Fresno man ordered to undergo treatment before serving prison time for murdering his mother

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- A convicted killer appeared in court Friday flanked by extra security as he was sentenced in the death of his mother.

Brad Ramirez battered his mother to death last year. Shirla Ramirez was 62. Her body was found during a welfare check in central Fresno after she did not show up for work.

"What happened was so horrific. It feels so unreal," said the victim's sister, Kerry Bash.

Bash said she is devastated and asked for the maximum punishment.

"Decisions were made choosing drugs and refusing medication that placed her safety and her life at risk," Bash said.

The court had previously found Brad Ramirez not guilty by reason of insanity. He is schizophrenic.

Last month, Ramirez changed his plea to "no contest," clearing the way for sentencing.

"The court simply can't find the words to express its condolences in strong enough terms to the family in this incident," Fresno County Superior Court Commissioner Daniel Brickey said.

Brickey ordered Ramirez to first spend time at a state hospital. If doctors can restore his sanity, he would then go to state prison. In all, he received a 31-year-to-life sentence.

"No sentence can undo what was done or bring Shirla back. Nothing can restore the life that was taken or fully heal the damage done to our family, but accountability for this horrific crime matters," Bash said.

During much of the hearing, Ramirez nodded and looked toward his aunt. At times, he became emotional. Ramirez did not speak but offered a statement through his public defender.

"He's indicated that he understands there's nothing that he could say to give any solace to the victim or her family," public defender Brendan Bergh said.

Bergh said Ramirez feels remorse. Brickey later agreed, saying he sees it, and addressed the family.

"This grief is going to be with you for a long time, but I can assure you that it will get easier with time," Brickey said.

Bash said she does not hate her nephew and still loves him. Brad Ramirez has 60 days to appeal his sentence.

For news updates, follow Gabe Ferris on Facebook, X and Instagram.