Tampa Republic

On Friday, May 24, 2024, Tampa Police Detectives charged 38-year-old Rotesha Silveus with the murder of her 18-year-old daughter, Natavia Sanders.

"This is a heartbreaking case," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "Our deepest condolences go out to all those who knew and loved Natavia. The hard work of our detectives is a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring justice is served in this matter."

In the early hours of May 11, 2024, Natavia called Tampa Police saying she “just woke up from being passed out” after her mother, later identified as Silveus, reportedly strangled her. The call was then disconnected.

As Communications personnel worked to reconnect with the caller, officers were dispatched to the residence located in the 1900 block of E. 23rd Ave.

Tampa Police Officers arrived and met Silveus, who initially refused to cooperate. After a brief struggle, officers were able to detain her and locate Natavia unresponsive inside the home. Officers immediately began conducting CPR. Tampa Fire Rescue transported Natavia to a nearby hospital in critical condition.

Silveus was arrested and transported to Orient Road Jail. She was charged with Resisting an Officer with Violence and Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm.

Tragically, Natavia died on May 13th. The Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the death a homicide. During the investigation that followed, including interviews with witnesses, it was determined that Natavia had sustained injuries consistent with strangulation.

On May 24th, the charges against Silveus were upgraded to First Degree Murder. She remains in Orient Road Jail.