Judge Kimberlee Lagotta ruled that Meki Gaono, convicted of murdering Officer Dan Bessant, should remain in adult court rather than transferring to juvenile court. Gaono's anticipated release under new state laws was denied, affirming his life sentence without the possibility of parole.
The ruling maintained Gaono, who ambushed Officer Bessant in 2006, will continue serving his life sentence, reflecting the complexities of new California laws addressing juvenile sentencing.
Officer Bessant's father expressed relief over the ruling, insisting that while they sympathize with Gaono's family, they are thankful his son's killer will not be released.
District Attorney Summer Stephan emphasized Gaono's case represents the ongoing commitment of their office to rigorously assess juvenile cases under new laws while ensuring public safety.
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