Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

Orange County -- After the investigation of Fiore's car, Orange County Police confirmed that there was evidence of violence happened in the Fiore's car. It shows that they were fighting in the car over Jenkins' jealousy.

Ryan Jenkins was charged in her murder.

According to Police report that the evidence found in Mercedes-Benz was matching her injury.

Fiore, 28, had been strangled to death on Aug. 14. Her teeth and finger tips had been removed in an attempt by the murder to destroy the identity of her body. Police used the serial number on her breast implants to identify later.

Another piece of evidence also found in the car was a letter written by Jenkins to Fiore showing the couple had a difficult relationship.

One of the detectives working on the homicide case stated that the domestic violence escalated murder on Fiore was caused by jealousy.

California Domestic Violence law can be complicated and specialized area. It is crucial to seek a skilled and knowledgeable Criminal Attorney specialized in Domestic Violence defense.

Domestic violence can involve different type of abuse, including Spousal Abuse, child abuse, child endangerment, threatening, sexual abuse / battery, regardless of any intention of harm.

Under California Criminal law, Domestic Violence is serious crime and the charges can be filed as a misdemeanor or a felony depends on the seriousness of the case. Any prior domestic violence or domestic abuse charges can influence the decision of the new charge.

Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is especially vital to the success of the defense of Domestic Violence.

You need to consult an experienced Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer / domestic violence attorney immediately.

Continue reading "Domestic Violence Escalated to Murder in the Car" »

Orange County - Orange County register reports that a man has been arrested for robbery of more than a half-million dollars worth of jewelry from a Laguna Beach Jewelry Store last week.

Laguna Beach police chased after him at Tuesday's armed robbery to an Aliso Viejo business center, but they escaped.

Alonso Jose Lopez, 31, of Vista, was seen holding a gun at the robbery, said Laguna Beach police.

Police are still in the investigation of the case and there are more suspects involved.
Over $600,000 in stolen jewelry have been recovered after the robbery. Police have also found a handgun which related to the robbery.

Orange County - A man was charged with raping 18 years ago has been arrested.

He was arrested for kidnapping the 11 old girl and had imprisoned her for sex purpose for over 18 years. He's facing life in prison.

He had previous criminal record of kidnapping and raping a 25-year-old girl.

He was also charged with kidnapping for sexual purposes; forcible rape; and false imprisonment.

SANTA ANA - Five men from Orange County and Los Angeles was arraigned Wed at North Justice Center in Fullerton for the charges of stealing over 50 Toyota Tacoma trucks in Orange county and Los Angeles. They have been also charged with unlawfully taking of vehicles and grand theft.

The five men arrested are: Jorge Fernandez, 22; Luis Rico Humberto, 26; and Ignacio Mendez, 25, of Anaheim; Gabino Perez, 35, of Orange; and Marco Mendoza, 21 of Los Angeles..

The men started the thefts in January 2008 when they stole trucks and cars in Los Angeles and then sold them in Orange County in Anaheim, Fullerton, Orange, Santa Ana and Tustin.

Later on, the men started to steal trucks in Orange County, from Anaheim, Orange and Placentia, and sold them to Los Angeles.

In 2008, a total of 199,766 vehicles were stolen in California with an estimate value of $1.35 billion..

Orange County - The Los Angeles Superior court judge sentenced singer Chris Brown to five years' probation and 180 days of community service on Tuesday for assaulting his ex-girlfriend, singer Rihanna.

Brown, 20, was convicted to assault and battery on June 22. As part of his sentence, he was required to complete a twelve month domestic violence counseling program.

He assaulted Rihanna in an argument February 8. Rihanna, 21, was beaten up by Brown, and she was all blooded and bruised. She got the support from a service group helping the victims of domestic abuse and domestic violence.

Brown is required to perform his community service. He is also required to complete a domestic violence counseling program.

As part of the sentence, judge has ordered a restraining order against Brown so that he will stay at least 100 yards away from the victim. Brown also warned by judge that he could serve jail time if he violates his probation.

In California, assault and battery are two different kind of criminal offenses, but they often go hand in hand in a criminal charge.

In California criminal law, assault is defined as a person attempts to commit violent injury on another, with the apparent or actual ability of following through. Battery is the physical touching or hitting of another person against his will.

In another word, assault is an attempt or act to harm someone, and battery is the actual injury to other person.

If you have been charged or arrested for assault and battery, you will find yourself face life-altering consequences. The punishment for assault and battery can be serious, including long jail time, restraining order, fines, community labor, loss the right to have a firearm, counseling program, loss of your driver's license.

You need to find a skilled Orange County Criminal Attorney immediately to fight for your right and freedom.

Continue reading "R&B Star sentenced for Assault Charge in LA" »

Orange County - A Former Mr. USA and Mr. California from Orange County has found not guilty for the rape charges against him happened in April 2007.

John Livingstone, 52, was accused of raping a woman in 2007 and Riverside Superior Court had charged him with three felonies for raping.

The woman accused Livingstone for raping her. She claimed that she rejected him but he forced her, there was no report of violence or threats.

