Reynol Gonzales Jr., 27, has been sentenced to 30 years in prison after pleading guilty to his role in the 2021 gang-related homicide of John Michael Colon. According to a post from the Hernando County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, Gonzales entered a plea agreement, designating him as a Prison Release Reoffender with the Florida Department of Corrections. He was one of five men charged in connection with the homicide.
On July 13, 2021, authorities were alerted to a man down near Silent Breeze Street and Wolf Road in Brooksville, after a delivery driver found John Michael Colon deceased next to his vehicle. The investigation revealed that Colon, formerly affiliated with the Latin Kings gang, was killed during a "beating" ritual as part of his stripping of gang membership, according to WFLA.
The arrests of the five men associated with the Latin Kings resulted from the thorough efforts of detectives, including neighborhood canvassing and extensive interviews. The investigation revealed that Colon had wanted to leave the gang, which led to his tragic death. The suspects were identified and charged in October 2022, each facing counts of 3rd-degree murder, aggravated battery, and conspiracy to commit aggravated battery, according to the Tampa Free Press.
Gonzales has received his sentence, while the other four suspects—Shayne A. White-Gracteroly, Jimmy Nguyen, Hector Robles, and Reynaldo Fonseca—are still awaiting trial. Three of them remain in custody, while two have posted bond. Details about their arrests and the charges against them have emerged over time.The Hernando County Sheriff's Office continues to actively investigate the case and is asking the public for any information, which can be provided to Detective Tom Cameron. Anonymous tips may be eligible for a cash reward through Hernando County Crime Stoppers.
