Clifford San Nicolas found guilty of murder

Only a day in deliberations and a superior court jury reached a verdict against Clifford San Nicolas, the man accused of shooting his girlfriend after an argument over burnt rice. San Nicolas sat emotionless as Superior Court Judge Vernon Perez read the verdict.

His Honor announced, "To the charge of murder as a 1st degree felony charge, one the jury finds the defendant Clifford Benavente San Nicolas guilty. Of the offense of murder as a 1st degree felony to the special allegation of possession and use of a deadly weapon in commission of a felony, the jury finds the defendant guilty of such offense."

San Nicolas was also found guilty on all the remaining charges, including family violence.

He was arrested back in January 2013 accused of shooting Valene Borja at his Dededo ranch. The bullet lodged into her neck leaving her paralyzed. She died exactly a year later. Prosecutor Brian Gallagher was pleased with the jury's decision and the evidence that was presented, saying justice was served. "That's impossible to say there was an overwhelming amount of evidence in this case," Gallagher stated. "The jury was obviously very attentive to all of it, they looked at everything and they made their decision."

KUAM was unable to reach defense attorney Douglas Moylan for comment. San Nicolas is scheduled to be sentenced on June 25, where he could face a life sentence which is mandatory for a murder conviction.