Sherrif’s office continues to investigate after Bocanegra released

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) - We continue with a follow-up update on the Bocanegra case.

42-year-old Rocsand Bocanegra was charged with second-degree homicide for allegedly stabbing 58-year-old Jess Smith in his residence on Aug. 8th at around 5:30 a.m.

The event allegedly happened with about six other witnesses in the residence and Bocanegra fled before deputies arrived on the scene.

Smith died on his way to the hospital of his injuries. The Laramie County District Sheriff had enough probable cause to arrest Bocanegra and made recommendations for charges.

Charges were then sent to the District Attorney’s office for review, while Bocanegra was held for a limit of 72 hours in county jail.

According to the county sheriff’s office, Laramie County District attorney Leigh Ann Manlove dropped all charges, and Bocanegra was released a little before midnight on Aug. 10th.

Even so, Capt. Kevin James, the Laramie County Sheriff’s office, says they will continue investigating the incident.

They encourage the public to call in any additional information they may have.

James says the D.A.‘s office is hesitant to press charges at this time against Bocanegra.

“We’re aware of the level of frustration within our community right now over this case. And all I can tell you is that we are investigating this case completely and thoroughly and we understand that these final charging decisions are not our to make,” said Capt. Kevin James, Laramie County Sheriff’s office.

When asked about public safety, James said they plan to continue the investigation to ensure justice for the victim and their family.

If anyone has any more information on this case, please contact Laramie County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau at 633-4706 or the Laramie County Combined Communications Center at 637-6524.