Prosecutors Want Death Penalty On MS-13 Leader Who Killed Two Teenagers In 2016

Prosecutors are eyeing the death penalty to be imposed on the MS-13 leader who is accused of kidnapping and killing two Virginia teenagers in 2016.

29-year-old Elmer Zelaya Martinez is accused of being the leader who ordered the murder of Edvin Escobar Mendez, 17, and Sergio Arita Triminio, 14, said Fox News.

Martinez allegedly “coordinated” 10 other gang members to stab the victims.

The suspect was singled out among those who were charged in connection of the murders due to his “substantial planning and premeditation,” as well as his “lack of remorse for his violent acts,” said The Washington Post, citing court documents.

Escobar Mendez became the target of the gang after he was mistaken for a spy for a rival gang. Triminio, on the other hand, was suspected of coordinating with the authorities.

Robert Jenkins, Zelaya Martinez's legal counsel, however, sees the push for death penalty “politically motivated.” The Washington Post pointed that the Trump administration has announced its plans to resume “executing federal prisoners” in July.

“I strongly believe politics is playing a significant role rather than whether or not this is the appropriate thing to do to serve justice,” said Jenkins.

He also added whatever justice the death penalty may serve comes only as a “secondary concern,” and that its primary motive is the President's strong take on illegal immigrants.