Los Angeles, California -The victim, Jesse Valencia, of Los Angeles, was shot Friday afternoon as he played with a remote control. According to the LA County District Attorney's Office, Richard Joseph Gomez (21) and Matthew Loza (20) were each charged with one count of murder.
The complaint alleges Loza used a .30 rifle to commit the crime. It also charges Gomez as an accessory. Purportedly, Gomez tried to hide Loza so he would not be arrested.
At this point, police have not stated whether the shooting was an accident or intentional. This case is still under investigation.
Under California Penal Code 187 murder is the "unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus with malice aforethought". In a murder case, establishing intent is pivotal to the outcome. First-degree murder is a killing that is premeditated and willful. Second-degree murder is neither intentional nor planned, usually referred to as a "heat of passion" act. Under California law, prison terms for this crime are extremely harsh. Prison terms range from 25 years to life.
The defense is built on the severity of the crime, evidence (murder weapon) booked by the police, and intent (first-degree or second-degree murder).
Given the seriousness of this crime, if you or someone you care for has been charged with murder, homicide, or manslaughter, a strong defense is crucial. Consulting an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney is crucial. Our Southern California criminal defense attorneys handle both serious felony cases and misdemeanor cases in both state and federal court. At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, where hundreds of criminal cases have been handled, experienced criminal attorneys will work to have your charges reduced or to have your case dismissed.
How can an experienced Southern California Criminal defense attorney help you in Murder defense in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside or San Diego ?
Our Southern California criminal defense attorneys use their resources to fight for your freedom whether it is in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, or San Bernardino. We work with private investigators, prosecutors, ballistics experts, and accident reconstructionists to provide you with the best defense. Call our skilled Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney and Los Angeles criminal defense lawyers at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti at 714-530-9690 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com.
