Story Created:
Dec 18, 2009 at 9:32 AM CDT
Story Updated:
Dec 18, 2009 at 9:45 AM CDT
December 18, 2009
Corpus Christi - It grabbed the attention of local graffiti taggers and lots of other people for that matter. But last week's tough talk by District Judge Marisela Saldana and her swift action in the Sebastian Perez case was apparently all for nothing.
On Thursday the 8 year sentence she handed down had to be reduced.
Judge Saldana addressed the tagger: "My question to you Sebastion Perez, why do you pick on these other fine citizens of Corpus Christi, why don't you knock yourself out spraying tagging marking on your girlfriends house, her mothers house, your friend's house, your mothers house. Knock yourself out."
You may recall this emotional statement from Saldana as she sentenced 18-year old tagger to 8 years in prison for tagging numerous homes, businesses and other structures and causing thousands of dollars in damage.
On Thursday the judge has had to reduce the punishment, not because she wanted to, but because of a new law that went into effect September 1 which prevents "stacking" the sentences in cases like this. It means Perez now only has to serve 2 years instead of the 8, plus 2 years of community service.
Judge Saldana: "I wouldn't start smiling and celebrating just now sir. All right, I think you know my response and how I felt about the your conduct for a span of 6 months sir and the 30 some odd places of business and homes and public signs and others that you damaged."
On that Perez broke down in court last Friday at the prospect of having to serve 8 years.
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