Leonel Gutierrez, one of four individuals charged in the attempted robbery and murder of “General Hospital” actor Johnny Wactor, pleaded guilty to all charges on Wednesday.
The charges include attempted robbery, grand theft, and a firearm-related allegation.
Gutierrez is set to be sentenced on November 1 at 1:30 p.m. in Department 50 of the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center, with the sentence to be determined by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge.
District Attorney Gascón emphasized that this plea represents a crucial step toward justice for Wactor’s family and friends. He expressed sympathy for those affected by Wactor’s death and reaffirmed the commitment to prosecuting the remaining defendants with equal determination.
The other three defendants include Robert Barceleau and Sergio Estrada, both 18, who face murder charges. Barceleau also faces additional charges of attempted armed robbery and armed grand theft, and could face life imprisonment without parole if convicted.
Frank Olano, 22, faces charges of accessory after the fact to murder, receiving stolen property, and being a felon with a firearm.
Wactor was killed in May after leaving a bartending job. His mother stated that he was shot while trying to prevent the theft of his car’s catalytic converter.
A friend and coworker, Anita Joy, recounted the tragic incident, describing how Wactor was shot by thieves and died in her arms as they tried to steal his vehicle’s part.
