Murder suspect in Officer Chirino case appears in court ahead of trial

Murder suspect in Officer Chirino case appears in court ahead of trial

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Jason Banegas, accused of killing Hollywood Police Officer Yandy Chirino in 2021, appeared in court Monday as his murder trial approaches.

Banegas, now 22, was 18 when he allegedly shot Chirino during a struggle while the officer responded to a report of car break-ins.

Investigators say Banegas was armed with a stolen gun and later confessed, claiming he meant to shoot himself.

In court, defense attorneys argued several pretrial motions, including requests to separate charges and limit certain evidence. A judge ruled that the jury will be death-qualified, meaning it may consider the death penalty if Banegas is convicted.

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About The Author
Terrell Forney

Terrell Forney

Terrell Forney joined Local 10 News in October 2005 as a general assignment reporter. He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but a desire to escape the harsh winters of the north brought him to South Florida.