Following a jury trial in Karnes County in March, Christopher Centeno was found guilty on four counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Centeno elected to have his punishment assessed by the presiding judge. Judge Dillingham sentenced him to 17 years in prison for each count, to be served concurrently.
The case stems from an incident that occurred in the early hours of July 18, 2022, at the Lone Star Inn in Kenedy, Texas. Surveillance footage revealed that Centeno and co-defendant Joe Lane arrived at the motel and engaged in a confrontation with occupants of a room. Shortly after, Centeno discharged three rounds into the room. The video shows Lane attempting to exit before Centeno opened fire again, with four individuals present in the room at the time. Two victims sustained injuries. Both suspects were seen fleeing the scene in a dark-colored vehicle.
Responding officers from the Kenedy Police Department interviewed the victims and witnesses, who positively identified Centeno and Lane. The pair were apprehended together in Beeville the following day.
During the trial, the jury reviewed video evidence and heard testimony from victims, eyewitnesses, and law enforcement. After deliberation, the jury quickly returned guilty verdicts on all four counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a second-degree felony in Texas carrying a sentencing range of 2 to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Our office argued for the maximum 20-year sentence.
This kind of violence endangers lives and threatens the fabric of our communities. Our office remains committed to pursuing justice aggressively and ensuring those who commit violent acts are held fully accountable.
We extend our appreciation to the Kenedy Police Department for their investigation and to the citizens of Karnes County for their dedicated service on the jury. Their commitment plays a vital role in upholding justice and community safety. We sincerely appreciate the dedication of First Assistant Leslie Carranza and Assistant DA Ryan Wright in their tireless pursuit of justice.
