Florida Judge Faces Calls for Resignation After Denying Protective Order, Leading to Woman's Murder

Outrage and calls for accountability have surged following the tragic murder of 61-year-old Audrey Peterson by her ex-boyfriend, 71-year-old Francis Scoza, on February 9. The incident, which resulted in Peterson's untimely death, has ignited a heated debate surrounding the actions of Pinellas-Pasco Circuit Judge Doneene Loar. Peterson's fatal encounter came merely two days after she sought legal protection against Scoza, filing a domestic injunction citing his alarming behavior, including stalking. Despite Peterson's pleas for safety, Judge Loar denied her petition for temporary protection, a decision that critics argue contributed to Peterson's murder. According to court records, Peterson's petition detailed a series of distressing incidents involving Scoza, including unsettling text messages, verbal abuse, and menacing behavior. Peterson's case highlighted her legitimate fear for her safety, prompting her to change her routine and maintain constant communication with law enforcement officials. In a heart-wrenching statement, Peterson's daughter lamented the failure of law enforcement to safeguard her mother, expressing profound disappointment in their inability to intervene effectively. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) joined the chorus of voices condemning Judge Loar's decision, asserting that the denial of Peterson's protective order directly contributed to her tragic demise. Luna, herself a victim of the judge's rulings in a previous stalking case, emphasized the urgent need for accountability and reform within the judicial system. Reflecting on Peterson's life and contributions to the community, her former supervisor, Laura Highman, described her as "legitimately scared" of Scoza and recounted Peterson's proactive efforts to ensure her safety. As the community mourns the loss of Audrey Peterson, questions linger over the efficacy of legal mechanisms designed to protect victims of domestic violence. The case has reignited conversations about the responsibilities of judicial officials in prioritizing the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals, prompting calls for swift action and systemic change. In response to mounting pressure, Judge Loar's office has yet to issue a formal statement regarding the calls for resignation, leaving the community grappling with profound grief and a pressing demand for justice. Want to listen to ALL of our podcasts AD-FREE? Subscribe through APPLE PODCASTS, and try it for three days free: https://tinyurl.com/ycw626tj Follow Our Other Cases: https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com The latest on Catching the Long Island Serial Killer, Awaiting Admission: BTK’s Unconfessed Crimes, Delphi Murders: Inside the Crime, Chad & Lori Daybell, The Murder of Ana Walshe, Alex Murdaugh, Bryan Kohberger, Lucy Letby, Kouri Richins, Malevolent Mormon Mommys, Justice for Harmony Montgomery, The Murder of Stephen Smith, The Murder of Madeline Kingsbury, and much more! Listen at https://www.truecrimetodaypod.com