Jonathan Barba and Abraham Gomez-Rodriguez were sentenced in a San Diego federal court for their involvement in the assault and stabbing of a fellow inmate. The attack, which occurred at the Metropolitan Correction Center on March 27, 2024, was reportedly carried out under orders from a Mexican Mafia gang associate.
Court documents reveal that Barba attacked the victim from behind with a metal shank while Gomez-Rodriguez restrained the victim's arms. After the victim managed to escape, Gomez-Rodriguez pursued and assaulted him further. The victim sustained serious injuries, including stab wounds near his eye, and required hospitalization.
Both Barba and Gomez-Rodriguez confessed that they committed the assault to satisfy another inmate known as "Alex," described as a "shot caller" for the Mexican Mafia. A photo of the weapon used in the attack was presented in court.
Barba's criminal history includes convictions for domestic violence and drug importation. In 2014, he was sentenced for first-degree domestic battery in Nevada. In 2022, he received a sentence for importing methamphetamine and fentanyl in California. He was serving this sentence when he participated in the assault.
Gomez-Rodriguez was previously convicted in 2022 for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin. His sentence was also being served at the time of this incident. The judge ordered that their new sentences be served consecutively to their current ones.
Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew Haden stated, “Violence has no place in our correctional facilities.” He emphasized commitment to inmate safety and holding violent offenders accountable.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Houtan Moshrefi praised law enforcement efforts: “I want to applaud the FBI San Diego Violent Crime Task Force and MCC Special Investigations Unit’s commitment and dedication.”
The case is prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Sherwood and Shital Thakkar.
