On March 1, 2018, 25-year-old Larry DeSantiago was fatally shot at Tower Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Witnesses reported that DeSantiago was involved in an altercation with two teenagers, 15-year-olds Santiago Armijo and Jeremiah De La Pena. During the confrontation, Armijo shot DeSantiago in the chest, reportedly shouting, 'That's what you get!'
DeSantiago was transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Following the incident, both Armijo and De La Pena were arrested and charged with murder. Armijo pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, unlawful possession of a handgun, and conspiracy to commit armed robbery. In December 2019, Judge Christina Jaramillo sentenced Armijo, then 17, to 30 days in a juvenile detention facility, followed by supervised probation until he turned 21. The sentence also required Armijo to speak at high schools about the consequences of his actions. Prosecutors had sought a longer sentence, but the judge opted for a more lenient approach, citing the potential benefits of treatment over extended incarceration.
The sentencing sparked controversy and criticism from DeSantiago's family and the community, who felt that the punishment did not fit the severity of the crime. They expressed concerns that such a lenient sentence could send the wrong message about accountability for serious offenses. Despite the outcry, the court's decision remained, emphasizing rehabilitation for the young offender.
As of the latest available information, details regarding the legal proceedings for Jeremiah De La Pena remain limited. Reports indicate that he also faced murder charges in connection with DeSantiago's death, but specific outcomes or sentencing information have not been prominently reported. The case continues to be a point of discussion in Albuquerque, highlighting issues related to juvenile crime and the justice system's handling of such cases.
