Gardena Gang Member Convicted for Fatal Shooting in Front of Victim’s Home
On November 13, 2020, at around 8 p.m., officers responded to a shooting incident in front of a family home on the 1500 block of West 145th Street in Gardena, California. Upon arrival, they found a 29-year-old man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds while seated in a parked car with his brother. According to the investigation, the victim and his brother were confronted by three men identified as Justin Arteaga, 23 (a.k.a. “Hitta”), Antonio Yanez, 26 (a.k.a. “Tank”), and George Hernandez (a.k.a. “Lil Vampy”), who allegedly opened fire on them.
The victim died at the scene, while George Hernandez was found lying on the street with gunshot wounds to his head and chest. He was transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Justin Arteaga (dob 3/5/1998) was charged with one count of violent crime in aid of racketeering (VICAR) murder under 18 U.S.C. § 1959. This statute targets violent crimes committed as part of an ongoing criminal organization, specifically the Gardena 13 street gang. The prosecution proved that Arteaga participated in the murder to maintain or enhance his status within the gang. Evidence presented during the trial included eyewitness testimonies, gang-related activities, and forensic evidence connecting Arteaga to the crime.
Murder Charges (18 U.S.C. § 1959)
Arteaga was found guilty of one count of violent crime in aid of racketeering (VICAR) murder under 18 U.S.C. § 1959. This statute defines VICAR murder as the unlawful killing of a human being for the purpose of maintaining or increasing one’s position in a criminal organization. In this case, the prosecution demonstrated that Arteaga committed the murder to further his status within the Gardena 13 street gang. The evidence included eyewitness testimonies, gang-related activities, and forensic evidence connecting Arteaga to the crime.
Firearm Enhancement (18 U.S.C. § 924(c))
The charges also included enhancements for the use of a firearm under 18 U.S.C. § 924(c). This statute provides for additional penalties when a firearm is used in the commission of a violent crime. Under this enhancement, the prosecution demonstrated that Arteaga used a firearm to facilitate the murder, which increased the severity of the offense and resulted in a longer prison sentence. The firearm enhancement aims to deter the use of firearms in violent crimes and ensure that those who do face stiffer penalties.
Investigation and Arrest
The case against Arteaga and his co-defendants was strengthened by several key pieces of evidence, including eyewitness accounts, forensic analysis, and gang-related intelligence. Eyewitnesses provided crucial testimonies that placed Arteaga and his accomplices at the scene of the crime. Additionally, forensic evidence, such as ballistic analysis and DNA samples, linked the suspects to the shooting. On November 17, 2020, just four days after the incident, Arteaga was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport as he was attempting to board a one-way flight to Mexico.
His arrest was a result of swift investigative work and collaboration among the involved agencies. Arteaga has remained in federal custody since his arrest.Authorities revealed that the motive behind the shooting was related to the victim’s perceived disrespect towards the Gardena 13 street gang. The prosecution argued that Arteaga and his accomplices confronted the victim to assert their dominance and maintain their reputation within the gang. The altercation quickly escalated, resulting in the fatal shooting.
Arteaga is currently in federal custody and is scheduled to be sentenced on September 20, 2024, where he faces a mandatory life sentence in federal prison if convicted as charged.
Key Details from the Case
- Incident Location: 1500 block of West 145th Street, Gardena, CA
- Date and Time: November 13, 2020, at around 8 p.m.
- Victim: 29-year-old man
- Suspects: Justin Arteaga (a.k.a. “Hitta”), Antonio Yanez (a.k.a. “Tank”), George Hernandez (a.k.a. “Lil Vampy”)
- Charges: Arteaga charged with one count of VICAR murder and firearm enhancement
- Custody: Arteaga has been in federal custody since November 17, 2020
- Sentencing: Scheduled for September 20, 2024.
