Jacob Gonzales found Guilty, sentenced to 50 years

Jacob Gonzales found Guilty, sentenced to 50 years

Third Judicial District Attorney Gerald M. Byers announced today that Jacob Gonzales, 26, of Las Cruces, NM was found guilty by a Las Cruces Jury and sentenced on charges of Kidnapping (In the First Degree), Count 2 Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping (In the First Degree), Count 3 Aggravated Battery (Deadly Weapon), and Count 4; Receipt, Transportation or Possession of a Firearm or Destructive Device by Felon and Interference with Communications.  In addition, the jury found beyond a reasonable doubt that the Defendant brandished a firearm in the commission of the kidnapping and aggravated battery.  The basic sentencing protocols were increased because of arguments made by the state referring to previous felony convictions, Gonzalez lack of remorse and lack of mercy given to the victim and the seriousness of the crime. The final determination was left to Third District Court Judge, who presided over the trial and sentencing.

Danielle Sanchez testified that Gonzales and his cousin went to her home, forcing entry by brandished an AR-15 rifle and a handgun.  Sanchez was forced into the back seat of her vehicle where she was struck by Gonzales several times with the handgun on her face and head.  During the struggle he threw her cell phone out of the vehicle.  She was driven to an unknown location in the desert where they threatened her and forced her to remove her shoes and shirt and made her get into the trunk of the car. 

She was driven to an unknown house where she was told to remove her clothes and take a shower because of the bleeding from her wounds.  She was given clothes to wear and was told that her clothing had been burned. Two unknown people showed up at the house, forcing Gonzalez to take her back to her own home.  Once inside she pretended to pass out, with Gonzalez leaving her alone.  After she was assured that he had left, she drove herself to the hospital.