A case involving the 2024 disappearance and death of a Bradenton woman moved closer to trial Tuesday as 76-year-old Ronald Racki appeared in a Sarasota County courtroom.
Racki is accused of kidnapping and killing 24-year-old Laikyn West, who disappeared in September 2024. He was arrested Feb. 20 and charged with homicide, described in court records as willful killing or murder not premeditated, a first-degree felony.
According to investigators, Racki acknowledged that he and West had met on multiple occasions before her disappearance. Detectives said Racki initially denied allegations involving West but later admitted to using chloroform on her.
Among the evidence cited by investigators are photographs found on Racki’s phone that were timestamped approximately 30 minutes after West’s last known phone activity. Authorities said the images showed West bound on a desk.
Investigators also reported collecting evidence from Racki’s truck and said Racki provided conflicting statements during the investigation. Authorities have also cited a suicide attempt by Racki shortly after West disappeared as part of the circumstances examined in the case.
Several court hearings previously scheduled for June and July were postponed and continued until Tuesday. Racki’s defense team also previously received approval for the return of business property associated with his employment that was not considered relevant to the homicide case.
Racki’s next scheduled court appearance is a docket sounding on May 3, 2027, at 1:30 p.m. His trial is scheduled to begin May 17, 2027.
The charges against Racki are allegations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
