Category Archives: Press Release

State Attorney Suzy Lopez Addresses Judicial Assessment Committee in Support of Crime Victims

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]


TAMPA, FL (October 13, 2023) — State Attorney Suzy Lopez addressed the Florida Supreme Court’s Judicial Circuit Assessment Committee at its final public hearing today in Tampa to ask members to ensure crime victims are fully supported as the committee considers circuit consolidation. State Attorney Lopez explained that crime victims deserve robust resources and access to information regardless of the committee’s final decision.

The committee heard testimony today from the legal community and local leaders as its members gather information prior to submitting a recommendation regarding circuit consolidation to the Supreme Court by December 1. The committee is currently analyzing the allocation of resources and methods across the state to improve the delivery of judicial services to our communities. The Florida Supreme Court will issue guidance to lawmakers who could ultimately vote on the issue during the next legislative session. Lawmakers introduced the proposal to learn more about whether the move would generate substantial cost savings through greater efficiencies.

“When we talk about assessing our State’s judicial circuits, we are talking fundamentally about access to courts and the far too scarce resources for crime victims,” State Attorney Lopez told the committee. “In our circuit, we place a premium not merely on counting how many cases we handle, but rather giving crime victims the dignity and support they need,” said State Attorney Lopez.

State Attorney Lopez meets with every homicide victim’s family personally to help them navigate the legal system. The State Attorney’s Office has a talented team of Victim Advocates who guide crime victims through every facet of their case, ensuring they are heard and supported through one of the most difficult times in their lives.

State Attorney Lopez’ full remarks to the Assessment Committee:

“I want to speak to you today on one narrow issue at the center of the criminal justice system: crime victims.  It is an issue that is not driven by population studies.  It cannot be measured by the number of FTEs an agency has.  

I ask you- I plead with you, to find a way in the work of this committee to stand up for crime victims.   As state attorney for Hillsborough County, I have cried with mothers whose sons were killed by criminals with guns.  I have grieved with families who’ve lost loved ones at the hands of drunk drivers.  I have consoled families whose loved ones were killed by a serial killer and all they wanted, all they asked for, is that their 6-year odyssey through the criminal justice system finally come to an end. When we talk about assessing our State’s judicial circuits we are talking fundamentally about access to courts and the scarce resources available for crime victims.    Some circuits depend on federal grants to support crime victims and others have dedicated programs held together with a patchwork of state and local funding.  

In our Circuit, we place a premium not merely on counting how many cases we handle, but rather giving crime victims the dignity and support they need.  I meet personally with every next of kin who has lost someone to homicide.  In addition, our Sherriff’s Office and the Tampa Police Department have dedicated crime victims support teams.  Our county administrator and our county commission have dedicated substantial resources to support over 30 full-time employees in our victim assistance program.

You are unlikely to find any cost savings in supporting crime victims. We should spend more.  Crime victim support requires personal attention. Understanding all of the variables in that person’s life.  Knowing how he or she will go to work, support their family, or simply find the resources to grieve.   As you consider if consolidation’s impact on the delivery of judicial services for the State of Florida, I ask you not to lose sight of the mothers, daughters, sons, and fathers who have shared their stories with me and trusted me to find justice for them.  

Our judicial circuit is comprised of just one county, but we prioritize crime victims both through our dedication of personnel and funding.  If your findings and recommendations lend additional support to crime victims, then all public servants should stand in support.  If you find consolidation of circuits will reduce the access and support crime victims are constitutionally guaranteed, then we should not move forward.      

Thank you for your work on these issues. You have been given a complicated task and a very narrow timeframe in which to complete it.  Your dedication to this mission is not lost on all of us who serve the public, and I imagine a scenario where, no matter the outcome of your work, the valuable information you gather and analyze will be useful for many years to come and important far beyond the mission of your committee.”

                   ###

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

· Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA

· Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney

· Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

 

 

Tampa Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder in Death of 17-month-old Child

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, FL (October 9, 2023) — Enrico Adams will spend the rest of his life in prison after a jury found him guilty in the gruesome beating death of his girlfriend’s 17-month-old child. Prosecutors successfully proved that Adams was the person responsible for killing the baby while the mother took her other children to the laundromat in December 2019. This was the second trial for Adams after a jury previously could not agree on a verdict last summer.

