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A man with two prior convictions for manslaughter pleaded not guilty Friday to murder and other counts for allegedly killing one neighbor and wounding another neighbor in Long Beach last month.
Sotero Monteon, 61, was charged Sept. 16 with one felony count each of murder, attempted murder, possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of ammunition.
The criminal complaint includes allegations that Monteon personally and intentionally discharged a firearm and that he has prior convictions for a string of offenses including manslaughter in 1975 and 1982, according to the District Attorney’s Office.
Monteon allegedly shot at his two neighbors Sept. 14 outside their Long Beach apartment.
Benny Ceasar, 49, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the District Attorney’s Office. The mother of the victim’s child was shot and wounded.
Authorities have not released a motive for the shooting, which occurred in the 5400 block of Atlantic Avenue.
Monteon was taken into custody without incident in the area of Lime Avenue and South Street, about three hours after the shooting. He has remained behind bars since then.
If convicted as charged, Monteon could face at least 140 years to life in state prison, according to the District Attorney’s Office.
–City News Service
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