Gunman in Jared Bridegan Murder-for-Hire Case Withdraws Guilty Plea

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In a surprising turn of events, Henry Tenon, the man who initially admitted to being the gunman in the Jared Bridegan murder-for-hire plot, has withdrawn his guilty plea. The judge granted Tenon's motion to proceed to trial, potentially reshaping the entire prosecution's strategy in the complex case.

Why it matters

The withdrawal of Tenon's guilty plea raises questions and casts uncertainty over the case, which had previously seen progress with his apparent confession. This development could significantly impact the trial proceedings against Bridegan's ex-wife Shanna Gardner and her husband Mario Fernandez-Saldana, who have both pleaded not guilty.

The details

Tenon, 65, had originally pleaded guilty to second-degree murder with a weapon in exchange for his testimony against Gardner and Fernandez. However, he has now opted to withdraw that plea and go to trial, a decision that was approved by the judge. Tenon's new attorney, Julie Schlax, has previously represented clients in high-profile cases. The legal maneuvering by Tenon's defense has left the reason for the plea withdrawal unclear, but it could potentially reshape the prosecution's strategy, which had relied on Tenon's apparent confession.

• In February 2026, Henry Tenon withdrew his guilty plea in the Jared Bridegan murder case.
• The judge granted Tenon's motion to proceed to trial on Tuesday morning.

What’s next

The judge's decision to grant Tenon's motion to withdraw his guilty plea means the case will now proceed to trial, potentially complicating the prosecution's strategy and extending the legal proceedings.