Osvaldo Hernandez (DOB 05/22/99) of Oxnard confessed last Thursday to a series of violent crimes that took place in 2018, including second-degree murder and multiple counts of robbery, committed within a short span of hours.

According to the Ventura County District Attorney news release, Hernandez was out on bail for illegal weapons possession when he conducted these offenses on June 27, 2018. Within three hours, he did rob three individuals at different locations in Oxnard, which culminated in an attempted robbery where he fatally shot Robert De La Cerda.

Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko highlighted the bravery and help from victims and community members in identifying Hernandez, "The bravery and cooperation of victims and the community in identifying the perpetrator of these gang-related crimes is greatly appreciated." This case underscores the important role of community engagement in tackling criminal activities.

From Hernandez's spree, a clear method was visible. Generally targeting lone individuals, he would quickly approach them in darkness, threatening violence unless they surrendered their belongings. Hernandez's pattern could have allowed his violent acts to continue unnoticed.

However, during the attempt on De La Cerda's life, the situation escalated to homicide, capturing public attention. The gun discharged in the altercation, killing De La Cerda as Hernandez fled the scene. This event underscored the severe outcomes and potential of gang violence when left unchecked.

Hernandez will receive sentencing on January 25, 2024, in the Ventura County Superior Court, with a likely term of 15-years-to-life and an additional 17 years and 8 months in state prison.