Statement on Guilty Verdict in People v. Brian Scott Lorenzo

STATEMENT FROM ERIE COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY MIKE KEANE

"Today, a jury found Brian Scott Lorenzo, also known as Brian Scott Lorenz, age 56, guilty of two counts of Murder in the Second Degree (Class A-I felonies) and one count of Burglary in the First Degree (Class B violent felony). Jurors rendered their decision this morning after approximately six hours of deliberation following a nine-day trial, convicting the defendant of all counts in the indictment.

On Wednesday, February 17, 1993, the defendant entered or remained unlawfully in a residence on Franklin Street in the City of Tonawanda with the intent to commit a crime. While inside the house, the defendant intentionally caused the death of the homeowner, 33-year-old Deborah Meindl. The victim was found deceased in the dining room by her 10-year-old daughter as she arrived home from school. The Erie County Medical Examiner's Office ruled the manner of death as homicide caused by ligature strangulation.

After more than 33 years, our office has successfully secured a conviction for the murder of Debbie Meindl. The passage of time presents significant challenges in any prosecution, and this case was no exception. This outcome is not just a legal victory - it is a testament to the persistence of truth and the unwavering commitment of dedicated public servants tasked with the pursuit of justice.

To the prosecution team, I am proud of your diligent and professional handling of a complex criminal matter with the unique challenge of presenting testimony from several now-deceased key witnesses. I also extend my commendations to the many dedicated prosecutors, investigators, law enforcement officers, first responders, forensic experts, and victim advocates - past and present - for their contributions to the investigation and prosecution of this case. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the jurors whose attention and discernment were crucial to bring this matter to a just conclusion.

Most importantly, I extend my deepest condolences to the family of Debbie Meindl. I would like to commend her youngest daughter Lisa and her sister Lynne, who have been present for every court appearance, for their strength and cooperation throughout this lengthy legal process. I recognize that a trial, even more than three decades later, takes an emotional toll on every person involved from witnesses to investigators - but especially for a family who continues to grieve and seek justice for the loss of their loved one.

Lorenzo, who remains held without bail, is scheduled to be sentenced before State Supreme Court Justice Paul B. Wojtaszek on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m."