Venise Francois, 32, was found guilty as charged for Burglary of a Dwelling, Grand Theft of a Firearm and Criminal Mischief Less than $200 following a trial in Collier County.
In October 2018 the victim arrived home from work and saw that both windows in a back bedroom of his house were broken. The screens on the lanai were also ripped. The victim then noticed his handgun, which had been in his bedside table, was missing. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office investigated and determined the defendant, who had previously been in a relationship with the victim, committed the crime.
Sentencing is scheduled for August 30th. Francois faces up to 20 in prison.
Assistant State Attorney Laura Mason handled the case.
Samantha Syoen
Communications Director
State Attorney’s Office
ssyoen@sao20.org
239-533-1125