(WWJ) A Lincoln Park woman has taken a plea in connection with the murder of a Rochester Hills businessman.
According to the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office, Amanda Ileana Hernandez pleaded no contest to conspiracy and accessory charges in the case of Hussein "Sam" Murray, a jeweler who was murdered in his Rochester Hills home.
Hernandez' husband, Carlos Hernandez, and Joshua Zuazo impersonated DTE workers in October of 2024 to get inside Murray’s home.
The two men claimed to be checking for a gas leak, but took Murray into the basement where they fatally shot him.
Murray's wife, who was tied up and duct taped, was eventually able to free herself after the men left and called 911. She told responding Oakland County Sheriff's deputies she believed her husband may have been kidnapped.
As deputies searched the home to make sure it was safe, they found Murray dead in the basement.
Carlos Hernandez and Joshua Zuazo were arrested following an investigation, charged and convicted of murder. Both received life sentences.
Investigators said Amanda Hernandez, 36, played an active role in the planning and cover-up of the murder.
Prosecutors said text messages show she was involved in preparing for the home invasion with the hope of using stolen money to buy a house.
“Our office remained committed to pursuing justice against everyone involved in Sam Murray’s murder,” said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald, in a statement. “Amanda Hernandez’s plea does not involve a sentencing agreement from our office. Her plotting ultimately led to Sam Murray’s death. She will be held accountable for her actions, which will forever affect the Murray family.”
Amanda Hernandez is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 12.
