Gilberto Cano, a 52-year-old Modesto resident, was denied parole, the Stanislaus County District Attorney announced. According to a social media post, Cano is serving two consecutive 17-years-to-life sentences for the murders of Martha Moreno and her unborn child. The decision followed a parole hearing at the Correctional Facility in Soledad, California.
At the hearing, Deputy District Attorney Matthew Jacob represented the People and argued against Cano’s release. The murders occurred in March 2002, when Cano strangled Martha Moreno, who was 26 weeks pregnant, with a shoelace and stabbed her multiple times in the abdomen. His actions resulted in the deaths of both Martha and her unborn daughter, Angelina.
Deputy District Attorney Jacob cited several factors in opposing Cano’s parole, noting that Cano has continued using methamphetamine while incarcerated and has declined treatment for significant mental health issues. A forensic psychologist concluded that these underlying issues contribute to his violent behavior and place him at risk for future violent acts if released.
During the hearing, the Parole Board considered written statements and in-person testimony from several family members of the victims, who described the lasting impact of Cano’s crimes. The Parole Board ultimately determined that Cano continues to pose a risk to public safety and denied his parole for a term of five years.
Media inquiries about the case and the Parole Board’s decision can be directed to [email protected].
