John Chiv: Verdict just in alleged gang member trial

Oct 31, 2022

Verdict just in alleged gang member trial

The People's oral motion for third amended information in alleged gang member Isreal Nathaniel Soria's case was granted on 10/28 without objection. The change is Count 5 from a completed burglary charge to attempted burglary.

Today, on October 31, jury started deliberations before lunch. They resumed at 1:30 and worked through without a break. By 4 p.m. there was a verdict.

Prosecutors are here. Soria is here in street clothes. We are waiting for Soria's attorney.

4:24 Courtroom isn't even open. Jurors still have to be seated. 4:26 Soria's attorney just got here.

Not guilty on Count 1, special allegation for Count 1 left blank. Guilty on Counts 2, 3, 4 and 5 and all corresponding special allegations for each of those counts. Jury found there were aggravating circumstances and this can enhance the penalty imposed.

22 year old Soria faces potential exposure 50 to life. Sentencing is December 15. Judge Christopher Wilson granted the People's request and Soria was remanded into custody. He is on a no bail status.

Some of the aggravating circumstances read out by the clerk included the crime involved great violence, great bodily harm, threat of great bodily harm; the defendant was armed with or used a weapon at the time of the commission of the crime; and the victim was particularly vulnerable.

Two jurors; one male and one female stayed to talk with prosecutors. The female juror explained why they decided not guilty on Count 1, conspiracy.

The male juror told Mr. Timm he found Mr. Timm "going through all past events of the night" while questioning Siria "very helpful."

Deputy District Attorneys Trent Timm and Luke Bernthal are the prosecutors. Ms. Christina Ann-Marie DiEdoardo is Soria's attorney.