After a jury trial on Thursday, Livingstone found not guilty of the three felony charges, according to court records information.

Livingstone, from Orange County and worked as personal trainer. In 1982, he won Mr. USA and 1987 he won Mr. California. He also won Orange County Muscle Classic in the 2008.

Under California Criminal Law, penal code section 261, rape is a non-consensual sexual activity. By that defination, if an alleged victim didn't give the consent to the sex act, she could claim she is raped.

Rape is felony and is one of the serious sex crimes that are considered as violent crimes. Rape involves any kind of sexual act forced on someone against her will by means of violence, threat or fear. Rape is usually charged as a felony and if convicted, the punishments are very severe.

If you have been charged with rape or sexual assault charges, it is vital to consult an experienced Orange County Criminal defense attorney or a Rape defense Attorney immediately to make sure that your rights are protected.

Continue reading "Former Orange County Mr. U.S.A. Acquitted of Rape Charges" »

Orange County - A DUI checkpoint has been scheduled by the Costa Mesa Police Department for August 26, 2009, from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. at Wilson Street, at Pomona Avenue in Costa Mesa. The Orange County Law Enforcement is trying to crack down on DUI and the drunk drivers and the checkpoint is to make drivers aware the law and the dangers of DUI or driving under the influence of alcohol and/or driving without driver license.

It's crucial for drivers to understand that the decision of not driving after drinking helps to reduce the number of deaths and injuries from alcohol related collisions. Report shows that the chances of getting into crashes are more in the cases of driving without a valid license or driving with a suspended license.

From recent Drunk Driving statistics, it shows that DUI / Drunk Driving under the influence is the most common crime and it is a serious offense. Every 30 minutes, there is a person gets killed by a drunk driver.

The DUI checkpoints served as a reminder of the consequences of drinking and driving. It helps drivers better understand the importance of the driving law.

Under California's DUI law, it prohibits anyone from driving when they have blood alcohol content of .08 percent or more.

Nowadays, law enforcement are work hard to crack down drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. From the statistics of California Department of Motor Vehicles, every year there was a high number of drunk driving related injuries in California, and also the number is big for DUI related death.

If you have been arrested for or charged with driving under influence or DUI at one of the Orange County DUI check point, you need to consult an experienced and skilled Orange County DUI attorney immediately to protect your freedom and driving previliges.

Continue reading "Orange County DUI Defense Attorney" »

Orange County DUI Attorney

Orange County Register reports that in the U.S., DUI arrests rate for women has rose 28.8% from 1998 to 2007. According to the report by the Transportation Department that the rate of DUI arrests for men has dropped 7.5% at the same time. However, DUI rate is still much higher for men. In 2007, the number of men charged with a DUI is more than 6 times than women.

The main reason for the rise of DUI charges / driving under the influence in women is that there are more wowen work today than before and also the higher level of stress from work tends to lead people to drink. Another reason is that Law Enforcement are cracking down on drunk driving and DUI, driving under the influence and not letting people easily go without any punishment anymore.

Under California Law, it is unlawful to drive if you are under the influence by alcohol or drugs, or both of alcohol and drugs. It is also illegal to drive with a Blood Alcohol content / BOC of .08 or higher.

Under California DUI law, if you have a BAC of .08 or higher within three hours of driving is the evidence of dring under the influence of alcohol or DUI.

Under California's felony DUI law, it is illegal to drive a vehicle under the influence / DUI or have a BAC of .08 or higher and act in such a way causing another person to have bodily injury. There must be bodily injury to another, not the driver, in order to be charged under this statute.

Under California Vehicular Manslaughter law: When DUI happen which results in death of someone can be charged with vehicular manslaughter.

When people under 21Years old is charged with DUI is a situation when persons under the age of 21 who are pulled over for DUI in California with a BAC of .01 or higher will be charged with DUI.

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor DUI or felony DUI, in Orange County, Anaheim, Westminster, Irvine, Fullerton or Santa Ana, you need an experienced DUI defense attorney to help you fight your charges and your rights.

The penalties for DUI charge or driving under the influence in California can be severe, however, having the the right DUI attorney by your side can make a big difference to your case.

A qualified Orange County DUI lawyer will be on top of the California DUI law that will benefit your defense.

Continue reading "Orange County DUI Charges For Women on the Rise" »

SANTA ANA, Orange County -- An Orange County Santa Ana man was convicted of murder of someone who took his job after he was fired by his employer at a landscaping company. He was sentenced to 50 years to life in prison on Friday.

Manuel Melgoza, 42, of Santa Ana, pleaded guilty in June of first-degree murder and a sentencing enhancement for using firearm in Nov, 2006 to kill Israel Quiros.

Orange County District Attorney stated that Melgoza got very angry after he got fired by his employer and replaced by Quiros on his position at the landscaping company.
Melgoza was seen by witness waiting outside Quiros's home on the day of the killing and followed him to work.

