The 17-year-old charged with shooting a Good Samaritan during an attempted robbery a year ago was found not guilty by a jury today.
Michael Cordova was charged as an adult with attempted with first-degree murder, first-degree assault and attempted aggravated assault. He was one of a group of suspects implicated in an attempted purse snatching near 8th and Santa Fe on October 28, 2004.
Matt Casias was shot and wounded when he tried to stop the attack on 63-year-old Brenda Turner who was getting into her car. He almost died from his injuries.
Casias received praise from Colorado Governor Owens and Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper for his selfless act.
Casias testified by videotape during Cordova’s trial. He said he punched the shooter in the face, but never got a good look at the assailant and could not identify him.
Cordova’s brother Andrew was also charged in connection with the case and pled guilty. Another suspect, Arturo Moreno is serving two years probation as part of a plea deal.
