Steven Lorenzo is a convicted criminal known for his involvement in a series of heinous crimes in the early 2000s in Florida, United States. His name is often associated with high-profile murder cases, most notably the brutal killings of Jason Galehouse and Michael Wachholtz in 2003. These cases shocked the public due to their disturbing nature and led to lengthy investigations and national media attention.
Lorenzo, born in 1961, had a relatively low profile before being arrested. However, his crimes and subsequent legal proceedings placed him at the center of widespread legal, media, and social scrutiny.
The Nature of His Crimes
Steven Lorenzo was convicted for his role in drugging, torturing, and killing young men he lured through online platforms and personal ads. His crimes were carried out in his Tampa home, where investigators found evidence of premeditated, sadistic acts. According to court records, Lorenzo and his accomplice, Scott Schweickert, used GHB and other sedatives to incapacitate their victims.
The chilling nature of his actions led to multiple charges, including first-degree murder, kidnapping, and various drug-related offenses. The legal battles surrounding his case lasted for years and included numerous appeals and procedural delays.
Arrest, Trial, and Conviction
Steven Lorenzo was initially arrested on drug charges, but the investigation quickly expanded into a double homicide case. Prosecutors built their case around strong forensic evidence, testimonies from his co-defendant, and disturbing details recovered from his residence.
In 2016, Schweickert agreed to a plea deal in exchange for testifying against Lorenzo, which significantly strengthened the prosecution’s case. Lorenzo was found guilty and sentenced accordingly.
He eventually chose to represent himself in court—a decision that drew media interest due to his erratic legal arguments and disturbing courtroom behavior. Despite this, the court proceedings moved forward, and Lorenzo was convicted of multiple counts, including murder.
Is Steven Lorenzo Still Alive?
As of the latest available information, Steven Lorenzo is still alive and incarcerated. He is currently on death row in Florida, held at a state correctional facility.
Lorenzo received the death penalty in 2023 after being formally convicted of the murders. His case has gone through various stages of appeal, as is standard in capital punishment cases. Florida law mandates an extensive appeals process for all inmates on death row, which can take several years or even decades to conclude.
His continued presence on death row indicates that he remains alive, though he is not eligible for parole or early release due to the severity of his crimes.
Where Is He Now?
Steven Lorenzo is housed at Union Correctional Institution in Florida, which is one of the state’s primary facilities for inmates sentenced to death. The prison is known for its high-security protocols and its role in housing some of the most dangerous individuals in the state.
Florida’s Department of Corrections regularly updates inmate records, and as of the last public update in early 2025, Lorenzo’s status is listed as “Active — Death Row.”
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Appeals and Legal Proceedings
Following his conviction and sentencing, Lorenzo filed multiple appeals. These appeals primarily focus on claims of due process violations, inadequate legal representation, and attempts to overturn the death sentence. However, none of these appeals have resulted in any change to his status.
Legal experts note that in Florida, death penalty appeals can stretch out for decades, with most inmates remaining on death row long after sentencing. Lorenzo’s legal team continues to file motions, but no substantial updates have emerged that would alter his legal fate as of now.
Media Coverage and Public Reaction
Steven Lorenzo’s case continues to garner attention from true crime communities, legal analysts, and news outlets. Documentaries, podcasts, and YouTube channels have all explored his crimes, trial, and the victims’ stories in depth.
The public response has largely been one of outrage and sorrow, particularly from the LGBTQ+ community in Tampa, where several of the victims lived. Lorenzo’s crimes are often referenced in discussions about hate crimes, online safety, and flaws in the justice system.
Victims and Legacy
It is important to remember the lives lost: Jason Galehouse and Michael Wachholtz. Both men were young, with dreams and futures ahead of them. Their families have continued to advocate for justice and have spoken openly about the trauma and loss they endured.
Numerous memorial events and victim advocacy initiatives have kept their memories alive. Some have also pushed for reforms in how law enforcement handles missing persons and hate crime investigations.
FAQs
Was Steven Lorenzo sentenced to death?
Yes, he was sentenced to death in 2023 after being convicted of multiple murders.
Is Steven Lorenzo eligible for parole?
No. Due to the severity of his crimes and the death sentence, he is not eligible for parole or early release.
Where is Steven Lorenzo now?
He is currently on death row at Union Correctional Institution in Florida.
Did Steven Lorenzo represent himself in court?
Yes, he chose to waive his right to legal representation and acted as his own attorney during his trial.
Are there any documentaries about Steven Lorenzo?
Yes. Several true crime series and YouTube documentaries have covered his case, including interviews with investigators and victim advocates.
Final Thoughts
Steven Lorenzo remains one of the most disturbing figures in Florida’s criminal history. His actions not only ended lives but caused enduring trauma to countless families and communities. His ongoing incarceration and death sentence reflect the seriousness of his crimes.
As of 2025, Steven Lorenzo is still alive, imprisoned on death row with no foreseeable change to his status. His case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilant law enforcement, support for victims’ families, and continued public awareness about violent crime.