Quiros noticed that he had been followed and tried to lose him by changing another route at the neigborhood of Garden Grove. But Melgoza still kept following, Quiros pulled over his car and got out.

Melgoza then shot him in the shoulder with a rifle, and then walked up, put the rifle to his head, and killed him.

At his trial, Melgoza argued that he was followed by Quiros and that he tried to defend himself.

Orange County - According to Orange County register that the former major league pitcher Matt Keough is arrested for DUI again.

Keough, 54, got famous for pitching for the Oakland A's, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros and staring in the reality show "Real Housewives of Orange County". Orange County Police arrested him Saturday in Orange County home.

Police saw Keough didn't stop at the stop sign and tried to pull him over. Keough ran into his home, but police followed him and arrested him at his home.

He was taken to jail with bail amount of $10,000. His blood-alcohol level was almost four times higher than the legal limit of .08 upon his arrest.

Keough has previous criminal records for drunk driving and DUI charges in Orange County. In 2005, he was convicted of DUI / drunken driving. In the DUI incident, he rear-ended a car at a traffic light, and injured someone at the accident. He was sentenced to three years probation and 180 days in jail.

In 2007, Keough was charged with probation violation when he was seen drinking at a bar in Newport Beach.

If you have been charged or arrested for DUI or driving under the influence, you need to seek a DUI defense attorney immediately. It's to your benefit if you act as soon as possible when you get a DUI.

According to California DUI Law, you have 10 days to request a DMV hearing to avoid the suspension of your driver's license. Otherwise, the driver license would be suspended for a few months even for a first offense.

In a situation when a person has much higher BAC or blood-alcohol content then the limit, the penalties can be very severe. And if someone has more than one time of DUI offense, the punishment can be more severe. As a matter of fact, repeated offenses always carry more serious punishments, such as longer jail time, more fine and the loss of driver license. and the consequences of the DUI conviction will leave the criminal record on you and it could have big impact on your life, career and future.

If you've been charged with a DUI, you need to contact an experienced Orange County DUI attorney immediately. Our California DUI defense attorneys have the skills, experience and resources to challege the most difficult case and our DUI Attorneys will aggressively fight for your case. In most times, our Orange County DUI Attorney and drunk driving lawyer can get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Continue reading "Former Pitcher Arrested For DUI in Orange County" »

Orange County - Orange County Register reports that all 38 Orange County law enforcement agencies are trying to crack down on Orange County DUI or drunk driving. They are planning to put in more DUI enforcement operations, which means adding checkpoints and saturation patrols to run from Friday through Labor Day weekend.

The Orange County DUI enforcement operations are funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety. It is a join effort from nationwide which includes $13 million in advertisements.

It's reported that in 2008, there are more than 11,700 people died in DUI related crashes on highway. Most of the drivers had blood alcohol level of .08 or higher. In California, the provisional number for 2008 DUI related crash involves 1,029 deaths and the number was 9 percent lower than the previous year.

The schedule of DUI enforcement operations is released by the Anaheim Police Department as follows:

Orange County DUI Checkpoint - Friday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m.-3 a.m., Fullerton

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint - Friday, Sept. 4, 7 p.m.-3 a.m., Dana Point

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint and Task force operation - Saturday, Sept. 5, 8 p.m.-2 a.m., La Habra

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint & Saturation patrols - Saturday, Aug. 29, 8 p.m.-3 a.m., Orange County

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint - Saturday, Aug. 29, 7 p.m.-3 a.m., Anaheim

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint - Friday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m.-3 a.m., Irvine

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint & Saturation patrols - Saturday, Sept. 5, 8 p.m. - 3 a.m., Orange County

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint & Saturation patrols - Sunday, Sept. 6, 8 p.m. - 3 a.m., Orange County

• Orange County DUI Checkpoint & Saturation patrols - Friday, Aug. 21, through Monday, Sept. 7

Orange County law enforcement agencies will be conducting a total of 30 saturation patrols involves in the cities of Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Irvine, Brea, Buena Park, Cypress, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, La Habra, Los Alamitos, Orange, Anaheim, Placentia, Seal Beach, and Westminster, and at UC Irvine and the Cal State Fullerton

DUI / Driving Under the Influence or drunk driving is a serious offense. If you have been charged with a DUI or driving drunk in Orange County California, you should seek an experienced Orange County DUI Lawyer for help immediately. Having an Orange County DUI attorney or DUI defense Lawyer who has the knowledge in California DUI Law and drunk driving defense can make a big difference in the outcome of your defense.

Each year, California law enforcement enacts stronger DUI laws and more serious drunk driving penalties. The punishment including: jail time, and substantial fines, lossing driver's license, Criminal records. The DUI conviction on the record could impact your life and future.

A qualified Orange County DUI Attorney and drunk driving lawyer can provide you with the defense you need to fight your drunk driving charge in Orange County and keep you out of jail, avoid fines, penalties and criminal record.

Continue reading "Orange County Cracking Down on DUI and Drunk Drivers" »

BUENA PARK, Orange County - Orange County Register reports that Orange County Police are searching for an Orange County reality show star who is suspected in connection to the death of a playboy model.

