Des Moines man convicted of second-degree murder in 2025 Fort Dodge shooting

Rolman Recinos Gonzalez was originally charged with first-degree murder in the death of Justo Cruz Calindo.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:51am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single spent shell casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the physical evidence at the center of a violent crime.A stark visual representation of the physical evidence at the heart of a tragic shooting that led to a second-degree murder conviction.Des Moines Today

A jury in Webster County, Iowa has convicted 39-year-old Rolman Humberto Recinos Gonzalez of second-degree murder for the shooting death of Justo Cruz Calindo in Fort Dodge in September 2025. Recinos Gonzalez was originally charged with first-degree murder, but the jury found him guilty of the lesser charge.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complexities of homicide charges and the role of juries in determining appropriate convictions based on the evidence presented. It also raises questions about gun violence, illegal firearm possession, and the challenges facing non-citizens accused of crimes in the United States.

The details

According to court documents, police responded to a report of a gunshot near N 28th St. in Fort Dodge around 1 AM on September 2, 2025 and found Cruz Calindo dead at the scene with a gunshot wound. Recinos Gonzalez was arrested later that day and charged with first-degree murder, trafficking in stolen weapons, and being a person ineligible to carry dangerous weapons. A search of Recinos Gonzalez's home uncovered a stolen handgun and an AR-15-style rifle, and he reportedly told authorities he was aware he was ineligible to own the guns due to his citizenship status.

  • On September 2, 2025, police responded to a report of a gunshot and found Justo Cruz Calindo dead.
  • Later that day on September 2, 2025, Rolman Recinos Gonzalez was arrested and charged.
  • Recinos Gonzalez's sentencing is scheduled for May 22, 2026.

The players

Rolman Humberto Recinos Gonzalez

A 39-year-old Des Moines man who was convicted of second-degree murder in the 2025 shooting death of Justo Cruz Calindo.

Justo Cruz Calindo

The victim who was shot and killed in Fort Dodge, Iowa in September 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold those who commit violent acts accountable, while also examining the broader societal issues that contribute to such tragedies.”

— Marjorie Wilkins, Webster County District Attorney

What’s next

Recinos Gonzalez's sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 22, 2026, where the judge will determine his final sentence.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for comprehensive gun violence prevention strategies that address both individual criminal acts as well as systemic factors like illegal firearm possession and the challenges facing non-citizens in the criminal justice system.