District Attorney for the 286th Judicial District of Texas Angela L. Overman announced Friday morning through a press release that Robert Jose Garza Jr., voluntarily pled guilty to the murder of Elijah Lebario and the serious bodily injury inflicted upon his older sibling M.L. on December 14.
Garza Jr., facing the consequences of his actions approximately six weeks before his trial, received a life sentence and a $10,000 fine for the murder conviction. In addition, he faced further charges for Serious Bodily Injury to M.L., involving the use of a deadly weapon, resulting in a 40-year prison sentence and a $10,000 fine. The court has ordered that these sentences must be served consecutively, meaning that Garza will first serve the life sentence, and once that is completed, he will begin serving the 40-year sentence.
Consecutive sentences are imposed to ensure that a convicted individual serves the full duration of each sentence separately, rather than concurrently (at the same time). This typically results in a longer overall period of incarceration for the individual.
The release states, “The severity of the sentences reflects the court’s assessment of the gravity of the crimes committed by Garza, and the Court’s decision to honor the District Attorney’s request by ordering the sentences consecutive underscores the steadfast intent to hold him accountable for each offense separately.”
On December 14, the Honorable J. Pat Phelan, Judge of the 286th Judicial District Court of Hockley County, Texas, presided over the case and delivered these sentences. These cases originated from a tragic incident in February 2020, where Elijah Lebario was murdered, and his brother M.L. was severely injured. The release explained that such cases are exceptionally challenging and demand meticulous care, diligence, and persistence in preparation for trial.
D.A. Overman and her office extended their deepest sympathy to the Lebario family for the unimaginable loss they have suffered and expressed sincere gratitude to the medical team that valiantly fought for Elijah.
“The coordinated efforts among the District Attorney’s Office, local law enforcement, and the FBI played a pivotal role in securing justice for the innocent victims and their grieving family.”
“The successful resolutions in these cases stand as a testament to the dedication and unwavering commitment of our legal team in ensuring that justice is served,” stated in the press release. “The District Attorney’s Office expresses gratitude to the community for their steadfast support throughout these proceedings and pledges to continue fulfilling its duty in safeguarding the interests of fellow citizens. Dedicated to upholding justice in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, the District Attorney’s Office remains resolute in its commitment to maintaining a fair and just legal system for all citizens.”