Ryan Jenkins, 32, of Canada, was found in connection to the model.
Jasmine Fiore, 28, of Los Angeles, was murdered and stuffed in a suitcase and thrown in a trash bin. Fiore's body was discovered Saturday morning.

Fiore is from the Las Vegas area and recently moved to Los Angeles. Police released that Jenkins and Fiore were married. According to a close friend the couple had problems in the marriage and Fiore was planning to go back to Vegas.

Jenkins recently appeared on the reality show "Megan Wants a Millionaire. He identified himself as an investment banker from Canada.

According to the show's star, Megan Hauserman, the couple met in a Las Vegas strip club and Fiore was a dancer. They rushed into marriage in 2 days.

Police was trying to find Jenkins, but there is no response. Orange County detective said Jenkins has already gone back to Canada.

Jenkins reported to Police of the missing person Saturday night at the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

The Orange County detectives said Fiore's body was found 2 hours after she's dead. Police is still in the investigation to find out the cause of her death.

Police report shows that she was murdered from strangulation.

If you have been arrested or investigated for murder, homicide, manslaughter, attempted murder in the Southern California, including Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino and surrounding counties, you need to consult an experienced Southern California Criminal Defense Attorney who is specialized in violent crimes immediately.

Continue reading "Murder of Model involves a Reality Star " »

SANTA ANA - A young woman was sentenced to nine years in prison Friday for robbery, conspiracy, and felony evading the police officers when driving recklessly.

Amber Phelps, 24, of Orange County, was on parole for theft and credit-card fraud before. The co-defendant Julie Clifford, 22, of Orange County, was arrested in 2008 for extortion money.

The two women assaulted a victim at an Anaheim restaurant parking lot. Phelps thought the woman was involving with her boyfriend in a relationship. The two women stole the victim's purse and keys, and asked her to give them money.

When Orange county police was trying to arrest the pair in Orange County, Phelps sped up her car. In the chase of the two women, police later saw the woman drove into opposing side of the traffic and crashed into a BMW.

The victim in the car crash suffered serious injuries. He was taken to the hospital and had several surgeries. He is still in serious condition.

Orange County Superior Court Judge Gary Paer sentenced Phelps to nine years in prison on Friday for conspiracy, felony evading police while driving recklessly and causing serious injuries and second-degree robbery.

Clifford pleaded guilty to conspiracy and felony evading police in June and was sentenced to five years in prison.

FULLERTON, Orange County - Orange County Register reports that police arrested a Fullerton man who was suspected of an attempted murder Saturday.

Orange County Police responded to a call in Fullerton in the morning Saturday.
According to a witness, a Fullerton man had been hit in the head with a large woken stick at his home backyard. He was sleeping on a couch in the backyard of Fullerton home when this happened.

The witness reported to the Orange County police officer that he saw two men had been drinking in the backyard. And later on, the alleged suspect hit the victim with a wooden stick and fled the scene. The victim was seriously injured and has been taken to UCI Medical Center for treatment.

The suspect, Arturo Valverde, was arrested for suspected attempted murder and taken to Fullerton City Jail.

Under California Criminal Law, attempted murder defines as intentionally and deliberately trying to commit murder of another person.

Attempted murder is a felony charge. It can be charged in the first or second degree based on the severity of the offense. It's usually very hard in the prostitution to proof or provide the evidence of the intention and the attempt to murder.

If you or someone you love has been charged with attempted murder, it will have a big impact on your life. The punishment is severe for attempted murder, including: large fines, jail or prison, probation, and more.

If you are arrested or charged with attempted murder, you need to seek an experienced Orange County criminal attorney immediately to protect your future and constitutional rights.

Continue reading "Fullerton Man Arrested for Attempted Murder" »

Orange County - Orange County Register reports that a Tustin man pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 31 years and four months in prison for identity theft of many people and using them to buy properties.

Gene Franklin, 34, was also charged with fraud for getting out of jail and fled to Mexico before the trial.

Franklin was convicted of 46 felony counts including identity theft, resisting arrest, failure to appear on a felony while on bail. His bail was $2.8 million.

In late 2006, Franklin used someone else identity and bought a $685,000 Huntington Beach home under that person's name.

In January 2007, Franklin was trying to buy a $310,000 boat using another person's identity.

In April, 2007, Franklin was arrested after a SWAT standoff at his Huntington Beach home. He had $1 million bail.

From jail, Franklin contacted a former girlfriend, Iris Orozco, and told her if she could help him to get out of jail, he would marry her.

In Oct, 2007, Franklin posted $1 million bail and ran away to Mexico with Orozco by using fraudulent documents from transferring the properties.

Police found him later in Mexico and brought him back to Orange County.

ANAHEIM, Orange County - Two men in their 20s was assault by 4 suspects in front of an Anaheim Topless night club early this morning.

Orange County Police officer received the emergency phone call around 2 a.m. from the California Girls Club.

