Police say that two shootings that took place in Anaheim recently may have been perpetrated by gang members. While no one has been charged with the crime yet, authorities believe that rival gangs were busy this weekend with retaliatory attacks on each other. Those arrested could be facing serious charges.
In one incident, two individuals, 21 and 19, and a 6-year-old child were leaving a party on West La Palma Avenue when they were shot at by who police believe to be rival gang members. None of the three sustained gunshot wounds, but they were injured by flying glass.
In a separate incident, a 17-year-old was found on West Coronet Avenue with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was shot three times and had a broken leg. He was transported to a local hospital where he remains in stable condition. The victim refused to give the police any information on who shot him or any details about the crime, a common factor in gang-related shootings. A 21-year-old was also found in the area with a gunshot to the heel. Police believe him to be connected to the first victim.
Those involved in gang shootings can be charged with murder or manslaughter if a victim dies. Such charges care substantial penalties that often include jail time. Because of this, it’s important that those facing charges for violent crimes understand their rights and know their options. There are ways to defend against such serious charges, and speaking with an experienced attorney can be helpful.
Source: The Orange County Register, “Police: Two Anaheim shootings connected to gangs,” Alyssa Duranty, Oct. 7, 2012