Defendant Dexter Rabadan, 17, of Tulare, was found guilty today by a Tulare County jury of carjacking and robbery. Special allegations that the crimes were committed for the benefit of a criminal street gang, and that a firearm was used during the crimes were also found true. The Honorable Judge Gary Paden presided over the trial. The defendant will be sentenced on January 19, 2010.

On August 11, 2009, in the city of Tulare, the victim was going to visit a friend at an apartment when he was confronted by three Norteno gang members. Defendant Rabadan was the first to approach holding a knife to the victim’s throat and told the victim to empty his pockets. A second Norteno gang member then approached holding a gun, pointed it to the victim, and made the same demand. Defendant then emptied victim’s pockets taking his cell phone, wallet, and car keys. Defendant then handed these items to a third Norteno gang member who used the keys to open victim’s car. The Norteno gang members then got into victim’s car and left. The People’s gang expert testified that this was a gang related offense.

The case was investigated by Detective Brian Haney and Detective Jesus Guzman of the Tulare Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Rick Tripp, of the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office.

Contact Person: Assistant District Attorney, Shani Jenkins (559) 733-6411.