Guilty Verdict Secured in Re-Trial of Jacob Gonzales for Kidnapping and Aggravated Battery

Las Cruces, NM – The Doña Ana County District Attorney Fernando R. Macias announces that on Monday, a jury found Jacob Gonzales guilty on all charges in connection with a violent 2020 kidnapping case. The defendant was convicted of Kidnapping in the First Degree, Conspiracy to Commit Kidnapping in the First Degree, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, and Interference with Communications. The jury also found firearm enhancements on the kidnapping and aggravated battery counts.

The jury deliberated for less than one hour before returning guilty verdicts on all charges.

“Whether new or old, our office is committed to serving justice and removing dangerous individuals from our community,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Spencer Willson. “I’d like to thank the victim for her bravery in facing her abuser.”

This case was originally tried in October 2021. At that time, the victim was unavailable to testify, however, the prosecution secured a conviction using earlier testimony from the preliminary hearing. However, the New Mexico Court of Appeals later determined that there was insufficient evidence to show the defendant caused the victim’s unavailability and remanded the case for a new trial.

In this retrial, the victim agreed to testify. Her emotional and courageous testimony was critical to the successful outcome.

“This verdict is a powerful example of perseverance and commitment to justice,” said District Attorney Fernando R. Macias. “We commend the efforts of our prosecutors and staff who demonstrated outstanding advocacy and dedication. Most of all, we thank the victim for her bravery and willingness to testify.”

Despite the challenges posed by the appeal and retrial, the DA’s Office remained steadfast in its pursuit of justice.