CEBU CITY - In a landmark ruling that brings closure to a high-profile case, the Cebu Regional Trial Court has convicted the triggerman responsible for the brutal 2019 shooting of businessman Dexter Deiparine.
The court found the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt of murder, handing down a sentence that reflects the gravity of the crime that shocked the Cebu business community.
The Fatal Shooting
According to court documents and witness testimonies, the incident unfolded on that fateful day when Deiparine was ambushed by the convicted gunman. The attack was characterized by prosecutors as deliberate and executed with precision, leaving the victim with fatal gunshot wounds.
Eyewitness accounts presented during the trial described a chilling scene where the assailant approached Deiparine and fired multiple times at close range before fleeing the scene. The prosecution successfully established that the shooting was premeditated and carried out with treachery.
Court Proceedings and Evidence
During the extensive legal proceedings that spanned several years, the court examined forensic evidence, ballistic reports, and multiple witness statements that collectively painted a clear picture of the crime. The prosecution's case was bolstered by:
- Forensic evidence linking the suspect to the crime scene
- Ballistic analysis matching the weapon to the fatal shots
- Eyewitness identification of the perpetrator
- Establishment of motive through financial records and personal conflicts
Justice Served
In delivering the verdict, the presiding judge emphasized that the evidence presented left no room for reasonable doubt regarding the defendant's guilt. The court considered the aggravating circumstances of the crime, including the manner of execution and the impact on the victim's family.
The conviction represents a significant victory for the Philippine justice system and sends a strong message about the consequences of violent crime in Cebu. The Deiparine family, who has awaited justice for years, expressed relief at the court's decision while remembering Dexter as a respected member of the business community.
Legal experts note that this case underscores the importance of thorough investigation and prosecution in solving violent crimes, particularly those that capture public attention and concern.
