07/22/2026
Re: People v. Tenorio-Ramon, et al.
Santa Barbara County Superior Court Case No. 23CR00412
SANTA BARBARA, Calif., - Santa Barbara County District Attorney John T. Savrnoch announced today that a Santa Barbara County jury convicted Jiram Tenorio Ramon of first-degree murder for the December 9, 2022, killing of Robert Gutierrez on Stearns Wharf. The jury also found true the special circumstance that Tenorio-Ramon committed the murder while an active participant in the Westside criminal street gang and that the murder was carried out to further the activities of the gang. In addition, the jury found true that Tenorio-Ramon personally and intentionally discharged a firearm causing Mr. Gutierrez's death.
On December 9, 2022, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Tenorio-Ramon was a passenger in a vehicle that drove past a group of individuals walking on Stearns Wharf whom he and the other occupants believed to be rival gang members. As they drove by, one of Tenorio-Ramon's accomplices flashed a Westside gang hand sign toward the group. Tenorio-Ramon then directed the driver to stop near the dolphin fountain at the end of Stearns Wharf. Armed with a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol, Tenorio-Ramon exited the vehicle and ran toward the group alongside another occupant of the car.
During the ensuing gunfire, Tenorio-Ramon fired one round, fatally striking Robert Gutierrez. Mr. Gutierrez, an innocent bystander, was shot in the back while walking with his wife to a restaurant on Stearns Wharf to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary.
Approximately two-and-a-half weeks later, Tenorio-Ramon posted a self-produced rap video on Instagram in which he recounted details of the murder and bragged that the killing enhanced his reputation.
The Santa Barbara Police Department quickly identified those involved on both sides of the gunfight and, following a thorough investigation, arrested all individuals who committed crimes in connection with the murder.
The Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Office subsequently filed felony charges against all of those arrested. Of the eight individuals charged in connection with the murder of Robert Gutierrez, all have now been convicted of felony offenses. All three individuals who fired guns during the incident, including Tenorio-Ramon, were convicted of homicide-related crimes.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 29, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before the Honorable Pauline Maxwell in Department 2 of the Anacapa Division of the Santa Barbara County Superior Court. Tenorio-Ramon faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.
District Attorney John T. Savrnoch stated: "This case serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of gang violence. Robert Gutierrez was enjoying an evening with his wife on Stearns Wharf as they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary. In an instant, his life was taken, his wife lost her husband, his children lost their father, and the community lost a kind, hardworking man who was deeply loved. Our thoughts remain with Robert's family and everyone who continues to mourn his loss."
"I am grateful to the jury for their careful consideration of the evidence and for delivering justice in this case. This conviction is the result of years of tireless work, exceptional teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to justice. I want to recognize Senior Deputy District Attorneys Tate McCallister and Carl Barnes for their outstanding prosecution of this case; District Attorney Investigators Eric Davis and Chad Hunt, whose dedication throughout this lengthy investigation and prosecution was invaluable; Victim Witness Program Manager Megan Riker-Rheinschild and her team for the extraordinary compassion and support they provided to the Gutierrez family; and the Santa Barbara Police Department for its outstanding investigative work. I also want to thank the many investigators, Victim Witness advocates, legal office professionals, and support staff whose efforts behind the scenes were essential to achieving today's outcome."
