The two teens accused in the gang-related stabbing of two Gilroy
residents March 29 were arraigned on assault with a deadly weapon
charges, Tuesday afternoon in Santa Clara County Superior
Court.
San Martin – The two teens accused in the gang-related stabbing of two Gilroy residents March 29 were arraigned on assault with a deadly weapon charges, Tuesday afternoon in Santa Clara County Superior Court.
Hollister resident Gerardo Flores and Gilroy resident Hector Farias, both 19, were caught after the getaway car, which Flores was driving, hit a parked car during a highspeed chase down Rosanna Street after it was intercepted by police on a small cul-de-sac.
Both appeared wearing brown Department of Corrections tunics and red pants with shackles on their wrists and ankles.
Superior Court Judge Susan Bernardini read charges for the baby-faced Flores, who is accused of actually stabbing both the 27-year-old male, and 22-year-old female. He also faces two additional felony charges for reckless driving to evade a police officer, delaying a police officer and a misdemeanor warrant for the hit and run accident.
“It is also alleged you personally inflicted the injuries and you committed the crime for the benefit of a criminal street gang,” she said.
Bail was set for $200,000.
According to Deputy District Attorney Stuart Scott who is handling the case, if Flores is convicted on all counts, he faces up to 13 years in prison.
According to police, the victims were stabbed in the upper body about 11:15pm, March 29 in the vicinity of First and Rosanna streets. Witnesses and victims told police the two suspects were yelling gang words from the vehicle as they sped away.
Flores drove erratically and through stop signs as police attempted to pull him over, police said.
Both men resisted arrest, however, officers were forced to use a Taser and pepperspray to subdue Flores.
Farias was charged with two assault with a deadly weapon charges for his involvement in the attack and may face up to five years in prison, Scott said.
Depending on how the victims heal and after further review of the injuries the charges may change. Both are recovering from their wounds.
“It could be an attempted murder,” Scott said. “Angry gang behavior, endangering the lives of people in Gilroy will not be tolerated.”
Kristen Munson covers public safety for South Valley Newspapers. Reach her at 847-7158 or at [email protected]
