Man Pledges No Contest in 2019 Murder of USC Student
An alleged gang member pleaded no contest Monday to first-degree murder charges in the killing of a 21-year-old USC student and jazz drummer during an attempted robbery.
Prosecution’s Account of the Crime
Prosecutors accuse Ivan Hernandez, 29, of fatally shooting Victor McElhaney while walking into a robbery with a group of friends at a liquor store near the USC campus.
About the Victim
McElhaney, the son of former Oakland City Councilwoman Lynette McElhaney, was a student at USC’s Thornton School of Music. He was part of the USC jazz studies program with an interest in the relationship between music and social and political movements. McElhaney was also an active member of the USC’s Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs.
Sentencing
Prosecutors say they’re seeking a sentence of 35 years to life in prison for Hernandez.
Reaction from the DA
“This no contest plea ensures that the individual responsible for the senseless and tragic murder of Victor McElhaney will face the consequence of his actions,” District Attorney Nathan Hochman said. “Victor was a promising young 21-year-old university student, a talented drummer and active member of USC’s Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs, whose life was cut short by an act of pure violence.”
Memorial and Legacy
After the killing, Lynette McElhaney said her son “believed that music could heal the world of violence and sickness and addiction.” In 2020, the USC Thornton School of Music launched an endowed scholarship in honor of McElhaney.
Conclusion
The case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime and the importance of holding those responsible accountable. The no contest plea will ensure that the perpetrator faces a lengthy sentence, providing a sense of justice for the victim’s family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
* Who was the victim of the murder?
+ Victor McElhaney, a 21-year-old USC student and jazz drummer
* What was the accused’s plea?
+ No contest
* What is the sentence being sought by prosecutors?
+ 35 years to life in prison
* What was the victim’s interest and program at USC?
+ The relationship between music and social and political movements, part of the USC jazz studies program
* What was the reaction from the DA?
+ “This no contest plea ensures that the individual responsible for the senseless and tragic murder of Victor McElhaney will face the consequence of his actions”
