Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

Santa Ana, Orange County - Santa Ana police caught Marcus Williams of Los Angeles in an insurance fraud scam. Williams is the vice president of sales for the cell phone company Verizon. He files a police report stating that a 5 carat diamond engagement ring had been stolen from his office. A detective for the Santa Ana Police Department discovered that Williams had taken out several insurance polices and flied four claims. Police soon discovered that the claims that had been filed were for the allegedly stolen ring. When asked about how the ring was stolen, Williams always changed the story.

The claims that were filed for the ring amounted to $400,000. When Williams started to suspect that police had figured out his scam, he told them that the ring had suddenly appeared. When they asked how it appeared, he gave them several different stories. He was then arrested for five felony counts of making fraudulent claims.

Orange County fraud crimes defense attorney Michael Guisti explains California law on charges of making a fraudulent claim and grand theft. He explains that it can be found in the California Penal code section 550(a). It defines the making of fraudulent claims as knowingly present or cause to be presented any false or fraudulent claim for the payment of a loss or injury, including payment of a loss or injury under a contract of insurance. The punishment for making a fraudulent claim varies depending on the amount of the claim. If it is more than $950, the punishment is up to 5 years in prison and a fine of $50,000. The court could also decide to have you pay a larger fine by doubling the amount of the claim. If it is less than $950, then the punishment is one year in prison and a fine of $10,000. Both are charged as a felony in California.

Being charged with a felony fraud charge, grand theft or insurance fraud is a serious offense in Orange County and Los Angeles and dealt with to the highest extent. If you have been charged with grand theft or making a fraudulent claim or any other white collar crime such as health care fraud, insurance fraud, medical fraud, identity theft, check fraud or embezzlement, it is imperative to hire an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer or Orange County white collar defense attorney.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Man Caught in Insurance Fraud in Orange County" »

Newport Beach, Orange County - Laguna Niguel woman, Yvonne Pampellone, was sentenced to do 180 day in jail for identity theft to get breast implants. Pampallone went to Pacific Center for Plastic surgery in Huntington Beach. She opened up a line of credit with the medical center under another identity to get breast implants. Pampallone was not only planning to get breast implants, but liposuction as well. The worth of the plastic surgery was around $12,000.

The medical center began to become suspicious of Pampellone when she failed to show up for her follow-up appointments. A detective was able to trace her true identity by the tracking numbers of her first implants. Pampellone turned herself in and pled guilty to second-degree burglary, grand theft and the unauthorized use of personal identity. She will serve 180 days in jail, three years probation, and will have to pay restitution.

Newport Beach white collar crime defense attorney Michael Guisti defines the law from this article. He explains that second degree burglary can be found in the California Penal code section 460. It is also called commercial burglary. This means that the suspect entered a place of business with the intent to commit a felony. Second degree burglary is considered a "wobbler" in the state of California. This means that it can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. The Newport Beach criminal defense attorney goes on to explain grand theft. Grand theft can also be found in the Penal code section 487(a ) and it states a person has committed grand theft when the money, labor, or real or personal property taken is of a value exceeding four hundred dollars ($400). This is a felony and if a person is convicted of this, they will have to serve a prison sentence and pay restitution.

If you or someone you know has been arrested or charged with fraud, grand theft, felony fraud, medical fraud, health care fraud, or a white collar crime in Orange County, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Westminster, Los Angeles, it is imperative to consult an experienced Newport Beach criminal attorney or an Irvine criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights.

Continue reading "Laguna Niguel Women Arrested for Identify Fraud and Grand Theft" »

Santa Ana, Orange County - Santa Ana man, Gaylord Daney, plead not guilty in an Orange County court house to assaulting his public defender .He was appointed a female attorney for his recent marijuana possession charges. He asked the court to fire his current attorney and give him a new one. The court denied his motion. While in the hallway of the court Daney punches his female attorney in the face. The punch caused her glasses to break on she hit her head against the wall. She suffered bruises and cuts on her face. This attorney is no longer representing Daney.

Orange County assault and battery defense attorney Michael Guisti recently reviewed this case. He states that Daney will not only be facing charges for his marijuana possession, but he will also be facing the charges of felony assault charges. Assault and its punishments can be found in the California Penal code section 240. The code section states that an assault occurs when a person attempts to injure another and has the means to do so. Since the woman is an officer of the court it is a felony. He could be facing a fine of $2,000 and jail time. He will face additional misdemeanor charges if convicted of possession of marijuana.

