Convicted killer sentenced in Fresno court hearing

Sentencing of Christopher Valdez for Manslaughter

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — A convicted killer faced his court sentencing on Monday.

“You’re smiling now, Mr. Valdez,” said Fresno County Superior Court Judge Houry Sanderson. “I watched that smile on your face develop as I said those words because you know those are truths.”

Christopher Valdez shot and killed Andrew Valdez in 2019. The 22-year-old victim was not related to the shooter, but both had gang ties.

Investigators reported that a party in East Central Fresno ended with multiple shots fired.

“The reality that my son Andrew will never return to us again has shattered our hearts forever,” said stepfather Alejandro Lopez.

Christopher pleaded guilty to manslaughter late last year. In exchange, prosecutors dropped the murder charge, which could have led to a life sentence at trial, and agreed to a 26-year sentence instead.

Lopez wanted a longer sentence.

“As it is written in the Old Testament of the Bible, an eye for an eye,” he stated. “My son’s life for your son’s life.”

These comments seemed to fluster Christopher.

Christopher’s sister then took the stand to defend him. She urged him to remain strong and to never stop being himself.

“Christopher is still being charged and accused for a crime he didn’t do,” said Alicia Valdez.

Judge Sanderson clarified that a witness identified Christopher as the shooter.

Alicia, now back in the gallery, shouted, “She’s a liar.”

Judge Sanderson ordered her to leave the courtroom.

Throughout the proceedings, Christopher remained composed, sitting with his head held high.

“He is gone in physical form, but he is with all of you for many, many years to come,” the judge told the victim’s family.

Christopher will soon go to the California Department of Corrections to start serving his 26-year prison sentence. He already has credit for nearly a third of it.

Case Summary