 

Jurors heard testimony from the baby’s mother, who found the child unresponsive in the crib after being left alone with Adams for a matter of hours. Video evidence showed the defendant outside of the apartment frustrated, and roughly handling the victim as he walked back into the home. Prior to the victim’s mother leaving to do laundry, the baby was acting and playing normally. Autopsy results showed the baby died of severe blunt force trauma.

 

Adams will be formally sentenced on October 25, 2023. He faces a mandatory life prison sentence on the first-degree murder charge.

 

“It is difficult to comprehend how anyone could harm a defenseless, innocent child. I am proud of our prosecution team for ensuring this monster will live the rest of his life in prison thinking about the life he viciously stole. My heart is with the victim’s mother and family as they process their unimaginable grief,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

 

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

Tampa Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for DUI Manslaughter Crash that Killed Young Woman and Unborn Child

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, FL (October 6, 2023) — A judge has sentenced Mario Gonzalez to 20 years in prison after he pleaded guilty to two counts of DUI manslaughter. Gonzalez caused a crash on Interstate 75 near SR-60 in Hillsborough County that killed his passenger and her unborn child.

The investigation revealed that Gonzalez showed indications of impairment during a field sobriety test and was observed dozing off just after the crash. He was found to have methamphetamine, amphetamine, and fentanyl in his system after further testing was conducted. Gonzalez’ prison sentence will be followed by 5 years of probation.

“This defendant made several reckless decisions that lead to the death of a young mother and her unborn baby. He will now have decades in prison to think about his selfish actions and how they have impacted the family of our victims. These deaths were entirely preventable, and this lengthy sentence should serve as a deterrent to others who would make such dangerous decisions,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

 

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

Jury Finds Riverview Father Guilty of Killing His Teenage Daughter

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, FL (September 27, 2023) — The State Attorney’s Office has successfully prosecuted Nahshon Shannon for the brutal 2017 murder of his own daughter. A jury found Shannon guilty of third-degree felony murder and child abuse following a nearly two-week long trial.

Witnesses testified that Shannon picked up his daughter from her mother’s residence on July 1, 2017, before her body was found in the Triple Creek Nature Preserve days later in a shallow grave. Investigators found critical evidence that tied Shannon to the crime. Tire impressions found near the body match the tires on the defendant’s vehicle. In addition, the type of bag and tape used to dispose of the victim’s body matches the tape and bag collected from the defendant’s car.

A soil expert also testified that the chemical makeup of the soil at the victim’s burial site was a match to soil found in the defendant’s car. Investigators also located a screw near the body that matched a shovel that was found in the defendant’s home, which also had a missing screw. When officers questioned Shannon and collected his cell phone for evidence, he remotely wiped the phone before investigators could examine it.

“The victim in this case was a child whose life was only beginning. Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family and friends as they navigate through this tragedy. Our prosecutors were presented with a challenging circumstantial case which they skillfully presented to jurors. We are thankful for the jury’s service and appreciate their time and dedication to this trial,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

Shannon now faces up to 20 years in prison for the crime. A judge will sentence him in November, at which point family members will be able to provide victim impact statements to the court.

If you or anyone you know is a victim of domestic violence, our community is fortunate to have incredible resources for survivors and their children. The Spring of Tampa Bay has a 24-hour Crisis Hotline that victims can call or text: (813) 248-1050. Victims can take advantage of The Spring’s services by calling (813)-247-7233 or visiting www.TheSpring.org.

 

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

Tampa Man Will Spend 10 Years in Prison for Stealing Identities in Scheme to Defraud Homeowners

Tampa Man Will Spend 10 Years in Prison for Stealing Identities in Scheme to Defraud Homeowners

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, FL (September 7, 2023) — A Tampa man who stole the identities of four homeowners in an attempt to sell their homes will spend 10 years in prison for his crimes. James Fahlman pleaded guilty today to three counts of Fraudulent Use of Personal Identification Information with a Value Over $100,000, and one count of Fraudulent use of Personal Identification of a Deceased Person with a Value Over $100,000.

In each case, Fahlman filed forged deeds after he stole the identities of each homeowner. The crimes came to light after one of the victims’ children alerted law enforcement to the scheme. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Police Department, and St. Petersburg Police Department conducted investigations into four separate properties.

This case was successfully prosecuted by our office’s Economic Crimes Unit, which handles the most serious crimes involving financial fraud. These experienced attorneys are responsible for prosecuting a variety of cases including real estate and investor fraud, tax violations, identity theft, and more.

