Testimony Begins In Gang Member Murder Trial

INDIO – Opening statements wrapped up and testimony has begun in the trial of a reputed gang member accused of gunning down a man in a driveway during a robbery in Cathedral City.

Miguel Valdivia Najera, 28, faces charges of first-degree murder, robbery and being a felon in possession of a firearm in the May 28, 2006 death of Adrian Cedeno.

He also faces a special-circumstance allegation of committing a murder during a robbery and being an active gang member. Najera could face the death penalty if convicted.

Najera was arrested June 2, 2006, in the 31200 block of Avenida del Pueblo following a brief chase.

Police had been watching the home of Najera’s girlfriend that day and saw him drive away. Officers tailed him for several blocks but Najera exited his car and ran away. He was taken into custody after authorities surrounded the area.

Prosecutors say Najera wanted to kill another man, but instead he shot cedeno, took his wallet and watch, to get respect from his gang.

Deputy District Attorney Victoria Weiss told jurors Najera put his reputation on the line and said he was going to kill someone. He shot Cedeno through the head just a few minutes later.

“To enhance his reputation within the gang, Barrio Cathedral City. And to enhance the reputation of his gang, Barrio Cathedral City, on the street,” says Weiss.

Defense attorney’s say the crimes aren’t gang motivated. The motive was drugs. They says Najera was high on meth and had a gun that accidentally went off during an argument.

“Miguel gripped the firearm that he was holding. He gripped it tighter in response to the lunge and he inadvertently pulled the trigger,” says Jeff Zimel.

An official motive for the shooting was not released by authorities.

The trial is expected to last 4 weeks. Najera is currently being held without bail at the Indio Jail.