Convicted killer pleads guilty to manslaughter in shooting

Fifteen-year sentence imposed for home invasion robbery role

By BEE STAFF REPORTS

last updated: August 14, 2008 10:30:01 AM

With a murder conviction on his record already, an Oakdale man recently resolved a second case by pleading guilty to manslaughter with use of a gun, according to a statement from the Stanislaus County district attorney's office.

Adam Valdobinos, 30, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in a home invasion robbery that led to the shooting death of Roberto Jimenez. Earlier this summer, he was sentenced to 16 years to life for the stabbing death of Jesse Watson.

Valdobinos and three others went to Jimenez's home at 1237 Main St. in Modesto on June 29, 2003. Two women, Anita Cobleigh and Veronica Perez, had befriended Jimenez earlier in the day, then showed up at his house that evening to socialize.

Later, they called Valdobinos and Anthony Rodriguez, who were armed with guns and wearing masks when they demanded money from Jimenez. All four fled in a car, along with a getaway driver who was never arrested.

Jimenez was found dead in his home. Rodriguez took a plea deal, for manslaughter, and was sent to prison for 10 years. The women pleaded guilty to home invasion robbery and remain in county jail.

Valdobinos also was found guilty of second- degree murder in July, after a two-week trial stemming from Watson's death at Cameron Villa Apartments in Modesto on Oct. 12, 2003. The stabbing took place before Valdobinos was arrested in the Jimenez case.

The authorities said Valdobinos was standing with several others when Watson approached and asked if anyone had seen his nephew. Valdobinos made a rude comment, then stabbed Watson in the abdomen and chest and slashed his face.

Watson, 48, died during surgery.

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