San Diego Criminal Defense Lawyer Blog

A boy, who was suspected of raping a 16 year-old girl in Escondido at gunpoint as she was walking to school, is to be charged as an adult.

Daniel Joseph Entzminger, 17, was arrested at Washington Park the day after the San Diego violent attack occured. A teenage girl was walking to school along a path near North Ash Street and East Valley Parkway around 8:30 a.m. when she noticed a male pass her. As she looked back at him, she saw him running toward her wearing a black ski mask and holding a gun. He caught up to her, held the pistol to her side and raped her in some bushes, according to Lt. Craig Carter.

According to prosecutor Patrick Espinoza, San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis had the choice of filing the San Diego criminal case in adult court or bring the case to juvenile court. “Because of the serious nature of the crime, because a handgun was used, because a 16-year-old girl was kidnapped on her way to school, that’s why we decided to charge the case as we did,” said Espinoza.

Entzminger pleaded not guilty to rape, robbery and aggravated kidnapping charges and could face a maximum of 50 years in prison if he is convicted. The defendant, who is being held on $1 million bail, is being charged as an adult under California’s “one strike law.”

Boy accused of raping girl on her way to school charged in adult court, KFMB news 8, July 14, 2010

ESCONDIDO: Teen rape suspect charged, faces life in prison, North County Times, July 14, 2010

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A man who was suspected of the North San Diego attempted murder of three men at a San Marcos donut shop was taken into custody after being found hiding under his girlfriend’s bed, according to sheriff’s officials.

Daniel Helweski, 26, started shooting at three men outside a Yum Yum donut shop with a 9 mm pistol. The San Diego shooting incident occurred after an argument broke out around 10:45 p.m. on East Mission Road, according to sheriff’s Sgt. Dan Deese.

None of the three men were injured from the gunshots. One man sustained slight cuts from a glass window that was broken from the shots fired into the victim’s vehicle. The alleged shooter also fired shots into the San Marcos Bakery and a Thai restaurant.

The gunman was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and taken to jail on Monday after he was found at his girlfriend’s home in San Marcos hiding under the bed.

Suspect in Attempted Murder Found Hiding Under Girlfriend's Bed, San Diego 6 The CW, July 5, 2010

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A Chula Vista man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder of his wife after stabbing her numerous times while his children were in the home.

The San Diego domestic violence attack occurred around 8:00 p.m. in the 1300 block of Granite Springs Drive on Monday when a man allegedly attacked his wife with a knife, according to police spokesman Bernard Gonzales.

When San Diego police arrived at the victim’s home in a neighborhood in Eastlake they found her with multiple stab wounds mostly to the upper part of her body. She was transported to a local hospital where she was reported to be in stable condition. The 3 children were taken into protective custody.

Brian Rolstad, 28, who was identified as the victim’s husband and alleged assailant, had left the scene and was later located by police sitting in his car that was parked near the Chula Vista police department on Center Street.

Police arrested Rolstad on a suspected attempted murder charge, and then he was taken to a hospital where he was treated for a probable overdose.

Chula Vista Man Accused Of Stabbing Wife, 10news.com, June 15, 2010

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A San Diego man was shot and killed in his North Park home by a San Diego police officer after he proceeded to attack the officer with a knife.

The San Diego fatal shooting occured after San Diego police were called out to the North Park home around 11:00 a.m. to check on a 56 year-old man’s mental state in the 3400 block of Alabama Street after a call was made to police by a family member.

The knife wielding man who lived with his mother refused to drop the weapon he was carrying after police officers ordered him to. He told police they would have to kill him first, according to San Diego Police Department Lt. Kevin Rooney.

As the man approached the officer with the knife another officer fatally shot him. The man was taken to Scripps Mercy Hospital where he died a little while later.

Knife-Wielding Man Shot By Police In North Park, 10News.com, April 26, 2010

Police Officer Shoots & Kills a Disturbed Man in North Park, San Diego 6 The CW, April 26, 2010

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An operation centering on gang members and affiliates in North San Diego County resulted in 21 San Diego arrests on Tuesday, according to the Sheriff’s department.

The North County sweep took place on Tuesday beginning at 6:00 a.m. with the help of the North County Gang Task Force, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Marshals, San Diego County’s fugitive task force, county probation and state parole, deputies arrested 21 and took them into custody.

There were seventeen people arrested on alleged felonies, violating parole and probation violations, narcotics violations, and arrest warrants. Four others were arrested on suspected misdemeanor violations, including resisting arrest, outstanding warrants and being under the influence of drugs.

If you are charged with a San Diego crime, whether a misdemeanor or felony in San Diego County, it may be in your best interest to obtain legal council from an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney.

21 arrested in sweep of gang members, Sign on San Diego, April 20, 2010

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A San Diego man from Imperial Beach who was found guilty of premeditated attempted murder has been sentenced to life in prison plus 17 years.

Miguel Angel Delvalle, who was accused of stabbing Eddie Jenkins on April 21, 2009 in Mike’s Market on Ocean View Boulevard, was convicted on February 3 of attempted murder. He also was found guilty of attempted murder for the attack of his ex-wife Gypsy, chasing her with a knife and stabbing her in the face and neck.

Delvalle has had misdemeanor convictions in 1993 and 1995 for resisting arrest and violating a restraining order, and a felony conviction in 2008 for domestic violence, according to Deputy District Attorney Dan Link. Delvalle’s San Diego criminal defense lawyer said he was “wounded and broken” because he had been taunted by his ex-wife and her fiancé “over and over again.” He acted out of “pure and thoughtless rage,” she said.

Delvalle who was convicted on February 3 of premeditated attempted murder will now serve life in prison plus 17 years for the San Diego violent crime.

Man Who Stabbed Estranged Wife, Her Fiance Sentenced, 10news.com, March 8, 2010

Man convicted of trying to stab two to death, Sign on San Diego, February 4, 2010

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A San Diego jury found a man guilty of first-degree murder and arson after only one day of deliberations.

Larry W. Brown, 46, who was suspected of killing his roommate, Vicki Jo Hunter and setting her Chula Vista motor home on fire in December of 2005, was found guilty on Tuesday. The San Diego homicide victim had left a note with a friend stating that Brown was being physically abusive with her. The next day she was found dead in a burned trailer in a by a San Diego Metro KOA campground employee.

The defendant was found driving Hunter’s vehicle two days later by police. Before he was arrested he led police on a 48 mile chase at speeds of 110 mph.

Brown was found guilty after one day of jury deliberations of first- degree murder, arson and evading officers with reckless driving. Judge Timothy Walsh will sentence Brown on March 24 in South Bay.

Man Guilty of Killing Roommate and Torching Mobile Home, San Diego 6 The CW, February 23, 2010

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A San Diego Woman was taken into custody after an alleged attack on an elderly woman whom she knew during a Vista home invasion robbery, according to San Diego police.

The violent assault happened on Tuesday about 12:00 p.m. when Carey Lynn Barton, 47, came into the Vista home of a 71 year- old woman through a door that was unlocked. The attacker hit the elderly victim in the face while holding a knife to her throat; she tried to strangle the victim with a belt while demanding property.

The alleged attacker fled the scene in the victim’s car with stolen credit cards and warned the elderly victim not to report the San Diego violent crime to the police, according to Sheriff’s Detective Mike Hamerschlag.

Barton was taken into custody to Vista jail on Wednesday morning around 8:30 a.m. She was booked on assault with a deadly weapon, battery, dissuading a witness and suspicion of residential burglary and drug charges.

VISTA: Parolee arrested in attack on elderly woman, North County Times, February 10, 2010

Woman Attacks Another During Home Robbery, 10News.com, February 11, 2010

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An 18 year-old Los Angeles gang member was sentenced to 31 years in state prison for the San Diego fatal shooting of a man after an argument took place outside a San Diego bar.

