Robert Gow, a 77-year-old white male, was found dead on March 2, 2019, in his home in Naples, FL. His death was ruled an apparent suicide. According to reports, his wife, Kay Gow, discovered his body in their home sauna with a gunshot wound. A chrome revolver was found next to his body, and a handwritten note, believed to be a suicide note, was left on the bed in the master bedroom.
Kay Gow informed the police that she had left the house earlier that morning for an appointment and returned around 1:30 p.m. to find her husband deceased. The couple had recently been convicted of wire fraud and money laundering, facing significant prison sentences.
Robert Gow and his wife were involved in a high-profile legal case concerning their company, VR Laboratories LLC. They were found guilty of defrauding Lee County out of nearly $5 million in grant funds. The Gows had promised to create a business that would manufacture over-the-counter remedies based on plant extracts but failed to meet investment and job creation goals. Instead, they diverted the funds for personal use. The couple, along with a co-defendant, John G. Williams Jr., faced multiple charges, including fraud, conspiracy, and money laundering. The Gows were convicted on ten counts each, and Williams on three counts.
The legal troubles and impending sentencing likely contributed to the circumstances surrounding Robert Gow's death. The couple's fraudulent activities had significant repercussions, leading to their downfall. Kay Gow, who was 68 at the time, faced up to 45 years in prison. The case highlighted the misuse of public funds and the severe consequences of financial crimes. The investigation into their activities revealed a complex scheme involving false representations and fraudulent invoices, ultimately leading to their conviction.
