Gang Member Sentenced To 50 Years In Prince George’s County

MS-13 Gang member faces sentencing for murder of 14-year-old girl.

A 17-year old MS-13 gang member was sentenced to life in prison with all but 50 years suspended for his involvement in the murder of 14-year old Ariana Funes-Diaz.  In addition to first degree murder, Josue Fuentes-Ponce was charged with participating in and committing the murder as part of a criminal gang and conspiracy to commit murder. He entered a guilty plea to those counts on October 30, 2019.  Prosecutors say that he and three others lured Ariana Funes-Diaz to a tunnel in Riverdale, Maryland, where she was beaten to death. Co-defendant, Joel Escobar, 18, entered a guilty plea on November 25, 2019, and is scheduled to be sentenced on February 26. Co-defendant, Edwin Rios, 19, is scheduled for trial beginning April 13. The charges against the remaining co-defendant, 14, were handled in juvenile court.