Bexar County, TX

Sponsor Scoop - AIM Newsletter - May 2019
Posted On: May 23, 2019
Click here to view the May 2019 Sponsor Scoop Newsletter

Announcing the Peer Mediation Sponsor of the Year Award!
Posted On: May 14, 2019
The BCDRC and the San Antonio Bar Foundation recognize the outstanding efforts of Ms. Apearl Gonzalez with the support of the Administrative Team at Oak Crest Elementary School. Ms. Gonzalez was selected out of 111 school sponsors to receive the 2018-2019 Peer Mediation Sponsor of the Year Award! We would like to recognize Ms. Gonzalez for sustaining a successful peer mediation program that regularly practices peaceful conflict resolution.  It is Ms. Gonzalez's second year to sponsor student mediators at Oak Crest Elementary and she reported the peer mediators are even modeling their skills learned in training to resolve disputes on the playground!  Thank you for your dedication to building and repairing relationships at your campus and impacting the community.  Congratulations!  Pictured from left to right:  Roland Toscano, Superintendent of East Central ISD; Apearl Gonzalez, Professional School Counselor; Joette Barnes, School Principal.

Announcing the Winners of the 2019 AIM for Peace T-Shirt Design Contest!
Posted On: April 08, 2019
Thank you to all participants for submitting outstanding designs to promote peace and conflict resolution in Bexar County schools!Congratulations Triniti Garcia (Hillcrest Elementary School/San Antonio I.S.D.), winner of the $100 gift card prize in the 4th Annual AIM for Peace T-Shirt Design Contest, sponsored by the San Antonio Bar Association & Foundation in support of the Bexar County Dispute Resolution Center's AIM Peer Mediation Program!Triniti's design received the most votes out of 421 entries & will inspire next year's peer mediation t-shirts!2nd Place:  Congrats to Rylie Torres (Taft High School/Northside I.S.D.), winner of the $75 gift card prize & bragging rights!3rd Place: Congrats to Catherine Broadus (Krueger Middle School/North East I.S.D.), winner of the $50 gift card prize & bragging rights!We look forward to continuing this annual contest to help you promote your campus peer mediation program.  In case you missed it, you can check out the contest by clicking here.Stay tuned for our next contest in August 2019!

4/1/2019 - Sex offender receives 8 life sentences for sexually assaulting 7-year-old girl
Posted On: April 01, 2019
A convicted sex offender received a total of eight life sentences after he was convicted on charges he sexually assaulted a child and filmed it.A Bexar County jury found Jose Trinidad Gonzalez, 36, guilty Friday in the 226th District Court. Gonzalez was accused of sexually assaulting a 7 year old child in 2017. The victim’s mother discovered video recordings of the crimes on a tablet used by the child to play video games, but owned by Gonzalez.Gonzalez was also found guilty of violation of sex offender registration, due to his failure to register his address with law enforcement, which was a requirement of his 2002 conviction for sexual assault. That sentence required him to register as a sex offender. Gonzalez also had a 2002 conviction for aggravated kidnapping.As a result of the 2002 convictions, the aggravated sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child by contact punishment ranges of are elevated. Upon conviction in this case, automatic life sentences are granted. The District Attorney’s Office filed a motion requesting that the sentences be served consecutively (stacked). Judge Velia Meza agreed to the request. In addition, Gonzalez was sentenced to the maximum punishment allowed for the remaining charges, which included four life sentences (concurrent) and three 20-year sentences. Gonzalez must serve 140 years before he can be considered for parole. Judge Meza also assessed a $10,000 fine for each of the automatic life sentences.The case was investigated by the San Antonio Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Karl Alexander and Melissa Saenz.CountsChargeSentence2Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child2 Automatic Life Sentences (Stacked) + $10,000 Fine2Indecency With a Child-Contact2 Automatic Life Sentences (Stacked) + $10,000 Fine3Sexual Performance of a Child3 Life Sentences (Concurrent)3Possession of Child Pornography3 20-Year Sentences (Concurrent)1Violation of Sex Offender RegistrationLife Sentence (Concurrent)

4/19/2018 - Guilty Verdict for Deandre Dorch, Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard
Posted On: April 19, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, April 19, 2018: Yesterday, a Bexar County Jury in Impact Court found Deandre Dorch, age 38, guilty of two counts of Injury to a Child causing Serious Bodily Injury and two counts of Abandonment of a Child. Dorch will be sentenced by Judge Laura Parker later next month.   On April 28, 2016, a resident in the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child crying for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the location and looked over the fence, where they observed two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash; one of the children was tied at the wrists and the other at the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment of numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to 11 years old, all without adult supervision.   Porucha Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the house an hour later with Deandre Dorch. Cheryl Reed, the mother of the two children found outside, claimed she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved to Texas from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Reed faces criminal charges of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and Child Abandonment stemming from this incident.   “I have said many times that I believe children are gifts from the Lord and should be treated as such. Our community should not tolerate evil behavior towards children, this office definitely does not,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood.   Assistant District Attorneys Emily Angulo and Karl Alexander prosecuted the case against Dorch in Impact Court.   Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Abandonment of a Child is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

2/13/2018 - Life without Parole for Defendant who Sexually Assaulted two Young Girls
Posted On: February 13, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, February 13, 2018: Last week, the judge of the 399th District Court sentenced Tracy Cobbs, age 41, to confinement for life without the possibility of parole. Previously, a jury in the 399th District Court had found Cobbs guilty on two counts of Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child for sexually abusing two girls, ages five and four.  Cobbs, who was a family friend of the girls’ parents, took the family into his home when they were going through a hard time. The girls’ mother took the girls to Cobbs’ home for shelter and lodging, but left them alone with him due to her own substance dependency. The girls’ father gained custody of the girls but left them under the care of their grandparents when he found employment out of state. Within two weeks of living with their grandparents, the girls told their grandmother about how they had been abused by Cobbs.   Over the course of the investigation and trial preparation, Assistant District Attorneys learned of two additional victims who had been sexually assaulted by Cobbs. Additionally, Cobbs had an extensive criminal history. At trial it was shown that in 1989, Cobbs had previously committed an aggravated robbery against three individuals. One of the individuals was Mr. Greg Ferris, an ex-SAPD Officer, who owned a gun shop where the robberies took place.  During sentencing, Mr. Ferris testified about the robbery.  Prosecutors also presented evidence showing Cobbs had been on felony probation at the time he committed not only the robbery but also the sexual assaults“I’ve said it once before and I will say it again, child abuse is one of the most disgusting acts out there and it is something that I will not tolerate,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our children are precious gifts from the Lord and we must protect them, anyone who harms children will be held accountable by our Office.” Assistant District Attorneys Denise Hairston and Daryl Harris from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Cobbs in the 399th District Court.  Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, with an enhanced punishment, due to the girls’ age, punishable by a minimum of 25 years to life without parole and a $10,000.00 fine.

1/30/2018 - Defendant Sentenced to 20 Years for Injuring 9-week-old
Posted On: January 30, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, January 30, 2018: Yesterday, a Bexar County Jury in the 175th District Court sentenced Sierra Fisher, age 22, to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Last Friday, jurors found her guilty of a 2014 Injury to Child – Serious Bodily Injury case that left her child with 13 total fractures. On January 26th, 2014, the 9-week-old infant was taken to the emergency room by Sierra Fisher and her boyfriend/co-defendant, whose case is still pending. The victim had bruising on his face; scratches to his face and back; an acute spiral fracture to his left arm; and healing rib and leg fractures.  The infant had a total of 13 fractures which were non-accidental in nature. The bruising was determined to be intentional because the child was too young to crawl or move on his own. Fisher was charged with commission for causing the injuries, omission for allowing her boyfriend to inflict the injuries, and omission for failing to seek medical treatment for the victim. Fisher and her boyfriend were the exclusive care givers for the victim with the exception of the biological father who had some visitation but not recent enough to have inflicted the acute arm fracture. "Child abuse is one of the most disgusting acts out there and it is something that I will not tolerate,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our children are precious gifts from the Lord and we must protect them, anyone who harms children will be held accountable by our Office.”During sentencing, prosecutors asked the jury to send a message to the Bexar County community on how we feel about child abuse, asking the jury to start at 20 years and go up or down from there. Assistant District Attorneys Anna Scott and Brandon Ramsey from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Fisher in the 175th District Court. Injury to Child-Intentionally/Knowingly causing Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony punishable by 5-99 years and up to a $10,000 dollar fine.

Grand Jurors Return Fifth Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Paul Villarreal
Posted On: October 31, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, October 31st, 2017:  This morning, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Genene Jones, age 66, for the September 24, 1981 murder of 3-month-old Paul Villarreal.   “These are your kids too. These are San Antonio babies,” said Petti McClellan-Wiese during the press conference this afternoon, she is the mother of 15-month-old Chelsea McClellan, who fell victim to Genene Jones in 1982. In 1984, a jury in Williamson County sentenced Jones to 99 years in prison for the death of Chelsea McClellan.  Over the last year, the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office has announced several indictments against Jones. In June, this office announced the indictments against Jones for the July 3, 1981 murder of 8-month-old Richard “Ricky” Nelson; the January 17, 1982 murder of 4 ½ month-old Patrick Zavala; and the September 16, 1981 murder of 2-year-old Rosemary Vega. In May, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Jones for the 1981 murder of 11-month-old Joshua Sawyer.  The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million for this latest indictment. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was initially sentenced in 1984, she will be released from prison in March 2018. She will, however, not be released from custody; at some point, Jones will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for her new murder charges. Jones is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.  “True Justice will come when she stands before the Lord, but until then, we will do our best to make sure Genene Jones takes her last breath from behind prison bars,” said District Attorney LaHood.  Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

10/16/2017 - Guilty plea for Porucha Phillips Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard results in 50
Posted On: October 16, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, October 16, 2017: District Attorney Nico LaHood announced Friday that Porucha Phillips, age 34, entered a plea to two counts of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and received a sentence of 50 years in prison. She will not be eligible for parole until she has served 25 years of that sentence.On April 28, 2016, a resident in the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child cry for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies showed up at the location and looked over the fence, where they discovered two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash. One of the children was tied up by the wrists and the other by the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. The two children had numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to 11 years old. All of the children were without adult supervision.Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the home with Deandre Dorch, an hour later. Cheryl Reed, the mother of the two children found outside tied up, claims she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Dorch and Reed still face criminal charges of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and Child Abandonment from this incident.“What Porucha Phillips did to these children is beyond my understanding. Children are gifts from the Lord and should be treated as such. In the law, we call it a depraved heart and unfortunately there are others out there that have the same seared conscience,” said District Attorney LaHood. “I promise to continue my push for increased punishments for these chronic abusers during the next legislative session. Let me be clear, anyone that abuses those who cannot defend themselves - our communities’ most vulnerable (children, elderly & disabled) will be dealt with swiftly and harshly.”Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Child Abandonment is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

9/13/2017 - 88-Year Prison Sentence Handed Down to Step-Grandmother for Death of 5-Year-old Boy
Posted On: September 13, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, September 13, 2017: Last night, a Bexar County jury in the 379th District Court sentenced Gloria Proo, age 52, to 88 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On Monday, jurors found Proo guilty of Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission in connection with the death of 5-year-old Josiah Williams.On December 27, 2012, emergency responders were called out to a home in the 3900 block of Gayle Avenue. Once inside, they discovered Josiah Williams unresponsive, lying on the floor. First responders, who immediately began attempting to revive the boy, said Josiah had two black eyes, cuts, scrapes, and bruising all over his body. Josiah was pronounced dead at the scene.An autopsy later revealed Josiah had been beaten and starved to death. At the time of his death, the 5-year-old weighed 38 pounds. The Medical Examiner testified Josiah died as a result of "dehydration in a battered, underweight child." Gloria Proo had cared for and babysat Josiah. During an interview with San Antonio police detectives, Proo denied any involvement in Josiah's death. During the trial, Josiah's maternal grandmother testified that prior to staying with Proo, he was a "happy, go lucky child." Josiah had been with Proo, his biological father Charleston Williams, and his stepmother Crystal Williams, for six months before he died. Additionally, a family acquaintance testified that Josiah's skin was "yellow" and appeared extremely underweight weeks before his death. At the time of his death, Josiah was not enrolled in school."In his short life, Josiah went through pain, torture and isolation," said District Attorney LaHood. "No child should die thinking they are alone and unloved. We commend the jury for sending a strong message with their sentence."In June 2016, a jury sentenced Crystal Williams to 99 years in prison and assessed a $10,000.00 fine. Charleston Williams, who is also charged with Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission, is awaiting trial in the 379th District Court. Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd and Grant Bryan from our Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Proo in the 379th District Court.

8/24/2017 - 45-Year Sentence for Man Who Violently Assaulted Girlfriend and Three Children
Posted On: August 24, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, August 24, 2017: This week, Felony Impact Court Judge Laura Parker sentenced Markus Lorenzo Scott, age 39, to 45 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for the charge of Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury. Additionally, Judge Parker sentenced Scott to 20 years in prison for the charge of Assault Family Choking – Strangulation. Last month, Scott pleaded guilty to the charges. The sentences will be served concurrently, or at the same time.On April 4, 2016, Scott came home intoxicated and assaulted his girlfriend and then began violently assaulting children who were at the home. Scott assaulted a 9-year-old boy by punching him in the eye; he then began choking the 11-year-old niece of his girlfriend before he started kicking the girl’s 12-year-old brother and repeatedly stomped him in his head. Scott left the home before San Antonio police responded to the scene, but was arrested a short time later when he was found hiding in the bushes. Under questioning by detectives, Scott denied any involvement. Meanwhile, the 12-year-old boy, who suffered the most severe injuries, was put in a medically induced coma. Family members said the boy had to learn how to talk and walk due to the traumatic injuries he received from the attack.During the punishment hearing, Prosecutor Karl Alexander told the judge that Scott “killed” what the boy could have been in the future. On the stand, Scott continued to blame the 12-year-old boy and stated he had enough of him and “snapped.” Assistant District Attorneys Karl Alexander and Brittany Byrd from our Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Scott.Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assault Family Choking – Strangulation is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

7/10/2017 - 60-Year Prison Sentence for Man Convicted in Grandson’s Murder
Posted On: July 10, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, July 10, 2017: Today, 379th District Court Judge Ron Rangel sentenced Joel Soto to 60 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Last month, a Bexar County jury found Soto guilty of the murder of his 2-year-old grandson, Jeremy Soto. Jurors also returned guilty verdicts for the charges of Manslaughter, Arson and Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury.On November 16, 2013, San Antonio police responded to a call for a truck on fire off Rogers Road near Wiseman. Inside the truck, authorities discovered the body of 2-year-old Jeremy Soto. The Medical Examiner later revealed Jeremy had passed away before the fire. Additionally, the 2-year-old had a lethal dose of methamphetamine in his system. During his trial last month, a Child Protective Services case worker testified that the defendant had admitted to using methamphetamine just a few days prior to his grandson’s death. Arson investigators also testified that the fire was not an accident and had originated from inside the truck on the passenger’s side, where Jeremy was sitting.“It’s tragic enough to have a 2-year-old child subjected to such harm by his own grandfather that ultimately took his life, but then to further it by burning his body - is absolutely unthinkable,” said District Attorney LaHood. “I want to commend Prosecutors Stephanie Boyd and Lauren Glasscock and the jury for exercising justice for Jeremy Soto.”Murder and Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury are first degree felonies, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Manslaughter and Arson are second degree felonies, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However due to Soto’s criminal history, his punishment range was enhanced to 15 to 99 years or life in prison. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd and Lauren Glasscock prosecuted the case against Soto in the 379th District Court.

6/29/2017 - Grand Jurors Return Two New Murder Indictments Against Genene Jones
Posted On: June 29, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 29, 2017: This morning, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned two new murder indictments against Genene Jones. The new indictments are for the July 3, 1981 murder of 8-month-old Richard "Ricky" Nelson and for the January 17, 1982 murder of 4 1/2 month-old Patrick Zavala. Last week, our office announced the indictment against Jones for the September 16, 1981 murder of Rosemary Vega. Last month, we announced the indictment against Jones for the December 12, 1981 murder of Joshua Sawyer.The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million each for these two new indictments. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was sentenced, she will be released from prison in March 2018. Prior to her mandatory release, she will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for the new charges. Jones is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the continuing investigations, we will reserve further comment at this time regarding potential future charges against Jones.

6/21/2017 - Grand Jurors Return 2nd Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Rosemary Vega
Posted On: June 21, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 21, 2017: This morning, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Genene Jones for the September 16, 1981 murder of 2-year-old Rosemary Vega. Last month, our office announced the indictment against Jones for the December 12, 1981 murder of 11-month-old Joshua Sawyer.The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million for this latest indictment. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was sentenced, she will be released from prison in March 2018. Prior to her mandatory release, she will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for the new charges. Jones is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the continuing investigations, we will reserve further comment at this time regarding potential future charges against Jones.

5/25/2017 - Genene Jones Indicted for 1981 Death of Joshua Sawyer
Posted On: May 25, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 25, 2017: Today, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Genene Jones, age 66, for the 1981 murder of Joshua Sawyer. Jones is suspected of killing up to 60 infants. She is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.On December 12, 1981, Jones was working as a nurse in the pediatric intensive care unit in what was formally known as the Bexar County Hospital. Evidence shows that Jones injected 11-month-old Joshua Sawyer with a toxic level of Dilantin.In 1984, a jury in Williamson County sentenced Jones to 99 years in prison for the death of 15-month-old Chelsea McClellan. In late 1984, in Bexar County, a Judge sentenced Jones to 60 years in prison for injecting then 4-week-old Rolando Santos with Heparin. The sentences were ordered to be served concurrently.When District Attorney LaHood took office in January 2015, he approved a Task Force to investigate Jones and the crimes she committed.“As people are well aware, I believe children are a gift from the Lord,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Genene Jones did not see children in this regard. She is pure evil and justice warrants that she be held accountable for the crimes she committed. Our Office will attempt to account for every child whose life was stolen by the actions of Jones. Our only focus is justice.”The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was sentenced, she will be released from prison in March 2018. Prior to her mandatory release, she will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for the new charges. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the continuing investigations, we will reserve further comment at this time regarding future charges against Jones.

3/31/2017 - Pair Indicted in Horrific Abuse Case of 21-Month-old Girl
Posted On: March 31, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 31, 2017: A Bexar County Grand Jury has indicted a couple for causing horrific injuries to a 21-month-old girl. Isaac Andrew Cardenas, age 24, was indicted for two counts of Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. The victim’s mother, Crystal Herrera, age 22, was indicted for one count of Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission.On December 31, 2016, Herrera called 911 claiming her 21-month-old daughter had been attacked by dogs. When deputies and emergency responders arrived to the south Bexar County home, they observed the girl had suffered severe injuries to her genital and anal area. The victim was transported to University Hospital for treatment. Investigators with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and doctors described the child’s injuries as horrific and some of the worst they have ever seen. Under questioning by investigators, both Cardenas and Herrera claimed the victim had been attacked by dogs. When compared to the medical evidence, the child’s injuries did not match their story, but are consistent with a brutal sexual assault.“It is unthinkable to hear allegations of a mom involved in such horrific behavior,” said District Attorney LaHood. “This alleged abuse is disgusting and will be treated appropriately. We will not grow weary in showing the community how much we value children.”Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, with an enhanced punishment of 25 years to life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Cardenas and Herrera are awaiting trial out of the 227th District Court. The District Attorney’s Office Child Abuse Unit will be prosecuting the cases against the defendants.

3/8/2017 - Bill Targeting Serial Abusers of the Most Vulnerable Filed Today
Posted On: March 08, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 8, 2017: Today, Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood alongside Senators Carlos Uresti and Donna Campbell, and State Representative Barbara Gervin-Hawkins announced the filing of a bill that would give prosecutors across the state the added tools to prevent initial and continuous crimes committed against our children, seniors and disabled individuals. In October 2016, District Attorney LaHood formally announced the proposed legislation alongside County Judge Nelson Wolff, 225th District Court Judge Peter Sakai, state representatives, senators, local law enforcement officials and area children, senior and disabled individual’s advocacy groups.“Over the past two years, cases have come across my desk that have brought pain to my heart as a father, son, and public servant,” said District Attorney LaHood. “These cases have emboldened my passion to protect our most vulnerable citizens."The bill filed today targets the chronic serial abuser of the most vulnerable victims – children, elderly, and the disabled. Currently, there is a gap where prosecutors are unable to appropriately punish the most serious abusers of children, the elderly and the disabled. The bill fills the gaps and gives a judge or jury the opportunity to assess the appropriate punishment in some of the most horrific abuse cases prosecutors have.DA LaHood is proposing four changes to the Penal Code that will address the following:1. Long term abuse – this relates to multiple alleged incidents (over time or multiple victims). The punishment would now be a first degree felony (5-99 years or life), versus a third degree felony (2-10 years).2. Long term abuse with serious injury – this relates to multiple injuries with serious bodily injury. This would enhance the punishment from first degree felony (5-99 years or life) to 15 years to life.3. Prior conviction with new abuse allegations – this relates to a prior injury adjudication followed by a new abuse allegation. This would enhance this from a third degree offense to a first degree offense.4. Child under 6 years old – this relates to Injury to a Child offense, without serious bodily injury. This would enhance the offense from a third degree to a first degree offense because of the victim’s age (under 6 years old).Last year, Bexar County was rocked by the horrific abuse allegations involving two young children, ages 3 and 4, who were found chained up in the backyard of a northeast side home. This gave the DA’s Office reason to re-examine State laws on abuse and prosecutors identified a need to fill gaps in existing statutes. In this particular case, prosecutors were able to present new medical expert evidence to a Grand Jury and they in turn then upgraded the charges from 3rd degree felonies to 1st degree felonies.“As our office seeks to reduce backlog in our criminal justice system and overcrowding in our prisons, it is important to remember we have a duty to hold the most violent and heinous criminal offenders accountable,” said DA LaHood. “This is especially true for those who target the most vulnerable, unable to defend themselves.”The bill filed today will now be referred to a Senate or House committee. The bills are voted on in committee, then the entire membership of the Senate and House. If the bill passes votes in favor in both Senate and House Chambers, it is then placed on the Governor's desk to be signed into law.

1/17/2017 - Serial Rapist Who Terrorized the Most Vulnerable Sentenced
Posted On: January 17, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, January 17, 2017: Last Friday, 379th District Court Judge Ron Rangel sentenced Eric Scott Hemphill, age 36, to 40 years confinement in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Hemphill entered “no contest” pleas to the following charges: Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Aggravated Sexual Assault – Elderly/Disabled Person, and Burglary of a Habitation with intent to Commit a Felony.In May 2015, Hemphill was arrested following an incident where he attempted to sexually assault two young girls after breaking into their west side apartment. One of the girls was able to get away and call for help. Surveillance video nearby caught Hemphill on camera leaving the apartment. During the subsequent investigation, the young girls were able to identify Hemphill in a photo lineup. San Antonio police were able to link Hemphill to three other unsolved sexual assaults in the area when his DNA was entered into a national database.In November 2013, a 13-year-old girl was walking home when she was hit over the head with a hammer and forced inside a vehicle. Hours later, the teen woke up disoriented near Austin Highway and Perrin Beitel. The girl had been sexually assaulted. DNA recovered from the sexual assault matched Hemphill. DNA also linked Hemphill to two north side sexual assaults which involved a 63-year-old and 79-year-old woman. The victims told police that Hemphill knocked on their door, and claimed he was with the cable company and needed to fix the modem in their bedrooms. Once inside, Hemphill attacked the women and sexually assaulted them.Under questioning by San Antonio police detectives, Hemphill denied any involvement in the crimes. After Hemphill was sentenced, one of the victims daughters said that the assault dramatically impacted her mother and stated she would never be the same.“This defendant preyed on the most vulnerable of our community,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “It is appropriate to cage him away from our community.”Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Aggravated Sexual Assault – Elderly/Disabled Person, and Burglary of a Habitation Intent to Commit a Felony are all first degree felonies, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd and Clint Malloy from the Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Hemphill in the 379th District Court.

11/16/2016 - Capital Murder Indictment Returned in Death of 4-Year-Old Boy
Posted On: November 17, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, November 16, 2016: A Bexar County Grand Jury has indicted Ricardo Hernandez, age 21, for the Capital Murder of 4-year-old Jordan Altamirano. On August 20, 2016, Jordan passed away at Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. Earlier that day, Hernandez had called 911 and claimed Jordan was not breathing and unresponsive. The Medical Examiner ruled Jordan’s death a homicide after discovering he died from a ruptured aorta and two spinal fractures. Under questioning by San Antonio police detectives, Hernandez, who was dating Jordan’s mother, admitted to “pushing” the boy out of frustration. Hernandez is currently awaiting trial for Capital Murder out of the 437th District Court. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Jordan’s mother, Celeste Nicole Altamirano, was also arrested by San Antonio police and charged with Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury by Omission in connection with her son’s death. The case against Altamirano remains under review by the DA’s Office Child Abuse Unit.