Christopher Hawthorne, 25 was shot down by Alexander Rafael Garcia who was 17 at the time of the San Diego murder. The teen pled guilty last December to voluntary manslaughter. The violent crime occurred January 9, 2009 after a fight broke outside O’Connell’s bar on Morena Boulevard.

“Your actions that night affected a lot of people, things that we enjoy in life just don’t matter anymore. I hope your stay in prison is painful and lonely,” said Clay Hawthorne Sr., the father of the victim.

According to Garcia’s criminal defense attorney, he belonged to a gang called Skinheads Against Racial Prejudice. The San Diego violent crime was committed for the benefit of the gang he was involved with. Garcia was sentenced to 31 years in state prison for the fatal shooting.

Teen Gang Member Sentenced For Fatal Shooting, 10news.com, February 9, 2010

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In San Diego County there were approximately 260 inmates convicted of nonviolent crimes that were released from jails around the San Diego County now that a new state law that is in effect.

A bill that was signed to reduce the state prison population as part of last year’s budget which will decrease an inmate’s amount of time served by about half. This new rule will be retroactive and the inmate will be credited for time already served.

Jail inmates convicted of San Diego violent crimes or crimes relating to children are not eligible for this new rule that now is in effect. Prisoners that were being released from jails in Otay Mesa or George Bailey were brought by bus to South Bay Jail or downtown where they were able use public transit.

The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has been working in conjunction with the Probation Department, Public Defenders Office, County Council and the District Attorney’s Office to decide which inmates, out of about 1600 are eligible for early release.

Local jails release 260 under new state law, Sign on San Diego, January 25, 2010

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A San Diego Miramar based Marine pled not guilty on Thursday to the murder of his 19 year-old wife of two months at their Mira Mesa apartment.

21 year-old Lance CPL. Patrick Thomas Poteat who had earlier allegedly confessed to the homicide, never reported to work on Tuesday at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. He sent his superior a text and told him to call 911 and “force entry into the apartment,” where “you’ll find my wife’s body,” said Deputy District Attorney Dan Link.

San Diego police found the body of Kalyn O’Barr-Poteat who with scratches on her neck appeared to have been choked to death. Kalyn who worked at Goldfingers Gentlemen's Club as a nude dancer had recently told her mother that her husbands temper was starting to frighten her.

Police also found a signed note by Poteat on the refrigerator confessing to the killing, linking the Marine to the murder. Poteat was heading to Twenty-nine Palms when officers arrested him for the San Diego murder of his wife. He is being held on $1 million bail. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled by Judge Szumowski on January 22. If Poteat is convicted he could face 25 years to life in prison.

Newlywed Expressed Fear of Marine Husband before Murder, San Diego 6 The CW, January 7, 2010

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In San Diego’s Imperial Beach a woman who was shot in the face at her apartment is reported to be in serious condition, her boyfriend is in custody for the alleged violent assault.

The San Diego shooting incident occurred on Sunday just after 10:00 p.m. in the 1400 block of Holly Avenue, according to Lt. Dennis Brugos. No one at the South Bay apartment complex heard any gunshots or scene anything unusual.

The shooting victim was taken to UCSD Medical Center where she remains on life support in “grave” condition, said Brugos. Police investigators continued to search the surrounding neighborhoods all throughout the night.

Samuel Durwood Brians, 32, was finally found around 6:00a.m. the next morning on Evergreen Avenue. The suspected shooter was taken into custody on suspicion of attempted murder of his girlfriend and was booked into San Diego county jail where he is being held without bail. An arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday.

Man Accused Of Shooting Girlfriend In IB, 10News.com, November 30, 2009

Suspect arrested for allegedly shooting girlfriend in Imperial Beach, KFMB News 8, November 30, 2009

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In Mission Valley a man and woman who were wanted for murder in West Virginia were taken into custody on Friday after being found hiding in the brush in the San Diego River.

San Diego police arrested 26 year-old Christopher Robey and 21 year-old Megan Titus after a police helicopter was used to find the couple suspected of homicide. Their car was found near Hotel Circle. According to the State Journal a description of the vehicle was given to San Diego police from the Clarksburg, West Virginia police.

The couple suspected of murder are being held without bail. Robey who was arrested on San Diego domestic violence charges not too long ago was taken to San Diego’s downtown Central Jail and Titus is being held at Las Colinas Detention Facility for women.

The couple will be extradited back to Clarksburg, West Virginia where police say they are wanted for questioning. If you are charged with a homicide crime in San Diego it is in your best interest to obtain an experienced San Diego criminal attorney to fight your case.

Couple wanted for murder in W. Va. arrested in Mission Valley, KFMB News 8, November 7, 2009

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A man suspected of killing a Rancho Bernardo woman while she was talking on the phone to her mother pled not guilty to homicide charges in court today in front of Judge David Szumowski.

28 year-old Jennifer Jones had just come home from work when Richard Salvidar, the suspected murderer entered her apartment and stabbed her multiple times while she was on the phone with her mother. Police have not disclosed a motive for the assault.

According to Deputy District Attorney Kristen Spieler, the 40 year-old alleged attacker lived in the apartment across from the murder victim on Avenida Venusto in Rancho Bernardo. “This was a completely unprovoked ambush,” said Spieler. The suspected murderer also had scratches and cuts on his arms and after a search of the apartment physical evidence was found.

Saldivar is being held on a $2 million bail and if he is convicted of this Rancho Bernardo murder, he could be facing 26 years to life in prison for the slaying of this young woman.

Neighbor pleads not guilty to killing Rancho Bernardo woman, KFMB News 8, October 27,2009

Neighbor Accused Of Stabbing Woman Pleads Not Guilty, 10News.com, October 27,2009

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A teenage boy was arrested on suspicion of the murder of his brother in law in Oceanside after officers were alerted of gunfire.

The Oceanside shooting occurred on Sunday just before 9:30 p.m. in the 1200 block of South El Camino Real. The 17 year-old minor shot his brother in law Hector Nava, 26, in his rented apartment in North County. Nava died just before being airlifted to the hospital, according to Sgt. Kelan Poorman.

The shooting victim was the father of a 10 month old and worked as a service station cashier. The motive for the violent crime was undetermined. “Detectives are still investigating the story told to them to determine the reason for the shooting,” said Sgt. Poorman.

The murder suspect, who is a minor therefore his name has not been released was arrested on suspected homicide charges and taken to juvenile hall.

Teen arrested in death of brother-in-law in Oceanside,KFMB News 8, October 19, 2009

Boy, 17, Accused In Death Of Brother-In-Law, 10News.com, October 19, 2009

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After a seven hour standoff with the SWAT team, a man from Ramona was arrested after tear gas was used to make him surrender, he had aimed a loaded firearm at his girlfriend and threatening to murder her and her two children.

The domestic violent assault happened on Sunday around 10:30 p.m. in the 2600 block of Luelf Street near Dye Road and Southern Oak in Ramona, when Lawrence “Steve” Monterastelli attempted to strangle his 38 year-old girlfriend and threaten the lives of her daughter 12 and her son 9 with his loaded pistol. “Monterastelli also threatened to harm any law enforcement officers called to the scene,” said sheriff’s Detective Aaron Dabbs.

The victim escaped to a neighbor’s house where she was able to call 911 for help leaving her children behind. Once deputies arrived they were able to get the children out of the home safely.

The alleged attacker who was thought to be intoxicated moved to an RV on the property where he refused to turn himself in. After many hours in a standoff, deputies fired tear gas into the recreation vehicle which forced Monterastelli to give himself up.

Deputies arrested Monterastelli and took him to county jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, negligent discharge of a gun, felony spousal abuse, and child endangerment.

Domestic Violence Suspect Arrested after Lengthy Standoff, San Diego 6 The CW, October 13, 2009

Alleged Armed Man Surrenders After Ramona SWAT Standoff, 10News.com, October 12, 2009

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San Diego law enforcement went undercover over a five month multi agency crime investigation in an operation to crackdown on documented gang members in the Skyline area suspected of drug and weapons trafficking, murder, robbery and other violent crimes, 93 have been arrested, said San Diego police.

