Gang Member Who Viciously Attacked Sequoia Student Earns Third Strike

A 39-year-old gang member who viciously attacked a Sequoia High School student who was riding his bicycle home from school last June has earned his third strike, and now faces the possibility of life in prison, the San Mateo District Attorney's Office said.

According to the DA's Office, Kriston James Speck of San Mateo has two prior felony convictions for burglary.

Speck is accused of attacking the 16-year-old victim as he was riding his bike home from school near the intersection of El Camino Real and Redwood Avenue at around 4 p.m. on June 5, 2012. 

Witnesses say Speck attacked the boy and began punching and kicking him in the face repeatedly, causing extensive bleeding.

A woman nearby who witnessed the attack screamed and began yelling at Speck, telling him to stop and asking him why he was attacking the victim. The woman said Speck replied only with "XIV," and flexed his muscles, which authorities say is a known "gang declaration." Speck then reportedly ran off.

Police responded to the scene and searched for Speck. They located him and found him to have "reddened" hands and spots of blood on his shoes. They arrested him.

Both the victim and the female witness positively identified Speck as the attacker.

Later, police found additional witnesses who said they saw Speck walking around in the area of the attack just prior to the incident. They said he was "flashing gang signs" and "looking for trouble."

The DA's Office said authorities believe Speck is a member of the "Northern Rider" gang.

The victim reportedly suffered cuts, bruises, blurred vision and loss of balance. He has also reportedly suffered some memory loss, and family members say he has had trouble remembering the names of long-time school friends.

Speck appeared in San Mateo County Court in Redwood City on Monday for jury trial assignment. His trial is expected to start soon and could last approximately 10 days, according to the DA's Office.

Speck is currently in custody on $500,000 bail.

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