FLORENCE — A Pinal County judge sentenced 16-year-old Isaiah Bandin to 25 years in prison for the shooting death of Esteban Valenzuela, bringing an end to another teen-involved gun crime.

Bandin, who was tried as an adult, declined an opportunity to say anything to either the judge or the Valenzuela family, who filled the courtroom.

Judge Jason Holmberg imposed the flat 25-year term after hearing from Valenzuela’s family, who described the lasting grief and fear caused by the killing. The sentence includes earned-release credits at a rate of one day for every seven served, according to statements in court.

Family members spoke one by one, describing the toll the murder has taken on them since Valenzuela, 16, was shot and killed in Maricopa Meadows late last year.

Valenzuela’s cousin, who identified herself in court as Jasmine, said the killing shattered the sense of belonging and safety their family once felt.

“He was such a loving, caring person,” she said. “[Esteban] could’ve been something bigger, but instead we’re here.”

She told the court that their family has struggled daily with the aftermath of the homicide.

“I hope [Bandin] reflects on everything that he’s done, because our family does not deserve to go through this.”

The victim’s brother, Reyes Valenzuela, said nights have become filled with fear, explaining that ordinary sounds, like loud cars, music, revving engines, now trigger panic. He asked the judge for a 50-year sentence or longer. 

“Twenty five years is a light sentence,” said Valenzuela. “I believe that’s a slap in the face almost for us. After he gets out in 25 years, he’ll be around 42, I believe, and that doesn’t seem right for him to be walking around. Having a beer after a football game, chilling to experience the the joys of life, to be under a cascading waterfall, to hike a mountain trail, to enjoy the sunset and sunrise, the Camelback Mountain. He doesn’t deserve to enjoy the fruits of life. He knew what he was doing to the very end, and it doesn’t seem as though he’s very remorseful.”

He continued.

“I hope you can help us and see it in your heart and know what’s wrong and what’s right, and know that even after 50 years you still will have the ability to get in his car, drive around with the windows down, music blasting, having a, having a good jolly time while we’re still stressing and we’re still worried and we don’t ever get to see our brother again.”

Defense attorneys asked Holmberg to stick to the negotiated 25-year sentence, referring to it as “a big-boy sentence.”

“ I believe it is a stiff sentence and he took responsibility,” said defense attorney Cody Weagent. “He did pony up to big-boy sentence here, your Honor.  He took responsibility and he does feel remorse.”

Given the chance to explain that remorse, Bandin responded: “I don’t have anything to say, your Honor.”

Bandin was given credit for 356 days that he’s been locked up and has to serve at least 80% of his 25-year sentence. That means he could be released as soon as 2044.

Bandin’s co-defendant, Elliott Jackson, now 18, faces charges of first-degree murder during the commission of a crime and armed robbery with a deadly weapon. Although a minor at the time of the crime, he is also being tried as an adult. His next hearing is scheduled for Jan. 12.