NewsCrime

Actions

Man found guilty of murder in stabbing death of 43-year-old in Lakewood

Posted at 10:31 PM, Sep 01, 2020
and last updated 2020-09-02 00:31:34-04

GOLDEN, Colo. – A man was found guilty Monday in the deadly stabbing of a 43-year-old in Lakewood last year and could face up to 96 years in prison for the crime.

Jesus Osvaldo Bernal, 37, was found guilty of second-degree murder and possession of drug paraphernalia in the stabbing death of Brigido Badua, according to a spokesperson from the 1st Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

Bernal met the victim just five days before the stabbing when they were both released from the Adams County Jail at the same time.

Prosecutors said 43-year-old Badua and his wife were staying at the Trails End Motel, at 9025 W. Colfax Avenue, when Bernal arrived at his room on May 30, 2019. Following a short conversation, Bernal reportedly stabbed Badua in the heart with a large hunting knife.

Bernal told the court he’d stolen the knife just a few days prior and carried it with him everywhere he went.

Bernal has six prior felony convictions, according to prosecutors. Habitual criminal charges have been filed and a habitual criminal proceeding will be held the same day as Bernal’s sentencing, scheduled for November 3, 2020 at 8:30 a.m. If convicted of the habitual counts he will face up to 96 years in prison, prosecutors said.