The undercover operation known as “Operation Red Sky” involved the San Diego police department, along with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office and Probation Department, Ca Parole Dept., the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.

Together they seized drugs and narcotics including approximately $60,000 in cash, 19 weapons, and 240 marijuana plants, 20 lbs. of powder and crack cocaine, 10 lbs. of harvested cannabis, 2 lbs. of methamphetamine, 18 vials of PCP, and 3000 ecstasy pills.

“Were using diversion, a hundred-percent increase in the amount of diversion, to really work very closely with the community of San Diego to make it the safest large city in America,” said SDPD Chief William Lansdowne.

Guns And Drugs Seized, 93 Arrested In 'Operation Red Sky', 10News.com, September 28, 2009

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An Oceanside man was killed after being shot several times by an on duty Vista Transit Center security guard.

Anthony G Wacker, 21, died of gunshot wounds after an on duty North County Transit District security guard fired two rounds after a quarrel spiraled into a brutal physical brawl. The shooting took place near the Vista Transit Center on Friday und 8:40 p.m., in the 100 block of Olive Avenue, according to San Diego Sheriff’s Lt. Dennis Brugos.

Sheriff’s deputies are looking into if the area where the Vista shooting occurred is in the security guards patrol area. The transit center is located a 240 N. Santa Fe Avenue.

The security guard shot himself while firing the two rounds from his handgun. He was transported to a local hospital where he was expected to live. The medical examiners office was scheduled to perform an autopsy Sunday on the Oceanside man.

Fatal Shooting at Vista Transit Center; Victim ID'd, San Diego 6 The CW, September 12, 2009

Oceanside man killed by security guard at Vista Transit Center, KFMB News 8, September 12, 2009

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San Diego Chargers Shawne Merriman was arrested at his home in Poway on suspicion of felony battery and false imprisonment for allegedly choking MTV reality star Tila Tequila on Sunday.

According to San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies, 27 year-old Tila made a 911 call at 3:45 a.m. stating that the Chargers outside linebacker choked her, threw her on the floor and physically restrained her from departing his home in Poway.

Tequila was taken to Pomerado Hospital where she was reported to be in good condition. “Deputies did not observe any injuries to her, but she wanted to go and that is her right,” said Jan Caldwell, spokeswomen for the Sheriff’s Department.

“During the evening, Ms. Tequila was extremely intoxicated, inebriated and Mr. Merriman did everything he could to assist her in arranging for transportation to leave his home,” said Todd Macaluso, criminal defense attorney for Merriman, to reporters. “At no time did Mr. Merriman assault her; at no time did Mr. Merriman keep her against her will. His intentions were nothing but good.”

Merriman, 25, was taken into custody and later released. Police are still investigating the domestic incident. Formal charges have not been made pending the District Attorney’s office investigation.

In a statement said by San Diego Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith, “It’s disappointing to hear about the issue regarding Shawne Merriman.” “We’ll continue to monitor the situation and let the legal process run its course.”

CHARGERS: Merriman arrested in domestic incident, North County Times, September 6,2009

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The East County Gang Task Force arrested a man suspected of attempted murder of another man in what appears to be a gang related shooting.

Maurice White a 23 year-old man from Vista was taken into custody Wednesday after the La Mesa shooting suspect was recognized on a surveillance video by a person at the County Probation Department.

The La Mesa shooting incident happened in a motel parking lot on August 23 at The Heritage Inn on 7851 Fletcher Parkway.

The victim who was taken to a local hospital after being found in his car with three gunshot wounds is said to survive. Witnesses reported that the gunman went into a room at the motel but, officials were not able to locate him, according to police.

The gunman was taken into custody on charges of attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and taking part in criminal gang activity.

Man Arrested In La Mesa Motel Shooting, News10.com, September 3, 2009

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A man who shot another man to death in a drug related incident in Lincoln Park on Sunday was arrested and jailed on suspicion of murder, said San Diego police.

James Turner, 49, was taken into custody on Wednesday for the shooting death of 34 year-old Jaime Nicasio. According to San Diego police homicide Lt. Kevin Rooney, the shooting incident occurred in the 5000 block of Pelusa Street where drugs seemed to be involved.

The San Diego murder suspect was taken into custody after leaving his motel room on Hotel Circle North just before 6:00 p.m. for the slaying of Nicasio. He is being charged with one count of murder.

Man Suspected In Lincoln Park Shooting Jailed, San Diego 10 News.com, August 27,2009

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A La Costa Man suspected of murdering his girlfriend turned himself into police on Saturday, according to a Carlsbad police lieutenant.

Jennifer Stark, 43, was found dead in her Carlsbad home by her son on Friday about 11:30 p.m. in the 6400 block of Camino Del Parque near Paseo del Norte, slashed to death.

According to friends of the slain woman, they said she worked as a certified shorthand reporter at the Vista courthouse. “She was a great person,” her ex-husband said sadly.

Around 4:30 a.m. Jonathan Scott French, 40, the alleged murder suspect turned himself into the Encinitas Sheriff’s station, and was arrested. The San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies found French’s vehicle earlier that night covered in blood stains.

French who is the accused in this Carlsbad murder case, was arrested on suspicion of murder and is incarcerated at the Vista Jail without bail. He is scheduled Tuesday for arraignment on one count of first degree murder.

La Costa Man Arrested In Killing Of Carlsbad Woman, 10news.com, August 3,2009

Woman found slain in Carlsbad duplex identified, Sign on San Diego, August 1, 2009

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Near Campo, a southeastern area of San Diego County, a 30 year old United States Border Patrol agent who was investigating illegal smugglers was found murdered by a gunshot wound to the head.

Robert Rosas was alone on duty when he suffered from gunfire around 9 pm on Thursday on Shockey Truck Trail when he was found dead at the scene, according to the San Diego Sheriff’s Department.

Border Patrol Chief Richard Barlow describes that they tried contacting the agent where they knew he was patrolling, but could not reach him and later found the slain agent with numerous gunshot wounds. According to Federal sources, Rosa’s gun and badge were also taken from him.

Federal authorities are searching for the person who murdered Rosas but are unaware of what caused the violent attack and how many people might be involved in this East County shooting.

Border Patrol Agent Shot And Killed In East County, 10news.com, July 24,2009

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The San Diego Carnival Cruise Ship Elation docked today at its San Diego homeport carrying 2052 passengers and a man who was arrested by FBI on suspicion of murdering his wife a few days earlier.

The Carnival cruise ship had just ended a five night cruise to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The unidentified man was taken into custody for suspicion of killing his wife aboard the ship by security and kept in the brig until the ship reached the Port of San Diego at 6:30 a.m. Thursday morning.

The 55 year-old slain wife was found in her cabin by crewmembers. She was taken by the San Diego County medical examiner about three hours after she was found dead, according to FBI spokesman Darrell Foxworth.

The suspect of this domestic violent crime and his wife were apparently in an argument on Tuesday evening according to witnesses from a nearby cabin who called security on the ship to complain about the loud dispute.

FBI agents took the man suspected of the homicide into custody for questioning. They are also questioning about 30-40 other witnesses that were aboard the ship.

Man Accused Of Killing Wife On Cruise To Mexico, KFMB News8, July 16,2009

Cruise Ship Murder Investigation, San Diego 6 The CW, July 16,2009

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A man who is suspected of the San Diego shooting of a resident of Valencia Park and killing him was arrested by San Diego police on Friday.

Philip Aguilar, 26, was found dead from a gunshot wound at his home on 5223 Santa Margarita Street around 2:30pm on Friday by San Diego police detectives, according to San Diego police Lt. Kevin Rooney.

