Woman found with zip tie around her neck

In a tragic incident, Joysee Cartagena Clemente, aged 49, was found in an unconscious state with a large zip tie around her neck in a Sanford home on July 17. Despite the best efforts of Sanford Fire Rescue, Clemente did not survive.

Her son, Steven Rivera Cartagena, is mourning the loss of his mother, who he described as his “personal best friend.” He expressed his profound grief, stating that his mother was his entire world and her absence has left him feeling like an orphan. He is now fervently seeking justice for his mother’s tragic demise.

Clemente was a valued employee of the Seminole County Public Schools from 2015 to 2022. She served as a secretary at Spring Lake Elementary School in Altamonte Springs and as a clerk at Lawton Elementary School in Oviedo, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the school district.

The Sanford Police Department is investigating Clemente’s death as a homicide. They have a person of interest in their sights, but no names have been disclosed yet. The department is appealing to anyone with information about the case to contact them or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).

Steven Rivera Cartagena is hopeful that the person responsible for his mother’s death will be brought to justice. “I want justice for my mother, through and through,” he said, underscoring his resolve to see the perpetrator held accountable.