Continue reading "Sanat Ana Man Assaults Public Defender" »

Irvine, Orange County - An Irvine man, Victor Gillespie, was charged for sexually assaulting a woman in Irvine. Gillespie entered the woman's house through the unlocked sliding door. He entered her house in the middle of the night, climbed on top of her, and assaulted her. The victim fought her attacker back and screamed. Gillespie than ran away, however he was caught by police shortly after the incident. Gillespie is being charged with residential burglary, assault with the intent to commit a sex crime, and resisting a police officer.

Irvine sex crime defense attorney Michael Guisti recently discussed this case. He explains that in California, a sex crime is considered a very serious offense and comes with serious consequences. Sexual assault can be found in the California Penal code 243.4 (e) (1) defines misdemeanor sexual battery or sexual assault in to three parts: 1) as the non-consensual touching of the intimate part of another for sexual arousal, 2) sexual gratification, or 3) sexual abuse. In the state of California this can either be a misdemeanor or a felony. Gillespie is also getting charged with residential robbery. That is found in the California Penal code 211 and is defined as the taking of personal property from another by means of force or fear. Residential robbery is a felony and a person charged with this crime could face up to 9 years in prison. If you or someone you care has been charged with sexual assault, assault and battery, felony assault, sex crimes, assault with deadly weapon, or any type of crimes, you need to consult an experienced Orange County criminal attorney or a skilled Los Angeles assault and battery attorney immediately.

Continue reading "Irvine Man Charged with Sexual Assault" »

Santa Ana- An Orange County Sheriff's Deputy will soon be facing the charges of driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance without a prescription. The deputy was off duty at the time he crashed his car into the yard of Orange county Supervisor Bill Campbell's home. Mark Hewlett BAC (blood alcohol content) was over the legal limit of .08 percent and he was also possessing Xanax with out a prescription.

The DA alleges that Hewlett was coming home from a friend's house early that morning. While driving under the influence Hewlett lost control of his car and crashed. Hewlett is still on the police force, but there is a pending internal investigation.

Orange County DUI defense attorney Michael Guisti watched this story of the news and commented on it. He states that the charges that Hewlett are facing are very harsh. Driving under the influence and possession of a controlled substance are serious offenses in California. The charge of driving under the influence can be found in the California Vehicle code 23152 (b) It is unlawful for any person who has 0.08 percent or more, by
weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle. In California a DUI is a misdemeanor and could mean that if convicted, you could have to serve a jail sentence, have your license suspended and you might have to pay a fine.

Continue reading "Santa Ana Sheriff's Deputy Charged with DUI" »

San Clemente, Orange County - Orange County man, Marvin Garcia, was arrested for sex crimes and then fled to Mexico. He is arrested on the charges of lewd acts on a child. The Santa Paula Police Department was interviewing the girl that was the victim of Garcia. She was explaining to the officers what had happened. Garcia heard that the girl was being interviewed and knew he was going to get arrested. Garcia then tried to flee to Mexico to try and avoid getting arrested.

Police found Garcia and tried to pull him over. Garcia sped away leading police in a high speed chase. Garcia crashed in to a vehicle with Marine passengers. The passengers are said to be unharmed. Garcia fled from the scene, only to be discovered by a police dog and arrested.

Orange County sex crimes defense attorney Michael Guisti, recently read this article and commented on it. He states that Garcia will be facing several charges. He could be charged with the lewd acts on a child, Hit and Run, and evading police. The Southern California criminal defense attorney goes on to say that these charges of a lewd act on a child can be found in the California Penal code 288 (a) Any person who willfully and lewdly commits any lewd or lascivious act, upon or with the body, or any part or member thereof, of a child who is under the age of 14 years, with the intent of arousing, appealing to, or gratifying the lust, passions, or sexual desires of that person or the child. This is a felony and any person convicted of this crime can face up to eight years in prison. The Orange County criminal attorney also predicts that the defendant will have an additional charge of a hit and run. This is found in the California Vehicle code 2002. It states that any person involved in an accident must stop and locate the owner of the vehicle, and written notice of the damage. In California this is considered a misdemeanor and can mean jail times and a large fine.

