Albert Cunningham, Jr.


Facts of the Crime:

Sentenced to death in Los Angeles County on June 16, 1989 for the December 2, 1985 murder of Carmen Treto. The prosecution’s evidence established that Cunningham, wearing a distinctive three-piece suit, went to a bar in Pasadena where the victims, Carmen Treto and Juan Cebreros, were socializing and consuming alcoholic beverages. Several times during the evening, Treto displayed a large amount of cash. At approximately 2:00 a.m., the victims left the bar. Cebreros started for home, decided that Treto was too drunk to drive, and then returned for him. After some discussion, the two proceeded to the parking lot behind the bar, where they were about to enter Treto’s vehicle. Cunningham approached the two, drew a gun, demanded Treto’s cash, and then fatally shot Treto. Cebreros attempted to flee, and Cunningham shot at him, wounding him in the thigh. Cunningham fled in Treto’s automobile.