The fourth accused, Jesus Gerardo – also known as “El Kekas” – will have his charges dealt with separately because they are even more serious.
It is alleged the 38-year-old was the instigator of the killings and is believed to have had a long history of run-ins with law enforcement, including connections to organised crime and allegedly corrupt Mexican police officers.
The surfing spot where the men had been camping, La Bocana, is about two hours from a main road and accessible only by four-wheel-drive. It’s a “hot spot” for local drug labs and marijuana plantations, this masthead has previously reported.
Jesus Gerardo, known as El Kekas.Credit:
The beach is used to transport drugs and migrants across the ocean to the United States. The Tijuana Cartel, Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion, and Sinaloa Cartel are warring at present for control of the region.
However, authorities have previously said the men’s deaths were not connected to cartel violence.
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On Friday, Gerardo’s new defence lawyer sought to have his matter adjourned for six months to allow him time to study the case, but that was denied. He has changed lawyers multiple times since his arrest last year.
Gerardo and Giselle appeared in person– wearing orange uniforms, but without handcuffs – in court under escort. Giselle was constantly touching her hair and evidently anxious, while Gerardo maintained a serious demeanour and at times had a blank stare.
Francisco and Jesus both appeared via video link from the El Hongo prison.
Callum and Jake Robinson’s parents also attended the hearing via video link, along with other friends and family of the victims.
Jesus, Francisco and Giselle will be back before the same court on November 13 to see if they have reached an agreement with prosecutors, otherwise their matter will be set for trial.
Gerardo will be back before the court on August 9.
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