Continue reading "San Clemente Man Tries to Flee Molestation Arrest" »

Irvine, Orange County - Three Irvine teens were arrested for drug crimes and allegedly accused of trying to purchase an uncontrolled substance and making a false police report. The three juveniles were trying to buy methamphetamines from a drug dealer. Instead of selling the teens the drugs, he punched one of them in the face, stole their money and ran. The boys then came up with a story to explain the mark that was on one of the juveniles face.

He told his parents that someone had robbed him and had stolen his money and his iPod. The parent then filed a police report on the robbery. The parents quickly learned that their son had given them false information. The three teenagers were arrested and released to their parents.

Southern California juvenile crime defense attorney, Michael Guisti, recently commented on this case. He states the juvenile cases are handled differently then adult cases. Juvenile cases records can be sealed and the sentencing is typically not as harsh as adult cases. However, a juvenile can be tried as an adult if they are over the age of 14 and have committed a violent crime. If the teenagers are convicted of trying to buy an uncontrolled substance they could be sentenced to do time in Juvenile Hall, and they might have to pay fines. There could also be additional fines for making a false police report.

If your child or someone you love has been charged or arrested for juvenile crimes, you need to consult an experienced Oragne County juvenile crime attorney or Los Angeles criminal lawyer immediately to protect your child's rights.

Continue reading "Irvine Teens Try to Cover Up Drug Deal" »

San Clemente- San Clemente Police pulled over a truck filled with furniture and noticed a strange smell coming from the furniture. Police suspect that the smell was marijuana. They the have it confirmed by a K-9 team. Police then inspected the furniture and discover that it has been hidden in the empty space. It is alleged that the weight of the marijuana was about 772.9 pounds and worth about $386,000. The suspect was arrested and turned over to the Drug enforcement Administration.

Newport Beach drug crimes defense attorney Michael Guisti goes over the charges of smuggling. The charges of the sale or transportation of marijuana can be found in the California Health and Safety code section 11360 which states that every person who transports, imports into this state, sells, furnishes, administers, or gives away, or offers to transport, import into this state, sell, furnish, administer, or give away, or attempts to import into this state or transport any marijuana shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison for up to four years.

Having a drug charge on your record is very serious. The charge of selling is dealt with by the courts more harshly than just possession. If a person gets charged with the sale and transportation of drugs it will have an affect on every aspect of their lives. It is imperative to retain an experienced Newport Beach drug crimes defense attorney if you are facing a drug charge.

Continue reading "San Clemente Man Arrested for Smuggling Marijuana " »

Santa Ana- Mitchell Zogob, a former insurance broker, pleaded guilty to 23 counts of insurance fraud. He is sentenced to 10 years in jail for grand theft, forgery, and insurance fraud. Zogob was paid 4.6 million in workers comp insurance premiums. He would then give the companies forged certificates of insurance, however he never obtained insurance. This left the companies open to workers comp claims.

Santa Ana white collar crime defense attorney Michael Guisti explains what a white collar crime is and its punishments. He explains that there are many different types of white collar crimes such as grand theft, insurance fraud, health care fraud, forgery, and credit card fraud and identity theft. He goes on to explain the white collar crime grand theft. Grand theft is one of the most common types of white collar crime and it can be found in the California Penal code section 487(a). Its states that grand theft has occurred when, the money, labor, or real or personal property taken is of a value exceeding four hundred dollars. The court can also decide to add an enhancement to the charge if the amount taken is more than $500,000.

In Orange County, white collar crimes, such as grand theft, insurance fraud, and embezzlement are dealt with to the fullest extent. If convicted of theses serious charges a person can expect to be facing long prison sentences, fines, and restitution. Retaining a Newport Beach white collar crime defense attorney to defend you is the most important step you can take.

Continue reading "Former Santa Ana Insurance Broker Caught for Fraud" »

Santa Ana- On Thursday March 18, 2010, a local had her car stolen from a church parking lot. The woman alleges that she went in to church to get her husband who was inside. She left the car running as she went inside of the church. Right before a man had helped the women jump her car because the battery had died. The man that had been helping her, notice two men jump in the running car and drive away. The both of them then chased after the two men and dialed 911. The police found the suspects and tried to pull them over. The suspects refused to stop and lead police in a chase that took them from Santa Ana to Fountain Valley.

