Mesa, Arizona, December 13, 2025
Joe Rim has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the 2022 shooting death of 18-year-old Stephen Jacobo in Mesa, Arizona. Rim pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. The incident occurred during a gathering at an apartment complex, where a confrontation over a firearm escalated tragically. The victim’s family has expressed grief and dissatisfaction with the plea agreement, advocating for tougher laws against violent crimes. Rim also faces additional charges related to sexual exploitation of a minor.
Mesa, Arizona – Joe Rim Sentenced to 15 Years for 2022 Murder of Teenager
Mesa, Arizona – Joe Rim, 23, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the 2022 shooting death of 18-year-old Stephen Jacobo. Rim pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, receiving the maximum sentence allowed under a plea agreement. The incident occurred in November 2022 at an apartment complex near Southern Avenue and Dobson Road in Mesa. Rim had initially been arrested shortly after the shooting but was released pending further investigation. He was re-arrested in January 2024 and indicted for second-degree murder. In addition to the murder charge, Rim faces separate charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, with sentencing for that case scheduled at a later date.
Details of the Incident
On November 6, 2022, Stephen Jacobo, who had just celebrated his 18th birthday, was attending a gathering at an apartment complex near Southern Avenue and Dobson Road in Mesa. During the event, Jacobo inquired about Rim’s firearm, leading to a confrontation. Rim became upset, accused Jacobo of invading his personal space, and drew his gun. Court documents indicate that Rim asked Jacobo, “You want to see what I got?” before firing the weapon, striking Jacobo in the neck. Jacobo was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
Family’s Response and Advocacy
Following the sentencing, Jacobo’s family expressed their grief and dissatisfaction with the plea agreement. His mother, Alma Antolin, addressed the court, stating that she will never feel her son’s arms around her or hear him say, “I love you, mom.” She emphasized the profound impact of her son’s loss on their family. Jacobo’s father, Mark Jacobo, has been vocal about his desire for justice, advocating for tougher laws for violent crimes and working on a foundation in his son’s memory to support other families affected by similar tragedies.
Legal Proceedings and Plea Agreements
Rim’s legal troubles extend beyond the murder charge. In a separate case, he pleaded guilty to three counts of exploitation of a minor, facing up to 15 years in prison for those charges. The sentences for both cases are expected to be served consecutively. Rim’s mother and sisters also appeared in court, expressing remorse and seeking forgiveness on his behalf.
Background on the Defendant
Joe Rim, now 23, was initially arrested shortly after the shooting but was released pending further investigation. He was re-arrested in January 2024 and indicted for second-degree murder. In addition to the murder charge, Rim faces separate charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, with sentencing for that case scheduled at a later date.
Community Impact and Ongoing Advocacy
The case has had a significant impact on the Mesa community, highlighting issues related to gun violence and the justice system. Jacobo’s family continues to advocate for justice and reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future. They have been actively involved in community outreach and support for other families affected by violence.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Joe Rim to 15 years in prison for the murder of Stephen Jacobo brings a measure of closure to the victim’s family and the Mesa community. However, the case underscores the ongoing challenges in addressing gun violence and ensuring justice for victims and their families. The community remains committed to supporting those affected and advocating for meaningful change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was Joe Rim sentenced for?
Joe Rim was sentenced to 15 years in prison for the 2022 shooting death of 18-year-old Stephen Jacobo. He pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, receiving the maximum sentence allowed under a plea agreement.
What happened during the incident involving Stephen Jacobo?
On November 6, 2022, Stephen Jacobo, who had just celebrated his 18th birthday, was attending a gathering at an apartment complex near Southern Avenue and Dobson Road in Mesa. During the event, Jacobo inquired about Rim’s firearm, leading to a confrontation. Rim became upset, accused Jacobo of invading his personal space, and drew his gun. Court documents indicate that Rim asked Jacobo, “You want to see what I got?” before firing the weapon, striking Jacobo in the neck. Jacobo was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
How did Stephen Jacobo’s family respond to the sentencing?
Following the sentencing, Jacobo’s family expressed their grief and dissatisfaction with the plea agreement. His mother, Alma Antolin, addressed the court, stating that she will never feel her son’s arms around her or hear him say, “I love you, mom.” She emphasized the profound impact of her son’s loss on their family. Jacobo’s father, Mark Jacobo, has been vocal about his desire for justice, advocating for tougher laws for violent crimes and working on a foundation in his son’s memory to support other families affected by similar tragedies.
What other charges does Joe Rim face?
In a separate case, Rim pleaded guilty to three counts of exploitation of a minor, facing up to 15 years in prison for those charges. The sentences for both cases are expected to be served consecutively. Rim’s mother and sisters also appeared in court, expressing remorse and seeking forgiveness on his behalf.
What is the current status of Joe Rim?
Joe Rim, now 23, was initially arrested shortly after the shooting but was released pending further investigation. He was re-arrested in January 2024 and indicted for second-degree murder. In addition to the murder charge, Rim faces separate charges of sexual exploitation of a minor, with sentencing for that case scheduled at a later date.
How has the community been affected by this case?
The case has had a significant impact on the Mesa community, highlighting issues related to gun violence and the justice system. Jacobo’s family continues to advocate for justice and reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future. They have been actively involved in community outreach and support for other families affected by violence.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Joe Rim, 23 |
| Victim | Stephen Jacobo, 18 |
| Incident Date | November 6, 2022 |
| Location | Mesa, Arizona |
| Charges | Second-degree murder, three counts of exploitation of a minor |
| Sentencing Date | December 12, 2025 |
| Sentence | 15 years in prison for second-degree murder; additional sentencing pending for exploitation charges |
| Community Impact | Significant, leading to advocacy for justice system reforms and support for affected families |
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