WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) —  Life sentences for Gary Gromkiewicz and Michael Lambert after both were previously found guilty on all counts for the 2022 murder of Leila Duarte Da Luz. “I did not kill Leila Duarte Da Luz,”Gromkiewicz said in a statement during the sentencing. “I would rather di e in prison knowing I did not kill the woman I love and the woman carrying my baby.” The sentencing took up most of the morning as Gromkiewicz’ attorney alerted the judge of news she had just discovered ahead of the sentencing. “Your honor, when Mr. Gromkiewicz was brought up today, he advised me that he believes there has been a breakdown in the client/attorney relationship and he’s asked that I moved to withdrawal so that he can represent himself at the sentencing today and a motion for a new trial,” the attorney said. Gromkiewicz explained to the judge why he believes he shouldn’t be represented by his attorney any longer. “She has failed to be effective counsel in every single way of this trial,” he said. “She didn’t even check my alibi.” The judge denied the motion for a new trial. Authorities said the two killers, who met in prison, picked up Da Luz in Brockton in December of 2022. Cell phone data tracked them to Carbuncle Pond in Coventry where a fisherman found Da Luz’s body. “Justice was served today and I believe society will be that much safer,” Executive Director for Alliance for Safe Communities Carolyn Medeiros said. Medeiros has been following the case closely, specifically Michael Lambert, who was found guilty of a lesser charge in a 1994 murder case when he was 17-years-old. “It is very disturbing to see that the Department of Corrections and the parole board came to the conclusion of releasing him,” Medeiros said. “He was given the opportunity to strike again and it seems to be his nature.” Categories: News ...read more read less