Susan Lorincz Convicted of Manslaughter in Neighbor Shooting

Susan Lorincz, a 60-year-old white woman from Florida, was convicted of manslaughter for fatally shooting her Black neighbor, Ajike 'AJ' Owens, through a locked front door during a confrontation on June 2, 2023. The jury, composed entirely of white members, deliberated for two and a half hours before reaching the verdict, which has raised concerns about racial representation in the legal process. Lorincz claimed self-defense under Florida's controversial Stand Your Ground law, asserting she feared for her life due to Owens' aggressive actions, while the prosecution argued there was no imminent threat. The case has highlighted systemic issues of racial bias, especially given the initial reluctance of law enforcement to arrest Lorincz. Owens' family expressed relief at the verdict, acknowledging the profound impact of her loss on her four young children. Lorincz now faces a potential sentence of up to 30 years in prison, with a sentencing date yet to be set.