Ten of 11 murder suspects appear in court

Ten of 11 murder suspects appeared in a Santa Maria courtroom this morning. The one who didn’t show up was injured in jail on Monday.

There were 10 suspects, 11 attorneys and dozens of others filling a Santa Maria courtroom Thursday morning. Those accused are charged with murdering or being connected to the murder of Anthony Ibarra.

Police say Ibarra was tortured and killed on West Donovan Road in Santa Maria in March. Ibarra’s body was found in the back of a U-haul truck two days later.

Since then Ramon Maldonado, Reyes Gonzales, Jr., Santos Sauceda, David Maldonado, Robert Sosa, Anthony Solis, Verenisa Aviles, Ramon Maldonado, Jr., and Jason Castillo have all been arrested and charged in the murder of Ibarra. Carmen Cardenas and Pedro Torres were arrested for being accessories after the crime was committed.

Three of the accused span three generations, grandfather, father and son. The boy is just 14 years old.

The grandfather, father and five others all could face life in prison without parole if convicted.

Thursday’s arraignment was continued until July 18. At that time all 11 suspects are expected to appear in court.