“This prison sentence sends a strong message to the community that our office takes economic crimes very seriously. This defendant took advantage of the elderly and tried to steal their homes at a time when they should be enjoying their golden years. Thank you to our dedicated law enforcement partners for the meticulous investigation that allowed our office to prosecute this fraudster. We will not tolerate anyone preying on the elderly in Tampa Bay,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

 

State Attorney Suzy Lopez’ Historic First Year in Office Results in Stronger Partnerships, Safer Community

State Attorney Suzy Lopez’s Historic First Year in Office Results in Stronger Partnerships, Safer Community 

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit (813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, Fla. (August 1, 2023) — Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez is marking a historic first year in office after successfully rebuilding relationships with local law enforcement, strengthening ties with community partners, and taking a tougher approach to violent crime by holding offenders accountable. As the county’s first female State Attorney, Lopez has vigorously advocated for crime victims by personally meeting with each homicide victim’s family to ensure they have support from the beginning of the legal process.

 

Over the last year, the State Attorney has demonstrated her dedication to a safer community by successfully resolving several high-profile criminal cases, ensuring violent killers never have a chance to walk the streets again. Following six years of litigation in one of Hillsborough County’s most prolific murder cases, the Seminole Heights killer will spend the rest of his life behind bars after finally taking responsibility for his heinous crimes. State Attorney Lopez met personally with families to collectively reach a decision that would allow them a chance to find closure and peace by avoiding decades of legal battles in the appeals process.

 

Two of the county’s longest-standing homicide cases were also brought to a successful conclusion under State Attorney Lopez’s leadership. Michael Keetley, the man responsible for a 2010 double murder in Ruskin will spend the rest of his life in prison for his crimes following more than a decade moving through the legal system. Convicted killer Steven Lorenzo, who committed the horrific murders of Jason Galehouse and Michael Wachholtz in 2003, was

sentenced to death. State Attorney Lopez represented the State of Florida during the penalty phase of that case, marking the first time in two decades that a State Attorney litigated a case.

 

State Attorney Lopez is also committed to taking a tough stance on teen gun violence after consoling family members over the last year whose lives have been destroyed in the wake of these senseless crimes. She works collaboratively with local organizations like Safe & Sound Hillsborough and Rise Up for Peace to educate the community about the dangers of gun violence. In addition, State Attorney Lopez has ensured the punishment in these types of cases fit the crime. If a juvenile commits a violent crime with a firearm, he or she is no longer given a pass because of their age. She believes people who make reckless decisions with firearms and endanger the community should face the consequences.

 

State Attorney Lopez believes the agency’s impact outside of the courtroom is just as crucial as successfully prosecuting crimes inside of the courtroom. As a Tampa native, she has a dedication to numerous causes close to her heart and has encouraged her team to give back to the community through service. From a new partnership with the Tampa Police Department called “Shielding Our Teens” to mentor high school students over the summer to clothing drives for victims of domestic violence, the State Attorney’s Office has prioritized volunteerism over the last year to build trust and deeper connections with those who we serve. The State Attorney’s Office has also begun a program called “Bridging the Badge,” where our attorneys and law enforcement officers engage in ride-along and shadowing opportunities to better collaborate on criminal cases.

 

“I am both incredibly proud and humbled by the impactful work this agency has achieved in such a short amount of time. We have successfully shifted back to basics; evaluating each unique case based on the facts, not political convenience. My greatest accomplishment over the last year has been personally connecting with the families of those who have been impacted by violent crimes. Victims now know that they have our full support as an agency as we help them navigate the most difficult time of their lives. It is a heavy responsibility, but one I do not take for granted. I want to thank each of these families for trusting my team with their cases as we fight for justice,” said State Attorney Lopez.

 

“Suzy Lopez had a remarkable first year as State Attorney. She rebuilt the community’s trust, reestablished a relationship with law enforcement, and has been a tough-on-crime leader who has worked to bring back the rule of law in Hillsborough County,” said James Uthmeier, Chief of Staff to Governor Ron DeSantis.

 

“State Attorney Suzy Lopez is a strong partner with law enforcement. She has remained focused on holding criminals accountable, seeks justice for victims, and works with stakeholders to find alternatives for individuals that may deserve a second chance after making a simple mistake.