The grand theft auto suspects suddenly ran the car into a wall and jumped out to run. Fountain Valley police let go of the police K-9 to catch the suspects. The suspects were finally apprehended by police. The suspects Fernando Balderas and Isai were arrested on the suspicion of grand theft auto, possession of a stolen vehicle, and Balderas was arrested for driving with a suspend license. They are also believed to be members of a gang.

Southern California grand theft auto defense attorney, Michael Guisti, recently read this article and comments on it. He stated that grand theft auto is a very serious offense in California. He goes on to say that is usually means long prison sentences. Grand theft auto is defined in the California Vehicle code 10851(a). It is defined as the taking of another person's vehicle without the consent of the owner to either presently or temporarily deprives them of the vehicle. Grand theft auto is considered a "wobbler" in California. It depends if you were taking it permanently or temporarily. This means that it can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. Orange and Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Michael Guisti goes on to say that they could also have a gang enchantment added on if the police discover that they were staling the car for the benefit for the gang.

Continue reading "Santa Ana Gang Members Commit Grand Theft Auto" »

Laguna Beach- In Laguna Beach a homeless man was arrested on suspension of conducting a lewd act in front of a 4 year old girl. The girl was sitting outside in her yard playing when a ext door neighbor saw the suspect Richard Lyons looking at the girl. The neighbor says that the suspect was watching the girl play while his pants were down. The neighbor called the mother of the girl to tell her about Lyons. The mother immediately took the girl inside and called the police.

Laguna Beach police arrived at the home to find that Lyons was still there. The police detained the suspect were they discovered some items in his possession that lead police believe that he was doing some type of sexual activity. It is alleged that he has a criminal record in several others states; none of them suggest that he was a convicted sex offender.

Michael Guisti, Orange County sex crimes defense attorney recently commented on this article. He states that Lyons could be facing the charge of indecent exposure. Indecent exposure is outlined in the California Penal Code 314. It states that every person who willfully and lewdly, either exposes his person, or the private parts thereof, in any public place, or in any place where there are present other persons to be offended or annoyed thereby. Orange county criminal defense attorney Michael Guisti predicts that Lyons will be facing jail time, and fines. He jail sentence will be longer do to the fact that the indecent exposure was in front of a minor.

Continue reading "Laguna Beach Homeless Man Arrested on Suspicion of a Lewd Sexual Act" »

Santa Ana- Well known city attorney David R. Hunt was arrested on Sunday for an alleged domestic violence situation. Police were called to Hunt's house Sunday night. Hunt was having an argument with his son and his wife tried to intervene. It is alleged by police that this is when the assault on his wife happened.

She was taken to the hospital were she was treated for a cut on her arm and a bump on the back of her head. Santa Ana police said that she hit her head on a table on the way down to the floor. Hunt is being held on suspicion of felony spousal battery.

Southern California domestic violence defense attorney Michael Guisti, who is highly experienced in domestic violence cases, comment on the news article. He states that in domestic violence situations they can either be charged on a felony or a misdemeanor. Whether it is charged as a felony spousal battery or misdemeanor spousal battery lies on how sever the battery was. In California domestic battery is covered in the penal code section Penal Code 243(e)(1) makes it a misdemeanor crime to inflict force or violence on an intimate partner...a category that includes your fiancé, cohabitant, the parent of your child, or your current or former spouse or dating partner. Domestic violence is considered a very serious offense and it usually means jail time.

Continue reading "Santa Ana city Attorney Arrested for Alleged Domestic Violence" »

Laguna Hills- Rolando Cortes-Montesinos from San Juan Capistrano led local police on a short pursuit on the freeway. The 22 year old suspect tried to flee the police but it is alleged that he was too drunk to run. Lt. Ted Boyne of the Orange County Sheriff's Department states that the suspect tried to run on foot, but was too intoxicated.

A police officer noticed the Ford Escort that the suspect was allegedly driving. The officer then tried to stop the car, but he refused to stop the vehicle. The suspect led police southbound on the I-5 heading north to Laguna Hills. He then drove off of the freeway and into a dead end business street. The suspect was then tackled by a deputy and taken into custody.

