Suspect Jailed in Newhall Stabbing
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SANTA CLARITA — Anti-Gang Unit deputies have arrested an 18-year-old Newhall gang member on suspicion of the stabbing death of 17-year-old Jim Youguez of Val Verde, the Sheriff’s Department reported.
Franklin Leon had been picked up Wednesday afternoon by Newhall station deputies on a separate charge of probation violation, but was later also arrested on suspicion of murder, officials said.
“He is a known gang member,” said Deputy Tony Miano.
Sheriff’s deputies also recovered what they believe to be the murder weapon, a knife.
Since Youguez, also believed to have been a gang member, was stabbed Tuesday, residents have feared retaliation. “It is tense,” Miano said. “But we haven’t had any incidents yet.”
Miano said there is a history of tension between Newhall and Val Verde gangs.
“Our phones have been ringing off the hooks,” Miano said. “People are calling with anonymous tips and information on tension.”
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