La Costa gang member gets probation
By: North County Times wire services | ∞
VISTA ---- A man who prosecutors said was second in command of a La Costa gang that planned to kill a pair of Carlsbad bookies and a wayward member of their own group was sentenced Friday to five years probation.
Brian Edward McConnell also was ordered to finish a 365-day county jail term. With time already served, he's expected to be locked up for only another week or two.
McConnell, 27, pleaded guilty in December to conspiracy to commit kidnapping for his role in the February 2006 plot.
According to court documents and statements by lawyers in the case, McConnell was the right-hand man to the gang's leader, Scott Lee Sepulveda, who owed two bookies more than $14,000.
Sepulveda conducted two meetings to determine how to handle the situation, and armed members drove around Carlsbad looking for the bookies, who are twin brothers. But the wayward member alerted the intended targets and reported the plot to police.
Sepulveda, who Judge K. Michael Kirkman called the most culpable of all the defendants, pleaded guilty last year and was sentenced to eight years in prison.
"This at the very least was an extreme act of immaturity, elements of being misguided, perhaps some machismo on the part of all the actors," said the judge.
McConnell, who is married and has two children, has straightened out his life since he was released on bail in October 2006, according lawyers for both sides.
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Lawman what? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 11:09 AM:So this gang member basically got a slap on the wrist for Attempted kidnapping? This is embarrassing!! Nice going DA Manning!! Sets a great example to any gangbanger who wants to kidnapp someone and gets NO prison time!! Expect for gang activity in your area!
Bob S. wrote on Mar 15, 2008 11:59 AM:Probation for attempted kidnapping and "2nd in command" in a street Gang? The system fails the people once again!! What's the message sent here? Ok, I get it. Get in trouble with the law then get a "real" job and start a family. Sounds like that is what saved this gang member from prison! Ridiculous.. I WILL be writing my Congressman. That I promise..
Robert wrote on Mar 15, 2008 1:24 PM:Amazing! I read in the last article about this case that Brian was going to get half of what Scott got. What happened DA Manning? A slap in the face to the members of this community!!
Just(ice) joking wrote on Mar 15, 2008 1:27 PM:Are you kidding me? This case has been a justice joke for the real victims in this case from the beginning. So Mc Connell has made a miraculous jailhouse change of life and gets the privelidge to go on with his life without ever truly paying or compensating for his crimes against the victims? YET, the victims lost their god given right to even just earn a living? MOney talks and the BS walks! Justice joking for sure. The ... people of the state ie; prosecutor Manning and the judges who agreed to these travesty pleas need to have their morals checked, their heads examined and their jobs yanked out from under them, they deserve to not have the ability to earn a living more so than the victims in this case. Justice served in favor of the criminals uh huh
I would say Crime pays in North County wrote on Mar 15, 2008 1:32 PM:Maybe we should all join a gang and go on a crime spree it seems to pay so well!!!
You wonderful lawmen/women in the POLICE gang task force of NC need to just stop what your doing and rethink your profession it would seem that all of your hard work is being destroyed by the people you hand the cases over to in the end you been screwed!
UNBELIEVABLE!!!!
deputydawg wrote on Mar 15, 2008 1:51 PM:great work manning...you should be sent back to issuing where you belong!
what? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 2:34 PM:To say the "victims" can't earn a living is just ridiculous. The twins were friends of Sepulveda's until a gambling deal gone wrong. And now they whine and complain about loss of income? What gives? I feel no sympathy for them whatsoever. Quit trying to gain sympathy in the media. ... Grow up and get real jobs in the real world and quit looking for a fast buck.
To what? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:19 PM:Do you mean the 14,000 ger Mr Sepulveda owed the twins? I actually know the victims in the case and they are doing just fine.. You must be friends with the gangsters. If so, be happy.. The leader is only doing 4 years inside and the other somehow avoided any time.. Real jobs? I don't think gaining strikes on criminal records is a REAL JOB.. Nice try.
What?? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:21 PM:Go check into the nearest mental facility.. You must be one of the very last supporters that believe nothing went wrong here..
What, What? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:22 PM:What? You must be one of the Shadow Crew affluents eh? You know darned well that the sportsbook was just part of what they did, their main source of income was their clientele at the gym as personal trainers, which Scott ruined by HIS and the Shawdow Crews antics. When it all came down the actions of Scott Sepulveda and his "affluent gang of thugs" took that livelyhood down with them. So get off your soap box and tell the real truth for a change!! BTW how much $$ did you contribute to the free Scott and his gang of merry thugs fund?
