Lodi man convicted of first-degree murder

Mario Angulo could get life in prison for his part in the death of Johnny Moreno six years ago

A Lodi man who fled to Mexico after a fatal gang-related shooting six years ago was convicted today of first-degree murder.

Mario Angulo, now 26, likely faces at least 50 years, and possibly life, in prison when he is sentenced June 26.

For Prosecutor Ron Freitas, who first got the case in October 2000 after the shooting of Johnny Angel Moreno, the San Joaquin County jury's verdict sends a message about gang activity.

"Gang violence is never pretty, especially when it's murder," Freitas said. "It's really nice when the people that do inflict this violence are brought to justice."

Angulo was "disappointed" with the verdict and had hoped for a better outcome by taking the case to trial, said his court-appointed Stockton attorney, Charles Slote.

Contact reporter Layla Bohm at layla@lodinews.com.

First published: Monday, June 5, 2006