Laguna Hills DUI defense attorney Michael Guisti, recently discussed what the suspect Rolando Cortes-Montesinos could be facing. He explains that a DUI is broken into two parts. The law can be found in the California Vehicle Code 23152(a) (b) the first part of the code states that it is illegal for a person to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The second part of the code states that it is illegal for a person to drive under the influence of alcohol with a BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) of .08% or more. Los Angeles county criminal defense Michael Guisti went on to explain the penalties. The penalties can be up to six months in jail, fines for up to $1,000 and having your license suspended for up to six months. The law changes for someone that it is under the age of 21. Since it is illegal for a minor to consume alcohol all that is need is a BAC of .01%. A DUI can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. It is important to retain an Orange County DUI defense attorney to help you through the criminal process.

Continue reading "Laguna Hills DUI Car Chase" »

Los Angeles, California - A Los Angeles man was assaulted with a deadly weapon after complaining about the suspect being on her phone during a movie. The victim was complaining that the woman was talking on her cell phone during the movie. The suspect then left the movie theater with the two men that were with her. The two men came back into the theater to stab the victim with the meat thermometer in her neck.

The victim, who has not been identified, has been hospitalized with serious stab wounds. Los Angeles police have yet to find the suspects that committed this violent felony crime.

Los Angeles felony crime defense attorney Michael Guisti recently commentated on the incident at the movie theater. He states that violent felony crimes like this one are dealt with very harshly in California. The Orange County criminal defense attorney further says that the unidentified suspects could possibly be charged with a variety of violent crimes such as assault, battery, aggravated assault, assault with deadly weapon and attempted murder, three strikes, ect.. In California, if a person has been charged with Assault and Battery or felony assault or felony battery, assault with deadly weapon, attempted murder in Orange County, Los Angeles, the punishments are very serious. Assault and Battery are defined in the California Penal Code as an unlawful attempt to injury another person. Battery is the act of injuring someone and a person charged with theses crimes can face jail time or prison time, heavy fines, or both the fine and imprisonment.

How can an experienced Orange County criminal lawyer help you in your Assault and Battery defense in Orange County and Los Angeles?

At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our experienced Los Angeles criminal attorneys can lead you through the criminal defense process. Southern California criminal lawyers at Law Offices of Michael Guisti have been very successful in case all over Southern California. He has helped people in Orange County, Los Angles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and San Diego County. He has handles a vast variety of violent felony crimes like assault, battery, murder, attempted murder, sex crimes, and domestic violence. It is critical that if you or someone you know is facing a violent crime to retain an experienced Southern California criminal attorney.

Continue reading "Los Angeles man assaulted with Deadly weapon for talking on a Cellphone" »

Huntington Beach, Orange County - A family was unlawfully detained by local police at Huntington Beach Best Western. Police were called to the Best Western because someone stated there had been shouting and a possibly gunshot. Police responded to room in question with their guns drawn. Police searched the mother and the father for weapons. The children, who had been staying in the adjoining run walked in. The children were terrified to see their parents being detained by police that had their guns drawn.

The Koscica family claims that the police unlawfully detained them and searched their room for 30 minutes with their gun upholstered. The family is alleging false imprisonment and civil rights violations. The family is also filing a suit against the best western for negligent police report.

Orange County police misconduct attorney recently commented on this article. He states that under that United States Constitution, police must conduct themselves in a way that is reasonable and professional. Everyone in this country has the right to be treated fairly by local law enforcement. False imprisonment is just one example of police misconduct. Police misconduct also include jail deaths and injuries, Wrongful death, No-warrant searches, Excessive force shooting victims.

Filing a lawsuit against a government entity like your local police can be very difficult and time consuming. Sometimes the police officer might even try to get immunity from the law suit. Protect your constitution rights. Let an experienced Southern California police misconduct attorney to protect and fight for your rights. Don't let a challenging police misconduct suit intimidate you. Retain a skilled Orange County police misconduct attorney who is aggressive and experienced in Police misconduct cases in court in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Bernardino and Riverside.

At the Law Offices of Michael Guisti, our highly experienced attorney will lead you through the confusing legal system to help you protect your rights. If you or a loved one thinks that they have been mistreated by an Orange County police, please contact our Orange County police misconduct attorney at law offices of Michael Guisti at (714)530-9690 for a free consultation or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com.

Los Angeles - Los Angeles man Samuel Francisco was arrested for kidnapping and sexual assault. He is alleged to have sexually assaulted and kidnap the Los Angeles 13 year old girl that he met on MySpace. Francisco is to have allegedly lured the girl to come over to his apartment in Long Beach. The girl's parents reported her missing on Thursday. The mother was expecting her daughter to be coming out of school, but the girl never showed up.

