Las Vegas, Nevada — A Las Vegas man has been sentenced to 14 to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of his girlfriend, bringing an end to a case that prosecutors say stemmed from a domestic dispute inside the couple’s home.
According to court records, Jose Galan-Preval, 47, was sentenced Tuesday after admitting to second-degree murder with the use of a deadly weapon in connection with the January killing of Yaimara Leyva-Cadet.
The case centered on a fatal argument that ended with the victim suffering multiple stab wounds.
Defense Described Ongoing Relationship Problems
During the sentencing hearing, Galan-Preval’s attorney outlined what the defense described as long-standing tensions between the couple.
According to the defense, the pair had immigrated to the United States from Cuba in hopes of building a better future, but their relationship became increasingly strained over financial pressures and personal conflicts.
The attorney told the court that Leyva-Cadet was unemployed, while Galan-Preval worked to support the household. The defense also said the relationship was marked by frequent disagreements and allegations of infidelity.
The attorney argued those ongoing issues contributed to emotional stress leading up to the fatal incident.
Prosecutors Say Argument Turned Deadly
Police responded to the couple’s downtown Las Vegas residence on January 23 after receiving reports of a stabbing.
When officers arrived, they found Leyva-Cadet suffering from multiple stab wounds. She was transported to a nearby hospital, where she later died.
According to testimony referenced during the sentencing hearing, Galan-Preval had been preparing for work after drinking alcohol when he asked his girlfriend to make him rice. An argument followed before he allegedly attacked her with a kitchen knife.
Defense attorney Jin Kim-Steadman told the court:
“He snapped. When he came to and realized what was happening, he did not punch and stab anyone else, and he just left.”
Defendant Turned Himself In After the Killing
Authorities said Galan-Preval surrendered to police following the incident. According to his arrest report, he admitted that he had “lost control of his emotions.”
Police also said he acknowledged responsibility for the killing while speaking with his landlord shortly after the incident.
“I am responsible for what I did,” Galan-Preval reportedly told his landlord.
Investigators said he also told detectives that the couple had experienced ongoing relationship issues, including frequent accusations that he had been unfaithful.
Judge Balances Remorse With Seriousness of Crime
As part of a plea agreement, Galan-Preval accepted responsibility for second-degree murder.
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During sentencing, prosecutors requested an enhanced sentence because a deadly weapon was used.
District Judge Jaqueline Bluth ultimately imposed a sentence totaling 14 to 35 years in prison, noting that while the defendant accepted responsibility and had no prior criminal history, the victim’s death was exceptionally violent.
“I do recognize that Mr. Galan-Preval took responsibility right away, has expressed from the beginning his extreme remorse, that there is no criminal history, and I do believe that he just snapped,” Judge Bluth said. “It’s been difficult to balance those things because it is such a horrific way to die.”
Before sentencing concluded, Galan-Preval apologized through a Spanish interpreter and asked for forgiveness.
“I would have liked for me to be in her place instead of her. I ask for forgiveness from this country that let me come in. I am very remorseful.”
The case has now concluded with sentencing, though it also serves as another reminder of the devastating consequences that can result when domestic disputes escalate into deadly violence.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available through local law enforcement and confidential support organizations. What are your thoughts on this case? Share your opinions respectfully in the comments below.
