Massachusetts man pleads guilty to Bennington 2022 fatal shooting

BENNINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) - A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty Wednesday to manslaughter, one day before his case was scheduled to go to trial.

Raul Cardona admitted to fatally shooting Patrick Mullinex three times after an argument in a Bennington apartment on August 20, 2022.

Police said at the time that Cardona had been on their radar for selling drugs in the area and had also pleaded guilty to attempted manslaughter for shooting into a Bennington home in July 2022.

After entering the plea deal, Cardona addressed the victim’s family directly in court, asking for forgiveness. “I would like to apologize to the Mullinex family. I know... not sure it can change or help any pain I have caused. I just hope one day you can find it in your hearts to forgive me. I want to apologize to the town and the courts for Bennington. I want to apologize to my family for everything I put them through,” he said.

Cardona was sentenced to four years in prison. Once released, he will not be allowed to enter Vermont for 11 years unless his probation officer gives permission. If he violates probation, he could face up to 15 years in prison.