88 years for 2009 attempted Aurora gang murder

An Aurora gang member was sentenced Monday to 88 years in prison for attempted murder of a rival in 2009, according to prosecutors.

Jesse Alvarez, 24, formerly of the 400 block of Woodruff Avenue, must serve 85 percent of the sentence, or nearly 75 years.

Kane County Judge Susan Clancy Boles found Alvarez guilty of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated battery with a firearm and armed violence after a bench trial in November 2013.

According to prosecutors, Alvarez went to a home on the 200 block of Valley Avenue in Aurora after midnight July 1, 2009. Believing it was the home of rival gang member, Alvarez knocked on the door and asked the victim about his gang status.

When the victim turned to re-enter the home, Alvarez fired five shots from a .45-caliber handgun, hitting the victim twice in the left leg.

Alvarez ran but was arrested in September 2010 after an extensive investigation, according to prosecutors.

"Young people such as Mr. Alvarez take great risks when they pledge their allegiance to street gangs and commit crimes with guns," Kane County State's Attorney Joe McMahon said. "The penalties from gun crimes and gang activity are severe, as Mr. Alvarez has not learned. He lost his freedom because he chose the gang life."

According to court records, Alvarez served prison time for a weapons offense in April 2005 and possession of a stolen vehicle in February 2007, both Aurora incidents.

He also was arrested at least six times in 2009 for having contact with street gang members while on probation, records show.