JoAnne. M wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:37 PM:So say the Twins care about any of this now is just wrong. They are very valuable within this community as they work with 9 year old kids on a daily basis. I just saw them at my son's baseball game the other day. They have been teaching the kids on how to play the game of baseball and have been offered training jobs in the SM area. So to come on here and try and smash the victims of this case is shameful to say the least! Be happy the gang member somehow avoided prison time and move on!
Natalie N wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:41 PM:I miss the old days where we all got to hang out! See you soon Brian. I also can't wait for my love Scotty to get out!! Hang in there!!
1 strike.. wrote on Mar 15, 2008 3:48 PM:The 2nd one will cost you an automatic 10 years B!! No buying your way out of that one! Good Luck to you!
mc wrote on Mar 15, 2008 5:28 PM:This must be a joke. Probation lets all go out and commit a bunch of crimes nothing will happen to you if you confess. Something is wrong with these judges. Lets get new ones who care about the good people and not the bad.
Kelly L wrote on Mar 15, 2008 5:43 PM:The memories you, I and Scott had!! Stay strong Brian! We will all get together Again when Scott gets out!!
I am confused? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 5:53 PM:These Gang of Thugs 1) Robbed Houses. 2) Had stolen property in their possesion. 3) Sold Drugs. 4) Were accused of trying to murder 3 people. And 5) Tried to kidnapp up to 3 people. (Allegedly) Now, this Brian McConnell was the 2nd in charge and he gets ZERO prison time? I have been following this story since day 1 and this is a Huge step back in our fight to stop Gang activity! This sends a BAD message Mr Manning! Get ready for a huge backlash for this move and more gang activity coming your way! My tax money gone straight to waste.
Michael D wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:13 PM:Gonna take alot of 12 hour days to pay off those attorney bill Brian.. Work hard!
Kelly T. wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:17 PM:Scott and I hung out alot so I knew Brian. I knew the good side of him not the gang side.. I hope he keeps his life straightened out. It will do no good for your 2 kids if you get in trouble again. 10 years in prison is a long time.. Be there for your kids! Don't make the same mistake Scott did from a parents stand point. Good luck!
Gangsta Girl wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:43 PM: Natalie and Kelly, did Bri and Scotty "jump" you in to the gang too? I thought I was their one and only!! WHAT?
Brain Cells? wrote on Mar 15, 2008 6:55 PM:This kid should of got an extra 10 years for saying what he did to his PO.. Wow..
Joe wrote on Mar 15, 2008 8:14 PM:Wow, Its amazing how many people have opions on this and dont know any of these people. The problem is you people believed the articles that you read and didnt know the real story behind the case. To all those supporters of the twins that you call "victims": you stand up for these twin girls while they have more on their record then any of the Shadow Crew members put together! The "poor victims" were doing all the same stuff as Supulveda till they had a beef with him. Two men who go out and watch monday night football at the same place each week while they get drunk and drive home! Gosh, those sound like some real great people. Bookies, Associating with Supulveda and knew everything going on...Those poor poor victims! Dont hate on Mr. Manning and the Judge because things didnt work out for your Bookie friends. The justice system actually got this one right. How come the bookies are not charged with anything for conducting illegal gambling? Isnt it normally the bookies that go after the debtors for not paying a debt?...These guys just ran to the police and hid behind their lies for the last 2 years..Those are some tough guys..im glad these "ex-criminals" are not coaching my 9 year old kid at anything. Any parent that would knowingly keep there child around people like that is pathetic. Well, regardless of the all the lies that were said about Brian McConnell and even Louie Cardona, the lord found the truth in this and thats all that matters in the end. As for the Twins, if your reading this, i'll be laughing myself to sleep for a bit while drown in your tears because you feel the system failed you! HA!
Poor cops wrote on Mar 16, 2008 1:20 AM:Now you understand how frustrated our police and deputies must be. All that hard work for nothing and they still have to put us with us (the public) critizing everything they do. I sure feel sorry for the those guys (police).
Sambo wrote on Mar 16, 2008 3:14 AM:Well u know what they say boss...If its all White....its all Right
Roberto1 wrote on Mar 16, 2008 4:30 AM:"Sepulveda, who Judge K. Michael Kirkman called the most culpable of all the defendants, pleaded guilty last year and was sentenced to eight years in prison."
"McConnell, 27, pleaded guilty in December to conspiracy to commit kidnapping for his role in the February 2006 plot."
