Salina Post

SALINA- A Salina teenager was sentenced to prison on Tuesday for the 2nd degree murder of his stepbrother.

Saying he poses a serious threat to the public, a Saline County District Court Judge sentenced Ryan Velez, to just over 10 years in prison, for the shooting death of his 9-year-old stepbrother Kaden Harper at their home near Assaria on June 1st of 2010.

Velez will get credit for time he has already served in custody of Saline County and the Larned State Hospital. He would be eligible for release from prison in 2020.

Before handing down the sentence, Judge Patrick Thompson said Velez had a “pattern of problematic behavior and a lack of remorse” while at Larned for shooting Kaden in the face at nearly pointblank range, after he became angry when Kaden called him names.”

Saline County Attorney Ellen Mitchell said Velez was boastful to other patients about the crime while at the state hospital, but would not talk to counselors about the shooting.

Defense attorney Mitch Christians wanted Velez to receive a sentence of 12 to 18 months so he could begin to receive mental health treatment immediately.

Christians said a final evaluation at the state hospital showed Velez suffers from Asbergers disorder.

Kaden’s parents also spoke at the sentencing. Kevin Harper said, “Ryan shows no remorse and is smart enough to not let the truth out.”

Harper also said he believed Ryan remained a threat to himself, society and needed mental health treatment.

Kaden’s mom, Courtney Holmes tearfully said that she was frustrated with having to wait 4 1/2 years for sentencing. She directed comments to Velez saying “Ryan, I don’t know if this will sink in or not, but I forgive you, and cannot be angry at you.”