London, November 20, 2025
Ari Gisell, aged 23, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for her involvement in the murders of Australian surfer brothers Jake and Callum Robinson and their American friend Carter Rhoad during a carjacking in Baja California, Mexico, in April 2024. The violent crime stemmed from an attempted vehicle theft while the victims were on a surfing trip.
Sentencing and Legal Proceedings
Gisell pleaded guilty to instigating the violent assault that resulted in the deaths of the three men. Her sentencing came during a court session where emotional statements from the victims’ families were heard via video conference. Gisell offered a tearful apology, acknowledging that her words could not bring peace to the bereaved and expressed a commitment to personal reform.
Meanwhile, prosecutors are seeking significantly harsher penalties for three other men accused of the murders. These individuals rejected plea deals and now face possible sentences totaling up to 210 years each. This ongoing legal process underscores the gravity of the criminal case and the Mexican judiciary’s response to the incident.
Victims Profile
Callum Robinson, 33, an Australian national lacrosse team member residing in San Diego, was described by family as a “lovable, larger-than-life” figure affectionately nicknamed “the big koala.” His younger brother, Jake Robinson, 30, who lived in Australia, was en route to North America to visit Callum. Jake was preparing to embark on a career as a doctor and remembered as a “happy, gentle and compassionate soul.”
Their friend, Carter Rhoad, also 30 and based in San Diego, worked in technology services. He had been planning to marry his fiancée, Natalie Wiertz, in the coming months. The victims were camping in a remote coastal area when they became targets of the fatal carjacking attempt.
Crime Details and Investigation
Authorities determined that the murders occurred during a botched robbery intended to steal the surfers’ pickup truck. Evidence presented during the investigation included the suspect showing stolen new tires taken from the victims’ vehicle. This incident highlights the risks posed by criminal activity targeting tourists in remote areas, raising concerns about safety and law enforcement effectiveness.
Families’ Statements and Impact
Debra Robinson, mother of Jake and Callum, addressed the court, describing the profound and lasting trauma caused by the loss of her sons. She said, “We dreamed of seeing them grow older, of having children. That’s all taken now.” She lamented how the world has become “a darker place” without them. The families’ statements provided a poignant reminder of the human cost behind the headlines and the far-reaching effects of violent crime.
The court’s handling of this case will be closely watched by observers concerned with cross-border criminal justice and the protection of tourists. The severe sentences sought against the other accused participants reflect an intensified commitment to deterrence and accountability.
The broader community awaits further developments as the judicial process continues, underscoring the necessity of legal measures to address violent crime affecting international visitors and local residents alike.