Three men accused of murdering Australian brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend Carter Rhoad in Mexico have appeared in court in Ensenada. The prosecution has requested 210-year jail terms for each of the three defendants, with an additional 168-year term for one of them on a charge of forced disappearance.
The brothers, from Perth, were killed during a surfing trip in Baja California in April last year. Jake, a 31-year-old doctor, had traveled to meet his brother Callum, 32, who had been living in the US, before they crossed into Mexico to camp and surf.
The three defendants, identified only by their given names Jesús Gerardo, Irineo Francisco, and Ángel Jesús, are charged with aggravated homicide. Jesús Gerardo also faces a charge of forced disappearance. All three rejected plea deals that would have resulted in sentences of 47 to 52 years. Their trial date has not yet been set.
A woman, Ari Gisell, the former girlfriend of Jesús Gerardo, appeared in court on charges including inciting robbery. She initially cooperated with authorities and helped apprehend the accused but later rejected a plea offer of 20 years. Her case was adjourned to November 19.
Prosecutor Raúl Gerardo Cobo Montejano stated that authorities are searching for another suspect, known only by a nickname. The case relies on evidence from about 35 witnesses and forensic evidence. The prosecutor noted that the trial is expected to be lengthy, as some witnesses are foreigners who may need to return to Mexico.
