Man Convicted of Murder and Gang Member Count
A 23-year-old Pacoima man was found guilty Tuesday in San Fernando Superior Court of first-degree murder and also of membership in a gang, the first conviction by a Los Angeles County jury under a state law that went into effect last year.
Manuel Madrigal faces a maximum sentence of 26 years to life for his role in the death of 16-year-old Jimmie Torrez, who was beaten and shot to death by alleged gang members in San Fernando last August. Sentencing is set for July 23.
Deputy Dist Atty. Edward Nison hailed the conviction as a landmark in anti-gang prosecution, although he described the law’s impact in the Madrigal case as minimal because by law, Madrigal will be required to serve a longer term than 15 years, the longest term the gang membership provision could ensure. “In this case the practical affect isn’t significant,” Nison said,
Madrigal’s attorney, Mel Brown, said his client will appeal the conviction.
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