10/26/2016 - 30-Year Sentence for Man Who Sexually Assaulted Teen
Posted On: October 27, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 26, 2016: Today, 144th District Court Judge Lorina Rummel sentenced Frederick Lee, age 39, to 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On September 26, 2016, a Bexar County jury found Lee guilty of one count of Sexual Assault – Child and two counts of Indecency with Child by Contact. In the summer of 2013, Lee sexually assaulted and inappropriately touched a then 16-year-old girl. The victim, now 19-years-old, testified during Lee’s trial last month about the abuse. The victim told jurors Lee had threatened her if she spoke of the abuse and even forced her to ingest a white powdering substance during the abuse. She said she was finally able to outcry about the abuse months later to police when they were investigating Lee for an unrelated violent incident. During today’s sentencing hearing, prosecutors presented evidence of Lee’s past criminal history which included two prior trips to a Louisiana penitentiary for drug-related charges. Sexual Assault – Child and Indecency with Child by Contact are both second degree felonies, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, the defendant’s punishment range was enhanced to 25 years to life in prison because he is considered a habitual offender. Lee must serve half of the 30 year sentence before he’s eligible for parole. Assistant District Attorneys Rita Spiegel and Trey Mims from our Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Lee in the 144th District Court.

10/12/2016 - DA LaHood Announces Legislative Proposal Targeting Serial Abusers
Posted On: October 27, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 12, 2016: Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood announced today a legislative proposal that will give prosecutors across the state the added tools to prevent initial and continuous crimes committed against our children, seniors and disabled individuals. District Attorney LaHood formally announced the proposed legislation alongside County Judge Nelson Wolff, 225th District Court Judge Peter Sakai, state representatives, senators, local law enforcement officials and area children, senior and disabled individual’s advocacy groups. “Over the past year and a half, cases have come across my desk that have brought pain to my heart as a father, son, and public servant,” said District Attorney LaHood. “These cases have emboldened my passion to protect our loved ones.” The proposed legislation targets the chronic serial abuser of the most vulnerable victims – children, elderly, and the disabled. Currently, there is a gap where we are unable to appropriately punish the most serious abusers of children, the elderly and the disabled. The legislation proposed today, fills the gaps and gives a judge or jury the opportunity to assess the appropriate punishment in some of the most horrific abuse cases we have. DA LaHood is proposing four changes to the Penal Code that will address the following: 1. Long term abuse – this relates to multiple alleged incidents (over time or multiple victims). The punishment would now be a first degree felony (5-99 years or life), versus a third degree felony (2-10 years). 2. Long term abuse with serious injury – this relates to multiple injuries with serious bodily injury. This would enhance the punishment from first degree felony (5-99 years or life) to 15 years to life. 3. Prior conviction with new abuse allegations – this relates to a prior injury adjudication followed by a new abuse allegation. Additionally, this would enhance this from a third degree offense to a first degree offense. 4. Child under 6 years old – this relates to Injury to a Child offense, without serious bodily injury. This would enhance the offense from a third degree to a first degree offense because of the victim’s age (under 6 years old). Recently, Bexar County was rocked by the horrific abuse allegations earlier this year, involving two young children, ages 3 and 4, who were found chained up in the backyard of a northeast side home. This gave the DA’s Office reason to re-examine State laws on abuse and prosecutors identified a need to fill gaps in existing statutes. On this one case, prosecutors were able to present new medical expert evidence to a Grand Jury and they in turn upgraded the charges from 3rd degree felonies to 1st degree felonies. “As our office seeks to reduce backlog in our criminal justice system and overcrowding in our prisons, it is important to remember we have a duty to hold the most violent and heinous criminal offenders accountable,” said DA LaHood. “This is especially true for those who target the most vulnerable, unable to defend themselves.” The 85th Legislative Session convenes Tuesday, January 10, 2017. Bill Pre-filing begins on Monday, November 14, 2016. DA LaHood is hopeful that our Bexar County Legislative Delegation, comprised of State Representatives & Senators, will make this a bi-partisan priority.

10/3/2016 - Charges Upgraded for Trio Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard
Posted On: October 27, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 3, 2016: District Attorney Nico LaHood announced today that after further investigation, charges have been upgraded for a trio accused of tying up children in the backyard of a northeast Bexar County home and abandoning them. Porucha Phillips, age 34, Deandre Dorch, age 36, and Cheryl Reed, age 30, are now charged with the first degree offense of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and the second degree offense of Child Abandonment. The trio had been charged with Injury to a Child – Bodily Injury – a charge that would only allow for a sentence up to 10 years in prison. The new indictments allow the State to seek punishment up to life in prison on all three defendants. A Bexar County Grand Jury upgraded charges on the three individuals based on our continued investigation into the facts of this case. On April 28, 2016, a resident on the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child cry for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies showed up the location and looked over the fence, where they discovered two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash. One of the children was tied up by the wrists and the other by the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. The two children had numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to 11 years old. All of the children were without adult supervision. Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the home with Dorch, an hour later. Reed, the mother of the two children found outside tied up, claims she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Child Abandonment is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Phillips, Dorch, and Reed are awaiting trial out of the 187th District Court. The District Attorney’s Office Child Abuse Unit will be prosecuting the cases against the defendants.

9/2/2016 - Pair Indicted for Capital Murder of 7-year-old Iris Rodriguez
Posted On: September 02, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 2, 2016: Earlier this week, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted Frank Gomez, age 28, and Manuel Watson, age 22, for the Capital Murder of 7-year-old Iris Rodriguez. Additionally, the defendants were indicted for two counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. On June 1, 2016, the defendants were leaving Cuellar Park around 10 p.m. on the 5000 block of San Fernando on the city’s west side, when they encountered the victim, her mother and her mother’s boyfriend. Witnesses said words were exchanged between the victims and the defendants, when gunfire erupted. Iris suffered a gunshot wound to her head and died from her injuries. Her mother suffered a gunshot wound to her arm. A third suspect, Jonathan Campos, committed suicide in the Bexar County Jail in July. A fourth suspect, Peter Gonzalez, was arrested but has not been indicted at this time. His case is currently under review. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or death. Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon is a second degree felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. The cases are pending in the 187th District Court.

9/1/2016 - 99-Year Prison Sentence for Man Who Sexually Abused Girl
Posted On: September 01, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 1, 2016: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 175th District Court sentenced Darrel Keith Bowser, age 49, to 99 years in prison without the possibility of parole and assessed the maximum fine of $10,000.00. On Wednesday, jurors took 30 minutes to find Bowser guilty of one count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child. In 2012, the victim made an outcry to a family friend that Bowser had sexually assaulted her in the past. The victim also told a Bexar County forensic interviewer at ChildSafe that Bowser had been inappropriately touching her since she was six years old. San Antonio police detectives handled the investigation and submitted the case to the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. During the trial the victim, now 17 years old, told jurors about the abuse she endured by Bowser. Bowser took the stand in his own defense, denying the allegations against him. During cross-examination the defendant admitted to his extensive prior criminal history, which includes aggravated robbery, burglary of a habitation, and numerous drug and assault charges. Additionally, the defendant had previously served time in federal prison for a drug charge. Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 25 to 99 years or life in prison without the possibility of parole and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Karl Alexander and Helen Stowe from the Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Bowser in the 175th District Court.

7/29/2016 - Trio Indicted in Case Where Children Were Found Tied Up
Posted On: July 29, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, July 29, 2016: Yesterday, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted a trio connected to a child abuse case where two children were found tied up in the backyard of a northeast Bexar County home. Porucha Phillips, age 34, is charged with three counts of Injury to a Child. Deandre Dorch, age 36, is charged with two counts of Injury to a Child. Cheryl Reed, age 30, is charged with one count of Injury to a Child. On April 28, 2016, a resident on the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child cry for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the location and looked over the fence, where they discovered two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash. One of the children was tied up by the wrists and the other by the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. The two children had numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to ten years old. All of the children were without adult supervision. Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the home with Dorch, an hour later. Reed, the mother of the two children found outside tied up, claims she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Injury to a Child is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Phillips, Dorch, and Reed are awaiting trial out of the 187th District Court. The DA’s Office Child Abuse Unit will be prosecuting the cases against the defendants.

6/28/2016 - 99-Year Prison Sentence in Child Starvation Death Case
Posted On: June 28, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, June 28, 2016: Today, a Bexar County jury in the 379th District Court sentenced Crystal Williams, age 31, to 99 years in prison and assessed a $10,000.00 fine in connection with the death of 5-year-old Josiah Williams. Last week, Williams pled guilty to the first degree felony charge of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury – Omission. On December 27, 2012, emergency responders were called out to a home in the 3900 block of Gayle Avenue. Once inside, they discovered Josiah unresponsive, lying on the floor. First responders, who immediately began attempting to revive the boy, said Josiah had two black eyes, cuts, scrapes and bruising all over his body, and appeared extremely underweight. Josiah was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy later revealed Josiah had been beaten and starved to death. At the time of his death, the 5-year-old weighed 38 pounds. The Medical Examiner testified Josiah died as a result of “dehydration in a battered underweight child.” During an interview with San Antonio police detectives, Williams admitted that she should have sought medical assistance for her step-son, but denied injuring the boy. During the punishment phase, Josiah’s maternal grandmother testified that prior to living with Williams, he was a “happy, go lucky child.” Josiah had been living with Williams, his biological father Charleston Williams, and his step-grandmother Gloria Proo, for six months before he died. Additionally, a family acquaintance testified that Josiah’s skin was “yellow” and appeared extremely underweight weeks before his death. At the time of his death, Josiah was not enrolled in school. The two remaining co-defendant’s in this case, Charleston Williams and Gloria Proo, are awaiting trial before the 379th District Court. Williams and Proo are also charged with Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury – Omission. Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury – Omission is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Williams must serve 30 years before she’s eligible for parole. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd, Lauren Glasscock, and Clarissa Fernandez, Investigator Edgar Castro, Victim Advocate Norma Ferguson and Intern Alex Pedraza from the Child Abuse Unit handled the case against Williams in the 379th District Court.

6/16/2016 - Five Life Sentences Handed Down in Child Sex Abuse Case
Posted On: June 16, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, June 16, 2016: This afternoon, 290th District Court Judge Melisa Skinner sentenced Carl Bailes, age 40, to five life sentences and eight 20-year sentences. Earlier today, a Bexar County jury found Bailes guilty of 5 counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and 8 counts of Sexual Assault of a Child. In 2012, a then 16-year-old girl made an outcry to her mother that Bailes had repeatedly sexually abused her. The victim, now 19 years old, testified that Bailes began sexually assaulting her when she was just 5 years old. Based on her accusations, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating Bailes. Bailes was subsequently charged with production, receipt, possession and distribution of child pornography. FBI agents discovered numerous files depicting child pornography on his computer and discovered Bailes had deleted an additional 100 files of child pornography. In November 2015, a federal judge sentenced Bailes to 135 years as a result of those charges. During the punishment hearing today in State District Court, the victim told the judge the abuse still affects her and made a devastating impact on her childhood. The judge ordered two of the life sentences and one of the 20-year sentences be “stacked” or served consecutively with his 135-year federal prison sentence. The remaining three life sentences and seven 20-year sentences will be served concurrently. “I commend the jury’s swift verdict and Judge Skinner’s tough sentence,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Everyone can be at peace knowing that Mr. Bailes will never harm another innocent child. Our Office will continue to aggressively prosecute those who harm our children.” Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Sexual Assault of a Child is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Kristina Escalona and Alessandra Cranshaw prosecuted the case against Bailes in the 290th District Court.

05/19/2016 - Four Stacked Life Sentences in Child Sex Abuse Case
Posted On: May 19, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, May 19, 2016: This morning, 227th District Court Judge Kevin O’Connell sentenced Willie David Floyd, age 32, to four consecutive, or stacked life sentences. Last month, a Bexar County jury found Floyd guilty of four counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. In 2014, a then 7-year-old girl made an outcry to an employee at a children’s shelter that Floyd had sexually abused her. The abuse occurred in April and May of 2014. Additionally the victim, now 9 years old, made another outcry a year later that Floyd had sexually abused her special needs brother as well, who was 6 years old. Local child advocates told jurors about the trauma the young girl experienced from the abuse by Floyd. During the trial and at today’s sentencing hearing, Floyd maintained his innocence. Today, prosecutors asked Judge O’Connell to stack the life sentences, and the motion was granted. “This man’s behavior is disgusting and this is what will happen to animals who prey on children and special needs children,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “I am very proud of the hard work of prosecutors Anna Scott and Marissa Giovenco.” Because of the stacked life sentences, Floyd is not eligible for parole for 120 years. Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a 1st degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Anna Scott and Marissa Giovenco from the Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against the defendant in the 227th District Court.

05/04/2016 - Jurors Sentence Man to 50 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Girl
Posted On: May 04, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, May 4, 2016: Yesterday, a Bexar County jury in the 379th District Court sentenced Ivan Sanchez, age 42, to 50 years in prison; additionally, jurors assessed three 20-year sentences. The sentences will run concurrently, or at the same time. On Friday, Sanchez was found guilty of one count of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and three counts of Indecency with a Child by Contact. In November 2005, the victim made an outcry to a relative detailing the sexual abuse she endured by Sanchez. The girl, now an adult, told jurors Sanchez sexually assaulted her for several years, beginning when she was 9 years old. In addition, a second victim testified during the punishment phase that Sanchez had made sexual advances towards her when she was 13 years old. Sanchez was originally convicted and sentenced by a jury to 28 years in prison in 2009. The Court of Appeals ordered a retrial due to evidentiary matters. Sanchez had previously been to prison for a drug charge. At the time of his arrest for the sexual assault, he was on probation for assaulting the victim’s mother. Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Indecency with a Child by Contact is a 2nd degree felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd, Clarissa Fernandez, and Daryl Harris prosecuted the case against Sanchez in the 379th District Court.

05/02/2016 - 60-Year Prison Sentence for Man Who Sexually Abused Young Girl
Posted On: May 02, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, May 2, 2016: This afternoon, Bexar County jurors in the 290th District Court sentenced Steve Kou, age 62, to 60 years in Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On Friday, Kou was found guilty of Continuous Sexual Assault of a Child. In July 2014, a then 8-year-old girl made an outcry to a relative that she was being sexually abused by Kou. The girl said the abuse started when she was in kindergarten, and had lasted three years. Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested Kou and charged him with Continuous Sexual Assault of a Child. During the trial the victim, now 10 years old, testified about the sexual abuse she endured by Kou. In addition, the girl’s mother told jurors that her daughter still has nightmares and is traumatized from the abuse. Kou did not give investigators a statement at the time of his arrest, nor did he testify during his trial. “This 60-year sentence guarantees this defendant will no longer harm this young girl or another innocent child,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “I hope this verdict sends a strong message to other predators out there who harm our children.” Continuous Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 25-99 years or life in prison. Assistant District Attorneys Kristina Escalona and Melissa Saenz from the Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Kou in the 290th District Court.

06/03/2015 - 50-Year Sentence for Man who Injured Children in Shooting
Posted On: June 03, 2015
This morning in the 226th District Court, Judge Sid Harle sentenced Jose Ramos Mercado, age 41, to 50 years in prison for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon resulting in Serious Bodily Injury to a Child. On August 30, 2014, Mercado opened fire on a vehicle driven by his girlfriend and containing his girlfriend’s two children, aged 6 and 11 years old. The girlfriend was not injured. The 11-year-old suffered two grazing gunshot wounds to her head; and the 6-year-old suffered six gunshot wounds and injuries including a fractured right arm, a gunshot wound to his face at mouth level, and a gunshot wound where the bullet lodged at the base of his spine. The remaining three rounds entered various parts of his torso and legs. The shooting, which occurred in the 200 block of Anton Drive, was captured on surveillance video. Mercado then took the girlfriend’s vehicle and remained on the run for days before being captured by SAPD on September 2, 2014. “By the grace of God, these two innocent children survived this horrific shooting,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “A 50-year sentence is just punishment for Mr. Mercado who carelessly shot into a vehicle knowing there were children inside of it.” Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon resulting in Serious Bodily Injury to a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the defendant’s prior felony convictions, the punishment range for this offense was 15-99 years or life in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Prosecutor Caitlin Thomas, Advocate Yadi Tamez and Investigator Steve Simpson, all of the Child Abuse Unit, handled the case in the 226th District Court.

05/29/2015 - 60-Year Sentence for Man who Sexually Abused Girl
Posted On: May 29, 2015
Yesterday, visiting Judge Raymond Angelini sentenced Jimmy Vera, age 41, to 60 years in prison. Jurors in the 187th District Court convicted Vera of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child after deliberating for four hours. In February 2014, Vera sexually assaulted the 11-year-old victim. The victim outcried about the abuse, after she was taken to a hospital where she was diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease. The victim, now 12 years old, took the stand and told jurors about the abuse. On the stand, Vera denied any involvement. “I am proud of the hard work from Child Abuse Unit Prosecutors Kimberly Gonzalez and Lauren Glasscock, said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our office will continue to aggressively prosecute child predators. This 60-year sentence ensures Mr. Vera will never harm another innocent child.” Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Prosecutors Kimberly Gonzalez and Lauren Glasscock from the Child Abuse Unit handled the case in the 187th District Court.

05/28/2015 - 35-Year Sentence in Case Where Boy was Badly Burned
Posted On: May 28, 2015
Yesterday, 399th District Court Judge Ray Olivarri sentenced Matthew White, age 27, to 35 years in prison. Earlier this month, White entered a no contest plea to the charge of Injury to a Child Intentionally/Knowingly Causing Serious Bodily Injury. In December 2013, White and his girlfriend, Emily Sanford, were arrested after her 3-year-old son sustained horrific burns to his genital area and the tops of his feet. Investigators said White told Sanford not to take her son to the hospital because he would get into trouble. Instead, the couple put cream on the boy’s burns. Days following the incident, Sanford finally took her son to the hospital “because he started to stink.” The child’s burns were so severe and badly infected that he almost died. White has always maintained that the boy burned himself in the shower when he was briefly left unattended. However, the shower water was tested and it was determined it could not have caused those injuries. According to police, White was left alone with the child while Sanford would go to work. “Our office is dedicated to seeking justice for abused children in our community,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “I hope the message is clear that if you harm a child – you will pay the consequences.” In February, the boy’s mother, Emily Sanford, was sentenced to 24 years in prison for not reporting the abuse. Injury to a Child Intentionally/Knowingly Causing Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Prosecutor Meredith Chacon from the Child Abuse Unit handled the case.

05/26/2015 - Life Without Parole Sentence for Man who Sexually Abused Girl
Posted On: May 26, 2015
This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 399th District Court sentenced Elias Juarez, age 66, to life in prison without the possibility of parole. On Friday, it took jurors less than three hours to convict him of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a young child. The victim, now 11, testified that Juarez sexually abused her from the age of 3 until she was 8 years old. On the stand, the young girl became overwhelmed with emotion when describing the abuse she endured. The jury also heard from two other victims – now adults – who testified Juarez sexually abused them as well. The abuse from the 11-year-old girl came to light, after one of the additional victims spoke out. The defendant chose not to testify during his trial. “This life sentence guarantees Mr. Juarez will never victimize another child,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “I am proud of our prosecutors for their hard work in presenting the evidence and applaud the jury for giving this child predator the maximum sentence.” Continuous Sexual Abuse of a young child is a first degree felony, punishable by 25-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Prosecutors Meredith Chacon and Grant Bryan from the Child Abuse Unit handled the case out of the 399th District Court.

6/6/2019 - DA's Office, Public Defender's working to help victims of former attorney
Posted On: June 06, 2019
The Bexar County District Attorney’s Office and the Bexar County Public Defender’s Office are asking former clients of now-disbarred attorney Mark Benavides to come forward to have their cases reevaluated.Benavides was convicted in 2018 for six counts of human trafficking for trading sex for legal services. Benavides was sentenced to 80 years in prison.Since then, the Conviction Integrity Unit reviewed evidence in the case and identified more than 50 women he represented and whose cases may have been tainted.“What happened to the clients of Mark Benavides was shocking and it was terrible and it’s not how the justice system is supposed to work. We want for everybody who comes through the doors of the courthouse to be treated fairly and to be treated appropriately. It’s our job to make sure that we’re doing everything we can to make that happen,” said Christian Henricksen, Chief of Litigation for the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office.The women were sent letters from the Public Defender’s Office offering representation for their claims for relief.  Click here to read the letter sent to victims of Mark Benavides“Obviously as attorneys, we have a position of trust with our clients. Frankly, the actions of this case tainted the entire profession. If anyone feels that he – Mark Benavides – wasn’t looking out for their best interest, we want them to come forward. I think the biggest message we have for those people is that whatever you say, coming forward, is going to be completely confidential. This isn’t an attempt to rehash what happened to you. We’re not really going to be asking questions about what exactly happened. We just want to facilitate talking to the DA’s Office about what happened and if their case may be subject to reevaluation,” said Michael Young, Chief Public Defender for the Bexar County Public Defender’s Office.Victims may reach out Marisol Morales, a licensed counselor with the Public Defender’s Office, at 210-335-0701.

5/16/2019 - Update on new DA initiatives & policies
Posted On: May 16, 2019
Family Violence.The newly created Family Violence Unit handles crimes involving allegations of domestic violence, child abuse, and sexual abuse.  The number of felony prosecutors assigned to these cases have been increased from 22 to 35 (an increase of more than 60%), and an experienced family violence prosecutor has been hired to lead this unit.  These first steps will allow the DA’s Office to more effectively resolve cases, provide greater assistance to victims, and improve community safety.Gang Initiative.The office has instituted a new Gang Initiative with law enforcement to improve information-sharing among law enforcement agencies and the DA’s Office to address gang-related violence in Bexar County. The DA’s Office is well situated to improve coordination and information-sharing among law enforcement agencies and, through this initiative, focus and more efficiently use law enforcement and prosecutorial resources on the problem of violent crime.Cite and Release.With the cooperation of the San Antonio Police Department and the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and other local law enforcement agencies, we have revamped and expanded our cite-and-release program. We aim to start the new program this summer. Once in place, police will be able to issue tickets for misdemeanor offenses such as possession of marijuana, misdemeanor theft, driving with an invalid license, and criminal mischief. This program benefits law enforcement by allowing police to stay on the streets.  Taxpayers save money because the County will not have to pay to jail people when the police do not want them jailed. Those who are accepted into and successfully complete the program will benefit by avoiding arrest and a criminal record. Pretrial Diversion.Diversion programs that address the root causes of crime by providing treatment or other services reduce recidivism while helping people remain free of unnecessary criminal records.  These programs also help people avoid the harmful collateral consequences of a conviction—such as the loss of housing, employment, and student loans.  The Pretrial Diversion program was an existing program when Joe Gonzales was elected D. A.  Under Joe’s leadership, this program has been expanded by removing barriers to admission, like application fees and mandated guilty pleas.  Also, strict guidelines that eliminated many people from acceptance into the Pretrial Diversion program have been lifted and prosecutors have been given more discretion to accept people into the program. If a person is accepted into the diversion program, prosecutors will dismiss the case and allow the person to complete the program.  If the program is successfully completed, the D.A.’s Office will agree to an expunction of that offense from the person’s criminal record.  In the first 100 days of Joe’s administration, 1109 people have been admitted into the program, compared with only 259 people in the first 100 days of 2018. Trace Drug Possession and small amounts of Marijuana Possession.In order to focus resources on the prosecution of violent crime, the D.A.’s Office is instituting a new declination policy in the prosecution of certain low quantity drug cases. This office will not prosecute people for possession of a penalty group 1 controlled substance case when the amount is less than 0.25 grams. This office will not prosecute people for simple possession of less than one ounce of marijuana.Bail. It is not right or fair that a person should have to languish in jail before a minor criminal case is resolved simply because they do not have the money to pay for a bond.  The D.A.’s new bail policy is designed to address this problem. In cases were a defendant is charged with a misdemeanor or state jail felony, prosecutors will recommend release on a PR bond unless:the defendant is a flight risk (or)the defendant is a danger to the community or the victim.Of course, police officers may still make any arrest when probable cause exists.  We will not make final prosecution decisions until a prosecutor has had time and opportunity to review the evidence during intake. Our office has a duty to look at each case individually; we understand that there may be circumstances that warrant deviation from our policy principles. If a prosecutor thinks that a case warrants an exception to any of our policies, especially when they feel that the person may be a danger to a victim or to the community, that prosecutor will document their reasons in the case file and seek supervisor approval.“It is my hope that these new policies will ensure a more efficient and just manner to prosecute crime while keeping our community safe.” – Joe Gonzales, Bexar County Criminal District Attorney

Bexar County District Attorney's Office seeking death penalty in fatal SAPD officer shooting
Posted On: May 08, 2019
"When I ran for District Attorney in 2018, I promised the citizens of Bexar County that I would seek the death penalty only in the worst of the worst cases. The facts of this case meet that standard. After months of reviewing all of the evidence in this case, as well as meeting with and considering the wishes of Detective Marconi's family, my capital crimes committee and I have elected to seek the death penalty. This decision was made after much debate about the options available to me and I believe that the cold and calculating nature of the defendant's conduct in this case deserves the death penalty."- Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales

4/24/2019 - BCSO deputy indicted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
Posted On: April 24, 2019
This past Tuesday, a Bexar County grand jury returned a two count indictment against Andrew McDermott, a Bexar County Sheriff’s Office deputy.McDermott, 27, was charged in a two count indictment with aggravated robbery and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.The two charges stem from a June 6, 2018, incident where McDermott is alleged to have brandished a knife while threatening his ex-girlfriend over text messages that he believed she may have sent to others. McDermott slashed the victim’s arms while trying to cut the phone from her pajamas.

