This is Part 2 in our special HNN Investigates series, A Killer’s Confession. Click to view Part 1: Hawaii Loa Ridge killer details murder, motive in police interrogation videos.

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Juan Baron claims a language barrier made it difficult for him to understand his plea agreement.

By the time the Columbia native changed his mind about the deal , it was too late.

Baron, 26, pleaded guilty to murdering 73-year old Gary Ruby at Hawaii Loa Ridge in 2022. Baron is appealing his conviction and asking a higher court to allow him to go to trial.

He was sentenced to life with the possibility of parole as part of that deal . In exchange, prosecutors said they would not seek an extended term ensuring he would die in prison.

A Circuit Court judge would not let him with

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