Cruz, Sr. strikes deal after nephew's death

by Nick Delgado

Guam - Roy Cruz, Sr., the uncle of the late 9-year-old Brandon Evangelista, was released from prison this morning after agreeing with the prosecution to plea guilty to charges hindering apprehension as a 3rd degree felony. In court, Cruz agreed that statements made to police the day Brandon was run over and killed were made to hinder, prevent and delay the conviction of Theodora Hernandez.

Hernandez, Brandon's godmother, was driving the vehicle that allegedly ran the boy over after he fell off the trunk of his mother Rose Evangelista's car. Cruz was sentenced to three years imprisonment, all of which was suspended with credit for time served. He was given three years probation with 200 hours community service.

He has also agreed to testify truthfully during court proceedings for Hernandez and Evangelista. A follow-up hearing for Cruz is set for November.