Who sez "white" collar crime doesn't pay?...deport McConnell!
Jay wrote on Mar 16, 2008 7:43 AM:Where is La Costa, there is no city in NOrth County named la costa, the city is in northern california named Rancho Las Costa You live in Carlsbad get a grip
EthnicStudent wrote on Mar 16, 2008 10:05 AM:You have got to be kidding? They have gang members in La Costa? What do they wear? Polos and Seven Jeans? GET OUT OF HERE! This was a bunch of wanna-bees! I say ship their behinds to LA (or Mexico) and see how hard they are now. LOL, PLEASE!
cycletherapy wrote on Mar 16, 2008 10:55 AM:start imposing fines on family members, landlords, and probation department . hit them in the pocket book. Write letters to district attorney. This is an outrage. Where's all that gang task force money being spent on hummers, helicopters, and graffiti removal ?
FormerDA wrote on Mar 16, 2008 11:43 AM:I am a former DA and I must tell you that Bonnie Dumanis is soft on crime. She would rather plea bargain and count it as a conviction than lock up these very dangerous people. We deserve a DA that will actually keep our streets safe and that person is not Bonnie Dumanis.
Gina W wrote on Mar 16, 2008 12:22 PM:I work with the twin and they do not go out and get in trouble. They are great with kids. Help people change their lives. Let's be honest here, if Brian did not follow Scott like a puppy dog or a Shadow then he never would of been in this mess. Hope you are getting things straight Brian. Being a follower is never good for anything.
Wayward Brother? wrote on Mar 16, 2008 12:42 PM:It sounds like the brother possibly saved a Double Murder! Where is the credit he deserves??
No way wrote on Mar 16, 2008 1:14 PM:They are sending young men from Murrieta the so caled "fight club" members to prison for far less criminal behavior than this and are each recieving many more years. I read there is one guy charged with Burglary and robbery and he gets 19yrs serving 17. I don't understand our justice system. I thought there were guide lines to follow Sentencing Laws that what Riverside always say's. I believe Riverside County needs to check there policies out and follow.
Natalie N wrote on Mar 16, 2008 1:41 PM:I can't believe some of these responses.. Brian always seemed like a good guy. I wish him the best. We was always great when Scott was over seeing me! I hope Scott kept all my beautiful letters I have sent him. I miss him so much!! Hang in there my love!
Puppet Master. wrote on Mar 16, 2008 2:01 PM:Hopefully you have learned your lesson Brian. Following Scott around like a puppet obviously did not help you.
face wrote on Mar 16, 2008 4:38 PM:
hey SAMBO! RIGHT ON! Lets be honest people if they would have been mexican or black they would have "enchanced" charges on top of what they got caught doing! You people that disagree can say what you want..but I have seen this way too many times. Remember the "Birdrock Bandits"?....Enough said.
Jim wrote on Mar 16, 2008 5:34 PM:Hey Face, if you read the blogs, minus the people who are attached to him, you would see we don't agree with the lack of punishment either. No matter what nationality.
pathetic wrote on Mar 16, 2008 9:36 PM:Wow! All of these people involved are pathetic ... These people are in there late 20s and still in gangs? How pathetic. Young people think gang life is so cool, until they wake up in prison. So gang wannabees, tell me what have you got to show for your years of involvement in crime? Nothing but some lame tattoos and criminal records. Pathetic.
Joe wrote on Mar 16, 2008 9:42 PM:Dear EthnicStudent,
So you call the members of Shadow Crew "Wanna-bees"....im interested...what do you call Bookies that are "owed money" and go tell the cops???? You probably live and Rancho Santa Fe and watch alot of The Wire on HBO.....Dont worry bro, some day you'll be gangsta..HAHA! You crack me up ...
Joe??? wrote on Mar 16, 2008 11:38 PM:Why would the cops care if bookies were down money?? Dude, get a life.. Your posts do not make sense..
criminals are sooo dumb wrote on Mar 17, 2008 9:51 AM:People keep committing crimes. Eventually they get caught and end up in prison. When thet go to prison, it hits a reset button on their life. For years they will not make any money or be with their families. When they get out, they are broke and most employers will not hire them for good paying jobs. mostly because it is tough to trust a convicted felon. So my advice to criminals, is keep on breaking the law and keep on going to prison and keep on being poor. Yep, crime pays so well.
To Joe wrote on Mar 17, 2008 10:28 AM:Scotts own brother in law is the one who went to ploice and told them everything. He saved 2 lives and who knows how many others by his courage. At least get the story sraight if you are going to continue to make ridiculous posts!