4/23/2019 - Bexar County D.A. Joe Gonzales issues new guidelines for criminal trespass arrests
Posted On: April 24, 2019
In response to the deaths of homeless and mentally ill people being held in jail on criminal trespass charges, the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office instituted the following policy effective Saturday, April 20, 2019:Until further notice, we will be rejecting criminal trespass charges in the following situations:The offense occurs at a non-residential place;Criminal Trespass is the only charge;The Defendant appears to be homeless; andThe Defendant does not have any violent history and is not currently on probation/deferred for any offense.However, please note that if there is any indication that there is a mental health issue, the case needs to proceed to the Justice Intake and Assessment Annex, where the accused can potentially get a mental health evaluation/assessment.This policy does not prevent officers from making an arrest. These guidelines should not be interpreted in any way that infringes on law enforcement discretion to ensure public safety or the safety of the individual being arrested. The decision to prosecute the case will be made by a prosecutor based on the specific facts of each case, a risk assessment and a mental health evaluation.“We are continuing to develop our policy regarding this issue and are working with law enforcement and mental health professionals to better serve the community and find workable solutions to this problem,” said Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales.

4/18/2019 - Grand jury indicts man for shooting that killed BCSO K9 Chucky
Posted On: April 18, 2019
A Bexar County grand jury returned multiple indictments on charges connected to a January 25, 2019, shooting that left Chucky, a Bexar County Sheriff's Office K9, dead from injuries suffered in the incident.One of indictments alleges that Matthew Mireles committed the offense of interfering with a police service animal by killing him with a firearm. A second indictment alleges that Mireles pointed a firearm at 8 police officers, for which he is charged with 8 counts of aggravated assault of a police officer. Mireles was also indicted for evading arrest with a vehicle (alleged to be a deadly weapon) for the pursuit that preceded the shooting and for being a felon in possession of a firearm (also a deadly weapon).All charges include a habitual offender enhancement allegation due to Mireles previously being convicted on charges of assault on a public servant and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

4/3/2019 - Three indicted on charges related to infant's death
Posted On: April 03, 2019
A Bexar County grand jury indicted three people for their alleged roles in the death of baby King Jay Davila and concealing of evidence of the crime.Christopher Davila is charged with Injury to a Child causing Serious Bodily Injury. The indictment alleges that on January 3, 2019, Davila had assumed care, custody and control of the child when he struck the baby with an unknown object, struck the baby against an unknown object or by an unknown manner and that Davila failed to seek medical treatment for the baby, causing the infant’s death. This offense is a first degree felony. If convicted, Davila faces from 5 to 99 years or life in prison.Davila, his cousin Angie Torres and Davila’s mother Beatrice Sampayo, are charged with Tampering with Evidence. The indictment alleges that on January 4, 2019, the three concealed the baby’s car seat knowing an investigation was underway to find King Jay Davila, who had been reported missing. This offense is a third degree felony. If convicted, the punishment range is 2 to 10 years in prison.Davila is also charged with Tampering with Evidence by concealing a human corpse. The indictment alleges that on January 4, 2019, Davila knew a missing person investigation was in progress and intentionally concealed the baby’s corpse with the intent to impair its verity, legibility and availability as evidence in the investigation. This offense is a second degree felony. If convicted, Davila faces 2 to 20 years in prison.Davila is also charged with felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on January 10, 2019, was in possession of a firearm inside a motor vehicle. This offense is a third degree felony. If convicted, Davila faces 2 to 10 years in prison.Davila is also charged with possession of a controlled substance. The indictment alleges that on January 10, 2019, Davila was in possession of one gram or more but less than four grams of a controlled substance. This offense is a second degree felony. If convicted, Davila faces 2 to 20 years in prison.The defendants are all awaiting arraignment on these charges in the 227th District Court.

4/1/2019 - Sex offender receives 8 life sentences for sexually assaulting 7-year-old girl
Posted On: April 01, 2019
A convicted sex offender received a total of eight life sentences after he was convicted on charges he sexually assaulted a child and filmed it.A Bexar County jury found Jose Trinidad Gonzalez, 36, guilty Friday in the 226th District Court. Gonzalez was accused of sexually assaulting a 7-year-old child in 2017. The victim’s mother discovered video recordings of the crimes on a tablet used by the child to play video games, but owned by Gonzalez.Gonzalez was also found guilty of violation of sex offender registration, due to his failure to register his address with law enforcement, which was a requirement of his 2002 conviction for sexual assault. That sentence required him to register as a sex offender. Gonzalez also had a 2002 conviction for aggravated kidnapping.As a result of the 2002 convictions, the aggravated sexual assault of a child and indecency with a child by contact punishment ranges of are elevated. Upon conviction in this case, automatic life sentences are granted. The District Attorney’s Office filed a motion requesting that the sentences be served consecutively (stacked). Judge Velia Meza agreed to the request. In addition, Gonzalez was sentenced to the maximum punishment allowed for the remaining charges, which included four life sentences (concurrent) and three 20-year sentences. Gonzalez must serve 140 years before he can be considered for parole. Judge Meza also assessed a $10,000 fine for each of the automatic life sentences.The case was investigated by the San Antonio Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Karl Alexander and Melissa Saenz.CountsChargeSentence2Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child2 Automatic Life Sentences (Stacked) + $10,000 Fine2Indecency With a Child-Contact2 Automatic Life Sentences (Stacked) + $10,000 Fine3Sexual Performance of a Child3 Life Sentences (Concurrent)3Possession of Child Pornography3 20-Year Sentences (Concurrent)1Violation of Sex Offender RegistrationLife Sentence (Concurrent)

3/29/2019 - Bexar County grand jury indicts former BCSO jailer for assault on inmate
Posted On: March 29, 2019
Thursday, a Bexar County grand jury returned an indictment against former Bexar County Sheriff's Office Detention Officer Raul Macias Gonzales, age 31.Gonzales was charged in a four-count indictment with Official Oppression, Violation of Civil Rights, Aggravated Assault and Engaging in Organized Crime. The charges stem from acts that are alleged to have taken place in April 2017, when Gonzales used his position, power, and authority as a Bexar County Sheriff Detention Officer to subject an inmate to assault by other inmates housed in the same unit. The victimized inmate was subsequently transported to University Hospital for medical treatment.Gonzales was terminated from the Bexar County Sheriff's Office later that year after an investigation was conducted into the assault.

3/28/2019 - SA man sentenced to 25 years in prison for stabbing
Posted On: March 28, 2019
A Bexar County judge sentenced a man to 25 years in prison for a near-fatal attack on a Walmart store employee.Travis Cobb was shoplifting inside the store in July 2017. An employee tried to stop him and Cobb severely stabbed him. The victim identified Cobb as his attacker.A jury found Cobb guilty of aggravated assault Wednesday. District Court Judge Frank Castro sentenced Cobb to 25 years in prison.

3/20/2019 - BCSO jailer convicted for lying about assault on inmate
Posted On: March 20, 2019
On Monday, the jury in the 187th Criminal District Court convicted Michael Fernandez, a Bexar County Sheriff’s Office detention officer, of Tampering with a Governmental Record, a Class A Misdemeanor.The charges against Michael Fernandez arose from a June 15, 2016, incident that occurred in the jail between Fernandez and an inmate while Fernandez was on duty.  Fernandez was suspended for 15 days following a determination by the Bexar County Sheriff’s Department that Fernandez had used excessive force against the inmate and then lied about the incident on his official report.Later, Fernandez was arrested after a grand jury returned an indictment against him for his actions that day.The jury sentenced Fernandez to six months of probation. As a condition of probation, the judge ordered that Fernandez must also complete an anger management course. He also must pay a $1,000 fine.This conviction means that the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) will consider Fernandez disqualified to hold a license to be a jailer or a license to be a peace officer in the State of Texas.“The jury’s verdict in this case sends a strong message to our community, and the men and women in law enforcement, that this type of behavior in our jails is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” said Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales.Information on Fernandez’s employment status may be obtained from the BCSO.

3/13/2019 - Former ESD2 Administrator pled guilty to theft by public servant $30,000-$150,000
Posted On: March 13, 2019
The Administrator for several Emergency Services Districts admitted to a scheme that defrauded Bexar County taxpayers of thousands of dollars.Gil Muniz Perez, 62, pled guilty to theft by public servant $30,000-$150,000 – a second degree felony. Judge Stephanie Boyd, 187th Judicial District Court, sentenced Gil Perez to 10 years’ probation. Perez will be required to pay $149,769.99 in restitution as a condition of his probation.In addition to his role as the Administrator for several ESDs, Perez was President of at least one ESD. Perez abused his positions by misapplying and misusing government funds entrusted to him by the ESDs, the County Commissioners, and the taxpayers of Bexar County. Perez devised a variety of overpayment schemes in the form of reimbursement and payment irregularities, to include duplicate payments, fictitious and disallowable expenditures, credit card payments for personal use, and other unauthorized purchases and expenses.The Texas Rangers investigated Perez with the assistance of the Bexar County Auditor’s Office and the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office.

3/13/2019 - Grand jury returns no-bill in case involving BCSO deputies
Posted On: March 13, 2019
On Tuesday, a Bexar County grand jury returned a no-bill of indictment in the Dec. 21, 2017, shooting death of Amanda Jones. The shooting also resulted in the death of Kameron Prescott, a 6-year-old bystander.After carefully reviewing and considering the evidence, the grand jury concluded that criminal charges were not appropriate against the Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies involved.Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales released the following statement: “I respect and agree with the decision of the grand jury in this case.”

5/22/2018 - Guilty Verdict for Woman who Shot Boyfriend during Argument
Posted On: May 22, 2018
Today, a Bexar County Jury in the 144th District Court found Jamie McCord, age 30, guilty of the Murder of Ryan Perez. McCord will be sentenced by Judge Lorina Rummel at a later date.   In February 2017, Jamie McCord was arguing with her boyfriend, Ryan Perez, in their apartment. The argument escalated resulting in McCord shooting Perez in the chest with a .22 caliber semiautomatic handgun. McCord’s mother, who was living in the apartment at the time, heard them arguing and overheard Perez say, “Do it! Do it!” The next thing she heard was a gunshot and McCord telling her that they had to take Perez to the hospital. Upon arrival at the hospital, Perez told doctors that he had been “shot by a friend cleaning a gun.” Perez collapsed at the hospital and was transported to SAMMC where he died. McCord told police at the hospital that Perez had shot himself while inspecting the gun. McCord admitted that it was her gun that shot Perez.  She claimed they had painted the gun recently with metal door paint and wanted to see if the gun was working properly when it went off.   During trial, the medical examiner testified that this was not a close range shooting disproving McCord’s account that Perez had shot himself. “We have all done things that we immediately regret or regret later, does it make it accidental? No. And it does not bring Ryan back” said Assistant District Attorney Stephanie Paulissen during closing arguments.   Assistant District Attorneys Michael De Leon and Stephanie Paulissen from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted this case against McCord in the 144th District Court.   Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

5/17/2018 - Life Sentence for Man Who Killed Friend over Stolen Welder
Posted On: May 17, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, May 17, 2018: Last week, it took a Bexar County Jury in the 226th District Court less than five minutes to find Jim Longoria, age 70, guilty of the Murder of Gary Davila. The same jury sentenced Longoria to life in prison in just 20 minutes. In January 2017, Jim Longoria was driving down Five Palms Drive with his six-year-old grandson looking for Gary Davila. Longoria found Davila and exited the car to confront him, yelling and cursing at Davila. As the confrontation escalated, Longoria pointed a gun at Davila and shot him once. Longoria’s grandson ran out of the vehicle, but Longoria put him back in the car and drove off, leaving Davila to die. During the trial, Jim Longoria claimed he shot Davila in self-defense. Longoria claimed that he had seen Davila walking down the street and wanted to question him about a welder that had been stolen from his house.  Assistant District Attorneys Nick Socias and Clayton Haden from the District Attorney’s Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Longoria in the 226th District Court.  Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

4/19/2018 - Guilty Verdict for Deandre Dorch, Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard
Posted On: April 19, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, April 19, 2018: Yesterday, a Bexar County Jury in Impact Court found Deandre Dorch, age 38, guilty of two counts of Injury to a Child causing Serious Bodily Injury and two counts of Abandonment of a Child. Dorch will be sentenced by Judge Laura Parker later next month.   On April 28, 2016, a resident in the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child crying for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the location and looked over the fence, where they observed two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash; one of the children was tied at the wrists and the other at the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment of numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to 11 years old, all without adult supervision.   Porucha Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the house an hour later with Deandre Dorch. Cheryl Reed, the mother of the two children found outside, claimed she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved to Texas from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Reed faces criminal charges of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and Child Abandonment stemming from this incident.   “I have said many times that I believe children are gifts from the Lord and should be treated as such. Our community should not tolerate evil behavior towards children, this office definitely does not,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood.   Assistant District Attorneys Emily Angulo and Karl Alexander prosecuted the case against Dorch in Impact Court.   Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Abandonment of a Child is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

4/6/2018 - Celebration of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
Posted On: April 06, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, April 6, 2018: Over thirty agencies have joined together to plan events for National Crime Victims’ Rights week which will be celebrated from April 8 – 14, 2018.  This year's theme, "Expand the Circle – Reach All Victims” reflects a vision to build partnerships between criminal justice and victim service professionals in order to expand the opportunity for victims to disclose their victimization, get connected to services, and receive the support they need. A calendar of events for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week has been attached to this email.  Events include a County Proclamation; Victims’ Tribute and Wreath Laying Ceremony; special childrens’ events; and many other meaningful events.  Please check the attached events calendar for specific dates and times. Help us instill values within our community where rights and services for victims and survivors of crime are not just observed annually, but practiced daily. For questions or more information on these events or other victim issues, please contact Ms. Cyndi Jahn, Bexar County District Attorney’s Office Victim Services Coordinator at (210) 335-2733.

4/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for March 2018
Posted On: April 01, 2018
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 3/1/2018 through 11:59 p.m. on 3/31/2018 there were 530 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 263 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:                                         Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                                 263   Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher                    120   Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                             26   Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                                 63   Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                                46   Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:                     9   Intoxication Assault:                                                                2   Intoxication Manslaughter:                                                      1 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.   No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

3/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for February 2018
Posted On: March 01, 2018
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 2/1/2018 through 11:59 p.m. on 2/28/2018 there were 443 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 227 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:                                         Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                                 206   Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher                    94   Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                             28   Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                                 63   Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                                40   Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:                     10   Intoxication Assault:                                                                2   Intoxication Manslaughter:                                                      0 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.   No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

2/13/2018 - Life without Parole for Defendant who Sexually Assaulted two Young Girls
Posted On: February 13, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, February 13, 2018: Last week, the judge of the 399th District Court sentenced Tracy Cobbs, age 41, to confinement for life without the possibility of parole. Previously, a jury in the 399th District Court had found Cobbs guilty on two counts of Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child for sexually abusing two girls, ages five and four.   Cobbs, who was a family friend of the girls’ parents, took the family into his home when they were going through a hard time. The girls’ mother took the girls to Cobbs’ home for shelter and lodging, but left them alone with him due to her own substance dependency. The girls’ father gained custody of the girls but left them under the care of their grandparents when he found employment out of state. Within two weeks of living with their grandparents, the girls told their grandmother about how they had been abused by Cobbs.    Over the course of the investigation and trial preparation, Assistant District Attorneys learned of two additional victims who had been sexually assaulted by Cobbs. Additionally, Cobbs had an extensive criminal history. At trial it was shown that in 1989, Cobbs had previously committed an aggravated robbery against three individuals. One of the individuals was Mr. Greg Ferris, an ex-SAPD Officer, who owned a gun shop where the robberies took place.   During sentencing, Mr. Ferris testified about the robbery.  Prosecutors also presented evidence showing Cobbs had been on felony probation at the time he committed not only the robbery but also the sexual assaults “I’ve said it once before and I will say it again, child abuse is one of the most disgusting acts out there and it is something that I will not tolerate,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our children are precious gifts from the Lord and we must protect them, anyone who harms children will be held accountable by our Office.”   Assistant District Attorneys Denise Hairston and Daryl Harris from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Cobbs in the 399th District Court.   Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, with an enhanced punishment, due to the girls’ age, punishable by a minimum of 25 years to life without parole and a $10,000.00 fine.

2/13/2018 - Defendant found Guilty for Sexually Assaulting two Young Girls
Posted On: February 13, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, February 13, 2018: Last week, a Bexar County Jury in the 227th District Court found Benjamin Escobedo, age 46, guilty of one count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, one count of Sexual Assault of a Child and two counts of Indecency with a Child by Contact for abusing two girls ages 12 and 15. Escobedo will be sentenced by Judge Kevin O’Connell next month.   Escobedo, who was the boyfriend of the girl’s mother, lived with the two girls, but was not their biological father. In February 2015, the girls’ older brother, heard Escobedo entering the girls’ bedroom and thought that this was suspicious. He followed Escobedo into the bedroom and saw the defendant kneel down and reach across the bed towards the younger sister. The girls’ brother told their mom what he had seen and their mom confronted the older sister.  When asked about the incident, the girl began to cry and told her mother that Escobedo had been sexually abusing her. The younger sister originally said nothing had happened and that Escobedo had never sexually assaulted her; about a month later, however, she also admitted to being victimized by Escobedo.   During trial, both girls testified about the sexual assaults and told jurors they were gaining strength and getting stronger in telling their stories about what happened.  One of the sisters said she wants to help others who are too scared to come forward.   During closing arguments, prosecutors asked the jury to find Escobedo guilty. “I want you to use logic, use your common sense,” said Assistant District Attorney Leo Gonzalez. “If you believe them beyond a reasonable doubt, I am asking you to find him guilty, because he is guilty.”     Assistant District Attorneys Leo Gonzalez and Marissa Giovenco from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted this case against Escobedo in the 227th District Court.   Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child is a first degree felony, with an enhanced punishment punishable by 25 years to life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Sexual Assault of a Child and Indecency with a Child by Contact are both second degree felonies punishable by 2 to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

2/9/2018 - Grand Jury Indicts Larry Moore for the 1987 Capital Murder of Dianna Lowery
Posted On: February 09, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, February 9, 2018: On Monday, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment for Capital Murder, charging Larry Moore, age 64, with intentionally causing the death of Dianna Lowery by strangulation while committing or attempting to commit Kidnapping and Sexual Assault of Lowery. After returning the indictment, a warrant was issued for Larry Moore’s arrest, and Moore was located and arrested in Prescott, Arizona, where he awaits extradition to Bexar County to face this charge. On January 29, 1987, more than 30 years ago, 25 year old Dianna Lowery was found dead in the bathtub located in her home on Bailey Street in San Antonio, Texas. There was evidence at the scene that she had not died of natural causes. An autopsy was performed and the medical examiner determined that Lowery had died by asphyxiation, and the manner of death was Homicide. The San Antonio Police Department was never able to gather sufficient evidence to arrest a suspect and the case went cold. In 2004, Lowery’s mother called the San Antonio Police Department and told them that she was terminally ill, and she would like to see justice for her daughter before she died. The officer assigned to look into Lowery’s murder was Elizabeth Greiner, an SAPD Homicide Detective assigned to the Cold Case Unit at the time. Through Detective Greiner’s investigation, enough evidence was obtained to identify Larry Moore, a man who had lived in the duplex next door to Lowery back in 1987, as the person responsible for Lowery’s murder. As part of Detective Greiner’s investigation, Larry Moore was found to be the owner of both his and Lowery’s duplex unit, and had access to Lowery’s apartment by a spare set of keys he kept with him. The case was presented to a Grand Jury in September of 2005, and Larry Moore was indicted for murder on September 19, 2005. A prosecutor under the previous administration dismissed the case for further investigation on March 15, 2007, and Lowery’s mother subsequently passed away.  In January of 2018, Lowery’s niece called the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office seeking answers for why her aunt’s case had been dismissed. The District Attorney, Nico LaHood assigned the Chief of the 187th District Court to go through the archived file for an answer to her question. Upon investigation, LaHood determined that there was sufficient evidence to prosecute Larry Moore of Capital Murder.  Moore is charged under the capital murder statute as it existed in 1987, which means possible punishment on conviction is either death or life in prison with the possibility of parole after 40 years.

2/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for January 2018
Posted On: February 01, 2018
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 1/1/2018 through 11:59 p.m. on 1/31/2018 there were 480 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 285 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:                                         Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                                 236   Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher                    95   Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                             35   Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                                 58   Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                                47   Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:                     6   Intoxication Assault:                                                                2   Intoxication Manslaughter:                                                      1 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.   No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

1/30/2018 - Defendant Sentenced to 20 Years for Injuring 9-week-old
Posted On: January 30, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, January 30, 2018: Yesterday, a Bexar County Jury in the 175th District Court sentenced Sierra Fisher, age 22, to 20 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Last Friday, jurors found her guilty of a 2014 Injury to Child – Serious Bodily Injury case that left her child with 13 total fractures.  On January 26th, 2014, the 9-week-old infant was taken to the emergency room by Sierra Fisher and her boyfriend/co-defendant, whose case is still pending. The victim had bruising on his face; scratches to his face and back; an acute spiral fracture to his left arm; and healing rib and leg fractures.  The infant had a total of 13 fractures which were non-accidental in nature. The bruising was determined to be intentional because the child was too young to crawl or move on his own. Fisher was charged with commission for causing the injuries, omission for allowing her boyfriend to inflict the injuries, and omission for failing to seek medical treatment for the victim. Fisher and her boyfriend were the exclusive care givers for the victim with the exception of the biological father who had some visitation but not recent enough to have inflicted the acute arm fracture.  "Child abuse is one of the most disgusting acts out there and it is something that I will not tolerate,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our children are precious gifts from the Lord and we must protect them, anyone who harms children will be held accountable by our Office.” During sentencing, prosecutors asked the jury to send a message to the Bexar County community on how we feel about child abuse, asking the jury to start at 20 years and go up or down from there.  Assistant District Attorneys Anna Scott and Brandon Ramsey from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Fisher in the 175th District Court.  Injury to Child-Intentionally/Knowingly causing Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony punishable by 5-99 years and up to a $10,000 dollar fine.

1/30/2018 - Couple Found Guilty in Dog Attack Case
Posted On: January 30, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, January 30, 2018: Last week, jurors found Alphonso McCloud and Sanyelle McCloud guilty of a 2017 dog attack that left 73-year- old widow Doris Mixon-Smith with an amputated left arm above the elbow.  The jury in the 187th District Court sentenced McCloud, age 28, to 4 years confinement in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Sanyelle McCloud, age 30, is pending sentencing by Judge Joey Contreras early next month.  On March 6th, 2017, relatives of the defendants called 911 to request police because the defendant’s 80 pound pit-bull was attacking their next door neighbor, Doris Mixon-Smith as she was working on the flowerbed in her yard.  Officers arrived on location during the attack, and shot the animal three times, killing the animal. Mixon-Smith was evacuated to University Hospital where her left arm was amputated above the elbow, due to the severe nature of her injuries from the attack.  The investigation revealed that the dog had a history of biting others to include a cable repair man in October 2016 and members of the defendant’s household.  The defendants also acknowledged that the animal had been able to get out of the fenced yard twice in the past, but no obvious point of escape was discovered in this incident.   During the trial, prosecutors learned that six months before moving next door to Doris Mixon-Smith, the defendants had been evicted from a rental property for lying about the number of dogs they had, including the pit-bull. On Monday, the day of the sentencing, prosecutors learned that the couple still had two pit-bulls at their current residence.  Assistant District Attorneys Daryl Harris and Nicole Phillips from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against the McClouds’ in the 187th District Court   Dangerous dog attack – causing Serious Bodily Injury is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and up to a $10,000 fine.

1/17/2018 - Defendant in “Hell’s Gate” Murder Sentenced to 99 Years
Posted On: January 17, 2018
San Antonio, Texas, January 17, 2018: Today, a Bexar County jury in the 290th District Court sentenced Robert Martinez, age 21, to 99 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Last Friday, jurors found Martinez guilty of the 2015 Hell’s Gate murder of Steven Cerna. On February 20, 2015, Robert Martinez lured Steven Cerna to a ditch on the West side of San Antonio, known as “Hell’s Gate.” As they walked through the ditch, Martinez executed Cerna by shooting him two times to the face and two times to the neck. Neighbors heard the gunshots and called police, identifying two Hispanic males between the ages of 19 and 20 running from the ditch into a maroon colored car with a broken windshield that was parked on the side of the street. After speaking to witnesses, Robert Martinez was identified as a person of interest in the murder but no arrest was made. Two years later, Martinez’ uncle, Larry Isaac, was charged with Aggravated Kidnapping. Isaac offered to provide information on the cold case murder in exchange for a reduced sentence on his case. It was this information that led to the arrest of Martinez.  At trial, Isaac testified that shortly after the murder, Martinez told him that he killed Steven Cerna because Martinez had learned that Cerna’s cousin had killed his friend. Martinez wanted revenge for his friend’s death and formulated a plan to lure him to the ditch. Isaac testified that prior to the murder, Martinez had been known to carry a .38 caliber firearm and per the ballistics report, a .38 caliber bullet had been used to kill Cerna. During closing arguments, prosecutors stated that Martinez possessed an “eye for an eye” mentality. “Where did that bullet come out, the victim’s face, eye for an eye,” said Assistant District Attorney Melissa Saenz during closing arguments. “You need to hold him accountable; we ask that you find him guilty.” Assistant District Attorneys Melissa Saenz and Kristina Escalona from the District Attorney’s Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Martinez in the 290th District Court. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. During punishment, jurors heard evidence of Martinez’s prior convictions, including a Robbery committed after the Murder, along with evidence of his association with the Lincoln Court Kings. The Defendant testified during the Punishment phase of trial and continued to deny his involvement in the Murder. After deliberating for 90 minutes, the jury sentenced Martinez to 99 years in prison.

