FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | Erin.Maloney@sao13th.com
Riverview Man Will Spend Life in Prison for Ybor City Murder
TAMPA, Fla. (June 9, 2023) — A jury convicted Livonte Howard of first-degree murder in the shooting death of a man in Ybor City in December 2020. Howard was at a club in Ybor called 7th and Grove when witnesses say he fought with a group of men inside, subsequently following them outside of the club. Surveillance video showed Howard chasing and shooting at the group.
While one victim survived a gunshot wound, the other succumbed to his injuries. Jurors were able to see surveillance video from that night that showed Howard standing over one victim and shooting him multiple times. The jury found Howard guilty of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and aggravated battery with a weapon. Today, Howard was sentenced to life in prison for the crimes.
“It is devastating to know that the victim in this case lost his life the day after Christmas because of the defendant’s senseless act. We must stand together against gun violence and send a strong message to the community that it will not be tolerated. Our thoughts remain with the victims and their families and hope this outcome provides comfort during their difficult time,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.
State Attorney Lopez leads a team of dedicated prosecutors and professional staff that are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is dedicated to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:
• Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
• Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
• Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO
About the State Attorney’s Office
The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.