September 7, 2005

Contact: Lynn Kimbrough, 720-913-9025 

HAGOS SENTENCED

Abraham Hagos (DOB: 06-25-75) was sentenced today to life in prison without parole plus 70 years in connection with the 1998 murder of James Roberts.  The sentence ends a lengthy delay in the conclusion of this case due to a U.S. Supreme Court decision that forced changes in Colorado’s death penalty phase.

Hagos was found guilty at trial of first-degree murder after deliberation, attempted first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated intimidation of a witness.  He originally faced the possibility of a death sentence but the Ring v. Arizona ruling in 2002 removed that option.

Today’s sentence is the second life prison term Hagos will serve.  He is already serving life in prison without parole in an earlier kidnapping and robbery case.   The sentences have been ordered to be served consecutively.

Denver Chief Deputy DA Joe Morales, the prosecutor on the case, noted today that Hagos is one of the most dangerous criminals he has ever prosecuted because of his complete disregard for the law and the criminal justice process.

-30-