The sentencing for three defendants in a high-profile jewelry store heist case that netted at least $16 million across Florida has been delayed until June 4 at 1:15 p.m. Judge Daniel Merritt Jr. granted a continuance Thursday for Michael Clarence Ornelas, Matthew Petruccelli, and William Anthony “Tony” Granims, known as the “Master Jewel Thieves,” to allow prosecutors more time to gather victim statements and restitution amounts.
The trio had been scheduled for sentencing on March 26, 2026, after pleading no contest to charges including racketeering and burglary. Petruccelli entered an open plea of no contest for one count of racketeering and four counts of burglary of a structure with damage greater than $1,000. The case involves approximately $1 million stolen in Hernando County as part of the statewide crime spree that lasted nearly five and a half years.
Ornelas, 62, has filed for appointment of medical experts to establish that he has medical conditions not “amenable” to treatment. Judge Merritt scheduled April 23 to check on Ornelas’ status. The judge expressed frustration with case delays, telling prosecutors that two and a half months should be enough time to “put your feet on the accelerators” and bring the high-profile case to conclusion.
Retired detective Mike Crowley, who has followed the case from the beginning, criticized the lengthy proceedings. “I was very disappointed in the Thursday hearing,” Crowley said. “Keep in mind all three defendants are convicted felons. They will try again. The judge needs to take them custody. Six years to try a RICO case? The state attorney’s office should take action. Now.” The case began in December 2019 and has faced multiple delays throughout the legal process.
Originally reported by Hernando Sun
Sources: Hernando Sun
