Inmate gets 40 years for attack on jail deputy

Another 40 years has been added to the sentence of a Norteño gang member from Soledad who is already serving a 42-year sentence in connection with two homicides.

Armando Garza Canchola, 28, was convicted July 28, 2016 of assaulting a Sheriff’s deputy at the Monterey County jail and will now serve 82 years in prison before getting his first chance at parole.

According to the District Attorney’s office, in May of 2014, Canchola and at least five other inmates repeatedly kicked a deputy in the head while being processed to an exercise yard. The deputy reportedly suffered a concussion and has not returned to work due to lingering injuries.

The jail assault happened while Canchola was awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to two homicides committed in 2008 and 2010.

A jury found Canchola guilty of assault on a peace officer. The jury also found the attack was committed for the benefit on the Norteño criminal street gang. Because of the two prior homicide convictions, the assault constitutes his third strike.