Hillsborough County is safe because of State Attorney Suzy Lopez,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.

 

“State Attorney Lopez demonstrates a level of professionalism and leadership that ensures a strong relationship between the State Attorney’s Office and the Tampa Police Department. I am proud to work alongside her and her office as we work in partnership with our community to make Tampa safer, together,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw.

 

“State Attorney Lopez has restored credibility and transparency back to the State Attorney’s Office. At her core, she is a prosecutor, not a politician. The people of Hillsborough County can sleep better at night knowing she’s on the job,” said former Tampa Police Chief Brian Dugan.

 

“The relationship between the prosecuting attorney and law enforcement is extremely important in the criminal justice system. State Attorney Lopez and her staff have been very intentional in working with the Plant City Police Department in promoting public safety. We look forward to continuing our partnership to provide the best possible service to our community with a relationship based on trust and open communication,” said Plant City Police Chief James Bradford.

 

“I would like to take this opportunity to offer a word of thanks and sincere appreciation to State Attorney Lopez and her entire staff. Over the course of the previous year, we have enjoyed a renewed sense of teamwork and understanding during all our interactions with the State Attorney’s Office. Her leadership, accessibility, and support have been vividly displayed throughout the year and is greatly appreciated by our entire department,” said Temple Terrace Police Chief Kenneth Albano.

 

“I applaud the work State Attorney Lopez has done to strengthen the tie between her office and law enforcement. Holding those who harm others accountable for their actions ensures justice for victims and ensures that we as law enforcement officers are able to keep our communities safe. This is important for us in Pasco, considering our shared borders and communities,” said Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco.

 

“As a member of the Leadership Council of Safe & Sound Hillsborough, State Attorney Lopez has stayed committed to working alongside our agencies and community members to prevent and reduce violence; specifically, gun violence amongst youth. Her office continues providing support for victims and their families while working to get in front of youth before they get too deep into the system. She is also an active, visible participant in our community events and strong supporter of our programming throughout Hillsborough County. We appreciate everything she and her staff do to help keep our community ‘Safe & Sound,” said Freddy Barton, Executive Director Safe & Sound Hillsborough.

 

“Over the past year, I’ve had the honor to work closely with State Attorney Lopez. She has been steadfast in her support for sexual assault survivors through the ongoing collaboration between her office and our sexual assault services team. She has also gone the extra mile by hosting a clothing and linens drive for survivors who come to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. We appreciate her work in helping victims of crime in our community,” said Clara Reynolds, CEO Crisis Center Tampa Bay.

 

“State Attorney Lopez is a wonderful advocate for important community organizations such as the Veterans Treatment Court and Tampa Citizens Review Board. I appreciate her leadership and collaboration and look forward to her many years in office,” said Retired U.S. Army Col. D.J. Reyes, Veterans Treatment Court Mentor and City of Tampa Citizens Review Board Member.

 

State Attorney Lopez was appointed State Attorney by Governor Ron DeSantis on August 4, 2023. Prior to her appointment, she worked as an attorney for the Second District Court of Appeal before becoming an Assistant State Attorney in the 13th Judicial Circuit in 2005. She was appointed County Court Judge in 2021.

 

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

 

· Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA

· Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney

· Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

 

About the State Attorney’s Office

 

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

Winter Haven Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison for Fiery Interstate 4 Crash that Killed Two

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, Fla. (July 19, 2023) —  A judge has sentenced Jorge Britton to four decades behind bars after the State Attorney’s Office successfully prosecuted him on charges of vehicular homicide, DUI manslaughter, and DUI with serious bodily injury. The sentence will be followed by 20 years of probation.

Britton was driving his sportscar over 150 miles per hour on Interstate 4 in December 2021 after a night of drinking when he crashed into another vehicle that instantly burst into flames, killing the two people inside and injuring his two passengers. The defendant’s blood alcohol level was over the legal limit at the time of the crash.

“This lengthy prison sentence should serve as a warning to anyone who makes the reckless decision to drink and drive. This defendant will spend the better part of his life behind bars thinking about the poor choices he made that led to this senseless tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victims’ families as they continue to grieve their loved ones and seek closure,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

 

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of dedicated prosecutors and professional staff that are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is dedicated to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

 

 

 

Career Criminal Receives Two Consecutive Life Sentences Following Murder Trial

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, Fla. (July 14, 2023) —  A prolific violent criminal will spend the rest of his life in prison after the State Attorney’s Office successfully prosecuted Orbro Bailey for second-degree murder and robbery with a deadly weapon. After the jury convicted him, a judge sentenced Bailey to two consecutive life sentences for the crimes that occurred in the summer of 2021. Bailey shot and killed a man during a robbery after being released from prison just six weeks earlier following a 30-year stint behind bars for a string of previous violent robberies.

