Trio Sentenced for Heinous FBI Employee Carjacking and Kidnapping
In a chilling case that has captivated the nation, the last two members of a ruthless trio responsible for a brazen carjacking and kidnapping of an FBI employee in South Dakota have been handed lengthy prison sentences.
Deyvin Morales’ 47-Year Punishment
On Friday, Deyvin Morales, 29, was sentenced to a staggering 47 years behind bars for his heinous crimes. The Rapid City Journal reported that Morales, along with his accomplices, orchestrated a “drug trafficking trip” from Colorado to South Dakota. When their vehicle ran low on fuel, they decided to seize a new car, believing it belonged to a tribal officer.
Karla Lopez-Gutierrez’s 26-Year Sentence
At the same hearing, Karla Lopez-Gutierrez, also 29, was sentenced to more than 26 years in prison. Gutierrez, who initially entered a not guilty plea, eventually pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting kidnapping, as well as a weapons charge.
Justice Served for FBI Employee
The third conspirator, 25-year-old Juan Alvarez-Sorto, was sentenced earlier this month to 37 years. The three perpetrators lured the FBI employee into a trap by pretending to be tribal officers and forced him to accompany them at gunpoint.
Victim’s Poignant Statement
During Friday’s hearing, the victim delivered a powerful statement highlighting the trauma he endured. “You showed me no mercy,” he said. “Why did you have to kidnap me?”
Prosecutor’s Scathing Condemnation
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Jehangiri vehemently denounced Morales’ actions, accusing him of squandering the goodwill he received from the U.S. through asylum granted in 2017. Jehangiri emphasized that Morales had abused the sanctuary by engaging in criminal activity.
Defense Attorneys’ Pleas for Mercy
Morales’ attorney requested a sentence of 20-25 years, citing his client’s status as an asylum seeker and his fear of being killed by a gang in Guatemala. Attorney Jonathan McCoy warned that deportation could result in Morales’ death.
Lopez-Gutierrez’s attorney also pleaded for leniency, highlighting her role as a mother of three and her acceptance of responsibility.
Trio’s Fate Sealed
Despite the attorneys’ pleas, the judge handed down severe sentences for Morales and Lopez-Gutierrez, reflecting the gravity of their crimes. Alvarez-Sorto, too, faced the consequences of his actions. Justice has been served, ensuring that this trio will spend a significant portion of their lives behind bars.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