Before the murder took place, two men in their 20’s of Latin decent who were friends of Aguilar were reported to be in the home. After the shooting occurred one man left the scene.

The suspected shooter Jesse Garcia, 23, was arrested on Friday in the 400 block of Ohio Street around 11:45 p.m. He was taken into custody by police to the San Diego County Jail where is likely to be charged with murder.

Police Arrest Valencia Park Murder Suspect, 10News.com, July 4,2009

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In San Diego’s East Village a 28 year-old man was stabbed in the torso, his attacker was later arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, said a San Diego police sergeant.

The San Diego violent crime happened around 7:00pm on Tuesday in the 900 block of Park Boulevard where the victim was standing when Bennie Rentie, 42, came up to him started yelling at him then allegedly stabbed him with a knife. The victim was not aware of who the attacker was, according to San Diego police Sergeant Bob Dare.

After the stabbing took place Rentie ran away from the scene. He was later taken into custody after being found on a San Diego city bus. He was taken to county jail where he is held on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon.

If he is charged with misdemeanor the maximum punishment Renie could face is 1 year in county jail, if it is a felony charge the maximum he could be facing in state prison is 2, 3,or 4 years.

Man Accused Of East Village Stabbing Arrested, San Diego News10.com, June 24, 2009

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A man who is suspected of strangling his boyfriend to death was arrested Wednesday night at his City Heights home, according to San Diego police.

Jorge Luis Munos, 24, was taken into custody and remains in county jail without bail on suspicion of murdering Pedro Ramirez, 36, according to homicide Lt. Kevin Rooney.

When Ramirez failed to show up to work, a few of his friends and co-workers from the restaurant in Little Italy, who were concerned about him, went to his apartment on 38th Street where the violent crime occurred and found him dead in his bedroom about 12:30 a.m., said Lt. Rooney.

The two men who both worked at San Diego Restaurants had been romantically linked for about four months and had been together for several hours before Ramirez was choked to death.

A motive for the murder has not been released. Munoz who is facing murder charges will be arraigned on Friday.

Suspect arrested in City Heights strangling, Sign on San Diego, June 4, 2009

Police: Man Strangled Boyfriend In Apartment, 10 News.com, June 4, 2009

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San Diego County Crime was down in 2008 in most areas of crime according to the FBI.

The federal law enforcement agency said that San Diego violent crime decreased 4.5 percent in 2008 from the previous year and property-related offenses declined 8.6 percent.

Even though statistics show that crime was down in San Diego, forcible rape increased by 27 percent and burglary increased by 1 percent in 2008 from the prior year. Although in Chula Vista violent crime fell 9.7 percent and property crime went down 10.5 percent, said the FBI.

In the North County area of San Diego, the number of violent crimes in Escondido dropped 13.7 percent and property offenses fell by 3.4 percent, burglary went up by 11 percent.

Oceanside saw a decline of violent crimes by 11.2 percent and a 9 percent reduction in property crimes in 2008. They had a total of five homicides, 2 more than in the prior year.

FBI: Most County Crimes Decreased In 2008, 10 News.com, June 1, 2009

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A man who allegedly assaulted an elderly man with a hammer was taken into custody by San Diego police on Wednesday after an argument took place at a Park View Manor apartment complex in Banker’s Hill.

Dale Reed Bacon, 41, a handyman, is suspected of beating and hitting a 67 year-old residential property manager in the head with a hammer. The violent crime took place about 1:30 p.m. in the 1900 block of Fifth Avenue. The two men who are roommates apparently got into an argument while trying to repair a refrigerator.

The elderly man who is known as “Joe” was taken to a local hospital where he remains in intensive care with severe injuries to his head, according to San Diego Police Department Sgt. Alan Hayward. .

Police arrested Bacon and booked him into county jail where he is scheduled to be arraigned on Friday in Downtown San Diego court on attempted murder charges. The case is also being investigated as an elder-abuse crime.

Man Arrested After Hammer Attack On Man, 67, 10 News.com, May 28,2009

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A San Diego man that was fatally shot in the head in Logan Heights on Monday could be gang related, according to San Diego police.

Martin Omar De La Torre, 18, was pronounced dead at the San Diego crime scene in the 800 block of South 30th Street shortly before 6:15p.m on Monday. “The shooting is believed to be gang related. However, the specific motivation for the attack is not known at this time,” said Lt. Terry Mc Manus.

The victim was seen arguing with two other young Latinos just before the murder took place, according to Lt. Mc Manus.

San Diego homicide detectives are looking for the suspected shooter who was wearing a white T-shirt and a San Diego Padres baseball cap backward, a second suspect also was wearing a white T-shirt and had very short hair. Both suspects are believed to be between the ages of 18 and 20.

“A vehicle possibly involved in the shooting was located by patrol officers shortly after the incident,” Lt. McManus said. It has been impounded for evidentiary purposes and will be examined at a later date.”

Fatal Shooting in Logan Heights; Victim Identified, San Diego 6 The CW, May 19, 2009

Man Fatally Shot In Head In Logan Heights, San Diego News10.com, May 18, 2009

Continue reading "San Diego Man Fatally Shot Appears to be Gang-Related" »

Two teen girls were arrested on Sunday by Escondido police for the stabbing of a 14 year-old girl, police arrested another boy in connection with the stabbing today.

The girl called 911 from her home about 1:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoon and reported that she had been stabbed many times, according to the Escondido police.

When the police arrived at the girl’s home in the 700 block of Goldenrod Street they said she had multiple stab wounds to her upper body.

The victim was immediately taken to Palomar Medical Center, and then transferred to Rady Children’s Hospital, where she remains in serious condition.

Yesterday two 14 year-old middle school girls were arrested in connection with the violent crime. Today, police have taken another student, a 14 year old boy in custody in connection with the assault, their names have not been released because of their ages, according to Lt. Craig Carter.

The three middle school students who broke into the victim’s home where a home video game system was stolen are being held in juvenile hall on charges of suspicion of attempted murder, burglary and conspiracy.

Teen Stabbed, Three Teens Arrested in Escondido, San Diego 6 The CW, May 4, 2009

3 Teens Detained In Stabbing Of 14-Year-Old Girl, 10 News.com, May 4, 2009

Continue reading "Escondido Girl Stabbed By Teens in Serious Condition" »

A teen was shot and killed while crossing a Chula Vista Street when a gunman opened fire from his car.

Fermen Garcia, 18, and another pedestrian were crossing the street in the 1400 block of Hilltop Drive just before 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday when a car approached them and opened fire, said the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office and Chula Vista police.

The two wounded men were taken to the hospital by paramedics. Garcia died shortly after arriving, the other victim, a 19 year-old male suffered a graze wound to the head, according to the Medical Examiner’s Office.

Another man who was with the victims went into a nearby liquor store before the shooting occurred and escaped the violent crime.

The shooter was described as a Latino man with tattoos, wearing blue jeans and a white T-shirt. He fled the scene in a silver sedan with tinted windows.

The motive for the shooting has not yet been released said, police spokesman Bernard Gonzales.

Chula Vista Teen Shot and Killed in Broad Daylight; Victim ID'd, SD 6 The CW, April 29, 2009

Continue reading "Chula Vista Teen Fatally Shot While Crossing Street" »

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shaun Phillips was cited for misdemeanor battery after allegedly hitting a security guard at the Ivy Hotel in downtown San Diego early Saturday morning, according to the San Diego police.

The fight was reported about 1:25 a.m. at the Ivy hotel on F Street, said San Diego police.

It was reported that a security guard was called to break up a fight that was happening at the rooftop bar, and that Phillips “used his right hand to hit the guard in the left side of his face,” said San Diego police Officer J. Denny.

Phillips was place under citizen’s arrest by the security guard for battery, he was then cited by the officer and later released to a written promise to appear in court for misdemeanor arraignment.

