Pair Arrested For Steve Sanchez Stabbing
The men accused of stabbing former state assembly candidate Steve Sanchez are in custody, according to the Whittier Police Department.
Friends and family at a ‘Support Steve Sanchez’ party in Indio on Friday said they were relieved to hear the news.
Sanchez is still recovering in a Los Angeles hospital, but he is no longer in intensive care.
Friends said he can’t wait to get back to his home in Indio.
Every December, the Coachella Valley Young Republicans hold a holiday party.
They almost canceled it this year because of the stabbing.
The party still went on; however the theme changed.
“He’s one of our brothers and a very good friend, and we’re going to do everything we can to help him with his recovery,” said Daniel Duardo, who hosted the ‘Support Steve Sanchez in his Recovery’ event.
Indio Mayor Lupe Ramos Watson attended as well as representatives from the offices of Supervisor John Benoit and Rep. Mary Bono-Mack.
“(Sanchez is) a strong Marine, and he’s got a good attitude, and (he’s)positive,” said Don Genhart, a friend. “So, he’s going to pull through this beautifully — I know.”
Authorities have arrested Jonathan Moran, 27, of Highland, and Raymond Martinez, 29, of Rancho Cucamonga, for stabbing Sanchez in the chest and stomach.
The stabbing happened over the weekend while Sanchez tried breaking up a fight at party in Whittier.
“He did two tours overseas, and for this to happen to him over here, to me, is mind-blowing,” said Duardo.
Those in attendance signed massive get-well cards, telling Sanchez to stay strong.
“We care about you and we’re here,” said Angela Chacon, a member of the Coachella Valley Young Republicans.
Sanchez is recovering in a hospital bed after undergoing two surgeries.
But friends don’t expect it will take long for him to bounce back to his feet.
“I spoke to him tonight,” said Duardo. “He is having a little trouble speaking because of his diaphragm. But, he wanted me to let everyone know that he is very grateful for all of the support — the support that we’ve given to his family, and he’s going to be coming home very soon.”
Much of Sanchez’ family lives on the East Coast.
Friends are raising money to help pay for their trips here to California during Sanchez’ rehabilitation.
