URGENT UPDATE: The charges against the four suspects in the tragic death of 14-year-old Simon Cuevas have been dramatically downgraded, raising serious concerns about the legal proceedings surrounding this high-profile case. Initially arrested for capital murder, these individuals are now facing lesser charges of assault.
On April 16, 2023, Simon Cuevas was fatally beaten and shot shortly after leaving San Antonio Independent School District’s Brewer Academy. The incident occurred at the corner of Elmendorf Street and Merida Street, where surveillance footage captured a group of five individuals following Simon before the attack.
All five suspects were originally charged with capital murder. However, as of now, their charges have been reduced to third-degree felony charges of injury to a child with bodily injury. Among those charged are Fernando Flores and Andrew Cantu, both 18 years old, who remain un-sentenced. Two younger brothers, aged 14 and 15, were sentenced to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department on November 6, 2023, based on their behavior and progress.
The downgrade of charges has shocked many, including local defense attorney Karl Alexander, who stated, “It seems very shocking that someone can be arrested for capital murder and then suddenly a charge that is significantly less serious than that actually gets filed.” He emphasized that there are various reasons why this can occur, including potential flaws in the evidence or premature police action.
Alexander explained, “There’s a public safety concern; you have to react. You have to do something and get someone off the street. Then as the investigation unfolds, you realize that perhaps we jumped to a conclusion.” He added that if evidence fails to establish intent, it complicates the ability to prove charges beyond a reasonable doubt.
The community is left grappling with the implications of this legal shift. The mother of Simon Cuevas expressed her hope that the case will be resolved soon, stating, “Still so unreal.”
As this story develops, the public is urged to keep an eye on updates regarding the suspects’ legal status and any further developments in the investigation. The case has ignited discussions around justice for victims and the complexities of the legal system.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving situation.