Shaun Phillips has denied having anything to do with the incident at the Ivy Hotel. Although this is the second time that Phillips was involved in a battery incident this month, according to police.

Chargers player Phillips cited in Ivy Hotel punchout, Sign on San Diego, April 27, 2009

Continue reading "San Diego Chargers Linebacker Phillips Cited for Battery in Hotel Brawl" »

A jury has found an El Cajon man that was convicted of first-degree murder after a shooting of a liquor store distributor at City Heights liquor store of life without parole.

Man guilty of murder gets life without parole, Sign on San Diego, April 15, 2009

Sadiq Saibu, 25 was found guilty of the murder of Doraid Toma, 35, who was making a liquor sales stop at T& M Liquor on July 13, 2005 when he was killed.

Saibu has been sentenced to life in prison without parole plus 32 years and 8 months by San Diego Superior Court Judge Charles Rogers. He has also been convicted of attempted murder and attempted robbery and other felony charges.

Judge Rogers said that Saibu did not fire the shots that killed Toma, but aided and abetted Antonio Valentino, another man who was convicted in the case.

Both Saibu and Valentino were in prison when investigators associated them with the violent crime.

Continue reading "El Cajon Man Convicted of Murder Sentenced to Life in Prison" »

Police have arrested two teenage women in connection with a fatal stabbing of a National City woman in broad daylight.

Justine Brown, 18, of National City died shortly after sustaining a fatal stab wound to the left side of her chest, about 1:00 p.m. Friday. The murder occurred in the 100 block of East 9th Street in National City.

According to the San Diego County’s Medical Examiner’s Office, Brown was taken to UCSD Medical Center where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Antoinette Dokes Hendricks, 18, was arrested and taken into custody late Saturday night in connection with the fatal stabbing on charges of suspicion of murder. The suspected murderer is also known as Antoinette Latrice Dokes.

Another suspect, Rachel Elizabeth Wheelis, 19, was also arrested and taken into custody on suspicion of being an accessory to murder, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

Hendricks and Brown appeared to have a mutual boyfriend, which might have been a motive.

Two Teens Held in Connection with Fatal National City Stabbing, KFMB News 8, April 19, 2009

Victim of stabbing ID'd; two have been arrested, Sign on San Diego, April 20, 2009

Continue reading "Two Teens Arrested For Murder of a National City Woman" »

A guilty verdict for legendary rock music producer Phil Spector, who was convicted today with second - degree murder in the fatal shooting death of actress Lana Clarkson at his mansion six years ago.

After 30 hours of deliberation, the Superior Court jury concluded that Spector, 69, murdered 40 year-old Clarkson just hours after meeting her at a Sunset Strip nightclub where she was a hostess.

As the verdict was read, Spector who has worked with recording artists such as the Beatles and Tina Turner, remained stoic while his young wife Rachelle wept.

Spector’s criminal defense attorney requested that he remain free on bail until sentencing. Judge Larry Paul Fidler rejected the request and ordered him into custody immediately. “Public safety and public protection are paramount,” Fidler said.

According to prosecutors, Spector had a history of threatening women with guns when they tried to leave his presence, especially if he was drunk.

“Every single fact says this is a self-inflicted gunshot wound,” defense attorney Doron Weinberg argued. “How do you ignore it? How do you say this could have been a homicide?”

Prosecutor Alan Jackson said the one word that could sum up Spector’s motive for killing Clarkson is: “Rage”.

Spector could be facing 15 years to life for the murder of Clarkson.

Spector guilty of 2nd degree murder, Sign on San Diego,April 13, 2009

Phil Spector convicted of second-degree murder, Los Angeles Times, April 13, 2009

Continue reading "Second Degree Murder Conviction for Phil Spector" »

A 21 year-old man was killed in Carlsbad, an Encinitas gang member was arrested and jailed on Sunday in connection with the fatal shooting, while two others were taken into custody on Monday, said police.

The incident happened in the area of Pine Park where the body of Juan Carlos Balderas of Encinitas was found in a vacant lot at Chestnut and Madison Street about 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, said Lt Kelly Cain.

Javier Lopez, 19 who is accused of shooting Balderas was arrested and taken into custody on Sunday. Carlsbad police gang detectives are investigating the violent crime. The motive for the killing has not yet been released, according to Carlsbad police Lt. Neil Gallucci.

Jose Barraza, 26 and Victor Lopez, 20 were arrested on Monday in connection with the murder, said Lt. Cain.

Lopez remains at the Vista jail without bail.

Three Arrested In Carlsbad Fatal Shooting, San Diego News 10.com, April 6,2009

Continue reading "Three Men Arrested on Suspicion of Shooting Man in Carlsbad" »

A woman who was on vacation visiting family with her husband was fatally stabbed in a Toys “R” Us parking lot in Oceanside on Friday, according to Oceanside police.

Katherine H. Parker 54, of Lincoln, was assaulted just after 4:00 p.m. when she had left a Hallmark store in Oceanside and was walking to her car in the parking lot near the toy store on Vista Way near South El Camino Real, said Oceanside police officer Kim Rainwater.

Parker was flown by a county fire rescue helicopter to a San Diego trauma center where she died a short time later, according to the Medical Examiner’s Office. Parker was from Lincoln, a small town in Northern California.

Investigators say there was no motive for the attack.

Russell Andreasen, 36, turned himself into police after remaining in the parking lot for them to arrive, according to Lt. Leonard Mata. The murder suspect was arrested and taken to the Oceanside police station for questioning.

Woman dies after being stabbed in parking lot, Sign on San Diego, April 4,2009

Oceanside Police Looking for Motive in Stabbing Death, KFMB News 8, April 4, 2009

Continue reading "Woman Fatally Stabbed in Oceanside Shopping Center" »

http://www.sandiegolawcenter.com/index.htmlIn Santee, a woman was found with multiple head wounds; her 50 year-old handyman boyfriend was taken into custody on attempted murder charges.

Sheriffs arrived at the home of Donald Lee Hinck just before 12:30am on Prestwick Way after Hinck called them to say he found his live-in girlfriend on the floor lying in a pool of blood.

Hinck said he had just gotten home but authorities found evidence to link him to the domestic violence assault.

It was unclear if the critically injured 38 year-old woman who had been living with Hinck since September would survive, so the detectives called in the homicide unit, according to sheriff’s Detective Pete Carrillo. The battered woman was taken to the hospital where she remains in intensive care.

Detectives found what they believe to be the assault weapon and several other items from the home, said Carrillo.

Hinck was taken to jail without bail and is scheduled for arraignment this Friday.

Man arrested after police find his girlfriend beaten, Sign on San Diego, March 26,2009

Continue reading "Police Arrest Man for Attempted Murder of Girlfriend" »

A mechanic who had just finished his shift early Tuesday morning at the Metropolitan Transit System complex in San Diego fired several gunshots at co-workers leaving one man dead and one man critically injured in this violent crime. Police shot and killed the gunman after he pointed his gun at them.

According to San Diego Police, Lonnie Glasco, 47, worked at the Metropolitan Transit System for 29 years, had just finished his shift when he walked into a lounge area and told co-workers “no one is going to leave” then went out into a parking lot and fired several shots with a deadly weapon, killing co-worker Benjamin Mwangi and critically injuring Michael Stevenson, 55 who later died at the University of California San Diego Medical Center.

When police arrived at the scene they found the shooting suspect holding a gun. After officers repeatedly told the gunman to drop the weapon, Glasco ignored their requests and made a call using his cell phone with his other hand, according to Lt Kevin Rooney. “When the call ended, he started to raise the gun at the officers and they shot him.” said Rooney.

Motives for the shootings are under investigation.

Third Man Dies In San Diego Transit Center Shooting, KFMB News 8, March 24, 2009

Continue reading "San Diego Transit Center Shooting Leaves Three Dead" »

A man was taken into custody after bringing a revolver to an Oceanside church on Sunday.

