Gang Member Arrested for Capital Murder in Gardena, California

A series of raids across Los Angeles County targeting gang members of the Gardena 13 led to 11 arrests, including a man wanted on suspicion of killing two brothers and another man at a 2008 car cruising event. Luis Erasmo Garcia was arrested by Gardena police as sheriff’s detectives and Drug Enforcement Administration federal agents raided several homes with the help of special weapons teams. Garcia has been charged with capital murder in the killing of Jose Farias, his brother Victor Manuel Farias, and Vidal Hernandez Rebolledo, in August 2008.

Witnesses said that a man now identified as Garcia pulled out a gun and began shooting after an argument at a popular cruising event at Imperial Highway and Western Avenue in the Athens-Westmont area. Jose Farias was pronounced dead at the scene. Victor Farias and Rebolledo were taken to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where Victor Farias was pronounced dead. Rebolledo died the next day. A fourth man also was struck by gunfire. Garcia is also charged with his attempted murder. He is being held without bail. At least 10 others were taken into custody during the raids in Long Beach, El Monte and Gardena. Investigators also seized several pounds of narcotics and several weapons.

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Penalties for a murder conviction are severe, ranging from 15 years to life in prison. Even worse, the State of California can sentence you to the death penalty, depending on the evidence and severity of the murder conviction. With your freedom and possibly your life in jeopardy, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. The law firm of Cron, Israels & Stark will give you exceptional legal representation in fighting a murder charge. We have been successfully representing clients for decades and can do the same for you. Call today to set up an appointment.