Getaway Driver In 2014 Charlestown Murder Sentenced To Life In Prison
BOSTON (CBS/AP) — A Charlestown man convicted in the 2014 killing of a 17-year-old has been sentenced to life in prison.
Julio Baez was sentenced Friday, a day after he was found guilty of murder and armed assault with intent to murder in the shooting that killed Ryan Morrissey and injured a 19-year-old man.
Baez was also sentenced to as many as 20 years for his role in the shooting of the friend Morrissey was with that day, James Lawton. He survived.
Two other men, Danilo Soto and Alexander Soto, were found not guilty Thursday.
Baez's sentence was handed down in a Boston courtroom, during an emotional hearing.
Lawton, the surviving victim, gave an emotional victim impact statement.
"I not only have the mental pain, but the physical pain that's a constant reminder of what I went through and still have to live with every day. You deserve everything that is given to you today," Lawton said.
While facing Baez, Morrissey's mother made a "peace" sign with her fingers to the sky, saying it was her family's symbol.
The three men were charged killing of Morrissey in Charlestown on Nov. 5, 2014.
Prosecutors alleged the Sotos, who aren't related, shot Morrissey while Baez was the getaway driver.
Alexander Soto's lawyer said his client was "gratified."
Baez's attorney said after the verdict that his client is "devastated" and will appeal.
Baez's relatives said justice was denied.
"There was no (expletive) justice!" one woman shouted while leaving the courthouse.
Prosecutors said witnesses who could have provided "critical testimony," lied or stayed silent.
(© Copyright 2018 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