1/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for December 2017
Posted On: January 01, 2018
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 12/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 12/31/2017 there were 529 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 261 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:                                         Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                                 268   Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher                    102   Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                             36   Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                                 66   Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                                42   Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:                     9   Intoxication Assault:                                                                5   Intoxication Manslaughter:                                                      1 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.   No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

12/15/2017 - Bexar County Grand Jury Indicts Man Who Set Fire that Killed Firefighter
Posted On: December 15, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, December 15, 2017:  Tuesday, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned five indictments against Emond Johnson, age 39, for the charges of Felony Murder, Arson resulting in Death, two charges of Arson and Bodily Injury, and Arson-Building.   On May 18, 2017, a fire at the Ingram Square Center caused the death of San Antonio Firefighter Scott Deem, caused serious injuries to Firefighter Brad Phipps, and injured Firefighter Robert Vasquez as well caused serious damage to the building structures themselves.   San Antonio Arson, San Antonio Police Department, Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office, ATF, and the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office have worked tirelessly together since day one to determine the cause of the fire, and whether or not it was a result of a tragic accident, natural cause or the result of a criminal act. After eliminating any natural or accidental cause of the fire, investigators determined that this fire was intentionally set.   Felony Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Arson resulting in Death is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Arson and Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Arson-Building is a second degree felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

12/1/2017 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for November 2017
Posted On: December 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 11/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 11/30/2017 there were 515persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 258 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:                                         Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                                 260   Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher                    98   Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                             36   Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                                 63   Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                                49   Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:                     8   Intoxication Assault:                                                                1   Intoxication Manslaughter:                                                      0 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.   No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

11/27/2017 - 2nd Public Safety Town Hall Meeting
Posted On: November 27, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, November 27, 2017: District Attorney Nico LaHood and The Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office will be hosting a series of Town Hall meetings focused on public safety for our community at-large. A Town Hall meeting will be held in various areas of Bexar County in order to provide the opportunity for residents within both our urban and rural areas to express their concerns and ideas about public safety. It is expected that this tour will last for 15 weeks until the end of February as District Attorney LaHood intends to hold a Town Hall on a weekly basis (excluding the week of Thanksgiving and Christmas).     The second Town Hall will be held this evening Monday November 27th, 2017 at the Barbara Jordan Community Center located at 2803 E. Commerce, San Antonio, Texas 78203 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. All residents, local elected officials and law enforcement representatives are invited to participate in these Town Hall meetings. Below is a complete list of the Town Hall meetings that will be held for the remainder of the year. Information will be released for the 2018 schedule at a later date.     Monday November 27th, 2017 Barbara Jordan Community Center 2803 E. Commerce, San Antonio, Texas 78203   Monday December 4th, 2017 Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9186 650 E. White, San Antonio, Texas 78214     Monday December 11th, 2017 San Antonio Community College 1300 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, Texas 78212     Monday December 18th, 2017 Palo Alto Community College 1400 W. Villarreal Blvd., San Antonio, Texas 78224

11/26/2017 - District Attorney Nico LaHood Launches Public Safety Town Hall Tour
Posted On: November 26, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, November 13, 2017: District Attorney Nico LaHood and The Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office will be hosting a series of Town Hall meetings focused on public safety for our community at-large. A Town Hall meeting will be held in various areas of Bexar County in order to provide the opportunity for residents within both our urban and rural areas to express their concerns and ideas about public safety. It is expected that this tour will last for 15 weeks until the end of February as District Attorney LaHood intends to hold a Town Hall on a weekly basis (excluding the week of Thanksgiving and Christmas).   The first Town Hall will be held this evening Monday November 13th, 2017 at Thomas Jefferson High School located at 723 Donaldson Ave., San Antonio, Texas 78201 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. All residents, local elected officials and law enforcement representatives are invited to participate in these Town Hall meetings. Below is a complete list of the Town Hall meetings that will be held for the remainder of the year. Information will be released for the 2018 schedule at a later date.  Monday November 14th, 2017 Thomas Jefferson High School 723 Donaldson Ave., San Antonio, Texas 78201 Monday November 27th, 2017 Barbara Jordan Community Center 2803 E. Commerce, San Antonio, Texas 78203 Monday December 4th, 2017 Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9186650 E. White, San Antonio, Texas 78214Monday December 11th, 2017 San Antonio Community College 1300 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, Texas 78212  Monday December 18th, 2017 Palo Alto Community College 1400 W. Villarreal Blvd., San Antonio, Texas 78224

Corporation Indicted for Environmental Crime Arising from Failed Septic Systems at Mobile Home Park
Posted On: November 09, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, November 9, 2017: Today the Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment charging SAN MAN, Inc., a Texas corporation, with the environmental crime of “Intentional or Knowing Unauthorized Discharge of a Pollutant” in violation of Section 7.145 of the Texas Water Code.  This charge results from conditions at the Oak Hollow Mobile Home Park where a number of septic systems failed and discharged effluent sewage to the surface soil in the yards of the park’s residents.      SAN MAN, Inc. owns the Oak Hollow Mobile Home Park, a 7.8 acre property divided into over 60 mobile home parcels, and located at 6348 Prue Road.   In October of 2016, the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office and the Bexar County Environmental Services, in conjunction with the City of San Antonio, initiated an investigation in response to reports that septic systems at the Oak Hollow Mobile Home Park were defective and presenting a health and safety hazard to the park’s residents.  This investigation revealed that a number of the park’s septic systems had failed resulting in effluent sewage rising to the soil surface and saturating residents’ yards.  Testing of these contaminated soil indicated concentrations of human-originated E. Coli bacteria greatly in excess of the standards considered safe for human contact.  Intentional or Knowing Unauthorized Discharge of a Pollutant is punishable by a fine of not less than $1,000 or more than $250,000 for a corporation.

11/1/2017 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for October 2017
Posted On: November 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 10/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 10/31/2017 there were 494 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 250 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:   Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                                 218   Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher                    127   Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                             22   Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                                 71   Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                                39   Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:                     13   Intoxication Assault:                                                                4   Intoxication Manslaughter:                                                      0 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.   No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

Grand Jurors Return Fifth Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Paul Villarreal
Posted On: October 31, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, October 31st, 2017:  This morning, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Genene Jones, age 66, for the September 24, 1981 murder of 3-month-old Paul Villarreal.   “These are your kids too. These are San Antonio babies,” said Petti McClellan-Wiese during the press conference this afternoon, she is the mother of 15-month-old Chelsea McClellan, who fell victim to Genene Jones in 1982. In 1984, a jury in Williamson County sentenced Jones to 99 years in prison for the death of Chelsea McClellan.   Over the last year, the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office has announced several indictments against Jones. In June, this office announced the indictments against Jones for the July 3, 1981 murder of 8-month-old Richard “Ricky” Nelson; the January 17, 1982 murder of 4 ½ month-old Patrick Zavala; and the September 16, 1981 murder of 2-year-old Rosemary Vega. In May, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Jones for the 1981 murder of 11-month-old Joshua Sawyer.   The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million for this latest indictment. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was initially sentenced in 1984, she will be released from prison in March 2018. She will, however, not be released from custody; at some point, Jones will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for her new murder charges. Jones is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas. “True Justice will come when she stands before the Lord, but until then, we will do our best to make sure Genene Jones takes her last breath from behind prison bars,” said District Attorney LaHood.  Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

10/17/2017 - Life Sentence for Man who killed Wife in Living Room
Posted On: October 17, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, October 17th, 2017: On Friday, a Bexar County jury in Impact Court found George Chapple, age 64, guilty of the murder of his wife Kathy Ryder, age 56. Jurors sentenced Chapple to life within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.On May 20, 2016, George Chapple and Kathy Ryder who had been married for approximately 4 years were home alone at 7611 Windsor Oaks in San Antonio, Texas. Chapple called 911 and reported he heard gunshots and that Ryder was shot before quickly hanging up. Responding officers testified that Chapple was calm and showed no concern for his wife at the scene. During an interview with police, Chapple originally stated that he was asleep and woke up to Ryder screaming at him because she had been shot, but he believed she was joking. As the questioning continued, Chapple admitted to being the one who actually shot Ryder. Chapple then claimed he shot his wife in self-defense and that it had been an accident. Chapple claimed that Ryder woke him up with a gun in her pocket and then pulled the gun out threatening to kill him. Chapple claimed that Ryder had been upset about another woman. Chapple claimed that Ryder had the gun and he took it from her, but then Ryder attempted to get it back from him, and spun him around somehow causing the gun to go off. During his interview Chapple was callous about Ryder’, laughing and joking.“Think about Kathy Ryder, she is a mother and grandmother, think about that woman who is no longer with us because of the actions of that man,” said Assistant District Attorney Leo Gonzalez during closing arguments.Assistant District Attorneys Leo Gonzalez and Marissa Giovenco from the District Attorney’s Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Chapple in Impact Court.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, due to Chapple’s criminal history, which includes two felony convictions for Burglary and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon out of Tarrant County, the range of punishment was increased to a minimum of 25 years to life in prison.

10/16/2017 - Guilty plea for Porucha Phillips Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard results in 50
Posted On: October 16, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, October 16, 2017: District Attorney Nico LaHood announced Friday that Porucha Phillips, age 34, entered a plea to two counts of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and received a sentence of 50 years in prison. She will not be eligible for parole until she has served 25 years of that sentence.On April 28, 2016, a resident in the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child cry for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies showed up at the location and looked over the fence, where they discovered two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash. One of the children was tied up by the wrists and the other by the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. The two children had numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to 11 years old. All of the children were without adult supervision.Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the home with Deandre Dorch, an hour later. Cheryl Reed, the mother of the two children found outside tied up, claims she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Dorch and Reed still face criminal charges of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and Child Abandonment from this incident.“What Porucha Phillips did to these children is beyond my understanding. Children are gifts from the Lord and should be treated as such. In the law, we call it a depraved heart and unfortunately there are others out there that have the same seared conscience,” said District Attorney LaHood. “I promise to continue my push for increased punishments for these chronic abusers during the next legislative session. Let me be clear, anyone that abuses those who cannot defend themselves - our communities’ most vulnerable (children, elderly & disabled) will be dealt with swiftly and harshly.”Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Child Abandonment is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

10/13/2017 - Bexar County Family Justice Center Fashion Show Luncheon in Observance of Domestic Viol
Posted On: October 13, 2017
WHAT: The second annual Bexar County Family Justice Center Foundation Fashion Show Luncheon will be held Friday, October 20th, 2017 in observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The “Sisterhood of Strength & Style” show’s honorary chair this year is Bexar County Criminal District Attorney, Nicholas “Nico” LaHood.  As the majority partner of the Bexar County Family Justice Center, Nico’s dedication to eradicating family violence in Bexar County has been unwavering. The fashion show, sponsored by Dillard’s, will spotlight brave survivors of domestic violence, local models, celebrities, and domestic violence advocates.  All proceeds from this fundraiser will benefit victims of domestic violence through services provided by the Bexar County Family Justice Center. WHEN: 11:30a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Friday, October 20, 2017 WHERE: St. Anthony Hotel – Anacacho Ballroom300 East Travis Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205

10/13/2017 - Two Consecutive Life Sentences for Defendant Who Killed 5 Year Old
Posted On: October 13, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, October 11, 2017: On Monday, Bexar County Judge Sid Harle, presiding judge of the 226th District court sentenced Abdi Abdi, age 20, to two life sentences within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Abdi pled guilty to both murder and robbery and was sentenced on both charges. As part of a plea agreement, Abdi waived his right to appeal. The two sentences will run consecutively which means Abdi will not be eligible for parole until he has served at least 60 years in prison.On June 1st, 2016 Abdi Abdi showed up to a residence located on 807 Pecan Valley in San Antonio, Texas, along with two other men, with the intent to rob a man who lived at the residence. During the robbery attempt, the three men began shooting, and Abdi, who was armed with a handgun, shot and killed Ana Garza, 5, who was inside the home. The suspects then fled the crime scene.Based on investigations and surveillance by the San Antonio Police Department and other law enforcement agencies, Abdi was apprehended by the U.S. Marshal’s Service on June 9th, 2016 and arrested.“I’m proud of the collaboration between the multiple law enforcement agencies and our staff within the District Attorney’s Office,” said District Attorney LaHood. “Their tenacity coupled with the decisions of the judge allowed justice to be found. Although we cannot change what happened, God willing, this is a step in closing a difficult chapter for the Garza family.”Assistant District Attorneys Joshua Somers and Marilisa Janssen prosecuted the case against Abdi in the 226th District Court.

9/27/2017 - DA LaHood Announces Upcoming Cite and Release Pilot Program
Posted On: September 27, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, September 27, 2017: Today, Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood, alongside County Judge Nelson Wolff and Sheriff Javier Salazar announced the creation of an upcoming Cite and Release pilot program aimed at low-level, non-violent offenders. During today’s press conference, District Attorney LaHood shared information on the upcoming pilot program.In order to establish a Cite and Release pilot program in Bexar County, District Attorney LaHood said they based it on House Bill 2392, which was passed and signed by the Governor during the 80th Legislative Session in 2007. This bill granted peace officers the option to issue a citation to a person who allegedly committed a violation of certain misdemeanor offenses and under certain circumstances. The pilot program, which has been in the works for more than two years, is expected to positively impact the citizens of our community, law enforcement and the justice system.“We have to balance community safety, fiscal responsibility for taxpayers, and opportunities for the citizen accused,” said District Attorney LaHood. “When utilized, this program will allow officers to stay on our streets and continue to protect our community, help reduce the burden on our criminal justice system and at the same time, allow the citizen accused an opportunity to learn from a poor choice without having the stigma of an arrest hanging over their head.”At this time, full details for the pilot program have not been finalized. Once that occurs, the program will begin in the near future and will have its initial evaluation after 6 months.The following offenses will be included in Cite and Release pilot program: Class A & Class B Possession of Marijuana (less than 4 oz.)Class B Criminal MischiefClass B TheftClass B Theft of ServiceClass B Driving While License InvalidWatch the full press conference here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhI-6JlvwB0

9/13/2017 - 88-Year Prison Sentence Handed Down to Step-Grandmother for Death of 5-Year-old Boy
Posted On: September 13, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, September 13, 2017: Last night, a Bexar County jury in the 379th District Court sentenced Gloria Proo, age 52, to 88 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On Monday, jurors found Proo guilty of Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission in connection with the death of 5-year-old Josiah Williams.On December 27, 2012, emergency responders were called out to a home in the 3900 block of Gayle Avenue. Once inside, they discovered Josiah Williams unresponsive, lying on the floor. First responders, who immediately began attempting to revive the boy, said Josiah had two black eyes, cuts, scrapes, and bruising all over his body. Josiah was pronounced dead at the scene.An autopsy later revealed Josiah had been beaten and starved to death. At the time of his death, the 5-year-old weighed 38 pounds. The Medical Examiner testified Josiah died as a result of "dehydration in a battered, underweight child." Gloria Proo had cared for and babysat Josiah. During an interview with San Antonio police detectives, Proo denied any involvement in Josiah's death. During the trial, Josiah's maternal grandmother testified that prior to staying with Proo, he was a "happy, go lucky child." Josiah had been with Proo, his biological father Charleston Williams, and his stepmother Crystal Williams, for six months before he died. Additionally, a family acquaintance testified that Josiah's skin was "yellow" and appeared extremely underweight weeks before his death. At the time of his death, Josiah was not enrolled in school."In his short life, Josiah went through pain, torture and isolation," said District Attorney LaHood. "No child should die thinking they are alone and unloved. We commend the jury for sending a strong message with their sentence."In June 2016, a jury sentenced Crystal Williams to 99 years in prison and assessed a $10,000.00 fine. Charleston Williams, who is also charged with Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission, is awaiting trial in the 379th District Court. Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd and Grant Bryan from our Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Proo in the 379th District Court.

9/7/2017 - Grand Jury Indicts Accused Serial Rapist Who Targeted Medical Center Area
Posted On: September 07, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, September 7, 2017: Today, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned six indictments against Anton Jamail Harris, age 18, for the charges of Aggravated Sexual Assault and Aggravated Robbery. Beginning in June 2015, the defendant went on a two year crime spree in the Medical Center area targeting women. Evidence reveals Harris would follow his victims to their apartment doors and force his way inside, threatening them with a knife or gun. Harris would then sexually assault them and take their property. In some cases, Harris would knock on the victims’ apartment doors and would then assault them.San Antonio Police Department’s Special Victims Unit identified Harris as a person of interest after he matched the description of the suspect given to them by his victims. Detectives were able to get DNA from Harris and he was arrested on June 8th after DNA matched evidence from the sexual assaults. The defendant remains in the Bexar County Jail on bonds totaling $775,000. All six indictments are first degree felonies, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Harris is awaiting trial out of the 399th District Court.

9/1/2017 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for August 2017
Posted On: September 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 8/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 8/31/2017 there were 394 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 184 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 145Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher 135Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 21Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 47Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 36Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 9Intoxication Assault: 1Intoxication Manslaughter: 0*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

8/24/2017 - 45-Year Sentence for Man Who Violently Assaulted Girlfriend and Three Children
Posted On: August 24, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, August 24, 2017: This week, Felony Impact Court Judge Laura Parker sentenced Markus Lorenzo Scott, age 39, to 45 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for the charge of Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury. Additionally, Judge Parker sentenced Scott to 20 years in prison for the charge of Assault Family Choking – Strangulation. Last month, Scott pleaded guilty to the charges. The sentences will be served concurrently, or at the same time.On April 4, 2016, Scott came home intoxicated and assaulted his girlfriend and then began violently assaulting children who were at the home. Scott assaulted a 9-year-old boy by punching him in the eye; he then began choking the 11-year-old niece of his girlfriend before he started kicking the girl’s 12-year-old brother and repeatedly stomped him in his head. Scott left the home before San Antonio police responded to the scene, but was arrested a short time later when he was found hiding in the bushes. Under questioning by detectives, Scott denied any involvement. Meanwhile, the 12-year-old boy, who suffered the most severe injuries, was put in a medically induced coma. Family members said the boy had to learn how to talk and walk due to the traumatic injuries he received from the attack.During the punishment hearing, Prosecutor Karl Alexander told the judge that Scott “killed” what the boy could have been in the future. On the stand, Scott continued to blame the 12-year-old boy and stated he had enough of him and “snapped.” Assistant District Attorneys Karl Alexander and Brittany Byrd from our Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Scott.Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assault Family Choking – Strangulation is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

8/23/2017 - Life Sentence for Man Who Murdered Neighbor and Killed Man during Crime Spree
Posted On: August 23, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, August 23, 2017: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 186th District Court sentenced Charles Ray Hall, age 31, to life in prison for the 2014 murder of his neighbor Lawrence Carroll. Last Friday, jurors found Hall guilty of the murder.On May 27, 2014, Hall walked up to his neighbor, Lawrence Carroll’s door on the 200 block of Victor Street and when Carroll answered the door, Hall shot him in the head, killing him. Hall then walked back to his home nearby Carroll’s apartment, changed clothes and walked back to the complex where he began shooting at another man. The man was able to escape unharmed. Meanwhile, Hall left the complex in a waiting car. Later that night, Hall returned to the apartment complex where a local television crew was covering the aftermath of Carroll’s murder. Hall began harassing the news crew and was told to leave the premises by security guard Angel Maldonado. A short time later, Hall returned and confronted Maldonado telling him he had something for him, before shooting him in the arm and neck. Maldonado was transported to the hospital and survived.While responding to the shooting of Maldonado, a San Antonio police officer spotted Hall sitting on a bench laughing at the patrol cars passing him. The officer, who had received a good description of Hall from several witnesses at the crime scenes, stopped and confronted Hall. Another officer confirmed Hall was the suspect they were looking for and he was placed under arrest. Under questioning by San Antonio police detectives, Hall confessed to killing Rogelio Ramos and Lawrence Carroll and injuring Angel Maldonado.During punishment, jurors learned that just one day before he murdered Lawrence Carroll, Hall shot and killed Rogelio Ramos. Hall was driving a stolen van when he began shooting at Ramos. Ramos drove to a gas station off Austin Highway to try and get away from Hall. However, Hall was able to catch up to Ramos, shooting him from the stolen van. Hall then got off the van and shot Ramos execution style.During a victim impact statement, Lawrence Carroll’s son Lawrence Carroll Junior, told Hall “you took a piece of our hearts we can never get back” and added “you need to rot in prison.” Carroll Junior said he was a Christian man who forgave Hall, but said he would never forget what he did.Assistant District Attorney Gretchen Flader from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Hall, with the assistance of Victim Advocate Leslie Garza, DA Investigator Anthony Rodriguez and intern Rosie Garcia. Hall is still awaiting trial for Rogelio Ramos’ murder and the shooting of Angel Maldonado. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

8/22/2017 - Life Sentence for Man Who Terrorized Young Woman in 2013 Robbery
Posted On: August 22, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, August 22, 2017: Last week, Bexar County jurors in Felony Impact Court sentenced Juan G. Rodriguez, age 32, to life in prison and an additional 20 years behind bars. Jurors took less than 15 minutes to find Rodriguez guilty of Aggravated Robbery and Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault.On September 28, 2013, Rodriguez broke into an apartment in the 8900 block of Datapoint Drive, on the city’s northwest side. Once inside the apartment, Rodriguez removed a television, wallet, backpack and laptop before he returned to confront a young woman who lived there with her family. The victim testified that Rodriguez woke her up with a gun pointed at her, and then pulled the trigger. The gun did not fire, but Rodriguez warned her that the next time the gun would go off if she didn’t cooperate. She said Rodriguez threatened to kill her family while he led her around the apartment, collecting property. The victim, who said she feared for her life, told jurors that she was able to talk Rodriguez out of sexually assaulting her. However, Rodriguez did force the young woman at gunpoint to take off all her clothes while he took pictures of her. He then instructed her to get in bed and cover her face while he escaped. The girl’s younger brother was able to call for help when he saw Rodriguez in his sister’s room during the robbery.Rodriguez was arrested days later in Victoria, Texas and extradited back to San Antonio. Inside the vehicle Rodriguez was driving at the time of his arrest, authorities recovered the young woman’s ID’s that were taken from her apartment, along with a revolver believed to have been used during the robbery. Additionally, San Antonio Police suspected Rodriguez in other burglaries and sexual assault in the same area as the September 28th incident. They believe he committed a crime spree from August 2013 to the end of September. At the time of his arrest, San Antonio Police Chief William McManus called Rodriguez, “brazen and dangerous.” During the punishment hearing, Rodriguez admitted to the September 28th Aggravated Robbery and Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault, but asked jurors for a second chance and mercy. Assistant District Attorneys Tamara Strauch and Madeline Flosi prosecuted the case against Rodriguez in Felony Impact Court.“I commend the hard work of our prosecutors and diligence of the jury to protect our community,” said District Attorney LaHood. “This lifestyle of crime will not be tolerated and we will continue to seek maximum punishment for evil behavior.”Aggravated Robbery is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Attempted Aggravated Sexual Assault is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.  Rodriguez is awaiting trial out of the 399th District Court for other unrelated cases, including Burglary of a Habitation, Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Sexual Assault.

8/11/2017 - 30-Year Prison Sentence for Drunk Driver Who Killed Teen with Muscular Dystrophy
Posted On: August 14, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, August 11, 2017: This week, 290th District Court Judge Melisa Skinner sentenced Richard Sanchez, age 50, to 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Sanchez pleaded “no contest” to the charges of Intoxication Manslaughter and Intoxication Assault, both with a deadly weapon finding. Under the plea agreement, Sanchez was sentenced to the maximum 20 years in prison for the Intoxication Manslaughter and the maximum 10 years in prison for the Intoxication Assault. Judge Skinner stacked both sentences, per the State’s request, making his total sentence 30 years in prison. Additionally, Sanchez pleaded guilty to two additional Intoxication Assault charges and one Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon charge. These charges were taken into consideration for the plea agreement.On January 7, 2017, Sanchez was driving the wrong way on IH-35 around 2:49 a.m. 18-year-old Miguel Hernandez was travelling with his family in a van from Mexico to Georgia, when Sanchez struck their vehicle head-on. The impact caused the van to catch fire. Sanchez’s vehicle was then struck by another vehicle. That vehicle struck a fourth vehicle. Miguel, who had muscular dystrophy, passed away from his injuries later that morning in the hospital. Several of Miguel’s family members, who are currently residing out of state, are still recovering from their injuries.Responding officers said Sanchez had a strong odor of alcohol, slurred speech and admitted to taking prescription drugs. Sanchez refused to tell officers where he was coming from. Sanchez was non-complaint and uncooperative with medical staff and San Antonio police officers. After obtaining a warrant for his blood, Sanchez had to be restrained in order for his blood to be drawn. Toxicology results later showed that Sanchez had a blood alcohol concentration of .19, more than two times the legal limit, when his blood was drawn. At the time of the January 2017 crash, Sanchez was on probation for Driving While Intoxicated. Additionally, Sanchez was previously convicted for Indecency with a Child by Exposure.Intoxication Manslaughter is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Intoxication Assault is a third degree felony, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Due to the deadly weapon finding, Sanchez will have to serve half of the times of his sentences before he is eligible for parole.  Assistant District Attorney Jessica Frazier from our DWI Task Force prosecuted the case against Sanchez in the 290th District Court.

