The Beard brothers are found guilty of manslaughter and not guilty of murder Thursday afternoon in a Fresno County courtroom.
Jarrad Beard, 19, put his head in his arms after a jury found him guilty of voluntary manslaughter. It says he's responsible for killing Justin Hesketh and Brandon Moore. Jerry, 16, is only responsible for the death of Hesketh.
"I can live with the decision that was made today," said Nikkia Rojas, mother of Jarrad and Jerry.
Meanwhile, Hesketh's mother says she is disappointed, but glad the trial is finally over.
"It doesn't do anything to bring back our sons. The loss will be with us forever. It's nice to know that there's an end in sight to all of this stuff, but our lives are ruined," said Debie Hesketh.
It was a packed courtroom with overflow standing outside in the hall. The trial took about two weeks. The jury deliberated for more than a week. Jarrad Beard's attorney says they tried to settle with the prosecution to avoid a tense trial.
"It was such an emotionally difficult case for everyone and a tragedy for everyone. I'm sorry they didn't negotiate with us to settle the case," said Phillip Cherney, defense attorney.
The Beard brothers shot and killed Hesketh and Moore last December in Northwest Fresno. The victims were in a truck and the Beards were on foot, armed with guns. The defense said the Beards acted in self-defense after the truck chased them down.
Security was very high in the courtroom Thursday. At least 15 bailiffs and probation officers were present when the verdict was read. Sentencing is scheduled for December 11th. CBS47's legal analyst says Jarrad could get about 20 years while Jerry could get 16 years in prison.
