Denver gang leader pleads guilty to second-degree murder

A 22-year-old man from Denver has admitted to second-degree murder and expects to be sentenced to 95 years in prison. This information was shared by the district attorney's office on Monday. Angel Adrian “Taz” Espinoza was the leader of a street gang named “2D$,” also known as Too Damn Smooth. He was one of 13 gang members indicted on numerous serious charges, including murder and robbery, in March 2023. Initially, Espinoza faced two counts of first-degree murder and four counts of attempted murder. Instead, he pleaded guilty to two counts of second-degree murder, one count of attempted murder, and another for violating the Colorado Organized Crime Control Act. Prosecutors highlighted that the gang had over 200 victims. Among them was Paul Baca Sr., who was shot and killed in Denver on January 22, 2021. Denver District Attorney John Walsh stated that Espinoza led a violent criminal group that endangered local neighborhoods. He added that the city is now safer with Espinoza off the streets for a long time. Espinoza's attorney has not commented yet. The official sentencing is scheduled for May 22.