Police responded to the call and arrived to the scene of the assault. They found two men in their early twenties from Santa Ana Orange County lying on the ground suffering from stab wounds. Later, both of the young men were taken to UCI Medical Center in Orange. The injuries are not life threatening.

In the investigation, the victims told Orange County police officers that the assault happened at the parking lot and there were four men approached them at the parking lot and attached them. They assaulted them and stabbed them. After the attack, the suspects jumped into a car and fled.

Police are still in the investigation to find out what happened that night. Police are searching for the four suspects for this assault.

Under California Criminal Law, Panel code section 240, Assault defines as an unlawful attempt to commit a violent injury on the person of another, regardless of the physical contact of the person. Assault has the effects on the other person to make him/her feel threatened or fear of some immediate danger without the requirment of the physical contact.

Sometimes, people refer assault as "assault and battery". A battery, according to panel code section 242, it defines as any willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon the person of another.

Assault and Batter can be charged either a misdemeanor or a felony crime, depending on the individual situtation. Whether it's a misdemeanor or felony, the consequences of the charge will have a huge impact on your life and future.

The punishments for the Assault and Battery include: Jail time, fine, probation, loss of right to have a firearm. Therefore, it is important to seek a criminal defense attorney immediately so that your rights can be protected as soon as possible.

If you or someone you know are arrested or charged with Assault and Battery, you need to consult with an experienced Southern California Criminal attorney specialized in Assault and Battery law and who will aggressively defend your rights and freedom.

Continue reading "Orange County Men Assaulted at Anaheim Club" »

Anaheim, Orange County - Orange County Register reports that an Anaheim man was arrested for sexual assault a woman.

Dexter Villanueva, 44, of Anaheim, walked into a woman's home with a bandanna on his head and mask covering his face. He walked into the house through an unlocked door and sexually assaulting her with a knife. He was charged with six counts of felonies.

The victim, the 59-year-old woman, forgot to lock the back door at night, was sitting on a couch watching television at around 10:45 p.m at home when Dexter assaulted her.
Villanueva sexually assaulted her and threatened with his knife to kill her if she reports. He put a pillow to cover her face.

After the assault, Villanueva also stole the money from the victim. He is charged with threatening to kill her with knife if she called police.

Villanueva was later arrested the next morning at his home by Anaheim police.

He was charged with six felony charges at the arraignment today. If he is convicted for the six counts of felony, he would carry a combined sentence of 91 years to life in state prison.

Villanueva is being held on $1 million bail. The next arraignment has been scheduled for Sept. 4 at the Fullerton North Justice Center.

WESTMINSTER, Orange County - An Orange County man from Westminster was arrested by Police on Friday for running a brothel business, which is suppose to be the largest in the area.

Thong Vinh Le, 23, of Westminster, was arrested for running the prostitution business in Garden Grove, locates at the 9800 block of Katella Avenue and possible charge for human trafficking and sex crimes.

According to Westminster police that there were eleven women working there, all Vietnamese, who were later arrested for prostitution.

Orange County Police detective noticed that the business was offering massage services at Garden Grove location in an advertisement in a Vietnamese newspaper.
The business was operating as a chiropractor business and massage business. Police are investigating if the owner of the chiropractor also involves in the alleged brothel operation.

U.S. Immigration also is working with the orange county police department on these women's immigration matters. Surprisingly, most of the women have U.S citizenship and green cards.

In most of cases, women are always brought in to the U.S from other country illegally and employed in prostitution business like this,

Last year, the Westminster Police Department, received a $1.2 million federal grant to fight human trafficking in Orange County, especially in Vietnamese communities in and around Little Saigon.

Police used to charge those women in the prostitution business with misdemeanors and release them back into the community. Nowadays, they are treated more as victims.

Under California criminal law, Prostitution is a serious crime. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony case depending: if it is solicitation or pandering.

Solicitation for Prostitution is misdemeanor charge; pandering or pimping is felony charge.

According to California Penal Code Section 647(b), Solicitation for Prostitution is defined as the act of asking someone to exchange money for sexual activity. Underr Penal Code Section 266(i), Pandering or pimping is defined as soliciting people for prostitution services and recruiting prostitutes to work for them.

The penalties are serious for prostitution charges, such as jail time, fines, probation, criminal records and community service. The consequence of the charge can affect your career, your personal life and future.

If you are arrested or charged with prostitution, you need to consult with a skilled Southern California Criminal Defense Attorney immediately.

Continue reading "Garden Grove Prostitution Business Got Raided " »

Orange County - Orange County detective and investigators are investigating on the scene after two marijuana businesses were broken into by burglars this morning.

According to Orange County Sheriff's Department, the burglary happened around 5 a.m., this morning.

Orange County police officers received a call this morning for burglary from Health and Wellness Center at the Lake Forest Alternative Center.

Orange County Police and detectives arrived on the scene to find the two marijuana businesses were broken into and the windows were broken.

From the video surveillance, it looks like two burglars kicking down a door at the marijuana businesses. They didn't take any cash or valuables.

