Sandy Hook shooter, and drew inspiration from the tragic events of 2012, during which twenty elementary school students lost their lives.
The police apprehended the duo in January after receiving tips about a student, referred to as “Jimmy,” who was planning to harm someone at Lake Brantley High School. Investigators later revealed that “Jimmy” was indeed Valdez.
In the police car footage shown in court, Valdez mentioned to Lippert her intention to do her makeup for a mugshot that day, but lamented that she couldn’t find anything suitable at school. Lippert responded with satisfaction about her appearance, and Valdez remarked that at least they’d look decent in their mugshots.
The pair also made light of being a “lesbian couple in prison.” Assistant State Attorney Domenic Leo expressed to the judge that there were no release conditions that could sufficiently protect the public from potential harm.
The court decided to deny bail for both defendants.
Facing charges of attempted murder, the teens will be tried as adults, which could result in lengthy prison sentences, unlike juvenile detention where they would only stay until they’re adults.
Court documents outline the disturbing motives behind their alleged conspiracy. Valdez reportedly believed that by killing the victim, she could be connected to Lanza and, in a twisted way, return to life.
Investigators also revealed that Valdez had messaged on Discord about performing a blood ritual for Lanza, indicating urgency by telling Lippert that it would all be done by the next day and requesting latex gloves.
Authorities indicated that their prompt action following a tip from fellow students regarding the plotted attack likely averted a murder. The teens had allegedly discussed ambushing their target in a school bathroom, inflicting lethal wounds, and then performing a ritualistic act involving flowers and a cigarette afterward.
Additionally, it was suggested that Lippert had drawn disturbing images representing the victim’s demise, further highlighting the severity of their intentions.
Both teens will stand trial together in Florida Circuit Court, an arena where they face potentially severe consequences due to being treated as adults.
