Gang member convicted in Live Oak gun brandishing
A gang member faces more than 14 years in state prison after being convicted of multiple charges stemming from a 2012 incident in Live Oak.
Prosecutors said Johnny Suarez drove into a residential area in Live Oak on Sept. 5, 2012 and pointed a gun at two boys standing on the sidewalk. He shouted gang slogans, then drove off, firing a single shot as he left the area. The boys weren’t struck.
A Santa Cruz County jury convicted Suarez Monday of assault with a firearm, brandishing a firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm and possession of methamphetamine. He’s set for sentencing on June 16.
Suarez previously was convicted in 2008 of unlawful possession of a firearm and was placed on probation.
