Lorincz claimed she acted in self-defense, citing Florida’s controversial “stand your ground” law. On June 2, 2023, she fired a singleshot through her front door, striking Owens, who had come to confront Lorincz after her children reported being harassed.
Owens’ family says Lorincz had a history of hostility toward the children, who often played near her home. The prosecution argued that Lorincz’s actions were driven by anger, not fear, and that she had no reason to believe her life was in danger.
“Thisverdictis a step towardjusticefor A.J. and a reminder that we cannot tolerate acts of violence rooted inhate,” said Owens’ mother, Pamela Dias, who expressed relief after the conviction. “My daughter’s life was stolen in asenselessact, and today’sdecisiongives me somepeace.”
“The defendant’s choices have shattered a family and left acommunitygrieving,” said State Attorney William Gladson, whose office prosecuted the case. “While today’s verdict won’t bring A.J. back, it sends amessagethatsenseless violencewillnot go unpunished.”
Throughout the trial, prosecutors maintained that Owens did not pose a legitimate threat when she knocked on Lorincz’s door.
Lorincz’s defense team pointed to Owens’ size and past confrontations, arguing that Lorincz was intimidated and acted out of fear.
However, the jury was unconvinced by this narrative, ultimately convicting her of manslaughter, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison.
Owens’ family has vowed to continue advocating for changes in how such cases are prosecuted and for reforms in jury selection processes to ensure more diverse representation in racially sensitive trials.
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