On June 10, 2010, a Tulare County jury convicted Ramiro Chavez, 24 of Tulare, of attempted voluntary manslaughter with the special allegations of discharging a firearm, causing great bodily injury, and for doing so for the benefit of a street gang. The defendant was also convicted of shooting into a dwelling and assault with a firearm against a second victim with the special allegations of discharging a firearm while causing great bodily injury, and committing the crime for the benefit of a criminal street gang.

On July 21, 2008, Victim #2 was with her family at their Ivanhoe residence. Located across the street from Victim #2's family, lived the defendant's family who were known Southern gang members. Shortly before 3:30 p.m. in the afternoon, Victim #2 was preparing a grocery list to give to her boyfriend, Victim #1, who was in the garage. While preparing the grocery list, she observed a silver Honda Accord leave the defendant’s house. As she went into the garage to give the list to her boyfriend, a known northern-affiliated gang member, she observed the car pass her home and then turn around. The vehicle then stopped in front of the house, and the defendant Ramiro Chavez stepped out from the rear passenger side door. The defendant wrapped a blue bandana around his right hand and raised a revolver. After seeing the gun, Victim #2 ran back into the house. Ramiro Chavez took a couple of steps towards Victim #1, who was wearing red clothing, and fired several shots. Victim #1 ducked and the bullet went through the door leading from the garage to the interior of the house as Victim #2 was closing the door. After going through the door, the bullet struck Victim #2 in her left arm. She was rushed to the hospital, but because the bullet fragmented, surgery was not an option. Victim #2 was left with a permanent injury to her left arm that restricts the range of motion and causes daily pain.

On June 7, 2010, the jury trial commenced with the Honorable Judge James Hollman presiding. The defendant was found guilty after a three-day trial. Ramiro Chavez is facing a life term in prison, as a result. He is expected to be sentenced on August 10, 2010 in Department 3 of the Visalia Courthouse.

This case was investigated by Detectives Michael Yandell and Detective Maria Garcia of the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Jason Lianides, of the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office.

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