Gang Member Charged with Murder of High School Football Player

Gang Member Charged with Murder
of High School Football Player

March 11, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts: Joe Scott, Director of Communications
Sandi Gibbons, Public Information Officer
Jane Robison, News Secretary
(213) 974-3525

LOS ANGELES – An alleged gang member was charged today with the shooting death of a Los Angeles High School football player, the District Attorney’s Office announced.

Assistant Head Deputy Phillip Glaviano of Hardcore Gang Division said Pedro Espinoza, 19, (dob 2/18/89) of Los Angeles is due to be arraigned this afternoon at Los Angeles Superior Court, Division 30.

He is charged in case No. BA337461with one count of murder and the special circumstance allegation of a gang-related murder. The count also carries a special allegation of personal use of a firearm and a special allegation that the offense was committed for the benefit of, at the direction of, and in association with a criminal street gang with the specific intent to promote, further and assist in criminal conduct by gang members.

On March 2, Espinoza -- a documented 18th Street gang member -- allegedly shot and killed high school senior Jamiel Shaw, a star football player at Los Angeles High School. If convicted as charged, the defendant faces the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Espinoza is being held without bail.

smd

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