According to the marijuana business owner that the marijuana was stored inside, and it is hard for people to get access.

The owner of the business and the staff were working together with the police in the investigation.

Under California Criminal Law, Penal Code 459, the definition of burglary is entering a building with the intent to steal or commit a theft crime, regardless if you walk out with anything or not.

The charge for theft crimes can be serious, depends upon the defendant's criminal history and the amount of the property stolen.

Sometimes a person can be charged with shoplifting instead. In a situation, if this person is caught shoplifting with no money to pay for what they stole, they are sometimes charged with burglary.

Commercial burglary is a second degree burglary is can be either a felony or a is misdemeanor.

Residential burglary is a first degree burglary, the definition of residential burglary is getting into a residence with the intent to steal or commit a felony theft crime. First degree burglary is a felony and it's a serious charge. It can be charged as a strike under "three strikes".

If you are arrested or charged with a theft crime, such as shoplifting, petty theft, burglary, fraud, embazzlement or robbery crime, you need to seek an experienced Criminal Defense lawyer immediately, a qualified theft crime attorney can give you a consultation on your case to determine what it takes to provail your case as soon as possible.

Continue reading "Burglary at Orange County Marijuana Business " »

If you have been arrested for Drunk driving or DUI / Driving under the influence in Orange County, there are some important information for you.

Under California DUI Law, if you have been charged with DUI or driving under the influence, there are basically two offenses:

1. 23152(a)V.C. "driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (or both)"
2. 23152(b) V.C. "driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher."

The penalties for both of the offenses are the same. Whether you were charged with either driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or you were charged of driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher, it automatically takes two points for negligent operating charge with DMV.

The conviction on DUI charges will be valid for the next ten years. If you had another DUI within 10 years, it will be considered as a second offense, which will give you more severe punishment, including mandatory longer time in jail and one year license suspension.

It is different and separate procedure in Court and at the DMV hearing. People may find themselves won the DMV hearing, but lost in the DUI criminal court.

If you have been accused of refusing to cooperate in the chemical test, the DMV could suspend your license for a year for the first charge.

If you are convicted of a driving under influence or a DUI, you are required to keep the proof of insurance on file with DMV for three years when you are on probation. Otherwise, the DMV will suspend your license.

People are caught driving with suspended license sometimes after their DUI charges. If you are in this situation, under the California DUI law that you could be arrested and have a mandatory jail term at least for 10 days.

Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor DUI or a felony DUI, you need to consult an experienced DUI lawyer immediately. A qualified Orange county DUI defense attonrey will explain the dui process and make sure things are handled properly so that your driving privileges and your rights are protected.

Continue reading "Orange County DUI Defense Attorney and Criminal Lawyer" »

BREA, Orange County - An Orange County man was arrested on an attempted murder for trying to kill someone in an alley.

Cesar Aviles, 20, of Orange County, was riding a bicycle through an alley in afternoon July 25. When he saw a man in front of him, he stopped. Aviles asked him if he is from the neiborhood near by.

When the man replied yes, Aviles took out a gun from his pants, and shot it at the man. Somehow, the gun did not fire.

Aviles fled away on his bike, and the man called police.

Police had been search for the alleged shooter using Helicopters from the California Highway Patrol with Anaheim police help. but they didn't find him.

Orange County detective got a lead of the identity from someone.

Friday morning, the North Orange County Brea police had a search warrant at Aviles' home. Police found a fund from his home and arrested Aviles.

Aviles is charged with Attempted Murder and has been taken to Orange County jail.

SANTA ANA, Orange County - A Tustin man was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison today for killing his ex-wife in a murder that caused by a confliict of a family holiday plan for their kids.

Terry Snyder, 48, was convicted of second-degree murder for the death of his wife on April 7, 2007.

His wife, Yolanda Snyder, 41, was found stabbed to death in her home. Her kids, at ages of 2, 4 and 7 went to the neighbor to ask for help.

Snyder got really upset when he heard that his wife had plans with kids for Easter Sunday and he already planed things with the kids himself for the Easter holiday.

The couple had run into some conflicts before. In early 2007, Snyder got a restraining order by his wife and was charged with domestic violence later on in Jan 2007. He was sentenced to three years probation.

On the sentencing day today, Snyder's lawyer read a statement by Snyder in frond of the Orange County Superior court that he would like to plead guilty so that his sons didn't have to testify in the case. He regretted for what he what happened

It's said that relatives on the mother's side have already legally adopted their children.

Continue reading "Tustin Man Convicted of Murder of His Wife " »

SANTA ANA, Orange County -Orange County Superior Court Judge Today sentenced a woman of Costa Mesa to 10 years in prison for her conviction of $154 million medical insurance fraud. It is believed to be the largest medical insurance fraud prosecution in the nation.

Sue Nanda, 40, of Costa Mesa, was convicted of 22 counts of felonies in Feb, 2009 for working as a "capper,'' or "marketer" under Unity Outpatient Surgery Center in Buena Park by recruiting 310 patients to have unnecessary surgeries.