Joe BLOW wrote on Mar 17, 2008 11:04 AM:Jacob Abell, as stated in almost every article north county times has put out about this story, reached out to the twins and then the police after he was told that the twins were in possible danger for their lives.. This is not made up. Abell also said the same thing under oath in Grand Jury testimony.. Please, let's keep the facts straight here.
Real Tight Crew.. wrote on Mar 17, 2008 11:06 AM:Kind of speaks volumes that Scott is the only one doing prison time while the rest of the TIGHT Crew plead out to lessor charges... "Loose lips sink ships."
HAHAHAHA wrote on Mar 17, 2008 3:29 PM:...gangs in La Costa! That is a funny one. Why not dumps those kids in the Deep Valley and let them see what its really like. The headline on this story made me laugh out loud!
Society issues. wrote on Mar 17, 2008 5:57 PM:As a taxpayer to this State, this case is very bothersome! This McConnell kid was "2nd" in command of this so called "Gang" and gets probation? He admitted to Att Kidnapping and gets off? Truly pathetic! The only message this sends is that if you FINALLY get in trouble doing illegal activities then all you have to do is get married and have a few kids! What else are we suppose to think DA Manning? Please hand in your walking papers at any time!!
Believe it wrote on Mar 17, 2008 8:58 PM:For all of you supporters that think Scott is getting out in June of this year are dreaming! According to California State LAW, defendants have to serve at least half of their time in custody.. It's the Law PEOPLE..
Bad Apples wrote on Mar 18, 2008 11:56 AM:Please feel free to turn yourself into the authorities at any time..
CHANTAL wrote on Mar 18, 2008 3:57 PM:Brian is a good guy with a great family. Glad to see everything worked out for him.
1 strike. wrote on Mar 18, 2008 9:04 PM:Yep, things worked out great for B. He has a felony record now with 1 strike.. But, he did somehow avoid prison. Somehow.
the truth wrote on Mar 19, 2008 10:48 PM:JUDGE KIRKMAN SHOULD BE RECALLED. "Brian is a good guy with a great family" states CHANTAL. WHAT A RICICULOUS STATEMENT. BRIAN IS A FELON WHO IS A DANGER TO SOCIETY AND DESERVES EXTENDED PRISON TIME; NOT THE ONE YEAR CAKEWALK IN COUNTY JAIL HE RECEIVED.
Good Situation.. wrote on Mar 21, 2008 10:55 AM:I am glad Jessica has moved on!! Good for her! Hope you do the same Brian!
Employment? wrote on Mar 22, 2008 1:40 PM:Att Kidnapping and Gang affiliation is not going to look good on a resume..
Joe, What? wrote on Mar 23, 2008 11:34 AM:Cardona plead to 2 serious felonies.. Hardly innocent on a Saint as you say...
Family Ties.. wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:32 AM:Makes for interesting conversation at the dinner table come Holiday season for this family..
Louie?? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:46 AM:Getting convicted on a weapons charge is hardly "getting off" Joe..
What message? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:05 PM:I read in a past article that these bangers stopped for Sushi in the middle of their "hunt" for the victims.. Unbelievable.. These bangers had a chance to sit down, eat and think about what they were doing and STILL went back out to look for the victims? Then the Judge and DA decided to give the 2nd in command probation? Way to send a message DA Manning!! Nice to know that gang affiliation means NADA to you! Sure this kid has been on good behavior knowing he faced possible prison time! DUH.. PLEASE feel free to resign at any time!!
Sushi Time?? wrote on Mar 26, 2008 7:37 PM:Maybe McConnell had the CHICKEN instead of Sushi during the hunt and that what kept him out of the Slammer..
Losers wrote on Mar 27, 2008 7:21 PM:Seriously doesn't anyone have anything better to do than pretend you know anything about this case. Don't believe anything that is in the media. Come and write a comment when you read the thousands of pages in transcipts and actually attended the hearings.
And to the so-called "Mothers" that put their children near those twins, you should be arrested for child endangerment.
JoAnne.. wrote on Mar 28, 2008 8:53 AM:The twins have been great with the 15 boys they work with!! I trust them as thery were like Family!! They were the victims in this case.. People just should of paid off what they owed and been MEN about it!!
HaHaHa wrote on Mar 28, 2008 9:51 AM:Losers, you obviously had nothing better to do? I would advise EVERYONE who posts on hear to go pick up a copy of the Grand Jury testimony. These kids got off with a slap on the wrist. Probation will make it that much easier for the next wanna-be bangers to commit the same ridiculous crimes these young men did!
