Criminal Street Gang Member Arrested - KION - Monterey, Salinas, Santa Cruz - News Weather

Criminal Street Gang Member Arrested - KION - Monterey, Salinas, Santa Cruz - News Weather: "arrest has been made in the connection of a shooting that occurred on October 13, 2009 on Southgate Court. According to police, after a persistent investigation by the Anti-Crime Team they arrested Edward Lopez Friday and is facing charges that includes, shooting causing bodily injury, participation in a criminal act in association with at the direction or for the benefit of a criminal street gang.
The victim in that case was in front of a residence when the suspects approached in their vehicle. Without provocation, the suspect fired several rounds striking the victim.
Forensic evidence in the case corroborated the independent leads that were developed by the Anti-Crime Team. Investigator Mark Tarasco presented the case to a magistrate of the Santa Clara County Superior Court. The Honorable Judge Cunningham authorized the issuance of an arrest warrant for Mr. Lopez and assigned bail of one-million dollars.
Within 3 hours, Anti-Crime Team Investigators located and arrested Mr. Lopez at a Gilroy park. The potential jail exposure in a case charged as this is 25 years to life for the shooting plus a 10 year enhancement for the gang allegation.
Of significance is that Mr. Lopez has been validated as a criminal street gang member, is a convicted felon and is currently out of custody on a bail bond. That case was from December 2009 where he was found in possession for sales of narcotics and also in possession of a firearm. Individuals who choose to lead a life of crime, intimidation and find the gang lifestyle appealing will be vigorously pursued by the Gilroy Police Dept. We are dedicated to preserving a community that is free of that type of reckless behavior that puts our community members in peril and fear."