8/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for July 2017
Posted On: August 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 7/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 7/31/2017 there were 469 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 182 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 199Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher 156Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 19Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 51Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 30Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 11Intoxication Assault: 2Intoxication Manslaughter: 2*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

7/25/2017 - 10-Year Prison Sentence for Drunk Driver Who Struck Crowd
Posted On: July 25, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, July 25, 2017: Today, 144th District Court Judge Lorina Rummel sentenced Juan Perez-Turrubiate to 10 years for Intoxication Assault, 10 years for Failure to Stop and Render Aid with Serious Bodily Injury and 5 years for Failure to Stop and Render Aid with Bodily Injury. All of the sentences will be served concurrently, or at the same time. Additionally, the judge ruled the vehicle the defendant drove was used as a deadly weapon, which will require Perez-Turrubiate to serve half of his sentence before he is eligible for parole.On June 12, 2016, around 4 a.m., Juan Perez-Turrubiate, age 23 at the time, crashed his vehicle into a group of people near North General McMullen Drive and West Commerce Street on the city’s west side. One victim was pinned between Perez-Turrubiate’s vehicle and another vehicle, amputating her leg, while a second victim was struck and then dragged underneath Perez-Turrubiate’s vehicle. Perez-Turrubiate left his vehicle and attempted to leave the scene, but was stopped by bystanders and the second victim. Perez-Turrubiate was apprehended by San Antonio Police officers near the crash scene. Perez-Turrubiate’s blood alcohol concentration was .18, more than twice the legal limit of .08.During his punishment hearing this morning, one of the victim’s expressed how she was not going to give up hope despite the fact that the defendant’s actions took away her leg, her ability to dance, and the time she could have spent with her young child while she was in the hospital and as she continues to recover.Intoxication Assault is a third degree felony punishable by 2-10 years in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Failure to Stop and Render Aid Causing Serious Bodily Injury is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Failure to Stop and Render Aid Causing Bodily Injury is a hybrid offense, punishable by 2-5 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Jason Todd from our DWI Task Force prosecuted the case against Perez-Turrubiate in the 144th District Court.

7/13/2017 - Former Bexar County Administrator for Emergency Services Districts Indicted
Posted On: July 19, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, July 13, 2017: This week, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Gilbert Muniz Perez, age 61, for one count of Misapplication of Fiduciary Property $30,000-$150,000; one count of Theft by Public Servant $30,000-$150,000; and one count of Abuse of Official Capacity $30,000-$150,000.Gilbert Muniz Perez, a public servant, worked as the Administrator for several Emergency Services Districts and also held a position as President of at least one district. The State alleges Mr. Perez abused his positions by misapplying and misusing government funds entrusted to him by the districts, the County Commissioners, and the Bexar County taxpayers. Perez devised a variety of overpayment schemes, to include duplicate payments, fictitious and disallowable expenditures, credit card payments for personal use, and other unauthorized purchases and expenses.The Texas Rangers investigated Perez with the assistance of the Bexar County Auditor’s Office and the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Unit. As part of the investigation, agents executed a search and seizure warrant at Perez’s home seizing over forty boxes of documents related to the Emergency Service Districts.Theft by Public Servant $30,000-$150,000 is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Misapplication of Fiduciary Property $30,000-$150,000 and Abuse of Official Capacity $30,000-$150,000 are both third degree felonies, punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

7/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for June 2017
Posted On: July 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 6/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 6/30/2017 there were 443 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 214 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 208Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher 103Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 16Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 62Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 40Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 7Intoxication Assault: 7Intoxication Manslaughter: 0*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

6/29/2017 - Grand Jurors Return Two New Murder Indictments Against Genene Jones
Posted On: June 29, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 29, 2017: This morning, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned two new murder indictments against Genene Jones. The new indictments are for the July 3, 1981 murder of 8-month-old Richard "Ricky" Nelson and for the January 17, 1982 murder of 4 1/2 month-old Patrick Zavala. Last week, our office announced the indictment against Jones for the September 16, 1981 murder of Rosemary Vega. Last month, we announced the indictment against Jones for the December 12, 1981 murder of Joshua Sawyer.The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million each for these two new indictments. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was sentenced, she will be released from prison in March 2018. Prior to her mandatory release, she will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for the new charges. Jones is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the continuing investigations, we will reserve further comment at this time regarding potential future charges against Jones.

6/26/2017 - 50-Year Prison Sentence for Documented Gang Member Who Killed Cousin
Posted On: June 26, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 26, 2017: On Friday, Judge Laura Parker from the Felony Impact Court, sentenced 40-year-old Arthur Whitley to 50 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Earlier that day, Judge Parker found Whitley guilty of the May 2015 murder of his cousin, Michael Whitley.On May 26, 2015, shortly after 2:00 a.m., the victim 39-year-old Michael Whitley, was sitting in front of a home in the 300 block of Ferris Avenue, on the city’s east side. Whitley was scratching off a lottery ticket when he was suddenly shot twice in the chest and once in the head. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives with the San Antonio Police Department centered on Whitley as a suspect in the deadly shooting after an eyewitness identified the defendant as the shooter. At the time of the murder, the defendant was finishing up his federal parole term for a gun charge at a nearby halfway house.Evidence later presented at his trial showed surveillance video of a person resembling the defendant, coming and going from the halfway house before and after the shooting. Additionally, cell phone records, including text messages, belonging to the defendant corroborated the video evidence. Whitley was arrested the same day as the shooting. Under questioning by detectives, Whitley said he was sleeping at the halfway house during the deadly shooting.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, due to the defendant’s lengthy criminal history, which includes numerous shootings, Whitley’s punishment was enhanced to 25 to 99 years or life in prison. Additionally, Whitley is a documented gang member. Assistant District Attorneys Thom Nisbet and Jason Goss from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Whitley in Felony Impact Court.

6/26/2017 - Repeat Drunk Driver Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for 11th DWI Conviction
Posted On: June 26, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 26, 2017: Last week, a Bexar County jury in the 227th District Court sentenced San Juan Garcia, age 57, to 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Jurors found Garcia guilty of DWI 3rd or More with a deadly weapon finding. This latest conviction was his 11th Driving While Intoxicated related charge.On January 10, 2014, around 9:30 p.m., the defendant was driving on WW White Road near Hein, when he struck a motorcyclist, causing a major crash. The victim was rushed to a local hospital with serious injuries. When officers arrived at the scene, they noticed the defendant, later identified as San Juan Garcia, had a strong odor of alcohol, bloodshot eyes, and slurred speech. Under questioning by police, Garcia admitted to drinking “four to six beers.” Garcia also said the victim was at fault for the crash and even blamed the arresting officer, telling him he had ruined his life. Toxicology results later showed that Garcia had a blood alcohol concentration of .21, more than two times the legal limit, when his blood was drawn.This was the 11th time Garcia had been convicted for driving while intoxicated. Garcia was arrested for his first DWI on March 17, 1982. Just a few months later, in June of 1982, Garcia was arrested for his second driving while intoxicated offense. In 1989, Garcia was arrested for his sixth DWI and sentenced to prison for 5 years. In January 2004, Garcia was convicted for his tenth driving while intoxicated offense and sentenced to 6 years behind bars. During his trial, Garcia took the stand and admitted he had a problem with alcohol, but said he did not have time to get help. During closing arguments of the punishment phase, prosecutors asked jurors to send a message to the community that repeat drunk drivers such as Garcia should remain behind bars. They added that Garcia had not learned from his numerous trips to prison and did not know his limits.“Mr. Garcia showed a complete disregard for public safety when he chose to repeatedly get behind the wheel while he was intoxicated,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Make a plan ahead of time. Be responsible and don’t make a game time decision.”DWI 3rd or More is a third degree, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, because the defendant is a habitual offender, the punishment range for DWI 3rd or More was enhanced to a minimum of 25 years up to 99 years or life in prison. Assistant District Attorneys Elizabeth Martinez and Jessica Frazier from the DWI Task Force prosecuted the case against Garcia in the 227th District Court. Due to the deadly weapon finding, Garcia will have to serve 15 years in prison before he’s eligible for parole.

6/21/2017 - Grand Jurors Return 2nd Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Rosemary Vega
Posted On: June 21, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 21, 2017: This morning, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Genene Jones for the September 16, 1981 murder of 2-year-old Rosemary Vega. Last month, our office announced the indictment against Jones for the December 12, 1981 murder of 11-month-old Joshua Sawyer.The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million for this latest indictment. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was sentenced, she will be released from prison in March 2018. Prior to her mandatory release, she will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for the new charges. Jones is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the continuing investigations, we will reserve further comment at this time regarding potential future charges against Jones.

6/16/2017 - 30-Year Prison Sentence for Teen Who Shot Girl After Party
Posted On: June 16, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 16, 2017: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury sentenced Julian Martinez, age 19, to 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for the March 2016 murder of Amanda Acosta. On Thursday, jurors found Martinez guilty of Acosta’s death.On March 14, 2016, Julian Martinez attended a party in the 200 block of Cavalier Avenue where he got into a fight with another party goer. Witnesses said Martinez punched the party goer after getting upset over the opposing gang colors he was wearing. The party goer left the home with the victim, Amanda Acosta, and another friend. Shortly after leaving the party, Acosta’s friend heard a loud bang inside their vehicle and then realized it was a gunshot. The friend testified Amanda told her she had been shot and she thought she was joking. Once she realized Acosta had in fact been shot, her friends drove her to a nearby hospital, however, she passed away a short time later from a gunshot wound to her back. Amanda died just a few days shy of her eighteenth birthday. Days following Amanda’s death, her family held a benefit barbecue plate sale to help pay for funeral expenses. Martinez showed up to the benefit and even wore an “In Loving Memory” shirt and posed with her family in a picture shown to jurors during his trial.San Antonio Police centered on Martinez as a suspect after several eye witnesses who were at the party identified him as the shooter or as a person in a violent altercation immediately before the shots were fired. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Jason Goss and Clint Malloy from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Martinez.

6/1/2017 - Capital Murder Indictment Returned in Death of 15-Year-Old & Her Unborn Child
Posted On: June 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, June 1, 2017: A Bexar County Grand Jury has indicted Armando Rodrigo Garcia-Ramires, age 36, for two counts of Capital Murder in connection with the death of 15-year-old Jennifer Delgado and her unborn child.On March 6, 2017, Armando Rodrigo Garcia-Ramires is accused of shooting and killing his 15-year-old stepdaughter, Jennifer Delgado and her unborn child. While fleeing the scene of the murder, Garcia-Ramires later shot himself in a wooded area in the 1100 block of Babcock Road. Garcia-Ramires is awaiting trial out of the 437th District Court. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole.

6/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for May 2017
Posted On: June 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 5/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 5/31/2017 there were 470 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 233 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 173Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher 156Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 18Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 60Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 38Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 17Intoxication Assault: 6Intoxication Manslaughter: 2*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

5/30/2017 - 65-Year Sentence for Man Who Shot BCSO Deputy
Posted On: May 30, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 30, 2017: Last week, a Bexar County jury sentenced 37-year-old Sherman Robinson to 65 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On Wednesday, jurors found Robinson guilty of Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon Against a Public Servant in connection with the October 2015 shooting of Bexar County Sheriff’s Deputy Joseph Canales.On October 30, 2015, Deputy Canales, who is assigned to the K-9 Unit, was given information that drug dealing was taking place in the 8000 block of Midcrown, on the city’s northeast side. Deputy Canales went to the location and observed the defendant, later identified as Sherman Robinson, acting very suspicious by walking back and forth across Midcrown and never taking his eyes off of Deputy Canales. Eventually the defendant walked into the apartment complex at the location and Deputy Canales continued his patrol. A short while later when Deputy Canales drove back by the location, he once again saw the defendant about to cross Midcrown. Deputy Canales stopped his patrol vehicle to speak with the defendant, but as soon as he stepped out of his vehicle, the defendant opened fire with a .380 caliber handgun. The first shot hit Deputy Canales in the right forearm and the second shot hit him in the chest. The first shot disabled Deputy Canales’ arm, making it impossible for him to draw his sidearm and defend himself. Deputy Canales fled around his patrol vehicle as the defendant continued to fire at him. Deputy Canales then sought shelter behind a nearby tree and was able to draw his firearm with his left hand. The defendant fled into the apartment complex. Evidence later showed Robinson was less than 12 feet away from Deputy Canales when he fired his .380 caliber gun at him.Canales was able to call for help and give a description of the defendant and the direction in which he fled. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies, along with the Windcrest and San Antonio Police Departments, responded to the area. A Good Samaritan also assisted Deputy Canales who had suffered injuries from the gunshots. While trying to evade officers in the apartment complex, Robinson once again shot at officers who were pursuing him. Robinson was caught a short while later hiding underneath a car in the apartment complex with the gun he used to shoot Deputy Canales just inches from his hand.Meanwhile, Deputy Canales was rushed to San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC) where he underwent 8 hours of surgery to repair his right arm. The bullet that struck Deputy Canales in the chest was stopped by his ballistic vest. Deputy Canales endured months of rehabilitation and ultimately returned to work.On the stand, Deputy Canales told jurors he thought he was going to die that night and talked about his devastating injury. He also spoke of the loss of his father, San Antonio Police Officer Antonio Canales, who was killed in the line of duty in 1972. Deputy Canales says that he uses this horrific experience to train new officers about being ready for anything and fighting to survive when placed in similar situations. Since this incident Deputy Canales and his family regularly work with organizations that support injured and fallen officers (both human and K-9) and their families.The defendant also testified claiming he feared for his life and said he would shoot Deputy Canales again if in the same situation. Jurors took about one hour to convict Robinson of shooting Deputy Canales. After hearing punishment evidence, the jury returned a 65-year prison sentence. Prosecutors asked Presiding Judge Laura Parker to stack the 65-year sentence on top of a 99-year sentence that Robinson received last year for a Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge. Judge Parker granted the request, making Robinson’s total sentence to 164 years. Robinson will have to serve his 99-year sentence before his 65-year sentence begins.Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon Against a Public Servant is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, due to Robinson’s extensive criminal history, his punishment range was enhanced to 25 years to life in prison. Because of the nature of the offense, Robinson will have to serve at least 30 years on the Aggravated Assault before he becomes eligible for parole. Assistant District Attorneys Joe Hooker and Alfred Ramirez from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Robinson.

5/25/2017 - Genene Jones Indicted for 1981 Death of Joshua Sawyer
Posted On: May 25, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 25, 2017: Today, a Bexar County Grand Jury returned a true bill of indictment against Genene Jones, age 66, for the 1981 murder of Joshua Sawyer. Jones is suspected of killing up to 60 infants. She is currently incarcerated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.On December 12, 1981, Jones was working as a nurse in the pediatric intensive care unit in what was formally known as the Bexar County Hospital. Evidence shows that Jones injected 11-month-old Joshua Sawyer with a toxic level of Dilantin.In 1984, a jury in Williamson County sentenced Jones to 99 years in prison for the death of 15-month-old Chelsea McClellan. In late 1984, in Bexar County, a Judge sentenced Jones to 60 years in prison for injecting then 4-week-old Rolando Santos with Heparin. The sentences were ordered to be served concurrently.When District Attorney LaHood took office in January 2015, he approved a Task Force to investigate Jones and the crimes she committed.“As people are well aware, I believe children are a gift from the Lord,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Genene Jones did not see children in this regard. She is pure evil and justice warrants that she be held accountable for the crimes she committed. Our Office will attempt to account for every child whose life was stolen by the actions of Jones. Our only focus is justice.”The Grand Jury recommended Jones’ bond be set at $1 million. Due to a law in effect at the time Jones was sentenced, she will be released from prison in March 2018. Prior to her mandatory release, she will be extradited back to Bexar County where she will await trial for the new charges. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Due to the continuing investigations, we will reserve further comment at this time regarding future charges against Jones.

5/24/2017 - 60-Year Prison Sentence for Door to Door Salesman Who Gunned Down Homeowner
Posted On: May 24, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 24, 2017: Today, a Bexar County jury in the 186th District Court sentenced Richard Luis Amezquita, age 37, to 60 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for the murder of Kerry O’Toole.On November 7, 2015, Amezquita was working as a home security salesman when he approached a home on the 1000 block of Visor Drive, in North San Antonio. The homeowner, later identified as 53-year-old Kerry O’Toole, had a “no soliciting” sign on the front door. Amezquita later told San Antonio police that O’Toole answered the door agitated and began attacking him a short time later – kicking and choking him. Amezquita told police he went to his vehicle where he retrieved a handgun. Amezquita claimed O’Toole began throwing rocks at him, when he fired his weapon at him – killing him. Amezquita left the scene and called 911, claiming self-defense. He was arrested nearby from where the shooting had occurred. Evidence at the scene did not support Amezquita’s allegations of self-defense.O’Toole, who was a carpenter, was described as the neighborhood hero because he would help everyone without charging them. Assistant District Attorneys Kim Gonzalez and Michelle Haden prosecuted the case against Amezquita in the 186th District Court. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

5/12/2017 - 40-Year Sentence in "Red Berry Mansion" Theft
Posted On: May 12, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 12, 2017: This week, 399th District Court Judge Frank Castro sentenced Kenneth McGraw, Jr. to 40 years in prison for committing theft valued at $20,000 to $100,000—a third-degree felony.On October 24, 2016, in exchange for the defendant’s no contest plea, the defendant agreed to a term of 15 years. The defendant, however, failed to show up for his sentencing hearing, removed his GPS monitor, and fled the jurisdiction. While a fugitive from justice, he was arrested on drug charges and later brought back to Bexar County. Exposed to the entire range of punishment of 25 to 99 years or life in prison as a habitual offender, Judge Castro sentenced McGraw to 40 years.In late 2014 and early 2015, workers with the City of San Antonio reported a massive theft at the historic Red Berry Mansion on the city’s East Side on Gembler Road. The city estimated the property loss at tens of thousands of dollars. On March 3, 2015, San Antonio Police Department officers learned that McGraw and his father, Kenneth McGraw, Sr., were involved in the mansion heist after they received a Crime Stoppers tip that the pair offered to sell them items from the Red Berry Mansion. Both were later arrested. Some of the property from the mansion was recovered; however, paintings and other artifacts are still missing. The city is trying to recover some of the lost property. If you have any information about the case, please call San Antonio Police.Kenneth McGraw, Sr. is awaiting trial on the case in the 399th District Court. Assistant Criminal District Attorneys Edward A. Appelbaum and Kaytlyn Knowles from the Criminal Trial Division handled the case.

5/11/2017 - 65-Year Sentence for Man Who Murdered Iraq War Veteran
Posted On: May 11, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 11, 2017: Yesterday, a Bexar County jury sentenced Daniel Jeremy Torres, age 21, to 65 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and assessed a $10,000.00 fine. On Tuesday, jurors found Torres guilty in the murder of Jesse Richards, an Iraq War veteran.On December 20, 2015, Torres and his brother, David Alexander Zuniga, confronted Richards, as Richards got off a bus near the 400 block of Porter Street, on the city’s east side. Richards, an Army Veteran who had completed three tours in Iraq, had just finished his shift at a Southeast side restaurant. Police believe the brothers were attempting to rob Richards, when he was shot. Richards was found lying in the middle of the street near the bus stop. He died from his injuries a short time later. During the trial, Zuniga and another brother testified Torres was the shooter. The murder weapon was never recovered, however, eleven days following the murder Zuniga posted a picture of the same caliber weapon used in the killing on his Facebook page.During the punishment phase, the victim’s family testified of Jesse Richards sacrifice to serve his country, telling jurors that after serving his first tour of 15-months, he re-enlisted in the Army to serve two additional tours. They added that their family suffered a tremendous loss when he was killed. Torres’ mother testified he once threatened her with a screwdriver to her neck. Additionally, Torres was a convicted felon and a documented gang member.“I am proud of the hard work and dedication of prosecutors Josh Somers, James Phillips, and their team to ensure Jesse and his family received justice,” said District Attorney LaHood. “This is by no means closure for them, but hopefully it’s the start of the healing process.”In January, a jury sentenced Zuniga to life in prison for his role in Richards’ murder. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or Life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Joshua Somers and James Phillips prosecuted the case against Torres.

5/2/2017 - 40-Year Prison Sentence for Murder Defendant Who Shot Man Six Times
Posted On: May 02, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, May 2, 2017: Today, Visiting Judge Raymond Angelini sentenced Rosalio Anthony Barraza, age 22, to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. In late March, a Bexar County jury in the 290th District Court took just 30 minutes to find Barraza guilty of the 2013 murder of Isaac Arocha.On July 20, 2013, Barraza and Arocha got into a verbal altercation at a party on Weir Avenue on the city’s west side. Witnesses said Barraza walked outside and told Arocha to meet him in the middle of the street. As Arocha walked towards the street, Barraza was seen pulling out a .22 caliber revolver and firing at Arocha. Barraza fired the weapon six times, striking Arocha in the chin, neck, hand and three times in the chest. Arocha died a short time later.San Antonio police searched the area for Barraza and then enlisted the help of their Repeat Offender Program (ROP) and U.S. Marshals. Barraza was eventually apprehended in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, and extradited back to Bexar County in October 2016. Following Barraza’s sentencing, the victim’s father addressed the defendant during a victim impact statement. Arocha’s father told Barraza how life without his son will never be the same and that he will never move on from this.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Matthew Ludowig and Gary Barton from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Barraza in the 290th District Court.

5/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for April 2017
Posted On: May 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 4/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 4/30/2017 there were 585 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 246 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 243Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher 178Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 32Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 65Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 46Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 16Intoxication Assault: 4Intoxication Manslaughter: 2*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

4/13/2017 - Pair Who Killed Mall Patron During Rolling Oaks Mall Robbery Indicted
Posted On: April 13, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, April 13, 2017: Today, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted Jose Luis Rojas, age 34, and Jason Prieto, age 35, for Capital Murder.On January 22, 2017, Rojas and Prieto were both armed with guns when they stormed into the Kay Jewelers store located inside Rolling Oaks Mall. One of the men brandished a gun during the robbery, while the other began breaking a display glass with a tool. During the robbery, Jonathan Murphy, a customer at the jewelry store, was shot and killed. Rojas was also shot by a mall patron who possessed a CHL. Prieto fled from the mall, but was apprehended by the Converse Police Department soon after the shooting when he wrecked his vehicle and was found sleeping in a culvert.Rojas and Prieto were both indicted as habitual offenders due to their prior criminal history. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Rojas and Prieto are awaiting trial out of the 226th District Court.

4/11/2017 - Former Special Education Teacher Indicted for Assaulting Student
Posted On: April 11, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, April 11, 2017: A Bexar County Grand Jury has indicted Rosemary Diaz, age 59, for two cases of Injury to a Child or Disabled Individual. The charges stem from two separate incidents on February 1st and 2nd, 2017, where Diaz, a former special education teacher at Indian Creek Elementary, assaulted a 5-year-old autistic child. The assault, which was captured on video, shows Diaz repeatedly striking and pushing the child.“Our children are precious and we must protect them,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Special needs children are in a category of their own. They are truly the most vulnerable sector of our society. They often cannot defend or speak for themselves and anyone who harms them will be held accountable by our Office.”Injury to a Child or Disabled Individual is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. The District Attorney’s Office Public Integrity Unit will be prosecuting the case against Diaz. Diaz is currently awaiting trial out of the 187th District Court.

4/7/2017 - Woman Indicted, Funds Raised at Fashion Show Never Donated to Cancer Charity
Posted On: April 07, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, April 7, 2017: Yesterday, officers with the San Antonio Police Department’s Repeat Offender Program, or ROP, arrested Andrea Vasquez, age 44, for four felony cases of Theft. A Bexar County Grand Jury indicted Vasquez as a result of a joint investigation between the District Attorney’s Office and the San Antonio Police Department.On October 9, 2016, Vasquez hosted a charity event at a downtown venue, claiming the proceeds would be donated to the San Antonio chapter of “THair for You,” a national charity that provides wigs to cancer patients. During the event an oversized $20,000 presentation “check” made out to the charity “THair for You” was presented; however, the Comptroller for the charity stated that the charity never received any donation from the event. Vasquez advertised that the event was hosted by a charity named the “Fashion for Cancer Foundation.” During the joint investigation, it was determined that there was no charity named “Fashion for Cancer Foundation” registered as non-profit with the State of Texas. A small business owner provided fashion related services for the event, and the event was paid for with checks from a business named “Lauren Nicole, LLC,” a bank account associated with Vasquez. The bank account did not have sufficient funds to cover the checks written. The small business owner and checks written to vendors were never paid. The checks and services totaled almost $30,000.Theft is a state jail felony, punishable by 180 days to 2 years in state jail and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, if convicted, Vasquez could face 2-10 years in prison for each case due to her past criminal history. In 2001, Vasquez was sentenced to ten years in prison for killing a mother and injuring her daughter in an intoxication-related crash.This incident is an ongoing criminal investigation. If you believe you have been a victim of Andrea Vasquez, please contact SAPD’s White Collar Division at (210) 207-7451.

