A man arrested in Phoenix on Wednesday attacked the individual convicted of murdering his son-in-law during a sentencing hearing. Alberto Ontiveros Sanchez, 55, reportedly lunged at Abel Uribe, who was awaiting sentencing for the 2022 murder of Army veteran David Navidad-Parra, 27.
The incident occurred at the Maricopa County Court around 10:30 a.m. Video footage shows Sanchez striking Uribe from behind as Uribe sat in the courtroom. According to reports, Sanchez's attorney, Christian Leuders, stated that Sanchez was overcome with emotion after seeing Navidad-Parra "laughing and snickering." Leuders also emphasized Sanchez's clean criminal record and his role as a full-time provider for his family.
Despite acknowledging the profound grief Sanchez must have experienced, Judge Kristin Culbertson denied a request for leniency, stating, "You attacked somebody in a courtroom, and now you’re asking the court to be lenient on you?" The judge added, "We cannot tolerate that kind of conduct in court."
Uribe was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of Navidad-Parra, who disappeared while on a test drive of a car. Navidad-Parra's body was later found, and the car was discovered burned. Uribe was apprehended after he was found using Navidad-Parra's credit card.
Sanchez now faces charges including aggravated assault on a bound or restrained victim, fighting, and interfering with judicial proceedings. He was released on his own recognizance.