To Losers wrote on Mar 28, 2008 11:14 AM:What does "transcripts" have to do with anything? Get Real!! The fact that your friends plead out, (which mean they ADMITED to their wrongdoings) if good enough for me.. If Brian or anybody else of the bangers DID NOT do anything wrong then why did they not take it to trail? Real Simple Question.... Let me guess, The "Transcripts" would of cleared all these bangers if the whole public knew it right?? Get a freaking clue!! Go tell that to Sepulveda who is doing the hard time!! As for questioning anything about the twins you might want to rethink that. I know for a fact that they have never been convicted of ANY violent crimes!! Truth hurts.. Again, Hope Brian and the rest of the skeleton Crew walk a straight line because 10 years mandatory is strike 2..
Wondering?? wrote on Mar 28, 2008 11:15 AM:Is B still pissed at Peyton Manning for throwing all those picks in the Pro Bowl? Who bets on that game anyway!
"Family Facts" wrote on Mar 28, 2008 11:17 AM:We were promised from a family member that the "Family Facts" would clear all these kids.. Guess that we all know what the real facts were now don't we..
Kids?? wrote on Mar 28, 2008 11:20 AM:"Losers" wrote an interesting post.. I would NEVER want my children around Gang members who have been convicted of Att Kidnapping or sleeping with minors! (As one of the Gang members admitted and was convicted of) Reaming the victims in the case is VERY SAD. Pathetic really.
A victims friend.. wrote on Mar 28, 2008 11:37 AM:I COMPLETELY agree that EVERYONE should go read the Grand Jury and court documents to this Case!! It will show you that these bangers got off VERY easy! Probation for Att Kidnapping? If the jails are that over crowded then we need to spend the Tax paying money to build new ones!! This is ridiculous.
Never ever. wrote on Mar 28, 2008 11:50 AM:I would NEVER have my child around 1) a known Gang Member or 2) Someone convicted of Att Kidnapping.. But that's pretty obvious as we know.
Not real smart. wrote on Mar 29, 2008 1:00 PM:I would like to give some advice to gangbangers supporters.. Be happy your Friends-Family only got slapped on the wrist in this case and move on.. Consider them very lucky and thank the lord all but 1 got penitentary time.. Why you come on here and bash any one is just senseless ... These kids were in a gang and admitted guilt to violent crimes..
LawMan wrote on Mar 29, 2008 2:23 PM:Scott Sepulveda was sentenced under California's Determinate Sentencing Law (DSL). This means that the judge ordered the inmate to serve a specific amount of time. Inmates sentenced under DSL will not have a parole hearing... So, for all you people who think Sepulveda is getting out earlier please reread the above.. It's not happening.. See you in 2010 Scott.
Not real smart. wrote on Mar 29, 2008 4:32 PM:I meant only 1 member of the Crew got penitentary time.. The rest got probation.
Chu-CHing!! wrote on Mar 31, 2008 10:41 AM:Between Bond and Attorney fee's I bet it had to cost the family about a half a million! OUCH.. But, freedom is a beatiful thing..
DA Dummy. wrote on Mar 31, 2008 11:27 AM:I was interested and read through the Grand Jury Testimony.. All I can say is WOW! How did you let this happen DA Manning? It goes to show you that all the DA's care about is "notches" under their belt! I have seen and read many documents in many cases in my day and this was about as solid of a case as I have seen! ALL these so called Gang Bangers should be doing penitentary time! I have truly lost hope for the system in this State as it is showing no promise of controlling crime! If these kids were in any other State they would of got extended DOC time! A very disturbing end to this SAD case...
DDA wrote on Mar 31, 2008 2:34 PM:Make it up as you go. Get a life and move on. The DA would have not made a deal in this case if he felt he could win.
To DDA wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:13 PM:Go tell Sepulveda that.. He is doing 4 years of an 8 year sentence in the penitentary..
??? wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:20 PM:DDA, make what up? I read the testimony as a supporter of the Bangers said to do.. What I saw was a very strong case in which the DA chose not to pursue.. The ringleader still got 8 years in the penitentary though. I think we all know why the other bangers did not get time. Don't we? Let's just say that my bet (No pun intended) would be that the "Crew" won't be hanging out like old times when Sepulveda gets out.. DDA wrote "The DA would have not made a deal in this case if he felt he could win." Well why did Brian plea to a violent crime if he was innocent? 20/20 is it not?