Nanda had made $2.35 million profit from 2001 to 2004 for providing her service to doctors by selling the surgeries to patients and persuading them to undergo unnecessary surgical procedures in exchange for money.

It's the largest medical fraud in Orange County and the nation. Deputy District Attorney in this case asked the Judge to give her a sentencing of 20 years in prison.

Nanda's criminal defense lawyer, E. Thomas Dunn, argued that she was not aware of her activities were illegal and she was used by other people, thus she should be given a probation.

This Insurance Fraud case also involves the charges against three doctors, a lawyer and eight other "cappers". The alleged doctor, William Hampton Jr., was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

The sentencing for the other defendants, Dr. Michael C. Chan and Dr. Mario Z. Rosenberg is still pending.

Under California criminal Law, Medical fraud defines as paying / receiving kickbacks for Medi-Cal billing referrals.

Medical fraud is serious crime. Health insurance data shows that about 3% - 10% of Medicaid budget every year was wasted due to medical fraud. California's Medi-Cal losses can reach billions of dollars annually.

According to criminal Penal code section: Individuals receiving or encouraging another to receive health care could be convicted of either a Felony or misdemeanor, depending on amount of fraud.

The charges for soliciting or receiving medical kickback or bribe can be either a Misdemeanor or felony depends on the individual case.

Continue reading "Costa Mesa Woman Convicted of Largest Medical Insurance Fraud " »

SANTA ANA, Orange County - An under-aged Tustin DUI driver without a driver license has pleaded guilty of second-degree murder today for murdering a 16-year-old girl who was in the same car with him when the car crashed.

Milad Moulayi, 18, will be sentenced to 15 years to life in prison on Oct. 2 by Superior Court Judge.

Moulayi had been warned by many friends not to drunk driving before the crash happened on Aug. 28, 2008.

The victim, MacKenzie Frazee, 16, wanted to get back home soon that night, got in his car and got killed minutes later.

Orange County District Attorney testified that Moulayi was very drunk and his blood alcohol level was over .11 percent. He lost control of the car while drunk-driving in a high speed over 100 mph on Newport Avenue. The car crashed shortly, Frazee died from massive blunt-force trauma even she had a seat belt on.

Deputy District Attorney explained that the case was prosecuted as an adult case, not as a juvenile crime. Instead of vehicular manslaughter, he will be convicted of second-degree murder due to the fact that he was aware of the danger ahead from drinking alcohol while driving, but still intentionally do so.

The Orange County District Attorney says that the verdict of the murder conviction to a juvenile has sent a message to young people that they would not get away with a serious crime like this because they are under age. They should take responsibility for what they do.

Under California law, Murder Crime can be classified as first-degree murder, second-degree murder or manslaughter. A killing which may not be intentional can still be treated as a first-degree murder if it is considered as a violent crime, such as: rape, carjacking, robbery, kidnapping, burglary.

According to California Penal Code Section 187, murder is defined as causing the death of another person. The punishment for murder is life in prison. Parole is not available if it is first or second degree murder conviction.

If you or a loved one has been charged with murder in Southern California, it is critical for you to seek a qualified criminal defense attorneys immediately.

Continue reading "Teen Convicted of Murder in DUI High Speed Crash in Orange County" »

Orange County Register reports that two Riverside teenage girls who murdered a woman for using her car to go to an amusement park were convicted of first degree murder, kidnapping and carjacking on Monday.

Anna Salinas, 15, and Dayana Cordova, 16, murdered a young woman Arias in Oct, 2007 and both prosecuted as adults and had separate juries. The sentencing is set for Sept. 11.

Salinas, now 17, convicted of murder on Monday. The jury of eight-woman, four-man also convicted her of child abuse and gun use.

Salinas was 15 when murder happened, as a shooter, she could be sentenced to 53 years in prison.

The co-defendant, Cordova, could go to prison for life, without the possibility of parole, because a special circumstance allegation of murder during a carjacking was brought against her. Due to the fact that they are minor then, they didn't get death penalty.

The two teens killed the woman because they want to take her car to go to Knott's Berry Farm in Orange County.

The jury got so shocked and disturbed when they viewed the video of the girls who were left alone in an interview room at the sheriff's office. They laughed about the events of the killing and the shooting while they were eating burgers and drinking sodas .

The two teenagers will face life in prison when they get back to court for sentencing on September 11.

According to California Penal Code Section 190.2, "the penalty for a defendant who is guilty of the first degree murder is death penalty or life imprisonment without the possibility of parole if one or more of the following special circumstances has been found under Section 190.4 to be true":

(1) The murder was intentional and carried out for financial gain.
(2) The defendant was convicted of a first or second degree murder before.
(3) The murder was committed by a destructive device, and the defendant knew that his/her act would create a risk of death to another person.

Some violent crimes or felonies committed by a juvenile can be treated as an adult and the case will be filed in adult court. These kind of cases are usually considered as the most violent crimes or a case that a juvenile had a serious criminal history.

