District Attorney Ron Freitas announced that Alejandro Duran Mercado has been sentenced to 40 years to life in state prison for the second-degree murder of 29-year-old Cenobio Nicholas "Nick" Gallegos. The sentencing, held before the Honorable Judge Mallett, finalized a case involving a senseless 2021 daylight shooting in Lodi.

Throughout the proceedings, the defendant’s conduct remained a focal point; The People emphasized and Judge Mallett agreed that Mercado demonstrated zero remorse and refused to take any responsibility for his actions. The hearing took a contentious turn when the defendant became extremely agitated and verbally abusive toward the Court and his own counsel. His disruptive behavior eventually escalated to the point where he was removed by bailiffs, choosing to be absent rather than facing the victim’s family during their impact statements.

Judge Mallett subsequently sentenced Mercado in absentia, noting his admitted history of gang involvement and violent behavior.

"Today’s sentence ensures that a violent individual who showed an utter lack of human decency, both at the time of the crime and within the halls of justice, will no longer be a threat to our community," said District Attorney Ron Freitas. "While the defendant chose to be disruptive rather than face the family he devastated with dignity, the justice system stood firm. We hope this 40-year-to-life sentence brings a sense of finality and peace to the Gallegos family."

The court imposed a term of 15 years to life for second-degree murder, enhanced by an additional 25 years to life for the use of a firearm, resulting in the aggregate term of 40 years to life.

The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office extends its sincere thanks to the Lodi Police Department for their diligent investigation. We especially want to thank Deputy District Attorney Sean Collins for his exceptional work on the prosecution and his commitment to seeking justice in this case. We also recognize the Victim-Witness Advocates, Jordan Whittle and Isabella Cru,z for their vital support of the Gallegos family throughout this process.