Teen sentenced to 2 years in juvenile detention center for killing 13-year-old in Las Cruces

UPDATE (4:59 p.m.): The defendant has been sentenced to the maximum of two years in a Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD) facility.

“The respondent took the life of another 13-year-old because of his actions,” said District Attorney Fernando Macias. “That more than justifies a two-year commitment.”

During Tuesday's sentencing, Macias showed a picture taken the day of the shooting, which showed the defendant holding the gun later used to shoot Carnero. Other pictures showed the defendant holding weapons.

Carnero's family members addressed the court.

“I stand here today not just as a mother whose heart has been shattered, but as a terrified citizen of Las Cruces,” said Carnero’s mother, Janel. “My son Chris was the embodiment of pure love. I hope everyone loves like Chris.”

Under the conditions of commitment, the defendant will have any non-familial communications monitored.

The teen defendant will not be identified due to his age.

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -– The teen who killed 13-year-old Chris Carnero will learn his punishment Tuesday. The defendant faces up to two years in a juvenile detention center.

On July 28, the defendant entered a no-plea contest of involuntary manslaughter and negligent use of a firearm by a person under the age of 19, according to Doña Ana County District Attorney Fernando Macìas.

Las Cruces police said the defendant, who hasn't been publicly identified due to his age, shot Carnero March 30. He was later airlifted to an El Paso hospital.

The sentencing will begin at 3 p.m. Tuesday with Judge Robert Lara.

This a developing story.