DDA? wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:22 PM:Go tell that to your friend Scott who is doing HARD time as we speak..
Mike H wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:36 PM:I knew these guys in High School at LCC. They thought it was cool getting in trouble. Not to cool now is it.. As like many other have stated on here before, strike #2 is an automatic 10 years in the pen.. Walk that line as straight as ya can.
Natalie N. wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:37 PM:Scotty was more of a Lover than a fighter! I still can't believe all this! I am here for you my love!
Kevin F wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:39 PM:I knew Brian's brother Jacob. I bet he never forgets me! Hope it all works out. Whichever way the lord chooses that is.
Misinformed? wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:44 PM:DDA, why did Brian cop to a plea if he was innocent? Fair question right? Admitting guilt to a severe violent crime is something No one should do UNLESS they are guilty. Really enough said.. Maybe you should get a life and move on! Oh ya, tell Brian that the next strike will cost him 10 years of his freedom.. No money amount will work next time.
The Rat Pack. wrote on Mar 31, 2008 5:46 PM:Amazing what people will do to stay out of jail.. Real tight crew here from what I have read! Plea after plea after plea..
Um, what? wrote on Mar 31, 2008 7:07 PM:I would love to know what DDA stands for.. I don't think McConnell wanted an att kidnapping conviction on his rap sheet.. Let's be honest here, if Brian thought he could of beat the system then he never would of plead.. Who would? If he was not guilty then I assume he would not of admitted to guilt.. I know I never would.
DDA wrote on Apr 1, 2008 6:44 AM:Fact: Not one person that plead guilty plead guilty to attempted murder or conspiracy to commit murder, not enough evidence. The one person that did was allowed to change his plea. DDA Deputy District Attorney
DDA? wrote on Apr 1, 2008 9:04 AM:Wouldnt surprise me one bit if that really was the Deputy DA. With all the plea deals they are giving out, they have Plenty of time on their hands.
Deputy Dawg #2 wrote on Apr 1, 2008 10:53 AM:Fact: ATT Kidnapping is considered a violent crime just like ATT Murder. Fact: Whether it be Att Kidnapping or ATT Murder it is still one strike under their rap sheet. I look at it this way, maybe the "Sushi run" the boys took during their hunt for the victims slowed them down a bit.. Maybe stopping for a bite to eat is what saved the bangers from getting that ATT murder charge.. I mean, they never found the victims that night so who knows what would of happened. That's a fact..
Judicial Joke. wrote on Apr 1, 2008 11:10 AM:Fact: The prisons in the State of California are extremely over crowded. This is what is wrong with this State in my opinion. The tax payers are tired of paying for the building of prisons but crime keeps going up in the State. I guess so bad that the State has no choice besides to give probation to criminals with brutal violent charges such as these individuals.. I wonder what would of happened if convicted of kidnapping? 10 years probation? A joke this judical system is turning into..
Sinking System. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 11:22 AM:I read where Sepulveda had sex with a minor and only has to do 4 years with 4 probation.. Nice message to send DA. I am sure all parents with young teenagers are not too happy with that.
Electrical Work. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 11:48 AM:I suggest everybody do a Background Check on their electricians when needed work..
Bill wrote on Apr 2, 2008 11:55 AM:I suggest that parents do a background check of people they let coach their childern.
Background Checks. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 12:05 PM:They should be done on everybody.. I would never let anyone convicted of a Violent Crime get near my Children..
Billy Boy. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 12:24 PM:You still can't explain the the admitted guilt to Att Kidnapping can you? A violent crime that will never leave the Rap Sheet..
JoAnne. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 12:30 PM:The victims who coach my kids team have never been convicted of a violent crime. You are making a fool of yourself Bill.. Maybe Brian would of never been in this mess if he was not Scott's puppet, ERR 2nd in Command, in a known street gang. Hopefully he is turning his life around.
Bill wrote on Apr 2, 2008 1:09 PM:I would take it one step farther and say that anyone with a criminal background of any type ie drugs or violent crime be checked.
Consider the Facts. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 1:27 PM:Considering all the kids admitted to gang affiliation and Att Kidnapping, I would never have my young ones around them. Common Sense. Noneless, according to other NC times articles, these kids were connected to burgularies and drugs as well.
Whatever happened? wrote on Apr 2, 2008 1:29 PM:What happened to the Drug charges? Stolen property charges? And Burglury charges these bangers had against them? Wow. Are the prisons that over crowded? Scary thought.
