A convicted murderer will remain behind bars after the California Board of...

A convicted murderer will remain behind bars after the California Board of Parole Hearings determined that Jose Soto continues to pose an unreasonable risk to public safety.

Representing the District Attorney’s Office at the hearing and advocating for the denial was Deputy DA Gina Nargie.

On 4th of July 1992, Gonzalez shot and killed Jose Soto in a gang-related shooting in Bakersfield. That night, the victim and his cousin left a family party to go to a local store when two men approached them on bicycles. One of the males yelled, sounding as if they knew them or were trying to get their attention. When they stopped their car, Gonzalez and his crime partner got off their bicycles and approached the passenger side of the vehicle where the victim was seated. Gonzalez, the victim, and the victim’s cousin all had previous alterations prior to the murder. Gonzalez shot into the car. The victim slumped over and fell on his cousin. The victim died from a .38 caliber gunshot wound to the right side of his head that was fired from a 6 to 12 inch distance.

On December 30, 1992, a Kern County Jury found Gonzalez guilty of murder in the first degree. He was sentenced to 29 years to life in prison.

Gonzalez is currently 53 years old and has served approximately 33 years in state prison. Earlier this month, the board conducted Gonzalez’s third parole hearing where Gonzalez’s commissioners focused on his latest evaluation rating him a high risk for violence, his gang activity in the community, gang activity in prison until 2024, his history of domestic violence, and substance abuse. Ultimately, Gonzalez’s commissioners issued a three-year denial.

DA Zimmer commented; “I am pleased that the Board of Parole agreed with the District Attorney’s position that Gonzalez is far from suitable for release into the community. He has a documented history of violence and continued involvement in gang activity both inside and outside of prison. For the safety of the public, it is critical that he remain incarcerated.”