PASCO, Wash. – Javier James Santana Jr. was seen at Franklin County Superior Court for sentencing, where judge Bronson Brown imposed 180 months for Murder in the second degree with a firearm enhancement.
In total, Santana Jr. was handed 120 months under murder in the second degree, 60 months for firearm enhancement and 36 additional months of community custody. Santana Jr. also is not allowed to have any contact with the victim’s family and register as a firearm offender.
Santana Jr. cried as he delivered a statement to the courtroom and Arreola’s family, saying in part,
“I know that sorry does not cover all that is in my heart… the point is I’m sorry,” said Santana Jr.
A representative also had the chance to speak on behalf of Arreola’s mother and brother, driving home how hurt the family was.
“Your cowardly, heartless, gutless actions didn’t just end my brother’s life… they detonated a bomb in the hearts of everyone who loved him,” said the representative.
According to a Kennewick Police Department Facebook post, authorities believe they have the remains of Arreola but are waiting on positive identification through DNA testing.
Santana Jr. is set to appear back in court for his jury trial on Wednesday, April 23rd at 8:30 AM.
