Gov. Newsom Grants Clemency in 2009 Tulare County Gang Murder

Governor Gavin Newsom has pardoned Richard Garcia, who at 39 years old was found guilty of a gang-related killing near Orosi in 2009.

On April 18, 2025, Governor Newsom approved a request for clemency and reduced the sentence of Garcia. She had been found guilty in 2011 of causing the death of an 18-year-old male.

In 2011, during his court proceedings, a Tulare County jury determined that Garcia was responsible for second-degree murder and conspiracy. Additionally, he faced several enhancements including being identified as a principal who used a firearm in connection with a gang-related crime involving significant physical harm, plus another enhancement indicating these offenses were carried out to further the activities of a criminal street gang.

Prosecutors say on Aug. 28th, 2009, Garcia and three other gang members were driving around looking for rival gang members when they spotted the victim and his friend walking on the side of the road near Orosi.

The car came to a halt, after which Garcia’s accomplice exited the vehicle and discharged multiple rounds, resulting in the death of the victim and an injury to the leg of the victim's companion.

Garcia confessed to the authorities that he was aware his accomplice possessed a firearm and intended to use it against rival gang members.

Garcia received a sentence of 50 years to life in prison.

Upon appeal, Garcia's sentence was decreased to 40 years to life due to an instructional mistake made during the trial concerning the conspiracy charge.

Garcia is presently incarcerated at the California Substance Abuse Treatment Facility in Corcoran under a life sentence. Following his conviction, he has submitted three requests for resentencing.

"Each time, a Tulare County judge rejected his appeal. When Garcia initially submitted a request for clemency in 2023, the governor did not intervene. By signing off, the governor overturned the verdict made by the jury as well as the various rulings from Tulare County judges, those legal authorities who oversaw the location where the crime occurred, listened to witness statements, and grasped the effect on society," stated District Attorney Tim Ward.

The convict has completed just one-third of a 40-years-to-life term imposed for a brutally violent offense. According to his own statement, both he and his accomplices sought out violence during their actions in 2009; they were essentially tracking down fellow humans with harmful intent. Our office will attend all upcoming parole hearings and contest the possibility of releasing this individual.

Garcia can be immediately considered for a parole hearing and, should he be deemed appropriate, let out of prison.