Lizardi sentenced for 2010 burglaries

MANATEE COUNTY — Just six months after he was caught burglarizing or attempting to burglarize 10 homes in the East County, Justin Lizardi, 20, now knows the price he must pay for his crimes.

Manatee County Circuit Judge Diana Moreland ordered 180 days in county jail (with credit for time served), completion of a rehabilitation program and two-and-one-half years of probation (including an 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. curfew) during Lizardi’s sentencing Jan. 14. He also must submit to random urinalysis screenings for drugs or alcohol.

Manatee County Sheriff’s Office’s COPS North surveillance team on July 27, 2010, observed Lizardi attempting to break into several homes throughout his Heritage Harbour community.

His father, Luis Lizardi, said the crimes were related directly to his son’s addiction to drugs. Luis Lizardi did not return repeated calls seeking comment.

Originally, Justin Lizardi’s charges were for burglary of an occupied dwelling. However, his public defender was able to get those reduced to unoccupied dwelling charges, which carry significantly lighter punishments.

However, although the reduction was positive news for the Lizardi family, at least one of Justin Lizardi’s victims was unhappy with the sentencing.

“I think the judge just gave him a slap on the wrist,” said Heritage Harbour resident Paul Capello. “After I left the trial, I was in the elevator with some of the sheriff’s deputies who all thought it was a very weak decision.”

Capello said he was one of two of Justin Lizardi’s victims who testified.

“I believe in the law, and I believe if you are the victim of a crime, you have a responsibility to testify and make sure your voice is heard,” he said. “I do hope the best for him (Justin Lizardi)."

Contact Michael Eng at [email protected].