Gang Members Get 2 Years; Release Expected

An Orange County judge sentenced two members of a “bully” gang that targeted an affluent area of south Orange County to two years in prison Friday for a 1998 stabbing, paving the way for their release from jail.

Kurtis Pinedo of Laguna Hills and Steven Crader of Aliso Viejo, both 18, were among five youths convicted of attempted murder for a knife-and-bottle assault. Judge Robert R. Fitzgerald earlier reduced Pinedo’s and Crader’s convictions to felony assault, noting that their roles were not as serious as those of two other suspects.

With credit for good behavior and the 18 months they have already served, Pinedo and Crader were expected to be released from Orange County Jail on Friday evening.

Fitzgerald cautioned the youths that if they violate parole, they could be sentenced to prison.

The judge’s sentence brought muffled screams of joy from the youths’ relatives in the courtroom, who left in tears.

“I’m just ecstatic,” said Kim Evans, Pinedo’s mother. “It’s been a long haul. I think the boys have learned a good lesson.”

Two other members of the Slick 50s gang earlier received much longer sentences. Josh Carlsen was sentenced to 11 years in prison; Jesse Grist got six years. A fifth suspect is still awaiting sentence.

Deputy Dist. Atty. Lance Jensen said he respected the sentences Fitzgerald handed down.

Times staff writer Phil Willon contributed to this story.