A Bullhead City man will spend at least 40 years in prison for his involvement in a double homicide. Sentence was imposed Feb. 27 for Francisco Romero, 26.
Romero pled guilty to first degree murder for the shooting death of Daryl Ward, 22, and to kidnapping for the abduction of Mona Carter, 51. Romero must serve at least 25 years in prison before he is eligible for parole for the murder conviction and he must serve 15 years more for the Carter kidnapping.
Five co-defendants face a range of charges for their alleged involvement in the same case. Authorities have said the group erroneously suspected that Carter was working as an informant for law enforcement.
Officials have also said that Ward met violence because of allegations that he stole drugs and sexually assaulted a woman. Prosecutor Jaimye Ashley said both victims were held in the bedroom of a Bullhead City residence where they were questioned and threatened.
Ashley said superglue was applied to Ward ‘s genitals and that Carter was partially stripped before both were driven to a remote location where they were shot and killed.
Defense attorney Randy Craig said that ten years of drug abuse led Romero down the wrong path and clouded his judgment when the crimes were committed.
“If I could turn time back and take back what was done I would,” Romero told Mohave County Superior Court Judge Rick Lambert. “I’m really sorry.”
Ward’s family members expressed anger that Romero has a chance at freedom if he lives long enough while Ward was taken from them, and his three children, at such a young age.
