Mexican cartel contract killer sentenced to 10 consecutive life sentences

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- A serial killer, who investigators say admitted to killing upwards of 40 people during his lifetime, was sentenced for numerous murders in Tulare County Monday.

Jose Manuel Martinez spoke only one word as he was sentenced Monday--answering "yes" when a judge confirmed with him that he did not want to speak to the media. The 52-year old was handed down ten consecutive life sentences today, for nine murders and one attempted murder.

The crimes spanned more than 30 years and across three counties-- Tulare, Kern, and Santa Barbara. Today his victims were shedding tears over the killings-- some have waited decades for closure. Asenneth Moreno told Action News she waited six years to face her father's killer. "Growing up I always wanted to be in the same room as him just so he could feel something. I'm not sure if he did knowing his history but who knows if he cares about anything."

Moreno says she also wanted to clear the name of her father, Juan Bautista Moreno. The Tulare County District Attorney confirms Moreno was not involved in a Mexican cartel, but, was killed by Martinez possibly because he owed money to someone. "I feel like it's over with now I mean he can't get out of it anymore so there's nothing for him to say," said Moreno.

Investigators said Jose Martinez was a contract killer for Mexican cartels, but, some of his murders had nothing to do with drugs and were simply personal vendettas.

The Tulare County Sheriff's Office first got wind of Martinez's involvement in the local crimes after he reportedly bragged about his killings while awaiting trial for murder in Alabama. After getting sentenced to 50 years in Alabama, Martinez was extradited to California. "His attorneys informed me he wished to plea and just get rid of this case," said David Alavezos, prosecutor.

Martinez will now be extradited to Florida where he faces charges for two murders.

Prosecutors said they may pursue the death penalty.