It's going to be the prosecutor and the judge's decision whether to file the juvenile case in adult court.or not. A quality work from a Juvenile criminal defense attorney can make the result vary significantly. Having an experienced juvenile defense attorney to work by your side can make the difference in the criminal defense process.

If you or your loved one has been arrested for murder, homicide or manslaughter, you should consult with an aggressive Southern California Criminal Defense attorney immediately.

Continue reading "Riverside Teens Convicted of Murder Face Life in Prison" »

Westminster, Orange County - A minivan driver was charged with DUI and evading police to chase him in high speed on freeway this morning.

The California highway patrol car was chasing after a minivan driving on the wrong way and speed driving this morning.

The driver of the minivan, David Ortigoza, 21, was driving on the wrong way and sped through red lights and a few traffic sections, with no stop or slowing. The patrol car chased after Ortigoza's van and the DUI driver sped up to about 100 mph.
Eventually, the patrol man lost sight of the van.

In a few minutes, the patrol officer found that the minivan crashed into another car at Slater Avenue and Ward Street. Both cars seemed to be badly damaged.

The minivan driver was complaining about the injury and was later taken to Fountain Valley Regional Hospital Medical Center. The driver of the other vehicle did not report any injuries.

The DUI driver, Ortigoza, was later released from the hospital and taken to Orange County Jail for possible DUI charge or driving under the influence and evading police.

If you have been charged with a DUI or drunk driving offense in Orange County, California, the penalties can be very harsh even for the first offense. You need a experienced and competent Orange County DUI Attorney to represent your case. You might have a chance to minimize your penalties if you have an aggressive and experienced DUI defense lawyer to defend you.

Continue reading "Orange County DUI Driver in Wrong-way 100 mph Chase" »

WESTMINSTER, Orange County -- Orange County Westminster Councilman has been arrested for DUI / drunken driving on this Sunday night.

The Orange County Westminster Councilman, Andy Tuan Quach, has been in the position of Councilman for seven years.

On Sunday night, he drove a Mercedes-Benz in Westminster and crashed his car into a power pole and knocked out power for about 300 homes in Westminster. Southern California Edison Emergency power crews went to the site and restored power by 2:30 p.m.

Orange County Westminster Police officer reports that the councilman Andy Tuan Quach has not given his breath test yet, but has submitted a blood test sample for his suspected DUI. Westminster police officer arrested him at midnight Sunday and there was no one reported of injury at this DUI incident.

According to Orange County Register that Andy Quach admitted that he was driving home after his dinner with friends and he must have been drunk. He told the Orange County Register that he would take "full responsibility for everything."

Orange County Wesminster Policeman said the test results should be available in about a few weeks.

According to California Penal Code 23152(a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle."

The penalties for DUI or drunk driving in California is severe, including: jail time, fines, probation, license suspension and DUI programs, etc.

California DUI sentensing varies based on the fact if it's a first or subsequent DUI charge, Second, if it is a misdemeanor or felony DUI; third, do you have previous criminal record.

If you have been arrested for DUI or drunk driving in California, it will have a huge impact on your life and career. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor DUI or a felony DUI / DWI, it's important to have a skilled criminal defense lawyer to represent you and defend you.

Further, any future violations will have more severe punishments if you already have a DUI on your record. Usually, repeated offenses carry more severe punishments, such as longer jail time and the loss of driver's license.

Continue reading "Westminster Councilman Arrested for DUI " »

NEWPORT BEACH, Orange County - An Orange County female high school teacher was convicted of sex crimes with her minor school male student.

The Teacher, Hope Jacoby, 24, was charged with 6 counts of sex crimes with a minor student in July.

She admitted she had a sexual relationship with a male student during the time she was a teacher at Tustin High School in 2008. She was arrested in Dec 2008.

The Orange County District Attorney stated that this sex crime should be charged as a felony because Jacoby took advantage of her position as a teacher and had the unlawful relationship with the minor for a long time.

However, Orange County Superior Court Judge accepted Jacoby's guilty pleas and reduced all felony charges to misdemeanors.

The judge explains that the reason for giving this case a misdemeanor convictions is because the sexual relationship was consensual. And during that time, the minor male student was willing to keep the relationship with the accused.

Jacoby was sentensed to three years' probation and 240 hours of community service today for the sex crime conviction with the minor.

California Penal Code section says "unlawful sexual relationship is an act of sexual intercourse when the person involved is a minor." To decide the charge of misdemeanor or felony of the offense depends on the facts of the age difference. If there is less than three years difference between the two people, it can be a misdemeanor. If, the age gap is more than three years, the case can be either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Under California law, that a minor does not have the ability to give her / his consent to be in a sexual relationship. So they may not be able to consent to having sex. By law, consent to sex can never be given by minors or people who is in the condition: such as intoxicated, asleep, unconscious, ill, or drugged.

If you or your loved one have been charged with sex crimes, you need to consult with an aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense Attorney specialized in sex crimes immediately. Sex Crime is a serious crime. Choosing a qualified orange county sex crime attorney can make a big difference in your sex crime charges.

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