Ronald Dean Yandell, a high-ranking leader in the notorious Aryan Brotherhood prison gang, faces a third life sentence after being charged with attempting to murder two state prison guards. Yandell, 62, is already serving two life sentences for past convictions but now faces additional charges related to a November 2023 incident at Folsom State Prison.
According to court records obtained by Mercury News, Yandell allegedly attacked the correctional officers during a medical transport. The attack reportedly involved Yandell pulling out a homemade knife and attempting to stab the officers. The charges are serious, with prosecutors charging Yandell with attempted murder over the incident.
Yandell’s criminal history is extensive. In 2004, he was sentenced to life in state prison after fatally shooting two men. Just last year, Yandell was sentenced to life in federal prison after being convicted on racketeering and murder charges, stemming from his role in smuggling contraband and ordering hits within the California prison system.
Despite facing federal charges, Yandell remains in California’s state prison system and is currently housed in administrative segregation at Folsom State Prison. In his last sentencing, Yandell appeared unshaken, stating, “I’m still standing, and my life hasn’t changed.”
Yandell’s latest arraignment, scheduled for April 25, adds another layer to his already unbreakable legal challenges as he continues to serve multiple life sentences for his violent and criminal actions within the prison system.