Back Stab. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 5:41 PM:Sepulveda got all the blame for the other charges.. That's why the rest of the Rat Crew are not in prison.
Civil Suits. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 5:42 PM:Hope the rest of the bangers and wittle Brian know that Civil Suits are coming their way.
Kelly L. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 5:50 PM:Scott got the blame for all the stolen property and weapons charges! Some friends he has. There is more to it on why most of these kids got off easy. Read between the lines.. I miss our time Scott! See you soon.
Sam W wrote on Apr 2, 2008 5:52 PM:Scott and Brian have been friends of my family for a long time. I and Brian have a very special bond together! Glad you just got probation.
Megan W wrote on Apr 2, 2008 9:15 PM:Scott And I had special moments also. We was alwats good to me.. His Crew turned on him! I hope he realizes this also.. Good luck Scott. Hang in there! Look me up when you get out.
Camping Trips. wrote on Apr 2, 2008 9:17 PM:Have been cancelled due to low funds now.. Plus the civil suit coming soon to a court near you will wipe out the savings...
Curious? wrote on Apr 3, 2008 7:20 PM:Being tax season and all, I wonder if Brians parents get to write off that 200gs they spent on getting him out on bail? I know you dont get that money back. Hopefully something good will come out of that hard earned money? His parents are great people.
Winter flakes.. wrote on Apr 3, 2008 8:44 PM:Brian's Father is a cool guy! I have been with him on Camping trips and we always play in the snow! Great Guy.
Concerned wrote on Apr 7, 2008 5:52 PM:Drug dealing. Robbing houses. Att kidnapping. Probation?? How cash changes everything.
Very Concerned. wrote on Apr 8, 2008 7:05 PM:The State of California and Ohio are letting inmates out due to overcrowded prisons. That's almost funny. Almost. I do not care if this kid had a clean record! How does this State let this violent offender off on probation? How? This kid was supposedly "2nd" in command in a gang? I know this gang was a joke compared to REAL street gangs but the message this sends is pathetic! I hope Mr Manning knows next time he goes up against real Gangs in court that their lawyers will use this tool against him and he will have nothing to say back besides, "ya got me." What happened to morals in this State? I hope this banger really did turn his life around. Sounds like he was lead on like a puppet to Sepulveda. I hope you are praying to the great lord every night McConnell. You got off easy because of the States failures. Learn from it kid.
Done wrong.. wrote on Apr 9, 2008 10:29 AM:I do not care how overcrowded the prisons are. These young men were convicted of violent crimes! Getting probation for an Att kidnapping Rap is sending the message that felons can get away with about anything.. The State of California needs to demand more space for more prisons! I know the economic state is not good right now but I would rather pay the extra dollars to keep convicts like this locked up!
Probation Violation. wrote on Apr 10, 2008 5:07 PM:Under the States Probation policy, any felon who hangs around another felon is under Probation Violation. Keep that in mind Gang Bangers..
Sam W wrote on Apr 10, 2008 5:44 PM:You people do not know Brian like I do! He was my first love. I will never forget him!
Natalie N wrote on Apr 10, 2008 6:07 PM:Scott is hanging in there for anyone who wants to know. We are pen pals. Con't wait till he gets out!
To: Natalie N wrote on Apr 10, 2008 8:28 PM:No the better part of us really don't care how the criminals are doing.
Wondering. wrote on Apr 11, 2008 10:38 AM:I wonder if the Bangers who avoided jail time have to attend counseling or do any community service? Check that, never mind on the community service idea. Kids might be around. But I do know that if these bangers get caught hanging around eachother then probation is violated.. Be careful bangers.
How times Change. wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:13 AM:I was watching the movie "Alpha Dog" the other night, a true story, and the kids in California were facing life in prison for Kidnapping. How things change.. This kid McConnell got probation for Att Kidnapping.. Nice message to send Mr Manning. Shows convicts like this kid can get away with a very disturbing crime and still walk the streets. Good luck in your next case with other gangbangers!
The Solution.. wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:44 AM:What's that saying, "Crime will make you pay." Sounds more like in this situation that "Pay makes you get out of trouble. " The Ole Mighty Dollar. Works wonders.
Congratulation. wrote on Apr 14, 2008 8:45 AM:Goes out to Mr Bloom. 1 for his last 9 now. I consider this a win for him because his client avoided the pen somehow..
Getoverit wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:05 AM:Take your drama to your mama!! Don't get the results you want cry ... and blame everyone else.
$$ wrote on Apr 14, 2008 9:09 AM:If money made the differance why did Shiller and galesky get probation also? They had public defenders.