The crime happened the same day a church pastor was killed by gunshots in a Southern Illinois Church.

Oceanside police was alerted around 6:45am by the man’s wife who called and said that her husband was on his way to the Del Oro Hills Church to speak to his pastor and that he was carrying a gun.

Police and paramedics were dispatched to the church on Oceanside Boulevard near Avenida Del Oro. 17 police officers and a police dog surrounded the church building. Police said that the man walked out of the building “numerous times with the handgun and was very agitated.”

According to police, the man who has a history of mental illness reached into his waistband as if to remove the handgun, a police officer then fired a rubber bullet which just missed him. The man fell to the ground and dropped his gun upon hearing the gunshot.

The man was taken to jail and booked for weapons charges.

'Agitated' man arrested with handgun at church, Sign on San Diego, March 10, 2009

Continue reading "Oceanside Man Arrested For Bringing Handgun To Church" »

An acquittal verdict of voluntary manslaughter for a Jamul contractor who killed a man and injured another after thinking they were on his property to steel copper wiring.

Joseph “Bob” Orlosky testified in court that he fired gun shots at a Jeep that was carring Charles Crow, Hector Monget and David Hurley Jr. after he heard gunshots and was almost run over.

In the incident Crow, 23, was killed and Monget, 29 was injured. Hurley was not hurt.

The jury took almost 2 ½ days to reach their verdict of not guilty in the retrial of Orlosky. He was acquitted of murder last year by a different jury.

Orlonsky, 57, married and father of four is a heavy equipment contractor who stores his equipment on his property. He has had a series of copper thefts before the shooting. Two weeks before this incident, he held three thieves at gunpoint on his property until sheriffs arrived and arrested them. They were later convicted, said Pfingst.

“This was a very clear example of a property owner who confronted people who were there to steal, and he took defensive measures,” according to defense attorney Paul Pfingst.

Jamul Contractor Acquitted of Manslaughter Charges in Killing on Property, San Diego 6 the CW, March 6,2009

Continue reading "San Diego Jury Decides to Acquit Jamul Contractor in Manslaughter Case" »

An Encanto Man accused of stabbing his wife repeatedly is awaiting for the jury to reach a verdict in the case.

The defendant, Fredrick Melanson, 46, has been accused of first degree murder for stabbing his wife multiple times in the face, neck and chest.

According to prosecutors the defendant was upset with his wife Parmenia Melanson, 48, for non stop asking for money, and demanding for him to buy her a Gucci purse. The couple argued over finances.

After drinking several beers and tequila shots at the Formosa Club in Chula Vista he drove over 10 miles home. The waitress at the bar testified that Melanson seemed in a good mood and did not appear to be drunk when he left the club.

The prosecutor told the jury that Melanson liked hanging out with women at the Formosa Club because “they don’t give me crap.”

The defense attorney for the defendant said he is only guilty of voluntary manslaughter. He said his wife attacked him first, kicking him in the groin and poking him in the eye.

When the defendant arrived home, they apparently argued and his wife blocked him as tried to come out of the bathroom, he accidentally stepped on her foot according to his defense attorney. His wife thought is was on purpose. Melanson then picked up a knife he saw on some clothes and planned to take it back to the kitchen, that’s when his wife kicked him and poked him in the eye.

The defendant said that he passed out and does not remember stabbing her. “It happened so fast he did not have time to think.”

Melanson turned himself in after he awoke and saw what had happened. He told his defense attorney that he loved his wife and had no reason to kill her. He had to be provoked. This was not premeditated, but fueled by alcohol.

If convicted Melanson could be facing 26 years to life in prison.

Deliberations Begin in Murder Trial of Encanto Man Who Killed His Wife, San Diego 6 The CW, February 27,2009

Continue reading "San Diego Jury Deliberations Begin for Encanto Man who Allegedly Murdered Wife" »

In San Diego’s Oceanside area, after a 6 month undercover drug sting operation, 30 people were arrested last Thursday on drug charges or Possession for Sales.

Most of the arrested were gang members that had prior records for violent crimes.

Authorities had seven search warrants, seized two vehicles, $8500.00 in cash and a firearm. “They’re no longer in the streets,” said Ralph Patridge, special agent in charge with the Drug Enforcement Administration’s San Diego office. “They’re behind bars,” he said.

After many complaints from the Oceanside community about drugs being sold in the downtown streets, Oceanside police Chief Frank McCoy needed assistance from the DEA’s Mobile Enforcement Team.

The sting operation was called “Operation Rock Solid” which encompassed more than 200 law enforcement officers from several agencies were sent undercover to purchase illegal drugs such as crack cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy and marijuana.

More than a half-pound of crack cocaine, two ounces of methamphetamine, several pounds of marijuana and 500 ecstasy pills were seized by Oceanside detectives and special DEA agents during the raid.

According to special agent Patridge, while the number of the drugs seized is not particularly significant, “what’s significant is the people who were trafficking these drugs were violent gang members in your city.”

There are thirteen people still remain at large. Six of the more than 30 arrested have been charges with federal drug crimes.

More than 30 arrested on drug charges after 6-month probe, San Diego Union Tribune, February 26,2009

Continue reading "Oceanside Undercover Operation Nets 30 Arrests for Drugs" »

In the San Diego Courts yesterday a man that was accused of fatally stabbing a Pacific Beach man more than thirty years ago is facing trial on murder charges.

61 year old Gerald Dean Metcalf was taken into custody on October 14th for the 1971 stabbing murder of Gerald Jackson, a 27 year old Vietnam veteran who was found in his Pacific Beach apartment bedroom on January 2, 1972.

The San Diego Police Department linked this case to Metcalf through DNA testing and modern fingerprint analysis. Before then this was an unsolved case.

The prosecutors brought enough evidence from witnesses, former police officers and criminal investigators who worked on this case 37 years ago, to San Diego Superior Court Judge Frank Brown to have this case go to trial.

Metcalf could be facing 25 years to life in prison if he is convicted.

The victim had 61 stab wounds on his body, including his throat, chest and back. According to authorities, he was killed the night of December 28, 1971.

Jackson who worked as a U.S. postal carrier and also as a bouncer at the Barbary Coast nightclub in San Diego was reported missing by friends and co-workers. They knew something was wrong when he didn’t show up for work for days.

Ronald Coberly who was 27 at the time the violent murder took place said in court that he went to Jackson's apartment went into the bedroom saw blood on the bed and wall, “I could not believe what I was looking at”, said Coberly about the San Diego crime scene.

Jackson’s Ford Torino was missing and later found in Mexicali, Mexico. A stereo receiver was also found in a pawn shop in Calexico.

Fingerprints that were taken from Jackson’s car and stereo receiver that were stored in a database matched Metcalf’s, along with DNA that was taken from cigarette butts and stains according to Deputy District Attorney Jill Schall.

Man to face trial in 1971 fatal stabbing, The Union Tribune, February 25,2009

Continue reading "Man Ordered to Stand Trial in San Diego 1971 Stabbing Death" »

A San Diego, Carlsbad man was taken into custody on attempted murder charges last Sunday after shooting an 18 year old man in a gang related incident, according to police.

The shooting occurred about 12:25am on Pio Pico Drive and Yourell in Carlsbad. The victim was shot in the head and taken to the hospital by friends. The injury was not life threatening according to police Sergeant Mickey Williams.

After witnesses later identified the shooter, Raul Gonzales, 20, was arrested on Sunday around 9:25 p.m. during a traffic stop on Interstate 5 near Cannon Road.

The suspect is facing charges of assault with a firearm, participating in a street gang and violating probation. He is being held at the Vista jail without bail.

Carlsbad man, 20, held in gang-related shooting of teen, San Diego Union Tribune, February 23, 2009

Continue reading "Carlsbad Man Arrested for Attempted Murder of a Teen" »

An Ocean Beach man who is accused of murdering his ex wife is scheduled for a preliminary hearing today, which could also determine if there is enough evidence for this case to go to trial.

