Charges Dropped Against Two in North Las Vegas Homicide Case
In a recent development concerning the tragic slaying of a 17-year-old near North Las Vegas, prosecutors have announced the dismissal of charges against two individuals among the initial six arrested. The incident occurred while the victim was walking home from a party.
Background on the Case
The victim, identified as Luis Garcia-Molina, was found on February 16 with multiple gunshot wounds in the vicinity of Corsaire Avenue close to North Nellis Boulevard. Following a 911 call reporting the shooting, police pursued a fleeing Chevrolet Silverado and apprehended six males.
Dismissal of Charges
On Tuesday, Justice of the Peace Kalani Hoo granted the motion to dismiss charges against Jesus Ramirez, 20, and Juan Rodriguez-Jimenez, 19. Both had been booked on suspicion of murder following their February arrest.
Kenneth Frizzell, the attorney for Rodriguez-Jimenez, indicated that the dismissal was influenced by investigative efforts that included analyzing cellphone data and witness interviews, which confirmed his client’s absence at the crime scene during the shooting.
Remaining Defendants Face Indictment
While charges were dropped for Ramirez and Rodriguez-Jimenez, the four remaining defendants—Damian Delgado, 18; Luis Pizarro-Cardena, 19; Victor Cardena-Pizarro, 20; and Daniel Murillo—have been indicted by a grand jury. They have all pleaded not guilty to the charges against them.
The indictment includes serious allegations such as conspiracy to commit murder and discharging firearms at occupied structures, which authorities believe are linked to gang activity. The group is reportedly associated with the Clika Los Primos gang.
Court Proceedings and Future Steps
The defendants appeared in district court on Wednesday, dressed in navy jumpsuits and handcuffs. Judge Tierra Jones addressed each of them regarding their charges. Notably, Murillo did not attend the hearing; records reflect that he was not in custody despite a previous arrest warrant issued by a North Las Vegas judge.
Legal Representation and Release Conditions
Defendants Delgado and Pizarro-Cardena are currently held without bond, while Cardena-Pizarro, despite his family posting a $50,000 bond, remains detained due to an immigration hold as indicated by his attorney, Jack Buchanan.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
The upcoming legal proceedings will see the charges against the four defendants transitioned to district court for further evaluation following grand jury proceedings.
For detailed coverage and updates on the case, please contact Akiya Dillon at [email protected].