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Fugitive ‘El Diablo’ Riano pleads not guilty after 19 years on run

After nearly two decades on the run, Antonio ‘El Diablo’ Riano, 62, has appeared in Butler County Court, pleading not guilty to charges. In 2005, Riano was featured on America’s Most Wanted for his alleged role in a fatal shooting outside a bar in Ohio in December 2004.

The incident led to the death of 25-year-old Benjamin Becarra, whose body was found shot in the face outside Roadhouse Bar in Hamilton, Ohio. On August 1, following his arrest, Common Pleas Court Judge Michael Oster Jr. ordered no bond for Riano, ensuring his detention at Butler County Jail.

Authorities tracked Riano to his hometown of Zapotitlán Palmas in Oaxaca, Mexico. Investigators discovered he was employed as a local police officer, a position that raised eyebrows given his past.

In 2004, El Diablo was involved in a fight at the bar where the shooting later happened, according to Paul Newton, the prosecutor’s chief investigator. On December 19, Riano returned to the bar, was asked to leave by the bartender, and refused. An argument with Becerra ensued, and the bartender directed them to take it outside. Moments later, Becerra was shot in the face, with Riano fleeing the scene.

Police identified Riano through surveillance footage and witness statements. The gun used in the shooting was discovered 10 days later, hidden under the kitchen floor in Riano’s Hamilton home.

Riano was indicted on first-degree murder charges and was scheduled for arraignment on February 16, 2005, but he failed to appear, leading to a manhunt.

Butler County Prosecutor Michael T. Gmoser commended the officers and investigators involved in Riano’s capture. He highlighted the essential cooperation between the Prosecutor’s Office, the United States Marshal Service, and the Department of Justice.

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Riano is scheduled to return to court later this month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions asked about this news

Who is Antonio ‘El Diablo’ Riano?

Antonio ‘El Diablo’ Riano is a man who was featured on America’s Most Wanted for a 2004 shooting.

Why was Antonio Riano on America’s Most Wanted?

Riano was on America’s Most Wanted for his alleged involvement in a shooting that killed Benjamin Becarra.

How long was Antonio Riano on the run?

Antonio Riano was on the run for around 20 years.

What surprising profession did Riano have while hiding?

While hiding, Riano worked as a local cop in his hometown in Mexico.

Where was Antonio Riano finally arrested?

Riano was arrested in his hometown of Zapotitlán Palmas, State of Oaxaca, Mexico.

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