May 5, 2023 - Sonora, California –– Tuolumne County District Attorney Cassandra Jenecke has announced that on March 17, 2023, 41-year-old Luis Alberto Cifuentes, formerly of Madera, was sentenced to 19 years to life in State Prison. Previously on February 7, 2022, Mr. Cifuentes pled guilty to Second Degree Murder and Personal Use of a Firearm.

On April 4, 2021, Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office were notified that the body of Cayetano Duarte-Perez was discovered by his friend in La Grange with multiple gunshot wounds. The Sheriff’s Office, led by Detective Jeff Lee initiated an investigation and learned that Mr. Duarte-Perez was dating the ex of Mr. Cifuentes who became jealous of their relationship. Cell phone data placed Mr. Cifuentes at the crime scene at the time Mr. Duarte-Perez was shot. That coupled with statements that Mr. Cifuentes made to his ex led to a warrant being issued for Mr. Cifuentes. Mr. Cifuentes was arrested on April 20, 2021, on domestic violence charges against his ex in Madera where he remained in custody until he was booked in Tuolumne County jail on April 14, 2022.

Because Murder is a violent felony, statutorily Mr. Cifuentes must serve 85% of his sentence before he is considered for parole. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Stephanie Novelli.

For questions or more information, please contact DDA Novelli at (209) 588-5450. 
Source: Tuolumne County District Attorney