Henry Lisowski, 68, was supposed to start paying child support to Rosa Lisowski his estranged wife, but instead could be facing the death penalty if convicted in the crime of her murder.

Rosa Lisowski, 50, was last seen March 24th while walking her son to school in the Midway-Loma Portal area.

Rosa had been awarded custody of their two children and two other children from a previous relationship while in their nasty divorce battle. Lisowski was supposed to start paying the victim $1100 per month in child support starting April 1, 2008. A court hearing was scheduled so he could prove that he was not underreporting his income, according to prosecutor Nicole Cooper.

The defendant traveled to Costa Rica during the homicide investigation and had access to large amounts of cash, said Cooper.

Witnesses said they saw Lisowski’s face and arms with fresh scratch marks the day after Rosa went missing. The victims blood was found on the kitchen counter in their home, in the cargo area and the inside of the passenger door of the defendant’s Lexus.

In September, Lisowski was charged with murder, and also charged with the special circumstance of murder for financial gain.

The San Diego police have never recovered the body of Rosa Lisowski.

Preliminary Hearing Today For Man Accused In Estranged Wife's Murder, KFMB News 8, February 17, 2009

Continue reading "A Man From San Diego's Ocean Beach Area has Preliminary Hearing for Estranged Wife’s Homicide" »

Two United States Sailors are being charged with the murder of a Mexican prostitute and attempted murder on another in Tijuana.

Petty Officer Second Class Joshua Docker, 27, and Petty Officer Third Class Jarrett Monzingo 22, have been charged with murder and attempted murder and are being held at La Mesa Prison in Tijuana, Mexico.

The incident occurred on January 17, when witnesses and a hotel camera place the two sailors at the same hotel where Mayte Victoria Delgado Flores 19, was found dead.

In a separate incident, the two men were found by police last Thursday in the early morning after meeting with two prostitutes in rented rooms at the Zona Norte Hotel. One of the women and a hotel employee were found stabbed, while the other woman was choked. The sailors were taken into custody and charged with assault with great bodily injury. According to authorities, they later found evidence connecting them to the murder in January.

This is a very serious and complicated case involving violent crimes, alcohol, drugs, and weapons. “The trial takes place before a single judge, and a case like this could take several years to go through all of the different stages” said Jorge Vargas who practiced law in Mexico City.

One of the sailors worked for VRC 30, a logistics and transportation arm of the U.S. Navy. The other sailor was undergoing BUD/S training to be a Navy SEAL.

Sailors Formally Charged In Tijuana Prostitute Attack 10News.com

2 US sailors charged with murder in Mexico The News and Observer

Continue reading "San Diego Based Sailors Charged With Murder" »

For the first time since the administration of LBJ, San Diego has seen the lowest rate in crime per capita says Mayor Jerry Sanders. According to the City of San Diego’s crime report there has been an 8% decrease in crime rates in San Diego.

There were five-percent fewer murders in 2008 compared to 2007. Robberies were down 3-percent, as well as aggravated assaults, hate crimes and domestic violence. Although, there has been a 27 percent increase in rapes in San Diego.

According to Police Chief William Lansdowne, about 80 percent of the rapes that happen are date rapes, usually spousal rapes where people have consumed too much alcohol and have become overly intoxicated . He also stated that the reason he feels there is a rise in these statistics is because more rape victims are reporting these crimes.

Chief Lansdowne also said that grant money will be used for the prevention of rape.

The good news is that with the decrease in crime San Diego is considered one of the safest places to live.

San Diego Crime Rate Drops 8% San Diego 6 TheCW

Continue reading "San Diego Sees an 8 Percent Decrease in Crime" »

The media is buzzing about a new celeb-papparazzi showdown. Apparently a paparazzi has filed a lawsuit in California court claiming that David Beckham and his bodyguard beat him repeatedly, grabbed his camera, and threw it in a trash can.

Emicles Da Mata is suing Beckham and his bodyguard for assault and battery, plus emotional distress. Da Mata is seeking unspecified damages.

Beckham’s attorney reportedly released a statement to E! News stating the following:

"The allegations against Mr. Beckham are false and are without merit. This is another in a long line of paparazzi cases where they chase celebrities and their families causing endangerment."

One wonders how long Da Mata has worked as a paparazzi if an encounter with the world-famous athlete and sex symbol caused him emotional distress.

David Beckham Sued Over Bodyguard's Pap Smack, E! News, January 27, 2009

Beckham Sued -- Accused of Beating Photog, TMZ.com, January 26, 2009

Continue reading "David Beckham Accused of Assault and Battery " »

A possible gang attack during the weekend of December 6 left two San Diego students dead. San Diego homicide detectives and witnesses said Monique Palmer, 17, and Michael Taylor, 15, were at a party attended by Lincoln High School students when three cars pulled up filled with suspected gang members. They pointed handguns and yelled gang challenges at party guests before driving away just before 1am.

A few minutes later, Palmer and Taylor left the party with a group of other students. Two men approached them at the corner of San Jacinto and Groveland drives and fired shots before fleeing south on San Jacinto. Palmer died at the scene of the shooting, while Taylor died at a nearby hospital soon after.

Police have not yet released a description of the shooters, but dozens of people gathered at the shooting site the following night to honor the two shooting victims.

Community reeling after 2 teenagers fatally shot, San Diego Tribune-Union, December 7, 2008

Continue reading "Two San Diego Students Fatally Shot" »

Yesterday, a San Diego jury convicted a California man of murder. The 22-year old had fatally injured a professional surfer during a fight on the evening of May 24, 2007. Emery Kauanui sustained severe head trauma outside of his mother’s home in La Jolla and died in the hospital a few days later.

As a result, Seth Cravens, 22, has been convicted of second-degree murder, which carries a possible sentence of 15 years to life in prison. Cravens and his defense attorney claimed that he acted in self-defense when he punched Kaunaui. His lawyer said they plan to appeal the jury’s decision.

Craven’s sentencing is scheduled for January 12. In addition, Cravens faces charges of assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury and misdemeanor battery in connection with earlier incidents.

Man found guilty of second-degree murder in surfer's beating death, SignonSanDiego.com, November 18, 2008

San Diego jury finds man guilty of surfer's murder, Associated Press, November 18, 2008

Continue reading "California Man Found Guilty of Murder" »

Last week, a graduate student at University of California San Diego reported being sexual assaulted. The 24-year-old told police that her attacker forced his way into her graduate-student housing and threatened her with a knife. Police say the suspect bound his sexual assault victim, possibly with duct tape.

The sexual assault victim notified police around 3:30 pm. She described her attacker as an white man in his twenties with a goatee. He was wearing a white San Diego Chargers t-shirt, baseball cap, and jeans and carrying a knife and a backpack.

San Diego Police are investigating the case along with campus police.

UCSD student says man sexually assaulted her, The Union-Tribune, November 8, 2008

Continue reading "San Diego Police Search for Sexual Assault Suspect " »

In San Diego, California, a study examining victims and suspects of violent crimes has revealed that about half of last year’s San Diego homicides with known motives were connected to gang violence. One hundred and five homicides occurred in San Diego County last year. Of those, 88 had a known motive and 41 were attributed to gang activity.

The study was released last week by the San Diego Association of Governments. The study also found that San Diego homicide victims tended to be older than in past years. In fact, 42% were between 25 and 39. The reason behind this trend is unknown.

In addition, the SANDAG study found that a quarter of female rape victims were under 18 and 85% of homicide victims were male. Children and younger teens were suspected in a third of the San Diego County robberies last year.

Gangs blamed in half of San Diego homicides, San Diego Union-Tribune, October 9, 2008

Continue reading "Study Offers Insights Into San Diego Violent Crime" »

In California, a woman accused of bombing the San Diego federal courthouse earlier this year could not explain to investigators why the explosion occurred. Rachelle Carlock, 31, blamed Ella Louise “Weezy” Sanders, 57, who is also charged in the bombing case. When pressed for a motive, Carlock reportedly said, “I don’t know why I did it. I really don’t.”

