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Teen prosecuted in gang murder found not guilty on all counts
In April 2011, eighteen-year-old Saul Gonzalez was arrested on charges of first-degree murder along with assault and gang allegations. The prosecution arose from a late-night fight between two groups of young men. Several people were stabbed, including a fourteen-year-old boy who died at the scene. Mr. Gonzalez was tried as an adult.
The prosecution alleged first-degree murder with a special circumstance that the murder was committed for the benefit of a criminal street gang. The alleged mandatory sentence was life without parole.
After a five-week jury trial, the Law Offices of Mark Anthony Raimondo announced that Mr. Gonzalez was found not guilty on all counts and enhancements. He was released from the Kern County Jail shortly after the verdict was read.
Prior to the incident, Saul was an honor student finishing high school while working full time to help support his mother and younger siblings. After his release, he reunited with his family and began working toward college.
First-degree murder
First-degree murder is an unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought. Premeditation is central to the prosecution’s case. Premeditation can involve months of planning or a decision made in a short period of time; the prosecution must still prove the required state of mind beyond a reasonable doubt.
The archived page described potential punishment ranging from 25 years to life through life without parole, depending on the charge and special circumstances.
Second-degree murder
Second-degree murder also requires malice but does not require premeditation. It may be alleged where the prosecution claims an intentional killing without preplanning, or where a death occurs during conduct alleged to be inherently dangerous to human life.
The archived page described a minimum punishment of 15 years to life for second-degree murder.
Voluntary manslaughter
Voluntary manslaughter is generally associated with a killing alleged to have occurred in the heat of passion or under a theory sometimes described as imperfect self-defense. It is an unlawful killing without malice but with a conscious disregard for life.
Involuntary manslaughter
Involuntary manslaughter involves an unintentional killing allegedly committed during an unlawful act or through reckless or grossly negligent behavior. The absence of an intent to kill does not eliminate serious criminal exposure.
Vehicular manslaughter
Vehicular manslaughter involves an unintentional killing while driving and allegedly engaging in unlawful or reckless conduct. The facts surrounding speed, impairment, traffic violations, causation, and negligence require close review.
Trial preparation and negotiation
Mark Anthony Raimondo is an experienced criminal trial lawyer who will fight to acquit clients before a California jury when the evidence and strategy call for trial. He may also use negotiation to pursue a favorable resolution. Early intervention is critical in any homicide investigation or prosecution.
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