Former Patient Accused of Stabbing Therapist to Death in Orange County Had Prior Knife Conviction

A horrifying act of violence inside a mental health office in Orange County has left a respected therapist dead and another person critically injured, raising serious questions about safety, supervision, and warning signs involving violent offenders.

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the fatal stabbing occurred Monday at an office building on Lee Road. Deputies say Michael Smith, 39, a former patient of licensed mental health counselor Rebecca White, forcibly interrupted an active therapy session between White and another client.

Authorities say White immediately confronted Smith and instructed him to leave the office. When the male client — a man in his 30s — told Smith he was calling 911, Smith allegedly pulled out a knife and attacked both individuals.

• Rebecca White was fatally stabbed and pronounced dead.
• The male client suffered critical injuries, underwent surgery, and is expected to recover.

On Tuesday, deputies located Smith deceased. Authorities believe he died by suicide.

Court records show Smith had an extensive and violent criminal past involving a knife, which has intensified public concern following the attack.

According to a 2003 arrest report from the West Palm Beach Police Department, Smith previously:

• Held a knife to a woman’s neck
• Forced her into her home
• Held her captive for more than three hours
• Repeatedly sexually battered her
• Tied her to a bathroom sink before leaving
• Returned later stating he intended to rape her again

The victim ultimately escaped through a window and sought help from a neighbor. Smith was later arrested, and DNA evidence linked him to the crime.

He was charged with:

• Armed burglary of an occupied residence with battery
• Armed sexual battery
• Armed kidnapping

Smith was convicted, served nearly 18 years in prison, and was listed on the Florida Sex Offender Registry.

This tragedy has sparked renewed concerns about workplace safety for mental health professionals, particularly when treating or previously treating individuals with violent criminal histories.

Mental health counselors, therapists, and medical professionals often work in environments that are:

• Open to the public
• Not equipped with security personnel
• Dependent on trust-based interactions

Incidents like this underscore the importance of:

• Threat assessment protocols
• Clear policies regarding terminated patients
• Physical security measures in medical and counseling offices
• Coordination between treatment providers and law enforcement when credible threats exist

Legal Implications and Accountability

When violence occurs in professional settings, multiple legal questions may arise, including:

• Whether proper safety measures were in place
• Whether building owners or management had a duty to provide security
• Whether prior warning signs were missed
• Whether policies regarding former patients were followed

Families of victims may have the right to pursue wrongful death claims or negligent security claims, depending on the circumstances and evidence uncovered through investigation.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Helps Families After Violent Deaths

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent families devastated by violent and preventable deaths, including incidents involving negligent security and third-party failures.

Our firm intentionally maintains a small caseload, allowing families to work directly with experienced attorneys who will:

• Conduct an independent investigation
• Examine security policies and building management responsibilities
• Review prior incidents, warnings, or safety lapses
• Identify all potentially liable parties and insurance coverage
• Handle all legal and investigative burdens during an incredibly painful time

Families never pay upfront. We only collect a fee if we recover compensation.

Rebecca White’s death has left a profound impact on her family, her clients, and the broader Orange County community. As the investigation continues, many are calling for stronger protections for professionals who dedicate their lives to helping others heal.

If you or someone you love has lost a family member due to a violent or preventable act, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone.

📞 Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. We serve families throughout Orange County and across Florida.