Police found the victim at Francisco's apartment. She was distraught when they found her. Authorities think that Francisco might have done this before, because of the ease at which he accomplished the crime. He is being held on $50,000 bail. He is to be arraigned in Long Beach.

Orange county sex crime attorney and Los Angeles criminal attorney, Michael Guisti, recently commented on this case. He states that Francisco could be facing two charges. He is most likely to face the charges for the sexual assault and the kidnapping. The laws defining California sexual assault also called sexual battery can be found in the California Penal Code 243.4 (e) (1) defines misdemeanor Sexual Battery as the non-consensual touching of the intimate part of another for (1) sexual arousal, (2) sexual gratification, or (3) sexual abuse. In California, Sexual battery can either be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Orange County criminal attorney Michael Guisti also goes on to talk about the kidnapping. He explains that kidnapping can be found in the California Penal code 207. It states every person who forcibly, or by any other means of instilling fear, steals or takes, or holds, detains, or arrests any person in this state, and carries the person into another country, state, or county, or into another part of the same county, is guilty of kidnapping. Francisco will face a long prison sentence and fines if he is found guilty of these charges. If you or someone you care has been arrested for sex crimes, such as sexual assault, assault and battery, prostitution, pandering, pimping, child molestation or any type of violent crimes, you need to seek the legal help of an experienced Southern California criminal attorney immediately.

Continue reading "Los Angeles man arrested for Kidnapping and Sexual Assault" »

Laguna Niguel, Orange County - Laguna Niguel resident, William Baker, was arrested Thursday for stealing almost a million dollars from investors in a investment scheme. Instead of using the fund for his clients, he used the fund for his personal use. From 2006 to 2008, Baker embezzled nearly $1 million from at least 10 investors. Baker had promised investors the he would buy run down houses and then remodel them. Baker took the money from the investors and bought property, then put the properties in a trust for his son. He also used some of the investor's funds to pay back earlier investors.

Orange County white collar crime defense attorney and Los Angeles County investment fraud defense attorney Michael Guisti recently discussed about this case, stated that Baker could be facing serious felony crime in grand theft, embezzlement, real estate fraud and investment fraud charges. The Los Angeles criminal attorney also commented that a defendant like Baker with bail amount of 1 million dollars, need to prove the legal source of money before posting bond. California has very harsh penalties for people that commit real estate fraud, investment fraud and embezzlement.

Orange County white collar crime defense attorney Michael Guisti also states that these types of crimes are considered felony crimes which come with not only long prison sentences, but large fines and restitution. Baker is most likely going to also face the charge of grand theft which is defined in California Penal code section 487(a ) and it states a person has committed grand theft when the money, labor, or real or personal property taken is of a value exceeding four hundred dollars ($400). A Laguna Niguel judge might also decide to add an aggravated white collar crime enhancement which adds five years to the prison sentence and is a $500,000 fine.

The first move a person needs to make when facing a white collar crime in Southern California, such as real estate fraud, credit card fraud, insurance fraud, investment fraud, and mortgage fraud, medical fraud, healthcare fraud, grand theft or embezzlement, or need professional license defense is to retain a experienced Los Angeles criminal attorney or an Orange County white collar crime defense attorney immediately. Newport Beach fraud defense attorneys and Newport beach white collar crime defense attorney at law Offices of Michael Guisti have handled hundreds of white collar crimes in Laguna Niguel, Irvine, Costa Mesa, Fullerton, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Westminster, Los Angeles, Beverly hills, santa monica, redondo beach, pasadena and many other cities.

Continue reading "Laguna Niguel Man Arrested for embezzlement and fraud in house flipping scheme" »

La Habra, Orange County - A Westminster resident was murdered at a Halloween party in 2006. His killer was finally charged on Wednesday for the murder of Leland Washington. It is alleged that the suspect David Parga has ties with a gang that is in La Habra and killed Washington because of his race.

The victim was standing outside when Parga came up to him and shot him several time. Witnesses say that the attack was unprovoked. Prosecutors allege that this was no ordinary murder but that it is a hate crime. Washington was treated at UCI Medical Center in Orange where he was pronounced dead.