4/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for March 2017
Posted On: April 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 3/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 3/31/2017 there were 439 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 201 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 184Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher 125Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 18Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 61Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 36Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 10Intoxication Assault: 3Intoxication Manslaughter: 2*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

3/31/2017 - Pair Indicted in Horrific Abuse Case of 21-Month-old Girl
Posted On: March 31, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 31, 2017: A Bexar County Grand Jury has indicted a couple for causing horrific injuries to a 21-month-old girl. Isaac Andrew Cardenas, age 24, was indicted for two counts of Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. The victim’s mother, Crystal Herrera, age 22, was indicted for one count of Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission.On December 31, 2016, Herrera called 911 claiming her 21-month-old daughter had been attacked by dogs. When deputies and emergency responders arrived to the south Bexar County home, they observed the girl had suffered severe injuries to her genital and anal area. The victim was transported to University Hospital for treatment. Investigators with the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and doctors described the child’s injuries as horrific and some of the worst they have ever seen. Under questioning by investigators, both Cardenas and Herrera claimed the victim had been attacked by dogs. When compared to the medical evidence, the child’s injuries did not match their story, but are consistent with a brutal sexual assault.“It is unthinkable to hear allegations of a mom involved in such horrific behavior,” said District Attorney LaHood. “This alleged abuse is disgusting and will be treated appropriately. We will not grow weary in showing the community how much we value children.”Super Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, with an enhanced punishment of 25 years to life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Injury to a Child Causing Serious Bodily Injury by Omission is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Cardenas and Herrera are awaiting trial out of the 227th District Court. The District Attorney’s Office Child Abuse Unit will be prosecuting the cases against the defendants.

3/23/2017 - Jurors Return Swift Guilty Verdict in Murder Trial
Posted On: March 23, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 23, 2017: Today, a Bexar County jury in the 290th District Court took just 30 minutes to find Rosalio Anthony Barraza, age 21, guilty of the 2013 murder of Isaac Arocha.On July 20, 2013, Barraza and Arocha got into a verbal altercation at a party on Weir Avenue on the city’s west side. Witnesses said Barraza walked outside and told Arocha to meet him in the middle of the street. As Arocha walked towards the street, Barraza was seen pulling out a .22 caliber revolver and firing at Arocha. Barraza fired the weapon six times, striking Arocha in the chin, neck, hand and three times in the chest. Arocha died a short time later.San Antonio police searched the area for Barraza and then enlisted the help of their Repeat Offender Program (ROP) and U.S. Marshals. Barraza was eventually apprehended in Nuevo Leon, Mexico, and extradited back to Bexar County in October, 2016. Barraza, who is facing up to life in prison, is scheduled to be sentenced by Visiting Judge Raymond Angelini in the 290th District Court on May 2, 2017.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Matthew Ludowig and Gary Barton from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Barraza in the 290th District Court.

3/10/2017 - 30-Year Sentence for Drunk Driver Who Killed Woman, Seriously Injured Man
Posted On: March 10, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 10, 2017: Yesterday, 437th District Court Judge Lori Valenzuela sentenced Tyler Mosley, age 23, to a total of 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for the offenses of Intoxication Manslaughter and Intoxication Assault. The sentences, 20 years and 10 years respectively, will run consecutively. In addition, an affirmative finding of a deadly weapon was applied to the Intoxication Manslaughter conviction.On July 5, 2015, after being involved in a hit and run accident, Tyler Mosley, ran a red light at Pat Booker and IH-35 access road and fled at a high rate of speed. He then t-boned the vehicle driven by James Casiano in which Emily McLaughlin was a passenger, as he ran a second red light at Toepperwein and IH-35 access road. The impact was so strong, the passenger side door was ripped off of the vehicle and the vehicle was thrown 10 feet in the air impacting a traffic signal pole. Emily did not survive her injuries and James was seriously injured, suffering a traumatic brain injury.Prior to the crash, Tyler Mosley had been at a bar in Live Oak, evidenced by the wrist band discarded by the Defendant at the crash scene prior to the arrival of the police department. The Defendant was evaluated by a Drug Recognition Expert and found to be intoxicated, shortly after the crash. A blood draw revealed the defendant not only had alcohol in his system, he had Tramodal, Xanax, the metabolite of cocaine, and the cutting agent for cocaine in his blood at the time of the crash. James and Emily were on their way home from a movie and dinner when they were struck by Mosley. Emily was visiting James, with plans to move to San Antonio soon.Intoxication Manslaughter is a second degree felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. An affirmative finding of a Deadly Weapon ensures that the Defendant will do half the time before becoming eligible for parole. Intoxication Assault is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Frazier and Jason Todd from our DWI Task Force prosecuted the case against Mosley in the 437th District Court.

3/9/2017 - 35-Year Sentence for Man Convicted in Christmas Day Murder
Posted On: March 09, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 9, 2017: Yesterday, a Bexar County jury in the 187th District Court sentenced Benjamin Poehlmann, age 34, to 35 years in Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Jurors convicted Poehlmann of the 2014 Christmas Day murder of Roxann Sanchez, age 28.On December 25, 2014, Poehlmann shot and killed Roxann Sanchez at his home on First View Drive, near Perrin Beitel. The defendant’s sister who also lived in the home heard a loud noise and found Sanchez on the floor lifeless and her brother out of his wheelchair, crying. She added the victim and the defendant were arguing that morning and had a relationship where they were, “always fighting.” When San Antonio police arrived, they found Poehlmann on the ground next to the victim. Investigators recovered a handgun and shell casings at the scene. During the punishment phase of the trial, Poehlmann claimed there was never any real disagreement that morning and he was just cleaning his gun when it “went off.”Prior to committing the murder, the defendant was convicted in 2006 and 2009 of felon in possession of a firearm. Additionally, he was convicted of felony evading and possession of a controlled substance. Police had responded to the same household where the murder occurred in July 2014 when the defendant’s sister complained of gunshots inside the home. The defendant denied shooting inside the house, but the firearms were taken into custody and removed from the home. Regardless, the defendant admitted that he bought another firearm from an “associate” despite being a convicted felon and repeatedly being convicted for that same crime. The victim was 28 years old when she died and left behind 4 young children.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Michael De Leon and Alfredo Ramirez from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Poehlmann in the 187th District Court.

3/8/2017 - Bill Targeting Serial Abusers of the Most Vulnerable Filed Today
Posted On: March 09, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 8, 2017: Today, Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood alongside Senators Carlos Uresti and Donna Campbell, and State Representative Barbara Gervin-Hawkins announced the filing of a bill that would give prosecutors across the state the added tools to prevent initial and continuous crimes committed against our children, seniors and disabled individuals. In October 2016, District Attorney LaHood formally announced the proposed legislation alongside County Judge Nelson Wolff, 225th District Court Judge Peter Sakai, state representatives, senators, local law enforcement officials and area children, senior and disabled individual’s advocacy groups.“Over the past two years, cases have come across my desk that have brought pain to my heart as a father, son, and public servant,” said District Attorney LaHood. “These cases have emboldened my passion to protect our most vulnerable citizens."The bill filed today targets the chronic serial abuser of the most vulnerable victims – children, elderly, and the disabled. Currently, there is a gap where prosecutors are unable to appropriately punish the most serious abusers of children, the elderly and the disabled. The bill fills the gaps and gives a judge or jury the opportunity to assess the appropriate punishment in some of the most horrific abuse cases prosecutors have.DA LaHood is proposing four changes to the Penal Code that will address the following:1. Long term abuse – this relates to multiple alleged incidents (over time or multiple victims). The punishment would now be a first degree felony (5-99 years or life), versus a third degree felony (2-10 years).2. Long term abuse with serious injury – this relates to multiple injuries with serious bodily injury. This would enhance the punishment from first degree felony (5-99 years or life) to 15 years to life.3. Prior conviction with new abuse allegations – this relates to a prior injury adjudication followed by a new abuse allegation. This would enhance this from a third degree offense to a first degree offense.4. Child under 6 years old – this relates to Injury to a Child offense, without serious bodily injury. This would enhance the offense from a third degree to a first degree offense because of the victim’s age (under 6 years old).Last year, Bexar County was rocked by the horrific abuse allegations involving two young children, ages 3 and 4, who were found chained up in the backyard of a northeast side home. This gave the DA’s Office reason to re-examine State laws on abuse and prosecutors identified a need to fill gaps in existing statutes. In this particular case, prosecutors were able to present new medical expert evidence to a Grand Jury and they in turn then upgraded the charges from 3rd degree felonies to 1st degree felonies.“As our office seeks to reduce backlog in our criminal justice system and overcrowding in our prisons, it is important to remember we have a duty to hold the most violent and heinous criminal offenders accountable,” said DA LaHood. “This is especially true for those who target the most vulnerable, unable to defend themselves.”The bill filed today will now be referred to a Senate or House committee. The bills are voted on in committee, then the entire membership of the Senate and House. If the bill passes votes in favor in both Senate and House Chambers, it is then placed on the Governor's desk to be signed into law.

3/3/2017 - Former SAPD Officers Convicted on all Charges Stemming from Fake Undercover Operation
Posted On: March 03, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, March 3, 2017: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 187th District Court convicted two former San Antonio Police Department officers on more than a dozen counts each for the charges of Sexual Assault, Compelling Prostitution, and Official Oppression.In June 2015, Live Oak police officers responded to a call from a woman who said she had been sexually assaulted by a purported law enforcement officer. The victim told police she met the officer after she was referred to him by an SAPD officer who was a friend of hers. The officer she was referred to told her that she could earn up to $5,000 a day if she qualified for this undercover operation. The officer provided her a phone number and told her to send a text expressing her interest in the program. She did, and eventually was persuaded to meet with an alleged agent and complete certain “levels” to qualify for the job.In their efforts to identify the perpetrator, investigators with Live Oak Police Department and the Texas Rangers discovered close to 25 other women were being told this same false story of a job opportunity working as an undercover operative with law enforcement. By tracking the phone records and speaking to witnesses, authorities were able to identify Emmanuel Galindo and Alejandro Chapa, both former patrol officers with the San Antonio Police Department, as the persons who were recruiting women for this purpose. Each was identified as making false representations in order to persuade these women to have sex with them. During questioning, the pair denied any involvement in the criminal enterprise. The victims told authorities they were in desperate need of the money and believed the operation was in fact real. Galindo and Chapa resigned from SAPD following their arrests in September 2015.“We passionately support our law enforcement community but when men and women abuse their authority, we will hold them accountable,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “These convictions are not a reflection on the entire law enforcement community, but the individuals convicted are examples of those who dishonor the badge.”Galindo was convicted of the following charges: 5 counts of Sexual Assault, 5 counts of Compelling Prostitution, and 11 counts of Official Oppression. Chapa was convicted of the following charges: 3 counts of Sexual Assault, 4 counts of Compelling Prostitution, and 8 counts of Official Oppression. Sexual Assault and Compelling Prostitution are both 2nd degree felonies, punishable by 2-20 years and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Official Oppression is a Class A misdemeanor offense, punishable by up to one year in jail, and up to a $4,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys David Lunan and Ryan Wright prosecuted the cases against Galindo and Chapa out of the 187th District Court. The punishment phase will resume Monday at 8:15 a.m. in the 187th District Court.

3/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for February 2017
Posted On: March 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 2/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 2/28/2017 there were 390 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 179 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense: Driving While Intoxicated 1st:141 Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher:136 Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:14 Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:52 Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:32 Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 8 Intoxication Assault:4 Intoxication Manslaughter:3 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

2/23/2017 - 32-Year Sentence for Man Who Shot at Bexar County Constables
Posted On: February 23, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, February 23, 2017: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 227th District Court sentenced Darnell Rogers, age 23, to 32 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On Wednesday, jurors convicted Rogers of the first degree felony offense of Aggravated Assault Against a Public Servant.On September 18, 2015, law enforcement officers from multiple agencies were dispatched to the 3800 block of Southcross for reports of two black males shooting their guns at a car. Authorities believe the two parties had engaged in a drug deal before the shooting occurred. Bexar County Constables’ James Valle and Fabian Gonzalez from Precinct 4 first responded to the scene and made contact with Rogers. The constables began chasing Rogers on foot. Shortly thereafter, the constables heard a gunshot and observed Rogers scrambling over an 8-foot fence. They said when Rogers got to the other side of the fence, he began firing again at them. During the trial, numerous witnesses from a nearby apartment complex and nursing home testified to seeing Rogers fire his weapon at the uniformed constables.Another constable then witnessed Rogers aim his gun at the other constables in an attempt to fire at them again. The constable shot Rogers once, striking him. Rogers was placed into custody and found with a 9MM gun and 15 grams of methamphetamine. Rogers, who represented himself during his trial with an advisor present, was partially paralyzed as a result of the incident. During the punishment phase, the State presented evidence Rogers has a criminal history and had assaulted guards and inmates in the Bexar County Jail while awaiting trial.Aggravated Assault Against a Public Servant is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Schulze and Julie Wright from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Rogers in the 227th District Court.

2/21/2017 - Grand Jury Indicts Man for Two Separate Capital Murders
Posted On: February 22, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, February 21, 2017: Today, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted Jose Baldomero Flores III, age 36, for two separate Capital Murders and one count of Arson of a Habitation.Flores is alleged to have committed the murder of Esmeralda Herrera on March 2, 2011. The victim was found murdered inside her apartment in the 100 block of General Ent Court. Additionally, the defendant is accused of setting her apartment on fire. The defendant was arrested in 2011 for the murder of Herrera. In May 2011, the case was rejected for further investigation. In 2015, the case was re-opened by the current District Attorney’s administration. The defendant is also accused of committing the murder of Heather Willms on February 21, 2005. Willms was found murdered in her apartment located in the 5600 block of Grissom Road in Leon Valley. Both murders are alleged to have been committed in the course of sexually assaulting the respective women, which elevates the murders to capital murders.In late November, Flores was arrested as a result of a joint investigation between the District Attorney’s Office, the San Antonio Police Department, the Leon Valley Police Department and the Texas Rangers. The defendant is awaiting trial for the cases out of the 437th District Court.Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Arson is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine.

2/10/2017 - 80-Year Prison Sentence for Murder Defendant in 2014 Shooting Death
Posted On: February 10, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, February 10, 2017: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 186th District Court sentenced Dustin Lee Osborne, age 22, to 80 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and assessed a $10,000.00 fine. On Wednesday, jurors found Osborne guilty of the August 2014 murder of Ralph Lopez, age 34.On August 11, 2014, Lopez was outside his home in the 9200 block of Lytle Avenue, on the city’s south side, when Osborne and Osborne’s uncle, Gabriel Aguilar showed up. The pair was at Lopez’ home to pick up two women who were at the location. One of the women, however, refused to leave with the men. Lopez intervened and began fighting with Aguilar. A witness told police that Aguilar then instructed Osborne to shoot Lopez. Osborne shot Lopez six times. He later died at a hospital.Osborne and Aguilar left the location before police could arrive, but were both arrested and charged with Lopez’s murder. Under questioning by police, Osborne told detectives that he thought Lopez was reaching in his waistband for a weapon when Osborne opened fire. The State’s witnesses, however, testified during the trial that Lopez did not have a weapon and Osborne shot Lopez after his uncle instructed him to do so. On the stand, Osborne claimed he shot Lopez in self-defense, claiming he was in fear for his life. No weapon was found on the victim.Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Gabriel Aguilar, a co-defendant in this case, is awaiting trial for Lopez’ murder. Assistant District Attorneys Joshua Somers and Lauren Scott prosecuted the case against Osborne in the 186th District Court.

2/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for January 2017
Posted On: February 01, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 1/1/2017 through 11:59 p.m. on 1/31/2017 there were 425 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 189 blood draws.  Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st:                                     156Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher        147Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container:                 23Driving While Intoxicated-2nd:                                     61Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More:                                    29Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old:         6Intoxication Assault:                                                    2Intoxication Manslaughter:                                          1*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

1/17/2017 - Serial Rapist Who Terrorized the Most Vulnerable Sentenced
Posted On: January 17, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, January 17, 2017: Last Friday, 379th District Court Judge Ron Rangel sentenced Eric Scott Hemphill, age 36, to 40 years confinement in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Hemphill entered “no contest” pleas to the following charges: Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Aggravated Sexual Assault – Elderly/Disabled Person, and Burglary of a Habitation with intent to Commit a Felony.In May 2015, Hemphill was arrested following an incident where he attempted to sexually assault two young girls after breaking into their west side apartment. One of the girls was able to get away and call for help. Surveillance video nearby caught Hemphill on camera leaving the apartment. During the subsequent investigation, the young girls were able to identify Hemphill in a photo lineup. San Antonio police were able to link Hemphill to three other unsolved sexual assaults in the area when his DNA was entered into a national database. In November 2013, a 13-year-old girl was walking home when she was hit over the head with a hammer and forced inside a vehicle. Hours later, the teen woke up disoriented near Austin Highway and Perrin Beitel. The girl had been sexually assaulted. DNA recovered from the sexual assault matched Hemphill. DNA also linked Hemphill to two north side sexual assaults which involved a 63-year-old and 79-year-old woman. The victims told police that Hemphill knocked on their door, and claimed he was with the cable company and needed to fix the modem in their bedrooms. Once inside, Hemphill attacked the women and sexually assaulted them.Under questioning by San Antonio police detectives, Hemphill denied any involvement in the crimes. After Hemphill was sentenced, one of the victims daughters said that the assault dramatically impacted her mother and stated she would never be the same.“This defendant preyed on the most vulnerable of our community,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “It is appropriate to cage him away from our community.”Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child, Aggravated Sexual Assault, Aggravated Sexual Assault – Elderly/Disabled Person, and Burglary of a Habitation Intent to Commit a Felony are all first degree felonies, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd and Clint Malloy from the Special Crimes Division prosecuted the case against Hemphill in the 379th District Court.

1/12/2017 - Life Sentence Handed Down in Murder of Iraq War Veteran
Posted On: January 12, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, January 12, 2017: Today, jurors in the 226th District Court sentenced David Alexander Zuniga, age 18, to Life in prison. Yesterday, it took jurors just 15 minutes to find Zuniga guilty in the murder of Jesse Richards. On December 20, 2015, Zuniga and his brother, Daniel Jeremy Torres Jr., confronted Richards, as Richards got off a bus near the 400 block of Porter Street, on the city’s east side. Richards, an Army Veteran who had completed three tours in Iraq, had just finished his shift at a Southeast side restaurant. Police believe the brothers were attempting to rob Richards, when he was shot. Richards was found lying in the middle of the street near the bus stop. He died from his injuries a short time later. San Antonio police detectives contacted Zuniga several months after the murder after receiving a tip of his possible involvement in the murder. Under questioning, Zuniga admitted to detectives that he shot the gun. The murder weapon was never recovered; however, eleven days following the murder, Zuniga posted a picture of the same caliber weapon used in the killing on his Facebook page.During the punishment phase, the victim’s family testified of his sacrifice to serve his country and the tremendous loss their family suffered. They asked jurors for a “just sentence.”“This was an absolute senseless murder that can occur to any individual but it was deeply saddening to hear that the victim was an American hero who survived the battlefield but died on the street,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “I am proud of the hard work and dedication of prosecutors Josh Somers, Kaytlyn Knowles and their team to ensure the defendant was held accountable and justice was served.”Torres, the co-defendant in this case, is also awaiting trial for Richards’ murder out of the 226th District Court. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or Life in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Joshua Somers and Kaytlyn Knowles from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Zuniga in the 226th District Court.

1/6/2017 - Court Orders Continued Supervision of Sexually Violent Predator
Posted On: January 06, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, January 6, 2017: Yesterday afternoon, a repeat sex offender was committed to continued supervision upon his release from prison. A Bexar County jury in the 186th District Court unanimously found Richard Paul Barnes, age 66, to be a sexually violent predator as defined by the Texas Health and Safety Code. The jury found Barnes had been previously convicted of multiple sexually violent offenses and that he suffers from a behavioral abnormality that makes him likely to engage in a predatory act of sexual violence.As a result of the jury’s verdict, State Judge Jefferson Moore ordered Barnes civilly committed for further supervision and treatment. This is the second trial in Bexar County related to the civil commitment of a sexually violent predator. Barnes, the respondent in the case, had previously been convicted of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. The victims in the case were just 6 and 4 years old at the time of the sexual assault. On August 28, 1998, he was sentenced to two concurrent 20 year sentences in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Barnes has a projected prison release date of February 12, 2018. With the jury’s finding, Barnes will be required to undergo further psychiatric treatment and submit to GPS tracking, and if necessary to reside in supervised housing.“The jury’s verdict reflects our belief that this defendant is a continued danger to our community and our children,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our Office will continue to pursue sexual predators in order to keep our community safe.”Prior to September 2015, all trials related to civil commitment were held in the 435th Judicial District Court of Montgomery County, Texas. The Texas Legislature changed the law in 2015 to vest jurisdiction over the trial in the county where the offender was originally convicted. The case was prosecuted by the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office in conjunction with attorneys assigned to the Special Prosecution Unit of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

1/5/2017 - Former BCSO Detention Guard Handed Down Maximum Sentence
Posted On: January 05, 2017
San Antonio, Texas, January 5, 2017: Today, 290th District Court Judge Melisa Skinner sentenced former Bexar County Detention Guard Avery Lawrence, age 32, to the maximum sentence. In late November, a Bexar County jury found Lawrence guilty of Official Oppression, Assault by Public Servant, and Violation of inmate John Cory Garcia’s Civil Rights.Deputy Lawrence was convicted of using excessive force when he punched and kneed inmate Garcia while Garcia was incarcerated in the Bexar County Jail. Garcia’s injuries were so serious that BCSO did not wait for an ambulance and took him directly to University Hospital, where he remained for about 10 days. Testimony of a use of force expert called by the District Attorney’s Office demonstrated that Deputy Lawrence’s actions were excessive and were inconsistent with the Bexar County Sheriff’s use of force policy.During today’s punishment hearing, the State introduced evidence of another incident involving Lawrence where he committed excessive use of force against another Bexar County inmate and may have provided false information in his use of force report. Official Oppression, Assault by Public Servant, and Violation of Civil Rights are all Class A misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year confinement in the County Jail and up to a $4,000.00 fine. Judge Skinner denied Lawrence’s application for probation and sentenced Lawrence to the maximum sentence of one year confinement and a $4,000.00 fine. The sentences for each offense will run concurrently, or at the same time. Assistant District Attorneys Chris DeMartino and Eddie Flores from the DA’s Office Public Integrity Unit prosecuted the case against Lawrence.

1/1/2017 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for December 2016
Posted On: February 03, 2017
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 12/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 12/31/2016 there were 420 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 217 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 156Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 144Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 16Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 53Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 43Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 8Intoxication Assault: 0Intoxication Manslaughter: 0*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases.No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

12/12/2016 - Life Without the Possibility of Parole Sentence for Capital Murder Defendant
Posted On: December 12, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, December 12, 2016: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 290th District Court found Demond Franklin, age 31, guilty of Capital Murder. Because the State was not seeking the death penalty in this case, Franklin received an automatic Life sentence without the possibility of parole.On October 22, 2014, Deandre Thompson and his friend, Daniel Martinez, were leaving Thompson’s apartment in the 13000 block of O’Connor Road when two men busted through the door and began shooting. Thompson was shot four times and was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Thompson’s mother and 11-year-old sister were at the apartment during the shooting, but were not injured during the incident. Witnesses said the shooter attempted to shoot the victim’s mother as well, but the gun jammed. The suspects left the location with the victim’s property. After the shooting, Martinez was interviewed by San Antonio police detectives and at first claimed he was a victim in the incident. He said the suspects barged into the apartment and hit and kicked him, before shooting Thompson. Two weeks later because SAPD detectives were suspicious of Martinez’ story, they re-interviewed him.Martinez confessed that he had a part in the set up that killed his friend and led investigators to the other co-defendants, Demond Franklin and Ryan Hardwick. Martinez admitted that while inside the apartment with the victim, he was texting the co-defendants information about money and drugs. He said the plan was to rob the victim. During the trial, prosecutors entered into evidence Franklin’s cell phone records which placed him at the crime scene. Co-defendants Martinez and Hardwick testified against Franklin, and stated Demond was the shooter. In exchange for their testimony, Martinez and Hardwick accepted plea deals and are scheduled to be sentenced at a later date.Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Assistant District Attorneys Kristina Escalona and David Martin from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Franklin in the 290th District Court.

