News Releases

If convicted as charged, Martin Richard Torres faces seven years, four months in prison

LOS ANGELES — District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced today that Martin Richard Torres has been charged in the felony crime of throwing an object onto the 101 Freeway with an intent to cause great bodily injury during an immigration protest.

“Everyone has the right to express their views and engage in peaceful protest — that is fundamental to our democracy,” District Attorney Hochman said. “But when actions cross the line into criminal behavior that endangers lives, my Office will not hesitate to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. Throwing objects onto a busy freeway is not an act of protest; it is a reckless and dangerous crime that could seriously injure or kill innocent people. If you use a protest as a cover for criminal activity, know this — you will be caught, you will be prosecuted, and you will be held accountable.”

Martin Richard Torres (DOB 10/4/82) of Los Angeles was charged with one felony count of throwing an object at a vehicle or an occupant of the vehicle with intent to do great bodily injury, and one felony count of vandalism over $400 in defacement with graffiti. It is further alleged that prior to the alleged crimes, Torres was convicted of serious and/or violent felonies.

The People have requested bail be set at $775,000. If convicted as charged, Torres faces seven years, four months in prison.

On Feb. 3 at around 11 a.m., Torres is accused of throwing an object at a vehicle with the intent to cause great bodily injury. Torres is also accused of vandalizing a freeway sign. These acts allegedly occurred near Spring Street and the 101 Freeway in Los Angeles.

The case is being prosecuted by LADA’s Central Trials Division and was investigated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.