The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, led by District Attorney Ron Freitas, has achieved justice with the conviction of all three Norteno gang members for the first-degree murder of Armando Salgado at the Honor Farm on June 24, 2021.

Armando Salgado, a man with no gang affiliations, was viciously targeted upon entering the facility. The three defendants confronted him, demanded his gang ties, and tore off his shirt to check for tattoos. When Salgado remained silent, they unleashed a savage attack—punching, stabbing, and stomping him into unconsciousness. They then dragged him to the barracks bathroom, where they beat and drowned him.

“Armando Salgado was murdered in cold blood, and that’s something we’ll never accept,” said District Attorney Ron Freitas. 

The District Attorney’s Office commends the outstanding work of:

•  Detective Jeremy Davis, for his tenacious investigation and unwavering trial presence.

•  Gang Experts Detective Oswaldo Ramirez and Retired CO Jay Rodacker, for their critical testimony during the 3½-month trial.

•  The Sheriff’s Department RHU, for their dependable support.

•  The DA’s Bureau of Investigations, for ensuring courtroom safety.

•  Victim Witness Unit, for supporting Salgado’s family.

•  DDA Stacie Derman, for her fierce prosecution.