Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón has taken a firm stand against street violence with the charges issued in the murder of street vendor Yener Ramirez. As announced by the DA's office, Rahman Abdallah and Raylon Akers are being charged with murder after the fatal shooting of Ramirez, who was doing his job selling corn on the streets of Long Beach on March 20. A third man, James Havlicheck, has been charged with accessory after the fact, as reported by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.
In a public statement, District Attorney Gascón expressed his condolences and outrage, stating, "We are deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic and senseless murder of Mr. Yener Ramirez, a hardworking street vendor who was violently taken away from us while simply doing his job," as stated by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. The case has cast a spotlight on the dangers faced by street vendors seeking an honest living. "No one should ever fear for their life while trying to make an honest living," Gascón added, highlighting the community-wide impact of such violent acts.
The particulars of the case against the accused are severe, with Abdallah facing a one count of murder and Akers facing a count of both murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. It is alleged by authorities that a handgun was used during the commission of the crime. According to the District Attorney's statement, Havlicheck's involvement came after the shooting, as he allegedly provided aid to the defendants.
With the arraignment of all three accused still pending, a bail review is set for August 6 in the Long Beach Courthouse. Abdallah and Akers have been detained on no bail, reflecting the gravity of the charges they face which include a maximum sentence of 35 years to life in prison, if convicted as charged. Havlicheck could face up to six years in prison.
