OCALA, Fla. — The woman accused of shooting and killing a mother in Ocala will not face second-degree murder charges, according to State Attorney William "Bill" Gladson of Florida's 5th Judicial Circuit.
Activists had previously called on the state to upgrade manslaughter charges for Susan Lorincz, who allegedly shot Ajike "AJ" Owens through a front door on June 2.
The State Attorney's Office is instead moving forward with charges of manslaughter with a firearm and one count of assault in a filing of criminal charges Monday.
Lorincz faces up to 30 years in prison and is currently being held at the Marion County Jail.
The State Attorney's Office looked at the possibility of an upgraded charge, but concluded there was not enough evidence to prove a "depraved mind toward the victim at the time of the killing."
The statement goes on to say that charging Lorincz with second-degree murder would likely not result in a guilty verdict.
"Given the facts in this case, aiming a firearm at the door, and pulling the trigger is legally insufficient to prove depraved mind," said Gladson in the release.
The State Attorney goes on to speak to the community's calls, saying he would not allow decisions to be influenced by public sentiment.
"I am aware of the desire of the family, and some community members, that the defendant be charged with second degree murder. My obligation as State Attorney is to follow the law in each case that I prosecute. I did so in this case, and while some may not agree with that decision, I can assure you that the decision was thoughtful and made without consideration of any factors other than the specific facts of this terrible crime. Simply stated, my obligation is to follow the law. Understandably, emotions run high, particularly with senseless, violent crimes. However, I cannot allow any decision to be influenced by public sentiment, angry phone calls or further threats of violence, as I have received in this case. To allow that to happen would also be improper and a violation of my oath as a prosecutor and as a lawyer.
Since the night of the defendant’s arrest in this case, I have indicated that I would be transparent in my decision-making process. Prior to making this decision, my office consulted with the victim’s family, and their attorney. The defendant will be prosecuted for the offense of manslaughter with a firearm, a first degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison. My office will do all it can to seek justice for Ms. Owens and her family." — State Attorney William "Bill" Gladson
According to court documents, Lorincz’s next court date is July 11.