Man pleads guilty to role in 2023 Isanti County burglary turned homicide case

A man pleaded guilty on Monday to his role in a 2023 burglary turned homicide case in Isanti County.

According to a news release from the state attorney general's office, Gerald Downs pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting second degree murder.

The release states that on Dec. 13, 2023, Downs and two other individuals dressed as police officers and burglarized a Spencer Brook Township ranch that was a purported drug stash house.

During the burglary, one of Downs' codefendants shot and killed Jose De Jesus Diaz Fernandes.

At Monday's plea hearing, Downs said he was "100% responsible" for actions that led to the victim's death.

He admitted to participating in the crime, dressing as a police officer, kicking in the front door of the ranch, and fleeing after the shooting.

Downs will be sentenced in Isanti County district court on Aug. 4.