The judge ruled Friday that prosecutors did not have enough evidence to go forward with the felony charge of attempted burglary.
It all stems from a dramatic, overnight incident this past May.
Action News first brought you exclusive video that shows Larry Torrez knock on Janz's door before going to the backyard. That's where Torrez hopped a fence and banged on the back door.
We've now learned that in his hand was a green folding knife and he was also wearing gloves.
Janz was inside with his family as this all unfolded. He says he armed himself with a gun in self-defense as his wife called 911.
Prosecutors tried making their case but the judge said it fell short.
"I understand that your point ... elements of the crime have been met," Fresno County Judge James Kelley said.
Torrez is known to Valley law enforcement and public officials. He has several prior felony convictions and has filed multiple lawsuits against the City of Fresno.
Prosecutors, though, did not present evidence about a possible motive.
Torrez did plead no contest to a misdemeanor charge for trespassing at Janz's home.
The judge sentenced him to six months for that charge only and he said Torrez was lucky that he didn't get shot by Janz.
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