Judge allows resentencing for 2001 San Diego school shooter

Judge Grants Resentencing for San Diego School Shooter

A judge granted a request on Tuesday from the gunman in a 2001 shooting at a San Diego high school to be resentenced. This decision could allow him to be freed after 23 years in prison.

Details of the Shooting

Charles “Andy” Williams was 15 years old when he pleaded guilty to killing two students and injuring 13 others. He opened fire with his father’s revolver at Santana High School on March 5, 2001. He received a sentence of 50 years to life in prison.

Judge’s Decision

San Diego Superior Court Judge Lisa Rodriguez decided to send Williams’ case to juvenile court. This could lead to his immediate release from prison without parole supervision or evaluation, according to San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan’s office.

Prosecutors’ Response

Prosecutors quickly challenged the ruling in an appellate court to stop Williams’ release, as reported by The San Diego Union-Tribune. Stephan stated, “As prosecutors, our duty is to ensure justice for victims and protect public safety.” She emphasized that the defendant’s actions still warrant the original sentence.

Attorney’s Remarks

Williams’ attorney, Laura Sheppard, expressed her approval of the ruling. She said, “I’m grateful that Judge Rodriguez was able to put away emotional reasoning and base her decision on the law.”

Williams’ Current Status

Williams attended the hearing virtually from prison and appeared emotional as the ruling was announced. He killed two students, 14-year-old Bryan Zuckor and 17-year-old Randy Gordon, and wounded 11 students and two staff members.

Future Implications

Now 39 years old, Williams is held at the California Institution for Men in Chino. He became eligible for parole in September 2024 but was denied after being deemed an “unreasonable risk to public safety.”

Legal Background

Williams’ case has been transferred to juvenile court for a disposition hearing. His convictions will be redesignated as juvenile “true findings,” which could lead to his release and potential juvenile probation. He was able to petition for resentencing due to a law enacted in 2011.