Winter Haven, FL – Two Florida brothers were sentenced to life in prison for orchestrating the robbery and murder of a man they met online, prosecutors say. The case highlights the dangers of online deception and senseless violence driven by the pursuit of “street cred.”
Brothers Manipulated Victim Online
Angel Lobato, 23, and Jo Lobato, 24, were both convicted by juries of first-degree murder, armed robbery, and related charges for the 2020 death of 21-year-old Danne Frazier. Angel received his life sentence last week, while Jo was sentenced in November 2024.
Prosecutors stated that Jo Lobato initiated contact with Frazier online, creating a fake romantic relationship. The Lobato brothers’ actual intent, however, was far more sinister: they planned to rob and murder Frazier to establish their reputation in local criminal circles.
“In doing so, they would earn their ‘stripes’ in the streets,” a press release from authorities said.
The Deadly Encounter in Central Park
Jo Lobato lured Frazier to Central Park in Winter Haven after work. As they walked, Angel Lobato waited behind a tree armed with a baseball bat. The plan involved Jo distracting Frazier with a “kiss,” while Angel attacked.
When Frazier resisted, Jo Lobato choked him out, allowing Angel to begin striking him with the bat. According to the probable cause affidavit, Angel then cut Frazier’s neck multiple times with the knife that Jo carried.
The brothers then placed Frazier in his own car and transported him to a remote wooded area on Helicopter Road in Lake Wales, covering the remains with branches.
Discovery and Arrest
Frazier’s mother reported him missing on November 4, 2020. His body was discovered about a week later during an environmental study. Authorities arrested the Lobato brothers 10 days after the murder, bringing an end to the manhunt.
“These two brothers are pure evil in the flesh. Danne Frazier was just a good kid, trying to comfort someone he met online,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.
“They murdered him just so they would have ‘street cred.’ My heart goes out to Danne’s family. They raised a good young man, and they don’t deserve this.”
Sentence and Community Response
Both brothers will spend the remainder of their lives in prison, ensuring that they cannot harm anyone else. The case has raised awareness about the dangers of online interactions, especially when strangers are involved.
Authorities hope the severe sentencing serves as a deterrent against similar online crimes, reminding the community that deception and premeditated violence carry the harshest consequences.
Lessons on Online Safety
Experts advise caution when engaging with new contacts online:
- Verify identities before meeting in person
- Meet in public spaces with friends or family nearby
- Report suspicious behavior immediately to local authorities
While the motive in this case was purely criminal, it underscores how online relationships can be exploited, and the importance of safety precautions in all online interactions.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of Danne Frazier reminds the public that even seemingly harmless online connections can have devastating consequences. The life sentences handed to the Lobato brothers serve as a stern warning to anyone considering similar criminal behavior.
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