Grisly Discovery in Florida: Two Men Charged in Elderly Man’s Murder and Financial Exploitation

Introduction

In a shocking and disturbing case, two men have been arrested and charged in connection with the murder of a 71-year-old Florida man, Joseph Romano, who was allegedly exploited financially before being killed. Joseph Schriliro, 45, and Silviano Christman, 31, are accused of orchestrating a heartless scheme that ended in tragedy. Authorities uncovered the crime after Romano was reported missing, leading to a chilling discovery in one of the suspects’ backyards. This case highlights the depths of human depravity and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals.

A Sinister Financial Scheme

The investigation into Romano’s disappearance revealed a trail of deceit and financial fraud. Detectives discovered that Schriliro and Christman had allegedly swindled Romano out of large sums of money as part of a well-planned scheme. The victim’s funds were transferred into fraudulent accounts linked to the suspects, though the exact amount stolen remains undisclosed. This financial exploitation was only the beginning of a series of events that would escalate into violence and murder.

The Grisly Crime Unfolds

Romano was last seen alive on January 3, and his disappearance was reported shortly thereafter. Deputies launched an investigation on January 16, following up on leads that would eventually uncover the horrifying truth. On February 13, authorities made a stomach-churning discovery: Romano’s dismembered remains were found buried in the backyard of one of the suspects’ homes. The sheer brutality of the crime has left the community in shock, with Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister describing the actions of the two men as "despicable and deeply disturbing."

A Joint Effort to Bring Justice

The suspects’ alleged involvement in Romano’s murder and financial exploitation was pieced together through meticulous investigative work. Schriliro was caught attempting to take Romano’s mail, a clue that led authorities to delve deeper into his activities. A search warrant for Schriliro’s home in Valrico was secured, and further evidence was uncovered, including ties to Christman, who had flown to Tampa from New York in January. The New York Police Department Regional Fugitive Task Force and the U.S. Marshals played crucial roles in apprehending the suspects. Christman was arrested in New York on February 20, while Schriliro was taken into custody in Pinellas County the following day.

Charges and Ongoing Investigation

Both Schriliro and Christman face severe charges, including pre-meditated first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, burglary with battery, and fraudulent use of personally identifiable information of a deceased person. Christman has also been charged with abuse of a dead body. Schriliro faces additional charges related to money laundering, fraud, and exploitation. The case is still ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and piece together the events surrounding Romano’s tragic death.

The Road to Justice

As the investigation continues, both suspects are being held in custody. Schriliro is currently at Pinellas County Jail, while Christman is detained at the Bellevue Hospital Prison Ward in New York. Christman is set to appear in Queens Criminal Court on March 20. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of financial exploitation and the importance of protecting the elderly and vulnerable members of society. It also underscores the dedication of law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice, no matter how heinous the crime. The community remains hopeful that the legal process will bring closure to Romano’s family and hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.