 

The State Attorney’s Office chose to retry the case after the original trial resulted in a hung jury in April of 2023. The only way to keep the community safe from this violent offender was to retry the case and pursue justice for the victims. A judge sentenced him to three life sentences on Thursday, two of them to be served consecutively.

 

“Given the facts of this case and this defendant’s history of violence, our office was determined to ensure this hardened criminal did not have a chance to claim another victim. He will spend the rest of his life behind bars where he can think about the choices he made and the life he stole. My thoughts are with the victim’s family, and I hope this conviction provides them closure and comfort,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

 

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of dedicated prosecutors and professional staff that are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is dedicated to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

 

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

 

About the State Attorney’s Office

 

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

 

 

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State Attorney Suzy Lopez, Law Enforcement Officials Highlight Dramatic Rise in Fentanyl-Related Arrests

Rocky Pham0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director

Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit

(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]

 

TAMPA, Fla. (July 11, 2023) —  Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez and local law enforcement leaders are drawing attention to a dramatic rise in fentanyl-related arrests in Hillsborough County. In the last five years, the number of cases filed in Hillsborough County have risen by 1,300%. The number of cases filed in the 13th Judicial Circuit increased by 152% from 2021 to 2022 alone.

 

“Our law enforcement partners have been cracking down on the criminals who choose to deal fentanyl on the streets of Tampa Bay,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez. “Real people and real families are losing loved ones to this deadly poison. We stand with the victims and promise to relentlessly pursue every avenue we can to ensure drug dealers pay for their crimes.”

 

“As your Sheriff, it is my mission to ensure that this dangerous drug is taken off our streets and out of our community and that these careless suppliers face the consequences of their crimes,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Together, we can put an end to fentanyl’s fatal grip. If you know of anyone selling these illegal substances, please contact us immediately. You can also report and share information anonymously with Crime Stoppers or tip411.”

 

State Attorney Lopez spoke earlier this year in Tallahassee in support of harsher penalties for fentanyl traffickers. HB 1359 was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis, which imposes additional penalties, including the possibility of a life sentence, for fentanyl-related crimes when the drugs are made to look like candy that targets children. If convicted, those who traffic in such substances face a 25-year minimum mandatory sentence.

Fentanyl-Related Arrests

 

The State Attorney’s Office has vigorously prosecuted fentanyl-related trafficking cases which resulted in lengthy prison sentences for those criminals. Beau Strawder was convicted of armed trafficking in fentanyl and sentenced to 40 years in prison for his crime. Strawder was found by deputies with fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, meth, and firearms on his person.

 

Keetley Sentenced

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of dedicated prosecutors and professional staff that are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is dedicated to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

 

  • Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
  • Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
  • Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

 

About the State Attorney’s Office

 

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

Riverview Man Will Spend Life in Prison for Ybor City Murder

Erin Maloney0 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
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Riverview Man Will Spend Life in Prison for Ybor City Murder

TAMPA, Fla. (June 9, 2023) — A jury convicted Livonte Howard of first-degree murder in the shooting death of a man in Ybor City in December 2020. Howard was at a club in Ybor called 7th and Grove when witnesses say he fought with a group of men inside, subsequently following them outside of the club. Surveillance video showed Howard chasing and shooting at the group.

While one victim survived a gunshot wound, the other succumbed to his injuries. Jurors were able to see surveillance video from that night that showed Howard standing over one victim and shooting him multiple times. The jury found Howard guilty of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated battery with a weapon. Today, Howard was sentenced to life in prison for the crimes.

“It is devastating to know that the victim in this case lost his life the day after Christmas because of the defendant’s senseless act. We must stand together against gun violence and send a strong message to the community that it will not be tolerated. Our thoughts remain with the victims and their families and hope this outcome provides comfort during their difficult time,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.

State Attorney Lopez leads a team of dedicated prosecutors and professional staff that are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is dedicated to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:

• Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
• Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
• Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO

About the State Attorney’s Office

The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.

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