The two women will appear in court this week, facing charges of conspiracy, using a weapon of mass destruction, and other counts. They could face life in prison if convicted.

Eric Robinson, 43, who admitted to driving the getaway car following the bombing of the San Diego federal courthouse, faces a minimum sentence of 30 years in prison. His hearing is scheduled for January.

The defense attorney for one of the accused said the case is less complex than it may appear because, “there are some serious cognitive deficits that led to this case.”

Bombing suspect can't cite a motive, SignonSanDiego.com, October 5, 2008

Continue reading "San Diego Bombing Suspect Can’t Give Motive " »

According to TMZ.com, the LA County District Attorney has rejected a domestic violence case against actor Chad Stansbury, the ex boyfriend of supermodel Angie Everhart.

Back in August, Everhart told police that Stansbury had choked her during an argument, then fled the scene. Stansbury was then arrested and booked on suspicion of domestic violence.

Stansbury is now off the book, because the D.A. concluded that there wasn’t enough evidence to prosecute. Everhart has reportedly started dating Joe Pesci again.

Officials: No Breath in Supermodel Choking Case, TMZ.com, October 1, 2008

Continue reading "Domestic Violence Cast Against Angie Everhart Ex is Dropped" »

San Diego police are investigating allegations that a Scripps Ranch High School math teacher deliberately choked a student. School administrators put Peter Burrell on paid leave two weeks after the choking incident.

The conflict came as the result of a disagreement over seating arrangements and quickly escalated when Burrell reportedly picked the student up by his backpack and shirt, walked him outside the classroom, and started choking him. The school district said it handles its policy on punishing students on a case-by-case basis, but it does not allow corporal punishment.

The mother of Lammar Mainor, 15, was told by school officials that there were no school police to respond to the violent incident due to budget cuts. She then filed a report with San Diego police on September 16 after taking her son to see his pediatrician. The doctor’s report states that Mainor suffered from swelling around the trachea.

According to the district attorney’s office, Burrell may face battery charges.

Math Teacher Accused Of Choking Student, www.10News.com, September 30, 2008

Continue reading "San Diego Teacher Accused of Choking Student" »

San Diego police arrested a man accused in a domestic violence assault after several hours of negotiations with the suspect. Officers ordered him to leave a house on Dunwood Way, but the 48-year-old man refused, holding off officers for several hours before he finally surrendered on a Friday morning in Bay Terraces in late August.

The original order came at 3pm and by 8:40pm, police called in SWAT officers because they believed the domestic violence suspect may have had a weapon. At 2:45am, the man surrendered and was booked into county jail on charges of domestic violence assault.

Domestic violence occurs when a battery is directed towards a spouse, former spouse, or someone the suspect dates or has dated in the past. It is a misdemeanor that carries with it a maximum sentence of one year in county jail, plus a one year domestic violence program.

Domestic violence suspect surrenders after lengthy standoff, SignonSanDiego.com, August 29, 2008

Continue reading "San Diego Man Accused of Domestic Violence Surrenders" »

In Jacumba, California, a man convicted of child molestation was arrested earlier this month on suspicion of violating the terms of his release. Following a 1987 conviction for molesting two young girls, he was sentenced to three years in prison after which he had been sent to live in the East County community under court-ordered supervision. He was also convicted of failing to register in San Diego County as a sex offender in 1996.

Police picked up Gary Gene Snavely, 45, around 5pm after the Sheriff’s Department received notification that Snavely was not following his prescribed treatment. He was booked in San Diego Central Jail and will be held pending court hearings. He is not under suspicion of committing any new crimes; instead, he is being held for failure to follow his treatment plan.

California law requires sexually violent predators to return to the county where they committed their crimes after a treatment program at a state hospital. A sexually violent predator is defined as someone who has been convicted of a violent sex crime and has been diagnosed with a mental disorder.

Child molester under supervision arrested, SignOnSanDiego.com, September 12, 2008

Continue reading "California Child Molester Arrested" »

Sheriff’s homicide detectives in San Diego arrested a suspect in the July murder of a Pala Indian Reservation teen. A Pala security officer discovered the body of Devin Blackowl, 18, in a dirt lot on July 24.

Detectives believe that the murderer and the victim knew each other, but they have not found a motive behind the slaying.

The 29-year-old slaying suspect was already booked into Central Jail on one count of murder, so detectives did not have to look too far to find him. Sheriff’s homicide Lt. Dennis Brugos said detectives took John Edward Maxcy into custody at Donovan State Prison for an unrelated criminal offense.

Maxcy was scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon in the North County courthouse in Vista.

Suspect arrested in July slaying on Pala Reservation, SignonSanDiego.com, September 16, 2008

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Last Friday in San Diego, four twentysomething men who attended La Jolla High School together were sentenced for their role in the death of 24-year-old Emery Kauanui. What began as a bar brawl in 2007 left Kauanui bleeding with severe head trauma outside his mother’s house. The former professional surfer died at the hospital a few days later after he was taken off life support.

Three of the men pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter: Eric House, 21, Orlando Osuna, 23, and Matthew Yanke, 22. Earlier this summer, Osuna and Yanke also pleaded guilty to unrelated counts of misdemeanor battery. Henri Hendricks, 22, pleaded guilty to being an accessory to the death and to an unrelated misdemeanor battery.

The judge assigned to the case considered the defendants’ previously clean records and the lack of evidence that any of the four had delivered the fatal blow to Kaunanui. They were sentenced to between 90 and 349 days in jail, which was less than the prosecution had hoped for. However, all face three years of probation.

A fifth defendant, Seth Cravens, is thought to be the ringleader of the group and has pleaded not guilty to murder. He awaits trial on October 14.

Jail terms for 4 San Diego men in surfer's death, Associated Press, September 5, 2008

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On Friday, the body of a man suspected of killing a 74-year-old grandmother was found in the unincorporated part of Calimesa, California. Jeff Nolen, 38, had been identified by a San Diego Country sheriff as the live-in boyfriend of the slain women’s granddaughter and the father of the granddaughter’s three children.

The name of the elderly murder victim has not been released, but the Medical Examiner’s Office said she had been strangled and was believed to be dead for several days before her body was discovered last Thursday when San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a request for a welfare check.

The granddaughter, 32-year-old Amy Jo Mitchell, was arrested last week on suspicion of financial abuse of an elder. She was being held in lieu of $50,00 bail and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon. The cause of death for her boyfriend Nolen has not been released to the public.

Suspect in Fallbrook case is discovered dead, SignonSanDiego.com, September 6, 2008

Suspect Wanted in Girlfriend's Grandmother's Murder, CBS8.com, September 5, 2008

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A few weeks ago, California’s high court ruled 4-3 that Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger had wrongly denied parole to a convicted murderer. The court’s decision stated that the governor must consider not only the nature of the crime, but must also demonstrate “some evidence” that the person in question is a danger to public safety, when overturning Board of Parole Hearings’ decisions.

This ruling comes in response to the Board of Parole Hearing’s decision to grant parole to Sandra Davis Lawrence, 61, in 2005. Lawrence had been convicted of first degree murder for killing her lover’s wife and served 23 years in jail. Because she had no record of discipline problems while in jail, expressed remorse for her crime, and showed no signs of being a public danger, the Board opted to grant Lawrence parole.

In 2006, Schwarzenegger attempted to veto that decision based on the nature of the murder, calling it “a cold, premeditated murder carried out in an especially cruel manner and committed for an incredibly petty reason.” The divided court ruled that while the crime is a factor in parole decisions, it should not disqualify parole grants to murderers who are serving out a life sentence.

Court rules governor wrongly denied killer parole, Associated Press, August 21, 2008

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