Orange County criminal defense attorney Michael Guisti commented on this incident. He stated that gang related crimes and hate crimes are very serious charges in California. He states the Parga will probably be facing serious murder charges. The punishments for murder can be found in the California Penal code section code 187 which states that a person will be sentence to federal prison if found convicted of murder. Southern California defense attorney Michael Guisti goes on to say that Parga will also face gang enhancements. The law covering gang enhancements are found in Penal code 186.22. It states that any person can have their prison sentence enlarge if it if discovered they did it for the benefit for the gang that they are associated with.

Being convicted of first degree murder is a serious charge. If convicted you could face a long prison sentence, fines restitution and you could possible lose your life. If you or someone you know has been charged with violent crimes such as murder, attempted murder, first degree murder, second degree murder, three strikes, felony assault, homicide, manslaughter, domestic violence, assault, battery, sex crimes etc. and other crimes, it is critical to retain a skilled Orange County criminal defense attorney or Los Angeles criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your right and freedom.

Orange County criminal attorneys at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti has successfully handled hundreds of violent crime cases in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego and San Bernardino and are committed to providing the highest quality of legal representation for your case. If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with felony crimes, violent crimes, murder, second degree murder, first degree murder, felony assault and battery, assault with deadly weapon, attempted murder, you need to call the experienced and skilled Southern California criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of Michael Gusiti immediately at (714)530-9690 for a free consultation or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com.

Santa Ana, Orange County - Tanya Nelson has become the second women in Orange County to receive the death penalty. She was convicted of murdering a Westminster fortuneteller and her daughter. In a Santa Ana court house a jury voted for the death penalty her murdering the Westminster woman. In April 2005 Nelson was convicted of killing a local fortune teller Ha smith and her daughter Anita Vo. She stabbed the mother and daughter and then covered the two victims in white paint.

After Nelson stabbed the victims, she stole cash, credit cards, and jeweler out of their home. Next, nelson stole the identities of her two victims. She was later apprehended by police at Costa Mesa South Coast Plaza while on a shopping spree. Nelson had an accomplice in the murdering of Smith and Vo. Phillipe Zamora says he killed Vo because he had just witnessed Nelson kill Smith and in a panic he killed her. He pled guilty to two counts of first-degree murder and could face 50 years to life in prison.

Being convicted of murder is one of the harshest convictions in California. Murder is defined in the California Penal code 187 as the unlawful killing of another human being. This is a serious offense and the charge comes with heavy consequences. Orange County criminal defense attorney Michael Guisti has recently discussed about this case in an interview. Mr. Guisti noted that if a person is convicted of a murder crime, such as attempted murder, first degree murder, second degree murder, homicide and manslaughter, he can expect to face long prison sentences, large fines and sometimes the death penalty. The person could not only lose his freedom but his life.

Hiring a highly qualified orange county defense attorney can be the most crucial step that you take in the legal process. Southern California defense attorney Michael Guisti has had experience in handling difficult felony cases. He has handled case all over Orange and Los Angeles County. He has not only dealt with murder cases but other felony cases as well such as; three strikes, sex crimes, domestic violence, assault and battery,, felony drug cases, white collar crimes, felony fraud cases, grand theft cases. The Orange county and Los Angeles criminal defense firm has handled hundreds of cases in state courts and federal courts in Orange County, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego.

How can an Orange County murder defense attorney help you in your murder case ? Orange county defense attorney Michael Guisti has the experience to help you through the confusing legal system. If you or someone you know needs an orange county defense attorney contact Michael Guisti at (714)530-9690 to schedule a free consultation.

Garden Grove, Orange County - Garden Grove gang member, Ivan Garcia, was found guilty of shooting a Garden Grove resident outside of his home. Garcia was convicted of attempted murder and street terrorism, with penalty enhancements for gang activity. He is also convicted of unlawful firearm. He faces up to 40 years in prison.

The victim, David Pulga, was close to his Orange County Garden Grove home when he was shot several times by two gang members in Garden Grove. His wife reported to the Garden Grove police. From this injury he suffers memory loss, physical control and no longer has basic motor skills. The DNA evidence retrieved helped police find the Orange County attempted murder suspect, Ivan Garcia. Garden Grove police also found second gang member linked to this attempted murder case by the tagging. Cesar Mina also known as "Sleepy" has been tied to the shooting.