12/8/2016 - DA’s Office Launches New Border Prosecution Unit in Bexar County
Posted On: December 08, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, December 8, 2016: Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood announces the launch of the new Border Prosecution Unit in Bexar County. The Border Prosecution Unit will focus on the prosecution of any border crime-related cases, such as human trafficking, organized crime, narcotics, weapons, and gangs.The newly-formed unit will consist of an experienced prosecutor who will assist local, state, and federal agencies assigned to the Texas Anti-Gang (or T.A.G.) Center. Specifically, the Assistant Criminal District Attorney assigned to the Border Prosecution Unit will assist with legal advice as well as review and draft affidavits relating to arrest warrants, search warrants, electronic surveillance, mobile tracking devices, and stored communications in ongoing investigations. Additionally, the assigned ADA will coordinate with prosecutors from other Border Prosecution Units in the effort to target criminal enterprises, which operate across multiple jurisdictions in their effort to evade detection and justice. The Border Prosecution Unit program is a grant-based initiative that provides the necessary funding to support the prosecution resources and training as part of a collaborative initiative of District Attorney’s Offices state-wide who handle border-related crime cases.Anton E. “Tony” Hackebeil, a former District Attorney and well-respected attorney, is leaving private practice to head the unit. Hackebeil has over 30 years of experience practicing law, including serving four terms as the elected District Attorney for the 38th Judicial District in Real and Uvalde Counties. Additionally, Hackebeil is a former Assistant District Attorney with the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office.“It is critical to have the right person head this Unit,” said Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Our community’s safety is a priority in prosecuting these types of criminal organizations. Tony brings the balance, experience and toughness necessary to serve the community.”According to the Office of the Governor, they have provided over $4 million in grant funds state-wide to support the Border Prosecution Unit. The Unit is made up of more than a dozen district and county attorneys within the Texas border region to focus on border-related cases.

12/7/2016 - Swift Life Sentence for Murder Defendant Who Killed Man with Hammer and Dismembered Body
Posted On: December 07, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, December 7, 2016: Late yesterday afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 437th District Court took less than 10 minutes to sentence Michael Scott Quinn, age 53, to life in prison and assessed a $10,000.00 fine. On Monday, jurors convicted Quinn of the 2013 murder of Albert Guerra, age 56, in 20 minutes.On May 4, 2013, Quinn accompanied his former girlfriend, Connie Yanez, to Guerra’s home and struck him in the back of his head with a hammer over a dozen times. Quinn then cut off the victim’s legs with a tree trimming saw and set the north side home on fire. Under questioning by San Antonio police, Quinn told detectives he killed Guerra because Guerra had hit Yanez and said, “I don’t feel sorry he’s dead.” On the stand during the punishment phase, Quinn claimed he had no memory of what happened and only briefly recalled dismembering the victim while drinking tequila.“This defendant is a menace to society,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “The jury reached the proper decision in sending him away for the rest of his life.”Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years, or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, Quinn’s punishment range was enhanced to 15 years to life in prison because he was considered a repeat offender. In October 2009, Quinn was sentenced to 6 years in prison for Intoxication Assault. Quinn critically injured his passenger during a drunken driving crash in August 2008. Additionally, Quinn has been arrested out of state for driving drunk and aggravated assault. While awaiting trial for Guerra’s murder, Quinn attempted to escape from the Bexar County Jail with another inmate. Today, a judge sentenced Yanez to 15 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for her involvement in the incident. Assistant District Attorneys Jason Goss and Talia Triesch prosecuted the case against Quinn in the 437th District Court.

12/1/2016 – DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for November 2016
Posted On: December 29, 2016
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 11/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 11/30/2016 there were 405 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 206 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 175Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 116Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 15Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 55Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 29Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 11Intoxication Assault: 1Intoxication Manslaughter: 3*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

11/30/2016 - Statement Regarding Arrest of Jose Baldomero Flores III
Posted On: November 30, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, November 30, 2016: Today, multiple law enforcement agencies took part in the arrest of Jose Baldomero Flores III, age 36, for his alleged involvement in two separate Capital Murders. This morning’s arrest was the result of a joint investigation between the District Attorney’s Office, the San Antonio Police Department, the Leon Valley Police Department and the Texas Rangers.Baldomero is alleged to have committed the murder of Esmeralda Herrera on March 2, 2011. The victim was found murdered inside her apartment in the 100 block of General Ent Court. Additionally, the defendant is accused of setting her apartment on fire. Baldomero was arrested in 2011 for the murder of Herrera. In May 2011, the case was rejected for further investigation. In 2015, the case was re-opened by the current District Attorney’s administration. The defendant is also accused of committing the murder of Heather Willms on February 21, 2005. Willms was found murdered in her apartment located in the 5600 block of Grissom Road in Leon Valley. Both murders are alleged to have been committed in the course of sexually assaulting the respective women, which elevates the murders to capital murders.Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Arson is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Because this is a pending matter, we will reserve further comment at this time.

11/29/2016 - Grand Jurors Return Multiple Indictments Against Johnny Joe Avalos
Posted On: November 29, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, November 29, 2016: A Bexar County Grand Jury has returned multiple indictments against defendant Johnny Joe Avalos, age 29. The initial indictment alleged that Avalos committed the Capital Murder of Natalie Chavez in the course of an Aggravated Sexual Assault on December 18, 2014. The new indictment adds an additional paragraph, alleging that not only was Natalie Chavez murdered in the course of an aggravated sexual assault, but that the defendant murdered a second person, Rosemary Perez, in a different incident on January 12th 2015, pursuant to the same scheme and course of conduct. Chavez, who was 15 years old at the time of her death, was discovered naked on the cement embankment of a bridge on Veracruz, on the city’s west side. Perez, 28, was found wrapped in a sheet along a sidewalk in the 2100 block of San Fernando.A second indictment charges Avalos with the murders of Celia Ann Lopez, age 29, and Genevieve Ramirez, age 46, in April of 2015, during different criminal transactions, but pursuant to the same scheme and course of conduct. Celia Lopez’s deceased body was found in a fenced- in area along the 4400 block of S. Presa on April 15th, 2015. Genevieve Ramirez was found unresponsive a short distance away in an alley along the 100 block of Avondale on April 3rd 2015. She died in the hospital two months later from her injuries.Avalos is scheduled to appear in the 437th District Court on December 19, 2016 for a scheduling hearing. At that time, the judge can set any future hearings or trial. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or death. The State is seeking the death penalty for Avalos.

11/16/2016 - Capital Murder Indictment Returned in Death of 4-Year-old Boy
Posted On: November 17, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, November 16, 2016: A Bexar County Grand Jury has indicted Ricardo Hernandez, age 21, for the Capital Murder of 4-year-old Jordan Altamirano. On August 20, 2016, Jordan passed away at Children’s Hospital of San Antonio. Earlier that day, Hernandez had called 911 and claimed Jordan was not breathing and unresponsive. The Medical Examiner ruled Jordan’s death a homicide after discovering he died from a ruptured aorta and two spinal fractures. Under questioning by San Antonio police detectives, Hernandez, who was dating Jordan’s mother, admitted to “pushing” the boy out of frustration. Hernandez is currently awaiting trial for Capital Murder out of the 437th District Court. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by death or life in prison without the possibility of parole. Jordan’s mother, Celeste Nicole Altamirano, was also arrested by San Antonio police and charged with Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury by Omission in connection with her son’s death. The case against Altamirano remains under review by the DA’s Office Child Abuse Unit.

11/2/2016 - Life Sentence for Man Convicted in Nightclub Murder
Posted On: November 02, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, November 2, 2016: This afternoon, Visiting Judge Raymond Angelini sentenced Faustino Vasquez, age 35, to Life in prison. Last week, Bexar County jurors took just 30 minutes to find Vasquez guilty of the March 2015 murder of Pete Gonzales. On March 15, 2015, the defendant was celebrating his birthday at a downtown nightclub when he was kicked out of the building 13 minutes before closing time. Vasquez left the nightclub, went to his vehicle and retrieved a handgun. Six minutes after he was kicked out, Vasquez was seen pulling up in front of the nightclub, getting out of his vehicle and firing his weapon into a crowd standing in front of the club. Pete Gonzales, who was the nightclubs' front man, was shot twice. He later died at the hospital from his wounds. Vasquez, who left the location after the shooting, was arrested four days later by SAPD Gang Unit officers at a relative’s home. During the trial, several witnesses including the defendant’s friends and club patrons were able to identify Vasquez as the shooter from his known alias, "Kasper." In the sentencing hearing, the victim’s wife testified that Pete was a father of three who adored his children and was a hard worker who loved life. "That night the defendant showed no regard for human life," said Assistant District Attorney Julie Wright. "Pete’s family will live their own life sentence without him.” Vasquez has an extensive criminal history, which includes convictions for criminal mischief, arson and indecency with a child by contact - where the victim was only 4 years old. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine; however, due to his past criminal history, Vasquez was considered a habitual offender, meaning his punishment range was enhanced to 25 years to life in prison. Assistant District Attorneys Julie Wright and Jessica Schulze from our Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Vasquez in the 227th District Court.

11/1/2016 – DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for October 2016
Posted On: November 28, 2016
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 10/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 10/31/2016 there were 490 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 234 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 219Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 137Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 21Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 61Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 39Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 9Intoxication Assault: 4Intoxication Manslaughter: 1*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

10/26/2016 - 30-Year Sentence for Man Who Sexually Assaulted Teen
Posted On: October 27, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 26, 2016: Today, 144th District Court Judge Lorina Rummel sentenced Frederick Lee, age 39, to 30 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On September 26, 2016, a Bexar County jury found Lee guilty of one count of Sexual Assault – Child and two counts of Indecency with Child by Contact. In the summer of 2013, Lee sexually assaulted and inappropriately touched a then 16-year-old girl. The victim, now 19-years-old, testified during Lee’s trial last month about the abuse. The victim told jurors Lee had threatened her if she spoke of the abuse and even forced her to ingest a white powdering substance during the abuse. She said she was finally able to outcry about the abuse months later to police when they were investigating Lee for an unrelated violent incident. During today’s sentencing hearing, prosecutors presented evidence of Lee’s past criminal history which included two prior trips to a Louisiana penitentiary for drug-related charges. Sexual Assault – Child and Indecency with Child by Contact are both second degree felonies, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, the defendant’s punishment range was enhanced to 25 years to life in prison because he is considered a habitual offender. Lee must serve half of the 30 year sentence before he’s eligible for parole. Assistant District Attorneys Rita Spiegel and Trey Mims from our Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Lee in the 144th District Court.

10/24/2016 - 12-Year Sentence for Repeat Drunk Driver
Posted On: October 24, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 24, 2016: On Friday, 144th District Court Judge Lorina Rummel sentenced Jeffrey Farris, age 52, to 12 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Last month, Farris pleaded no contest to the charge of Driving While Intoxicated 3rd or more. On August 23, 2015, Farris was leaving a store near IH-10 and De Zavala when he struck a vehicle in the parking lot. Farris continued driving and struck four more vehicles, injuring multiple people. Blood results later showed Farris’ blood alcohol content was .18 – more than twice the legal limit. During the sentencing hearing, a victim in the August 2015 crash recalled her family’s injuries and the memories that continue to haunt her and her loved ones. Although the defendant requested he be granted probation, the Assistant District Attorney handling the sentencing argued Farris was a danger to the community and needed to be sent to prison. Farris’ latest arrest was his sixth time being pulled over by law enforcement for the suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Farris was arrested for his first DWI in 1983 in Arizona. Additionally, Farris had been in prison for aggravated assault and had previously been arrested for burglary of a habitation, criminal mischief and assault bodily injury. DWI 3rd or more is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, the defendant was considered a repeat offender, enhancing his punishment to up to 20 years in prison.

10/12/2016 - DA LaHood Announces Legislative Proposal Targeting Serial Abusers
Posted On: October 12, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 12, 2016: Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood announced today a legislative proposal that will give prosecutors across the state the added tools to prevent initial and continuous crimes committed against our children, seniors and disabled individuals. District Attorney LaHood formally announced the proposed legislation alongside County Judge Nelson Wolff, 225th District Court Judge Peter Sakai, state representatives, senators, local law enforcement officials and area children, senior and disabled individual’s advocacy groups. “Over the past year and a half, cases have come across my desk that have brought pain to my heart as a father, son, and public servant,” said District Attorney LaHood. “These cases have emboldened my passion to protect our loved ones.” The proposed legislation targets the chronic serial abuser of the most vulnerable victims – children, elderly, and the disabled. Currently, there is a gap where we are unable to appropriately punish the most serious abusers of children, the elderly and the disabled. The legislation proposed today, fills the gaps and gives a judge or jury the opportunity to assess the appropriate punishment in some of the most horrific abuse cases we have. DA LaHood is proposing four changes to the Penal Code that will address the following: 1. Long term abuse – this relates to multiple alleged incidents (over time or multiple victims). The punishment would now be a first degree felony (5-99 years or life), versus a third degree felony (2-10 years). 2. Long term abuse with serious injury – this relates to multiple injuries with serious bodily injury. This would enhance the punishment from first degree felony (5-99 years or life) to 15 years to life. 3. Prior conviction with new abuse allegations – this relates to a prior injury adjudication followed by a new abuse allegation. Additionally, this would enhance this from a third degree offense to a first degree offense. 4. Child under 6 years old – this relates to Injury to a Child offense, without serious bodily injury. This would enhance the offense from a third degree to a first degree offense because of the victim’s age (under 6 years old). Recently, Bexar County was rocked by the horrific abuse allegations earlier this year, involving two young children, ages 3 and 4, who were found chained up in the backyard of a northeast side home. This gave the DA’s Office reason to re-examine State laws on abuse and prosecutors identified a need to fill gaps in existing statutes. On this one case, prosecutors were able to present new medical expert evidence to a Grand Jury and they in turn upgraded the charges from 3rd degree felonies to 1st degree felonies. “As our office seeks to reduce backlog in our criminal justice system and overcrowding in our prisons, it is important to remember we have a duty to hold the most violent and heinous criminal offenders accountable,” said DA LaHood. “This is especially true for those who target the most vulnerable, unable to defend themselves.” The 85th Legislative Session convenes Tuesday, January 10, 2017. Bill Pre-filing begins on Monday, November 14, 2016. DA LaHood is hopeful that our Bexar County Legislative Delegation, comprised of State Representatives & Senators, will make this a bi-partisan priority.

10/4/2016 - Life Sentence for Teen Who Shot and Killed Man in Robbery
Posted On: October 04, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 4, 2016: Last night, Bexar County jurors in the 386th District Court found Joshua Isaiah Joyner, 17, guilty in the Capital Murder of Albert Nelson, 19. Joyner, who was certified to stand trial as an adult, received an automatic life sentence with the possibility of parole in 40 years. On July 24, 2015, Joyner and his friends met the victim to purchase marijuana from him in the parking lot of Elolf Elementary on the 6300 block of Beech Trail Drive. Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators said Joyner, who was 15 at the time, planned to rob Nelson of the marijuana. During the robbery, Joyner shot Nelson while he was still inside his vehicle. Witnesses said Nelson managed to drive a few blocks away to his home on Staghorn Mill. Nelson’s brother found him a short time later dead inside his vehicle in the driveway of their home. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or death. However, due to the defendant’s age at the time the offense was committed, he is not eligible for death or life without parole. The defendant received an automatic life sentence with the possibility of parole in 40 years. Assistant District Attorneys Khristina Fielder and Jacqueline Valdes from the Juvenile Trial Division prosecuted the case against Joyner in the 386th District Court.

10/3/2016 - Charges Upgraded for Trio Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard
Posted On: October 03, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, October 3, 2016: District Attorney Nico LaHood announced today that after further investigation, charges have been upgraded for a trio accused of tying up children in the backyard of a northeast Bexar County home and abandoning them. Porucha Phillips, age 34, Deandre Dorch, age 36, and Cheryl Reed, age 30, are now charged with the first degree offense of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury and the second degree offense of Child Abandonment. The trio had been charged with Injury to a Child – Bodily Injury – a charge that would only allow for a sentence up to 10 years in prison. The new indictments allow the State to seek punishment up to life in prison on all three defendants. A Bexar County Grand Jury upgraded charges on the three individuals based on our continued investigation into the facts of this case. On April 28, 2016, a resident on the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child cry for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies showed up the location and looked over the fence, where they discovered two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash. One of the children was tied up by the wrists and the other by the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. The two children had numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to 11 years old. All of the children were without adult supervision. Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the home with Dorch, an hour later. Reed, the mother of the two children found outside tied up, claims she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Child Abandonment is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Phillips, Dorch, and Reed are awaiting trial out of the 187th District Court. The District Attorney’s Office Child Abuse Unit will be prosecuting the cases against the defendants.

10/1/2016 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for September 2016
Posted On: October 01, 2016
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 9/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 9/30/2016 there were 381 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 227 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 168Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 93Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 17Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 56Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 34Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 9Intoxication Assault: 3Intoxication Manslaughter: 1*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

9/29/2016 - 50-Year Prison Sentence for Convicted Murderer and Fugitive
Posted On: September 29, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 29, 2016: Yesterday afternoon, Visiting Judge Dick Alcala sentenced convicted murderer and fugitive Kerry Gittens, age 26, to 50 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On August 26, 2016, a Bexar County jury found Gittens guilty in the murder of Antwan Jones. The sentencing was held despite the defendant currently being a fugitive. On November 15, 2014, Gittens and co-defendant Tyree Byrd showed up to a home in the 300 block of Vine Street on the city’s east side. In a back room of the home, Byrd and Gittens got into a confrontation with the victim’s brother. The victim, Antwan Jones, walked towards the backroom but was shot and killed by Byrd in the hallway. Gittens was a party and co-conspirator of Jones’ murder. Cell phone data evidence later linked both men driving to the home on Vine Street, at the home during the murder, and leaving the location. Gittens was later apprehended in Houston and Byrd was arrested in Ohio. Gittens went to trial for Jones’ murder in late August of this year. Shortly before closing arguments were set to begin, Gittens told his attorney he was stepping away to use the bathroom, however, he never returned to the courtroom. Authorities later learned Gittens had cut off his GPS ankle monitor and fled. Closing arguments were conducted “in absentia,” or in absence of the defendant. Jurors took just under two hours to find Gittens guilty of murder. During Gittens punishment hearing yesterday, prosecutors presented evidence of the defendant’s past criminal history, which included involvements in multiple shootings, and drug and weapon related arrests. Before Judge Alcala sentenced Gittens, Assistant District Attorney Joshua Somers said, “Antwan was a productive member of this community and when Kerry Gittens murdered him, he took away a pillar from that community.” U.S. Marshals are actively looking for Gittens. If you have any information regarding his whereabouts, please contact authorities at (210)335-TIPS(8477). Assistant District Attorneys Joshua Somers and Thom Nisbet from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Gittens in the 226th District Court.

9/16/2016 - 40-Year Sentence for Murder Defendant Who Killed Man in 2013
Posted On: September 16, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 16, 2016: Yesterday afternoon, 186th District Court Judge Jefferson Moore sentenced Antonio Torres, age 39, to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. On August 19th of this year, a Bexar County jury took under an hour to find Torres guilty of the November 2013 murder of Roy Ruiz. On November 4, 2013, Torres showed up at a home in the 1300 block of Keats to confront his girlfriend’s mother. After the victim, Roy Ruiz, said the mother was not home, Torres shot Ruiz killing him. Several witnesses told police Torres was the shooter. Under questioning by San Antonio police detectives, the defendant denied any involvement in the shooting. However, during his trial, numerous witnesses testified Torres was the shooter and shortly after the murder, the defendant discarded cell phones, guns and clothing. Additionally, Torres made several admissions to acquaintances and in jail phone calls regarding involvement in Ruiz’ murder. During the sentencing hearing, the defendant’s former wife testified that Torres beat her with a bat and violated a protective order she had against him. After sentencing Torres to four decades, Judge Moore told the defendant he was ‘dangerous’ and belonged in prison. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Kimberly Gonzalez and Laura Maetzold from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Torres in the 186th District Court.

9/12/2016 - 60-Year Sentence for Repeat Drunk Driver
Posted On: September 12, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 12, 2016: On Friday afternoon, a Bexar County jury sentenced Zachary Wade Lenius, age 32, to 60 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Earlier in the week, the defendant had pleaded guilty to Murder. On November 29, 2014, the defendant was involved in a deadly crash at a gas station located at the 12000 block of O’Connor Road. After fleeing the scene of a hit and run crash at Perrin Bietel and Centergate, the defendant failed to negotiate the curve right before the gas station, crossed over the turn lane and struck the victim, Joo Chung, head-on. The force from the impact pushed the victim’s vehicle up into the parking lot of the gas station, where both vehicles came to rest. The defendant was identified by an off-duty State Trooper who was following behind him at the time of the crash. As the off-duty trooper was assisting the victim, Joo Chung, the defendant fled from the scene. The off-duty trooper chased after him and brought him back to the crash scene, where he was evaluated by a DWI officer and found to be intoxicated. The defendant refused a blood draw. A search warrant was obtained and his blood drawn at the hospital. The toxicology results showed his blood alcohol content was .11. Lenius initially denied being the driver, but later told the arresting officer he was driving the truck. Additionally, DNA from the airbag was a match to the DNA obtained from the Defendant. At his trial, the defendant pled guilty to the jury for the offense of Murder. The State called several witnesses to the stand, detailing the events of both crashes. In addition, the State put on evidence of the defendant’s two prior DWIs, and past criminal history – which included two felony cases, an aggravated assault and a drug case, which he was on probation for at the time of the deadly crash. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years, or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, the defendant’s punishment range was enhanced to 15 years to life in prison because he was considered a repeat offender. Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Frazier and Joseph Hooker from the DWI Task Force prosecuted the case against Lenius in the 226th District Court

9/2/2016 - Pair Indicted for Capital Murder of 7-year-old Iris Rodriguez
Posted On: September 02, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 2, 2016: Earlier this week, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted Frank Gomez, age 28, and Manuel Watson, age 22, for the Capital Murder of 7-year-old Iris Rodriguez. Additionally, the defendants were indicted for two counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. On June 1, 2016, the defendants were leaving Cuellar Park around 10 p.m. on the 5000 block of San Fernando on the city’s west side, when they encountered the victim, her mother and her mother’s boyfriend. Witnesses said words were exchanged between the victims and the defendants, when gunfire erupted. Iris suffered a gunshot wound to her head and died from her injuries. Her mother suffered a gunshot wound to her arm. A third suspect, Jonathan Campos, committed suicide in the Bexar County Jail in July. A fourth suspect, Peter Gonzalez, was arrested but has not been indicted at this time. His case is currently under review. Capital Murder is a felony, punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or death. Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon is a second degree felony, punishable by 2-20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. The cases are pending in the 187th District Court.

9/1/2016 - 99-Year Prison Sentence for Man Who Sexually Abused Girl
Posted On: September 01, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, September 1, 2016: This afternoon, a Bexar County jury in the 175th District Court sentenced Darrel Keith Bowser, age 49, to 99 years in prison without the possibility of parole and assessed the maximum fine of $10,000.00. On Wednesday, jurors took 30 minutes to find Bowser guilty of one count of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child. In 2012, the victim made an outcry to a family friend that Bowser had sexually assaulted her in the past. The victim also told a Bexar County forensic interviewer at ChildSafe that Bowser had been inappropriately touching her since she was six years old. San Antonio police detectives handled the investigation and submitted the case to the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. During the trial the victim, now 17 years old, told jurors about the abuse she endured by Bowser. Bowser took the stand in his own defense, denying the allegations against him. During cross-examination the defendant admitted to his extensive prior criminal history, which includes aggravated robbery, burglary of a habitation, and numerous drug and assault charges. Additionally, the defendant had previously served time in federal prison for a drug charge. Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 25 to 99 years or life in prison without the possibility of parole and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Karl Alexander and Helen Stowe from the Child Abuse Unit prosecuted the case against Bowser in the 175th District Court.

9/1/2016 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for August 2016
Posted On: September 01, 2016
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 8/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 8/31/2016 there were 378 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 174 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense:Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 176Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 102Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 19Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 44Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 33Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 3Intoxication Assault: 1Intoxication Manslaughter: 0*The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

8/31/2016 - Trio Indicted for Capital Murder of 5-year-old Girl
Posted On: August 31, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, August 31, 2016: Yesterday, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted three men suspected in the shooting death of 5-year-old Ana Garza. Abdi Abdi, age 18, Murjan Abdi, age 19, and Christian Lopez, age 19, were all indicted for Capital Murder. The indictment alleges the three men, together with an unidentified fourth suspect, approached a home in the 800 block of Pecan Valley on June 1, 2016. The suspects shot and severely injured the victim’s stepfather, before shooting into the home where other family members, including Ana Garza, congregated. The 5-year-old was sleeping on a mattress in the front room when she was struck in the head. She passed away from her injuries a week later. The suspects fled the scene in a vehicle that had been stolen at gunpoint two days before this incident. Evidence in the case indicates the suspects were seeking to burglarize the home at the time of the shooting. Capital Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by life in prison without the possibility of parole or death. The cases are pending in the 226th District Court.

