The state Supreme Judicial Court has ruled that Pedro Valentin, who took part in a 1991 Jamaica Plain murder, will not get a new trial, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s (DA) Office.
Pedro Valentin was convicted of first-degree murder 20 years ago as a “joint venture” for the murder of Timothy Bond in the South Street public housing development. Simon Valentin, Pedro’s brother, shot Bond twice in the head for allegedly stealing drugs from one of Simon’s dealers. Pedro Valentin then stomped on the victim before fleeing with his brother.
Pedro Valentin argued for a new trial saying that he was denied effective representation because his lawyer failed to impeach a witness’ testimony he said was inconsistent with prior statements from police.