DALLAS COUNTY, TX - A Dallas County jury has convicted 34-year-old Gabriela Cardona of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon following a violent confrontation outside a Dallas convenience store.
The incident happened on June 6, 2025, at a 7-Eleven where Cardona had been panhandling. According to prosecutors, she was told by the store manager to leave the property. Instead of walking away, Cardona became aggressive, threatening to kill the manager.
Investigators said Cardona was holding a knife during the confrontation. After making the threat, she used the knife to slash the tires of five vehicles parked in the lot before police arrived. Dallas Police officers took her into custody at the scene.
Court records show Cardona has an extensive criminal history. During the legal process, she dismissed her court-appointed attorney and chose to represent herself. Midway through the trial, she reversed course and requested legal representation again.
The State and defense later reached an agreement on punishment in exchange for Cardona waiving her right to appeal. Prosecutors noted that if Cardona continues to reoffend, her future punishment range could increase significantly, up to 25 years to life in prison.
On December 3, 2025, a Dallas County jury found Cardona guilty. Judge Jennifer Balido sentenced her to eight years in prison. Cardona also received 181 days of jail credit for time already served while awaiting trial.
The case was prosecuted by lead attorney Rachel Burris, with Madeline Bostic serving as second chair. The investigation was led by the Dallas Police Department, with assistance from District Attorney Investigator Joseph Swanson.
