It broke all of us in the VL familia (writers and readers alike) to hear of the murder of 19 year-old Jorge Steven López Mercado almost 5 months ago on November 14, 2009. I just read that the suspect tried for his murder, Juan José Martínez Matos, pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 99 years by Judge Miriam Camila Jusino.

Primera Hora has an interview with Jorge’s parents on their site (in Spanish only). the EDGE, a Boston media source, translated part of the statement Primera Hora reported Jorge’s parents:

“We are able to find a bit of peace in this aspect, but it still not going to return Steven,” she said. “But at least there is justice in Puerto Rico.”

Jorge López evoked his faith.

“I want to send a message to Juan (Casper) and tell him there is hope in Christ,” said López with tears in his eyes. “The lord has forgiveness for him, Irregardless of what has happened. God has a plan for him if he opens his heart to Christ. God will forgive him also.”

Read more about hate crimes targeted towards Latinos by our own Mala who wrote “Hate Crimes In Context” last year.