TORONTO, Canada – Family and friends of Floreano Lopes gathered in court to remember the 42-year-old construction worker who was tragically shot at his job site nearly two-and-a-half years ago. During the emotional proceedings, loved ones shared memories of Floreano and urged the judge to deliver a stiff period of parole ineligibility for his killer, Jonathon Kozuch.
Tania Lopes, Floreano’s widow, tearfully addressed the court, expressing the pain and loss caused by Kozuch’s actions. She described how Kozuch stole the life of her late husband, leaving their three children without a father. The impact of the loss was further emphasized by a recorded video of Floreano’s 12-year-old son Ethan, who lamented the shattered promise of a birthday motorcycle ride with his dad.
The fatal incident occurred at a construction site on September 3, 2021, when a stolen black pick-up truck crashed into the site, leading to a confrontation between Floreano and Kozuch. The jury learned that Kozuch, who was high on drugs at the time, attempted to steal a vehicle from the site before the altercation ensued, resulting in the fatal shooting of Floreano.
Following Kozuch’s arrest and subsequent guilty plea to theft and dangerous driving charges, the jury found him guilty of second-degree murder. Now, Justice Michael Quigley must determine the appropriate period of parole ineligibility, a decision that will have a lasting impact on both the victims’ family and the defendant.
Crown prosecutor Barry Stagg argued for a 15-year parole ineligibility, citing Kozuch’s deliberate actions on the day of the crime. Defense lawyer Ari Goldkind, on the other hand, advocated for a shorter period, emphasizing Kozuch’s lack of prior violent or firearm-related offenses.
As the court awaits Justice Quigley’s decision on sentencing, the family of the victim continues to grapple with the profound impact of their loss. The emotional toll of the tragedy was further evident as Floreano’s eldest daughter, Emily, expressed her inability to forgive Kozuch, painting a picture of the enduring pain and anger caused by the senseless act of violence.
The case serves as a grim reminder of the far-reaching impact of violent crime, leaving a community reeling from the loss of a beloved family man. The sentencing decision, expected to be delivered on February 15, will mark a crucial moment in the quest for justice for Floreano Lopes and his grieving loved ones.