8/11/2016 - DA LaHood Announces Bexar County’s First Felony Pre-Trial Diversion Program
Posted On: August 11, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, August 11, 2016: Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nico LaHood announces the launch of the county's first felony Pre-Trial Diversion Program. The new program is offered to first-time, non-violent offenders, charged with a certain felony drug offense (under Chapter 481 of the Texas Controlled Substances Act). Felony PTD is a program for qualifying defendants who demonstrate rehabilitative potential. “Our new felony Pre-Trial Diversion program is a great opportunity for low-risk, first-time offenders to get the structure and opportunity they need to help get them back on the right path to become a productive citizen,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. If accepted, a defendant will pay a program fee, complete community service hours, attend substance abuse treatment and necessary counseling to address the underlying cause of his or her drug usage. Participants will be supervised by the Bexar County Pretrial Services Department (Pretrial Services). Supervision will be a minimum of one year and may be extended up to two years. The defendant can be of any age, as long as it is their first criminal offense of any kind (excluding Class C traffic violations). A defendant can be disqualified from the program if they have a criminal conviction, deferred adjudication or previously participated in a pretrial diversion program. Additionally, the defendant is disqualified if they used or exhibited a deadly weapon during the commission - of the offense, - if evidence suggests the person is engaged in the manufacture, distribution or sale of any controlled substance; or the person is behind on court ordered child support. Participants who successfully complete the program will have their criminal case dismissed. If, however, a participant fails to complete all aspects of the program, the case will be placed back on the trial court’s docket and the defendant will face the full range of punishment for the offense. The goal of the Felony Pre-Trial Diversion Program is to educate and treat low risk first time offenders, prevent their return to the criminal justice system and provide the opportunity to continue life with a clean slate. In May 2015, the DA's Office re-designed the Misdemeanor Pre-Trial Diversion Program in the same manner. The program helps to reduce recidivism rates and the backlog of court dockets.

8/1/2016 - DWI "No Refusal" Arrests for July 2016
Posted On: August 01, 2016
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 7/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 7/31/2016 there were 441 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 215 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense: Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 176 Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 134 Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 23 Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 51 Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 44 Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 11 Intoxication Assault: 2 Intoxication Manslaughter: 0 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

7/29/2016 - Trio Indicted in Case Where Children Were Found Tied Up
Posted On: July 29, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, July 29, 2016: Yesterday, a Bexar County Grand Jury indicted a trio connected to a child abuse case where two children were found tied up in the backyard of a northeast Bexar County home. Porucha Phillips, age 34, is charged with three counts of Injury to a Child. Deandre Dorch, age 36, is charged with two counts of Injury to a Child. Cheryl Reed, age 30, is charged with one count of Injury to a Child. On April 28, 2016, a resident on the 8100 block of Chipping called 911 after hearing a child cry for several hours. Bexar County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the location and looked over the fence, where they discovered two young children tied up in the backyard. The children, ages 3 and 4, were tied with a dog chain and leash. One of the children was tied up by the wrists and the other by the ankles. Deputies set both children free and they were transported to the hospital for treatment. The two children had numerous injuries. Inside the home, deputies found six children, ranging in age from 10 months old to ten years old. All of the children were without adult supervision. Phillips, the mother of the six children inside the home, showed up to the home with Dorch, an hour later. Reed, the mother of the two children found outside tied up, claims she was in California. She returned to San Antonio several days later. The trio were all friends who had recently moved from California. All three defendants were questioned by Bexar County Sheriff’s Office investigators. All of the children are in the care of Child Protective Services. Injury to a Child is a third degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Phillips, Dorch, and Reed are awaiting trial out of the 187th District Court. The DA’s Office Child Abuse Unit will be prosecuting the cases against the defendants.

7/21/2016 - Life Sentence for Man Who Murdered Childhood Friend
Posted On: July 21, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, July 21, 2016: Today, Bexar County jurors in the 175th District Court took just 20 minutes to sentence Jose Gutierrez, age 34, to life in prison and assessed a $10,000.00 fine. Jurors found Gutierrez guilty of the 2013 shooting murder of his childhood friend, Raul Garcia. In August 2013, Garcia’s body was found inside a vehicle doused in gasoline in Atascosa County. Garcia, who had suffered multiple gunshot wounds, was wrapped in a comforter. Witnesses later told authorities that after shooting his friend three times, Gutierrez made other people, which included a 14-year-old girl, help clean up the crime scene. They said Garcia’s body was loaded up in the back of the defendant’s pickup truck and eventually the body was dumped in a field out in Atascosa County. The defendant also forced Garcia’s girlfriend and another man to get in the vehicle to transport the body. While out in the field, the victim’s girlfriend was able to get away and ran several miles to a convenience store to call for someone to pick her up. Witnesses said after Garcia’s body was placed in his own vehicle, it was doused with gasoline and the plan was to burn the body and vehicle. However, the plan was foiled when the defendant was spooked by vehicle lights on the road and they left without setting the fire. The defendant then drove to his mother’s house to clean up his pickup truck. Another witness, who was forced by the defendant to help dump the body, was able to run and flag down a security guard for help and to call the police. Once police arrived, the witness took officers to all three locations – where the shooting happened, where the body was dumped and where the pickup truck was cleaned. While this was happening, the defendant and family left San Antonio. Gutierrez was arrested about a month later in Jacksonville, Texas. Additionally, while out on bond and awaiting trial, Gutierrez cut off his GPS ankle monitor and fled the courthouse right before jury selection was to begin. During the punishment phase, jurors learned of Gutierrez’s prior misdemeanor and state jail felony convictions, along with his affiliation and membership with the Mexican Mafia. While awaiting trial for murder, Gutierrez also allegedly committed additional offenses. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years or life in prison, and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Marilisa Janssen and Joshua Somers from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Gutierrez in the 175th District Court.

7/19/2016 - 40-Year Sentence for Repeat Drunk Driver Who Killed Father of Three
Posted On: July 19, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, July 19, 2016: Yesterday, 437th District Court Judge Lori Valenzuela sentenced Jose L. Hernandez, age 59, to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Earlier this year, Hernandez pled no contest to Felony Murder. In August 2013, Hernandez was fleeing the scene of a minor crash on General McMullen, when he struck and killed 25-year-old Gilbert Ramos who was crossing the street. Witnesses told police Hernandez was driving at a high rate of speed and had ran two red lights before he hit Ramos. During Monday’s sentencing hearing, one witness tearfully described how she first noticed Ramos dragging a laundry basket as he approached the intersection of Wallace and General McMullen. As Ramos crossed General McMullen, she heard the sound of a car traveling at a high rate of speed and then witnessed the impact. She said that all she could see was smoke from the truck and clothes coming down like it was raining. She ran towards Ramos, held his hand, and prayed over him until he passed away. Witnesses to the deadly hit and run followed Hernandez and detained him shortly after the impact. They said Hernandez had stopped to close his hood that had been damaged by the impact. Under questioning by police, Hernandez told investigators that he didn’t realize he had hit Ramos. Toxicology results showed that Hernandez had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.24, three times the legal limit, when his blood was drawn two hours after the crash. This was the defendant’s 7th DWI conviction. He received his first DWI conviction in 1984. “Mr. Hernandez’s actions to repeatedly get behind the wheel intoxicated showed a complete disregard for public safety,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Be responsible and don’t make a game time decision, make a plan ahead of time.” Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5-99 years, or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. However, Hernandez’s punishment range was enhanced to 25 years to life in prison because he had previously been sentenced to prison in 2003 and 2010 to prison for DWI. Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Frazier and Joseph Hooker from the DWI Task Force prosecuted the case against Hernandez in the 437th District Court.

7/14/2016 - Update: Results in Hot Check Round-up
Posted On: July 14, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, July 14, 2016: Earlier this week, investigators with the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office along with the BCSO Fugitive Apprehension Unit targeted 105 hot check defendants who were fugitives and had warrants out for their arrest. Of the 105 fugitives who were processed by the Check Section, none were required to be arrested and all had their cases dismissed by paying their balances in full. The total amount of restitution recovered from these individuals was $54,616.09. Hot check writing is still a big problem here in Bexar County. After the round-up, the more than $54,000 recovered in restitution will be given back to hot check writing victims. The punishment range for writing checks is anywhere from a Class B misdemeanor (punishable by up to 180 days in jail and up to a $2,000 fine) to a state-jail felony (punishable by 180 days to two years in state jail and up to a $10,000 fine). If you have hot checks, get them paid NOW! For more information regarding payments through the Check Section of the District Attorney’s Office, go to the 1st floor of the Paul Elizondo Tower, suite 110.2, or call (210) 335-2415. Learn more about our Check Section here: http://www.bexar.org/1506/Check-Section

7/1/2016 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for June 2016
Posted On: July 01, 2016
San Antonio, Texas: During the No Refusal program this past month, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on 6/1/2016 through 11:59 p.m. on 6/30/2016 there were 444 persons arrested for driving while intoxicated offenses and 231 blood draws. Below is a breakdown of the arrests by offense: Driving While Intoxicated 1st: 195 Driving While Intoxicated w/BAC 0.15 or higher: 119 Driving While Intoxicated-Open Container: 20 Driving While Intoxicated-2nd: 70 Driving While Intoxicated-3rd or More: 31 Driving While Intoxicated-with Child Under 15 yrs. old: 5 Intoxication Assault: 3 Intoxication Manslaughter: 1 *The data complied reflects arrests only. It does not reflect the disposition of the cases. No Refusal Policy: Since October of 2011, Bexar County has had a “No Refusal” policy for individuals suspected of driving while intoxicated. Whenever a driver is arrested for suspicion of driving while intoxicated, the driver will be asked to voluntarily provide a specimen of the driver’s breath or blood for forensic testing to determine its alcohol concentration. If the arrested person refuses to provide a voluntary specimen, the arresting officer will obtain a search warrant from a judge to obtain a blood specimen for forensic testing. This Policy applies 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days per year.

6/30/2016 - DA’s Office Launches New Law Enforcement Integrity Unit
Posted On: June 30, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, June 30, 2016: Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Nicholas “Nico” LaHood announces the launch of the new Law Enforcement Integrity Unit. The Law Enforcement Integrity Unit will focus on the investigation and review of officer-involved shootings, allegations of improper use of force and other police misconduct. The Unit, which will be within the Special Crimes Division, will consist of an experienced prosecutor and investigator. Currently, the District Attorney’s Office is investigating over 60 cases involving allegations against law enforcement officers. “If a law enforcement officer breaks the law, they need to be held accountable but if they didn’t do it they need to be exonerated,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “We need to continue to build trust with the community and with law enforcement. The community needs to be assured we will prosecute anyone who breaks the law – it doesn't matter if the suspect is a police officer, a doctor, or anybody else.” Jay Norton, a well-respected criminal defense attorney, is leaving private practice to head the unit. Norton has over 30 years of experience practicing law, including more than 24 years in private practice. Additionally, Norton is a former Assistant District Attorney with the Bexar County Criminal District Attorney’s Office. Throughout this career as a criminal defense attorney, Norton represented numerous law enforcement officers and is very familiar with the legal issues involved in these types of cases.

6/28/2016 - 99-Year Prison Sentence in Child Starvation Death Case
Posted On: June 28, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, June 28, 2016: Today, a Bexar County jury in the 379th District Court sentenced Crystal Williams, age 31, to 99 years in prison and assessed a $10,000.00 fine in connection with the death of 5-year-old Josiah Williams. Last week, Williams pled guilty to the first degree felony charge of Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury – Omission. On December 27, 2012, emergency responders were called out to a home in the 3900 block of Gayle Avenue. Once inside, they discovered Josiah unresponsive, lying on the floor. First responders, who immediately began attempting to revive the boy, said Josiah had two black eyes, cuts, scrapes and bruising all over his body, and appeared extremely underweight. Josiah was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy later revealed Josiah had been beaten and starved to death. At the time of his death, the 5-year-old weighed 38 pounds. The Medical Examiner testified Josiah died as a result of “dehydration in a battered underweight child.” During an interview with San Antonio police detectives, Williams admitted that she should have sought medical assistance for her step-son, but denied injuring the boy. During the punishment phase, Josiah’s maternal grandmother testified that prior to living with Williams, he was a “happy, go lucky child.” Josiah had been living with Williams, his biological father Charleston Williams, and his step-grandmother Gloria Proo, for six months before he died. Additionally, a family acquaintance testified that Josiah’s skin was “yellow” and appeared extremely underweight weeks before his death. At the time of his death, Josiah was not enrolled in school. The two remaining co-defendant’s in this case, Charleston Williams and Gloria Proo, are awaiting trial before the 379th District Court. Williams and Proo are also charged with Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury – Omission. Injury to a Child – Serious Bodily Injury – Omission is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Williams must serve 30 years before she’s eligible for parole. Assistant District Attorneys Stephanie Boyd, Lauren Glasscock, and Clarissa Fernandez, Investigator Edgar Castro, Victim Advocate Norma Ferguson and Intern Alex Pedraza from the Child Abuse Unit handled the case against Williams in the 379th District Court.

6/17/2016 - Life Sentence for Man Who Killed Pizza Delivery Driver
Posted On: June 17, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, June 17, 2016: Yesterday, a Bexar County jury in the 187th District Court took just 20 minutes to sentence Robert Carlos Delcid, age 37, to life in prison. Earlier that day, jurors found Delcid guilty of Murder. On July 2, 2014, Jimmy O’Neill was working as a Papa John’s Pizza delivery driver, delivering a pizza to a customer at the DeZavala Oaks Apartments on De Zavala Road. Jimmy left his car running for the few minutes he ran up to deliver the pizza. As Jimmy interacted with his customer, he noticed a suspicious man near his car and finished the transaction quickly to get back to his car. The last words he said was “Thank you ma’am, have a nice day.” As he started running towards his car, the defendant, later identified as Robert Carlos Delcid, got in the car and started driving away. Jimmy caught up to the moving vehicle and tried to stop the defendant from taking it. It is unclear how, but somehow, Delcid turned the wheel of the car crushing Jimmy in between his own car and another parked car, and the defendant drove away. During the trial, evidence was presented that after Delcid took the car, he drove to Arbor Street, where a witness saw him attempting to get rid of the Papa John’s sign on the car. Detectives were called to a business on Arbor Street where an employee spotted Jimmy’s personal things inside a Papa John’s Pizza bag stuffed in a trash can. Later, Jimmy’s abandoned car was recovered in South San Antonio and crime scene investigators were able to recover the defendant’s fingerprint from a stolen license plate on the car, and the defendant’s DNA was found on a Whataburger cup located inside the car. Delcid was apprehended and arrested. Additionally, jurors heard evidence in punishment that Delcid was on probation for theft of vehicle when he committed the murder, and that he had thrown rocks at two college students who were trying to help the defendant’s girlfriend get away from him after an argument, hitting one of them with a rock in the head, requiring stitches. The jury took 40 minutes to convict the defendant of murder and 20 minutes to sentence the defendant to life in prison. Murder is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Jason Goss and Michael De Leon from the Criminal Trial Division prosecuted the case against Delcid in the 187th District Court.

6/16/2016 - Five Life Sentences Handed Down in Child Sex Abuse Case
Posted On: June 16, 2016
San Antonio, Texas, June 16, 2016: This afternoon, 290th District Court Judge Melisa Skinner sentenced Carl Bailes, age 40, to five life sentences and eight 20-year sentences. Earlier today, a Bexar County jury found Bailes guilty of 5 counts of Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and 8 counts of Sexual Assault of a Child. In 2012, a then 16-year-old girl made an outcry to her mother that Bailes had repeatedly sexually abused her. The victim, now 19 years old, testified that Bailes began sexually assaulting her when she was just 5 years old. Based on her accusations, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating Bailes. Bailes was subsequently charged with production, receipt, possession and distribution of child pornography. FBI agents discovered numerous files depicting child pornography on his computer and discovered Bailes had deleted an additional 100 files of child pornography. In November 2015, a federal judge sentenced Bailes to 135 years as a result of those charges. During the punishment hearing today in State District Court, the victim told the judge the abuse still affects her and made a devastating impact on her childhood. The judge ordered two of the life sentences and one of the 20-year sentences be “stacked” or served consecutively with his 135-year federal prison sentence. The remaining three life sentences and seven 20-year sentences will be served concurrently. “I commend the jury’s swift verdict and Judge Skinner’s tough sentence,” said District Attorney Nico LaHood. “Everyone can be at peace knowing that Mr. Bailes will never harm another innocent child. Our Office will continue to aggressively prosecute those who harm our children.” Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child is a first degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years or life in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Sexual Assault of a Child is a second degree felony, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000.00 fine. Assistant District Attorneys Kristina Escalona and Alessandra Cranshaw prosecuted the case against Bailes in the 290th District Court.

2019 Aviso Al Público - Español
Posted On: June 04, 2018
Plan de acción de un año 2019 del condado de Bexar

2019 Public Hearings
Posted On: January 16, 2019
View Document (English / Spanish)

Approved 2018 Community Development Grant Projects
Posted On: August 24, 2018
Learn which community development projects received grant funding for 2018.

2018 Action Plan
Posted On: July 05, 2018
Community Development has released its proposed statement of projected use of funds for program year 2018. Follow the link to view the 2018 One Year Action Plan.

NOFA Technical Assistance Workshops
Posted On: February 07, 2019
NOFA Technical Assistance (TA) Workshops:The technical assistance workshops are held at the Bexar County Purchasing Office, located at 1103 South Frio, San Antonio, Texas 78207.View the 2019 NOFA Technical Assistance Workshops2019-2020 Grant Application

Notice: Home Reprogramming Action
Posted On: June 04, 2018
View Document (English / Spanish)

The County’s First Drive-Thru is now open at the Southside Tax Office!
Posted On: February 28, 2019
There’s a new drive-thru on the South Side’s Pleasanton Road, but it won’t be dishing out burgers and fries.Bexar County’s tax office on Wednesday unveiled a new $500,000 drive-thru where residents can get license plates and pay their county taxes.“This is better than Whataburger,” quipped Albert Uresti, Bexar County’s tax assessor and collector.The project is the first of its kind in the county and was designed primarily to accommodate senior citizens and the disabled, who often have trouble waiting in long lines in the building.“A lot of our seniors need access,” said Commissioner Sergio “Chico” Rodriguez, who represents the South Side on the county court and vouched for the project. “They don’t have the opportunity to get out of the vehicles to get over there and go inside.”Two of the lanes are dedicated to senior and disabled residents and one will handle requests from the rest.Read the full article >

Property Tax Pre-Payment
Posted On: May 20, 2019
The Bexar County Tax Assessor-Collectors Office will accept pre-payments towards 2019 property tax estimates.  2019 property tax assessments have not yet been made.At this time, 2019 pre-payments are being accepted by mail only or in-person at a tax office location.For mailing, please write the property account number on the check, with memo note “2019 Pre-payment” to:Albert Uresti, MPA, PCCBexar County Tax Assessor-CollectorAttn: Pre-Payment PlanP.O. Box 839950San Antonio, TX 78283-3950Our tax office cannot provide tax advice on income tax matters or federal and state tax returns and recommends obtaining professional tax assistance or consult with your accountant.

Our office has begun assessing and collecting property taxes for the City of Fair Oaks Ranch
Posted On: February 28, 2019
For the first time will our office will collect property taxes for ALL taxing jurisdictions in Bexar County.

View Full Website

Sign In

Bexar County, TX

Sponsor Scoop - AIM Newsletter - May 2019

Announcing the Peer Mediation Sponsor of the Year Award!

Announcing the Winners of the 2019 AIM for Peace T-Shirt Design Contest!

The AIM Peer Mediation Program Celebrates 20 Years of Service!

Welcome to Bexar County

Downtown Campus Construction Information

4/1/2019 - Sex offender receives 8 life sentences for sexually assaulting 7-year-old girl

4/19/2018 - Guilty Verdict for Deandre Dorch, Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard

2/13/2018 - Life without Parole for Defendant who Sexually Assaulted two Young Girls

1/30/2018 - Defendant Sentenced to 20 Years for Injuring 9-week-old

Grand Jurors Return Fifth Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Paul Villarreal

10/16/2017 - Guilty plea for Porucha Phillips Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard results in 50

9/13/2017 - 88-Year Prison Sentence Handed Down to Step-Grandmother for Death of 5-Year-old Boy

8/24/2017 - 45-Year Sentence for Man Who Violently Assaulted Girlfriend and Three Children

7/10/2017 - 60-Year Prison Sentence for Man Convicted in Grandson’s Murder

6/29/2017 - Grand Jurors Return Two New Murder Indictments Against Genene Jones

6/21/2017 - Grand Jurors Return 2nd Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Rosemary Vega

5/25/2017 - Genene Jones Indicted for 1981 Death of Joshua Sawyer

3/31/2017 - Pair Indicted in Horrific Abuse Case of 21-Month-old Girl

3/8/2017 - Bill Targeting Serial Abusers of the Most Vulnerable Filed Today

1/17/2017 - Serial Rapist Who Terrorized the Most Vulnerable Sentenced

11/16/2016 - Capital Murder Indictment Returned in Death of 4-Year-Old Boy

10/26/2016 - 30-Year Sentence for Man Who Sexually Assaulted Teen

10/12/2016 - DA LaHood Announces Legislative Proposal Targeting Serial Abusers

10/3/2016 - Charges Upgraded for Trio Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard

9/2/2016 - Pair Indicted for Capital Murder of 7-year-old Iris Rodriguez

9/1/2016 - 99-Year Prison Sentence for Man Who Sexually Abused Girl

7/29/2016 - Trio Indicted in Case Where Children Were Found Tied Up

6/28/2016 - 99-Year Prison Sentence in Child Starvation Death Case

6/16/2016 - Five Life Sentences Handed Down in Child Sex Abuse Case

05/19/2016 - Four Stacked Life Sentences in Child Sex Abuse Case

05/04/2016 - Jurors Sentence Man to 50 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing Girl

05/02/2016 - 60-Year Prison Sentence for Man Who Sexually Abused Young Girl

06/03/2015 - 50-Year Sentence for Man who Injured Children in Shooting

05/29/2015 - 60-Year Sentence for Man who Sexually Abused Girl

05/28/2015 - 35-Year Sentence in Case Where Boy was Badly Burned

05/26/2015 - Life Without Parole Sentence for Man who Sexually Abused Girl

05/20/2015 - 40 Year Sentence for Man Who Badly Beat 4-year-old Girl

6/6/2019 - DA's Office, Public Defender's working to help victims of former attorney

5/16/2019 - Update on new DA initiatives & policies

Bexar County District Attorney's Office seeking death penalty in fatal SAPD officer shooting

4/24/2019 - BCSO deputy indicted for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon

4/23/2019 - Bexar County D.A. Joe Gonzales issues new guidelines for criminal trespass arrests

4/18/2019 - Grand jury indicts man for shooting that killed BCSO K9 Chucky

4/3/2019 - Three indicted on charges related to infant's death

4/1/2019 - Sex offender receives 8 life sentences for sexually assaulting 7-year-old girl

3/29/2019 - Bexar County grand jury indicts former BCSO jailer for assault on inmate

3/28/2019 - SA man sentenced to 25 years in prison for stabbing

3/20/2019 - BCSO jailer convicted for lying about assault on inmate

3/13/2019 - Former ESD2 Administrator pled guilty to theft by public servant $30,000-$150,000

3/13/2019 - Grand jury returns no-bill in case involving BCSO deputies

5/22/2018 - Guilty Verdict for Woman who Shot Boyfriend during Argument

5/17/2018 - Life Sentence for Man Who Killed Friend over Stolen Welder

4/19/2018 - Guilty Verdict for Deandre Dorch, Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard

4/6/2018 - Celebration of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

4/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for March 2018

3/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for February 2018

2/13/2018 - Life without Parole for Defendant who Sexually Assaulted two Young Girls

2/13/2018 - Defendant found Guilty for Sexually Assaulting two Young Girls

2/9/2018 - Grand Jury Indicts Larry Moore for the 1987 Capital Murder of Dianna Lowery

2/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for January 2018

1/30/2018 - Defendant Sentenced to 20 Years for Injuring 9-week-old

1/30/2018 - Couple Found Guilty in Dog Attack Case

1/17/2018 - Defendant in “Hell’s Gate” Murder Sentenced to 99 Years

1/1/2018 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for December 2017

12/15/2017 - Bexar County Grand Jury Indicts Man Who Set Fire that Killed Firefighter

12/1/2017 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for November 2017

11/27/2017 - 2nd Public Safety Town Hall Meeting

11/26/2017 - District Attorney Nico LaHood Launches Public Safety Town Hall Tour

Corporation Indicted for Environmental Crime Arising from Failed Septic Systems at Mobile Home Park

11/1/2017 - DWI “No Refusal” Arrests for October 2017

Grand Jurors Return Fifth Indictment Against Genene Jones for 1981 Death of Paul Villarreal

10/17/2017 - Life Sentence for Man who killed Wife in Living Room

10/16/2017 - Guilty plea for Porucha Phillips Accused of Tying up Children in Backyard results in 50

10/13/2017 - Bexar County Family Justice Center Fashion Show Luncheon in Observance of Domestic Viol

10/13/2017 - Two Consecutive Life Sentences for Defendant Who Killed 5 Year Old

9/27/2017 - DA LaHood Announces Upcoming Cite and Release Pilot Program