Spell Check. wrote on Apr 14, 2008 10:51 AM:differance is spelled difference... Shiller and Galesky were State Witnesses in the Grand Jury Testimony.. They grew backbones and spoke the truth on what had occured.. Maybe you should go read the Grand Jury testimony for yourself before posting. It is public record.
Grammar lesson. wrote on Apr 14, 2008 11:30 AM:Please go take a few lessons whoever wrote under Getoverit.
Sam W wrote on Apr 14, 2008 11:31 AM:I still love Brian. I will always remember what we had together.
Jessica S wrote on Apr 14, 2008 11:33 AM:Embezzlement is a serious crime. I am soo happy Scott and Kelly had such a close relationship! Thank You! And good luck B!
Embezzlement wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:03 PM:Such a harsh crime. amazing how people can get away with it.. Thiefs should be put away for life.
Biteme wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:04 PM:Clowns and losers, if all else fails pick apart peoples sentence structure and spelling. Get a life, don’t hate me because I have more money than you.
To Biteme: wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:23 PM:Making money off Selling Drugs and Robbing homes do not count..I also agree that all gangmembers convicted of felonies such as these should get automatic prison terms. I believe most of the general public would agree with me.
Bitewho? wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:25 PM:Depends on what you do Biteme. I suggest that you go back to Junior High and retake English Class.
Really? wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:27 PM:Mommy and Daddy still must be paying for everything Biteme.. At some point you need to grow up..
200gr. wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:31 PM:Well if that is Brian's parents that posted that then I truly doubt it.. Hope B can get back that 200g plus attorney expeneses he owes you all.. Ouch, that had to take a hard hit.. I heard electricians are being laid off as well. Hope he stays away from illegal activity. 10 years for STRIKE 2 is a looooooooong time.. Take care.
Parents? wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:35 PM:As a parent, I have to put some of the blame on the parents of these men. McConnell's parents obviously had money so for him to be involved in this gang makes no sense! Robbing and Dealing Drugs also? Maybe some of the 200 grand they paid for his bail could of been prevented if they opened their eyes and knew what these bangers were up to! I assume they knew Sepulveda pretty well since they were best friends.. Unbelievable..
What? wrote on Apr 14, 2008 12:38 PM:These must be kids writing some of these posts. The comeback, "I have more money than you" is kid talk. And no, the 7 dollars you make an hour at the local food joint does not surpass my income.
Locked up. wrote on Apr 15, 2008 10:44 AM:This kid never should of got probation. It send the wrong message to other Gangs in the NC area.
House Arrest? wrote on Apr 15, 2008 2:09 PM:this kid should should at least be under house arrest. No way should he be allowed in other people's homes as an electrician as a known gang member and convict! I hope part of his probation is for at least the customers knowing what he has done! I know what my decision would be!
Victims.. wrote on Apr 15, 2008 8:38 PM:The victims were "Agents" for an offshore sportsbook. Nothing illegal. This also was stated in the Grand Jury testimony. They were not BOOKIES! Bookies fund a gambling ring. These victims were not doing that! Get a clue people! And for you supporters of the criminals in this case, you really need to look yourselves in the mirror. It was your family-friends who commited the crimes! Should of paid your gambling losses. How lame is that? Very! In my opinion all of you gang members got off easy. Just like numerous others posters have stated, the next felony or any type of probation violation will land you in prison! Be careful for your sake.
Agents wrote on Apr 16, 2008 6:26 AM:Sorry that should read claim. i don't want any one to slam my spelling.
Agents? wrote on Apr 16, 2008 10:45 AM:Did you claim everything on your taxes? Realy RREEACCHHIINNGG for something now huh?
FACTS. wrote on Apr 16, 2008 11:15 AM:This gang was connected with 1)Drugs. 2)Stolen property. 3)Ties to Robbing Homes. 4) Concealed Weapons. 5)ATT Kidnapping. And 6)Statitory Rape.. I am not saying all the bangers were charged with all these crimes BUT some were. Now I wonder if the bangers who were convicted of selling drugs, for example, CLAIMED that on their taxes? Almost funny.. Almost. Just hope they all learned their lesson and maybe you should spend more time appreciating how leniant their punishment was instead of spouting off BS about the victims.
Spouting off wrote on Apr 16, 2008 12:11 PM:So you all can say anything you want about the family and friends, who were not charged with anything. This must be your own private post.
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