A Mexican woman has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after pleading guilty to robbery with violence in connection with the 2024 killings of two Australian surfers and an American traveler in Baja California, authorities confirmed on Thursday.
According to the Baja California State Prosecutor’s Office, Ary Gisell Silva Raya received her sentence from a judge on Wednesday for her role in the case involving Australian brothers Callum Ryan Robinson and Jake Martin Robinson, as well as their American friend Jack Carter Rhoad. The three men had traveled from California to surf along Mexico’s Pacific coastline.
The victims were last seen in the coastal area of Punta San José, located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Ensenada. Prosecutors said Silva Raya encountered the group and encouraged her companions to rob them. Investigators stated that she was the romantic partner of one of the men later charged with the killings.
Authorities reported that the surfers were attacked during the robbery and later found in a remote area after being reported missing. Their disappearance prompted a large search effort involving local authorities, volunteers, and officials from both Australia and the United States.
Silva Raya’s conviction is specifically for her role in instigating the robbery, which prosecutors say set the events in motion. She was not charged with homicide. The sentencing marks the first major legal outcome in the high-profile case, which drew international attention earlier this year.
The three men accused of carrying out the killings remain in custody and are awaiting trial on more serious charges. Mexican authorities have not released their trial dates but say the cases are progressing through the court system.
The killings shook both the local community and international surf travelers, as the Baja California coast is a popular destination for surfers from around the world seeking remote breaks and scenic campsites. While incidents do occur, violence against tourists in that area is relatively rare, prompting heightened concern from both domestic and foreign officials.
Following the arrests, the Baja California government pledged to strengthen safety measures in remote coastal zones and improve communication with foreign visitors. Mexican officials also worked closely with diplomatic representatives from Australia and the U.S. to ensure updates were provided to the victims’ families.
Silva Raya’s guilty plea allowed for a more expedited legal process, resulting in the 20-year sentence. Authorities said the case against the remaining suspects will continue, with prosecutors aiming to hold all individuals involved accountable.
The victims’ families have expressed gratitude for support received from both Mexican and international communities and continue to call for justice as proceedings move forward.
