FILE - In this 2005 file photo released by Brazilian federal police, fugitive Jesse James Hollywood, who is accused of orchestrating a plot to kidnap and kill 15-year-old Nick Markowitz, is seen at a federal police precinct in Brazil. On Wednesday July 8, 2009, a jury convicted Hollywood of kidnap and murder that inspired movie 'Alpha Dog.' (AP Photo/Brazilian Federal Police, File)
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – Jesse James Hollywood has been convicted of the kidnap and murder of a 15-year-old boy that inspired the 2007 movie "Alpha Dog."
A Santa Barbara jury on Wednesday also found the 29-year-old Hollywood guilty after deliberating for about four days.
Prosecutors say Hollywood orchestrated the kidnapping and eventual killing of Nicholas Markowitz in August 2000 because the teen's half brother owed a drug debt.
Nicholas was taken to Santa Barbara and held for several days before he was shot and buried in a shallow grave. Four others have been convicted in connection with the crime.
THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. (AP) — A jury has reached a verdict in the trial of Jesse James Hollywood, who is accused of the kidnapping and murder of a 15-year-old Los Angeles boy whose body was found near Santa Barbara nine years ago.
Court is scheduled to convene Wednesday afternoon to hear the verdict. The jury deliberated since last week.
The 29-year-old Hollywood is accused of kidnapping Nicholas Markowitz over a drug debt owed by Markowitz's brother, then ordering his death. Hollywood was on the run for years before he was captured in Brazil. The case inspired the 2007 movie "Alpha Dog."
Hollywood could face the death penalty if convicted.
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