According to Orange County criminal attorney Michael Guisti, who has successfully handled many high profile felony crime cases, murder crime defense and attempted murder cases, states that "attempted murder" can be found under the California Penal code 187 which defines murder as the unlawful killing of a human being. The punishments for murder are the most severe among all other crimes, and it is the most aggressively prosecuted crime. The punishments for murder crimes, such as attempted murder, first degree murder, second degree murder, homicide and manslaughter, are very harsh, it could carry very long term prison sentences, the death penalty and heavy fines. The consequences could impact a person's entire life.

Orange County criminal defense attorney also explains that a person committed a murder or any other crime as part of a gang could also face gang enhancements. An enhancement is defined under California Penal code 186.22. This law states that any person committed of a felony in California can have their sentenced enlarged if it was to benefit the gang. If you have committed a felony for the gang, you could face an additional 4 years of prison time.

Making the right decision for hiring the most qualified criminal defense attorney for your case is the most important decision in the whole legal process. Southern California murder crime defense attorney at Law Offices of Michael Guisti have handled hundreds of felony cases in Orange County and Los Angeles. Attorney Michael Guisti has not only has the exceptional knowledge in California criminal law, federal law and extensive experience with Orange County court systems, Los Angeles court, San Bernardino courts, Riverside courts, San Diego courts. Our Los Angeles felony crime defense attorneys are experienced in felony criminal defense in areas such as: murder, attempted murder, three strikes, sex crimes, domestic violence, assault and battery, federal cases, felony drug cases, white collar crimes, felony fraud cases, grand theft cases, etc. Los Angeles and Orange County murder defense lawyers at Law Offices of Michael Guisti has also had experience defending clients that have been charged with gang related offenses.

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Cypress, Orange County - Monday night police found a man shot in Cypress. He is believed to have lived over seas and might have been on a business trip. The victim was a house guest of the suspect Brent Wilcox. Wilcox was arrested for assault with deadly weapon. He was booked at the Orange County jail hand is held on bail.

The gunshot victim is said to be in critical condition. Police have alleged that this might have been an accident. They have ruled out suicide because the gunshot was in the hands of another person, but that have not yet ruled out that it was accidental. The police think that the suspect Wilcox did not have any intention on shooting his house guest.

Orange County criminal defense attorney, Michael Guisti, who has many years of experience defending clients charged with felony violent crimes, states that assault with a deadly weapon is a serious offense in California. Under the California Penal code 245 (2), it illustrates that assault with a deadly weapon can be charged when a person commits assault with a firearm. The punishment can be very severe. if convicted, a person can expect to be imprisoned in jail and to pay a fine for up to $10,000. The Orange County criminal attorney further explains that there needs to be certain steps proven for him to be convicted of assault with a deadly weapon. It must be proven that he acted and when he acted he did the act the reasonable person would forsee the act being dangerous.

If you or someone you know has been charged or arrested for assault with deadly weapon, assault and battery, or any violent crimes in Orange County, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Fullerton, Westminster, Santa Ana, it is vital to retain the legal service of an experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney. Hiring a strong and highly qualified defense with Southern Calfornia criminal attorneys at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti would help the defendent minimize the charges brought against him. Our Orange County assault and battery defense attorneys are experienced with Orange County courts, Los Angeles courts, Riverside courts, San Diego courts, in both state and federal court.

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Orange County - Dr. Steven Kooshian was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for not giving his patients the correct dosage of their medication. Kooshian is a well know AIDs doctor in Orange County and runs many clinics. He pled guilty to two counts of health care fraud and two counts of making false statements relating to health-care matters. Kooshian would purposely prescribe or administer a lower dosage of the patients AIDs medication.

Kooshian's assistant Virgil Opinion, was the person that had started this investigation. He had been Kooshian'd assistant for more that 10 years. He terminated his employment with the doctor and then went to the press with the information. He told the police that his conscience had been killing him. He pled guilty to being an accessory to the crime and will serve three years probation and is ordered to pay restitution jointly with Kooshain.

According to Orange County criminal attorney and professional license defense attorney, Los Angeles Medical fraud defense attorney, Michael Guisti, that under the California Insurance Code Section 1871.4 and California Penal Code Section 550, a person who is charged with healthcare fraud in a situation when he / she makes a false statement to obtain or deny insurance benefits while claiming for insurance. the person could also be charged with penal code section 118 together as the insurance claim is based on false statement.

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