Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog

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.

Continue reading "Garden Grove Gang Member convicted of attempted murder " »

Santa Ana, Orange County - A Costa Mesa dentist that killed three patients in his dental chair wants to be paroled. Protopappas is currently serving for three counts of second-degree murder. His patients died while sitting in his dentist chair after receiving an overdose of anesthesia. Protopappas in past years stated that he was not responsible for the death of the three victims. The Board of Prison Terms claims that Protopappas does not demonstrate an understanding of what he had done, and is therefore in ineligible for parole. However, Protopappas says that he understands what he has done and is no longer a danger.

A Santa Ana criminal attorney is filing an appeal in Orange County court system stating that the parole board has violated Protopappas's due proves rights. His Orange County criminal defense attorney says that the parole was wrong in using Protopappas insight in to the murders as a gauge for parole and that he knows has remorse. He also claims that he can no longer be a danger because he will no longer be a dentist.

Under California Law, Second -degree murder can be defined in California Penal Code 187 as the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought. Murder is considered as one of the most serious crimes among all crimes. In California the punishment for murder is very harsh. If found guilty of murder, you could face life in prison with out parole. Orange County criminal defense attorney Michael Guisti has noted in this case that a professional, such as a doctor, a physician, a surgeon, a therapist or any medical health care professional, who is convicted of murder, first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted murder, could you get life in prison, and the defendant could also lose his professional license. If you or someone you know is facing murder charges or under investigation for murder, it is imperative to retain an experienced Southern California criminal lawyer immediately to protect your rights.

Continue reading "Costa Mesa Dentist charged with second degree murder for killing three patients" »

Santa Ana, Orange County - Serial Murder suspect Rodney James Alcala took the witness stand in his own defense stating that a 1978 episode of the 'Dating Game' affirms his argument that he owned a pair of earrings that were similar to the victims earrings. Alcala is defending himself against the five murder charges. He told the jury that a tape of the "Dating Game" shows him wearing the earrings similar to the earrings that the 12 year old murder victim Robin Samsoe may have been wearing when she was kidnapped and murdered in 1979.

Under California Penal Code 207(a) Every person who forcibly, or by any other means of installing fear, steals or takes, or holds, detains, or arrests any person in this state, and carries the person to another country, state, or into another part of the same country, is guilty of kidnapping.

Deputy District Attorney, Matt Murphy, states that Alcala kidnapped Samsoe while she was riding her bike to ballet lessons. Prosecution states that she was the driven to the foothill of Los Angeles where she was murdered. It is alleged that Alcala then kept her gold earrings as a trophy.

Her body was found 12 days later and Alcala was then charged with Samsoes's murder. Huntington Beach detectives found gold ball earrings from a storage locker that Alcala had been renting in Seattle after Samsoe was abducted. Marianne Connelly, Samsoe's mother, testified that she could identify the earrings because she had clipped the earrings to alter the way they looked.

Alcala insisted that he owned similar earrings and was wearing them when he appeared on the show "Dating Game". He claimed that he too had altered the earrings, because they appeared to feminine. He also states that was at Knott's Berry Farm asking about a job to photograph "Disco Night" at the same time Samsoe was riding her to ballet lessons in Huntington Beach.

Under the California Penal Code 208(a) Kidnapping is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for three, five, or eight years(b) If the person kidnapped is under 14 years of age at the time of the commission of the crime, the kidnapping is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison for 5, 8, or 11 years. This subdivision is not applicable to the taking, detaining, or concealing, of a minor child by a biological parent, a natural father, as specified in Section 7611 of the Family Code, an adoptive parent, or a person who has been granted access to the minor child by a court order.(c) In all cases in which probation is granted, the court shall, except in unusual cases where the interests of justice would best be served by a lesser penalty, require as a condition of the probation that the person be confined in the county jail for 12 months. If you or your loved has been arrested or charged with kidnapping, murder or any other violent crimes in Orange County, Los Angeles, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Fullerton, Tustin, it is critical to obtain the legal service of an experienced Criminal Defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and freedom.

Continue reading "Murder Defendant: 'Dating Game' Proves Point " »

SANTA ANA, Orange County - An Irvine new resident, Janelle Peralta, was murdered by her long time boyfriend in Irvine on July 4, 2007. The man, Javier Colon, was found guilty by jury and was convicted of first degree murder of murdering his girlfriend using deadly weapon in Irvine. He will be sentenced Feb. 19.

The couple moved from New York to Irvine one week before the murder happened. It all started from a fight that night followed by an escalated assault and battery with deadly weapon. Javier slit his throat and wrists and had slashed Peralta 15 times. He was trying to kill both Peralta and himself. Peralta's mother took the 1-year old baby and ran out of the apartment and called police.

Orange County Register reports that a Los Angeles drunk driver who killed two young Rancho Cucamonga women Saturday in La Verne was charged with murder. Alan Michael McConnell, of Covina, was charged with two murder counts on Tuesday. He was also charged with driving while intoxicated, hit-and-run and driving on a suspended license. McConnell crashed into another car and fled the scene. One woman was killed at the scene and the other seriously injured.

Due to the prior felony drunk driving conviction, McConnell was charged with murder this time instead of vehicular manslaughter. It is clear that the prior convictions on McConnell didn't change his driving behavior. After the previous convictions, he should have learnt that it is dangerous on the road when he was driving behind the wheels while intoxicated or drunk. However, he chose to do it again and again.

After he got convicted in Orange County, he got on the road and arrested for the same drunk driving offense the following weekend. While awaiting arraignment for that arrest, he crashed a car, allegedly while intoxicated, and two young women died.

Under California law, felony count of DUI or drunk driving is a serious criminal charge. In Southern California, if someone had prior felony convictions or a penalty enhancement or bodily injury, he can be charged with felony DUI. A felony DUI driving conviction carries serious consequences: prison time, a heavy fine, and suspension of driver's license. if you or someone you know has been charged with murder, DUI or any crimes, you need to contact an experienced Orange County DUI attorney immediately.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Drunk Driver charged with murder " »

Santa Ana, Orange County - A Santa Ana man who was convicted of first degree murder in 2008 was granted a new trial today. Ruben Oliveros, of Santa Ana, was facing life in prison without the possibility of parole. An Orange county criminal defense attorney brought up a motion for a new trial and stated that the defendant may not have been at the crime scene. The Judge granted a new trial because it seems that there is strong evidence that a jury could give a different verdict.

Co-defendant, Charcas-Fernandez, has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in this case. Aurelio Saldivar, another defendant, was also convicted of murder in the case.

Under California law, murder is one of the most serious crimes. Under California penal code section PC 187, murder is defined as causing the death of another person with the presence of malice aforethought. The punishment is severe, if convicted the accused can get 25 to life in prison. It has life-altering consequences. If you or someone you care has been arrested for murder, you need to speak to an experienced Southern California criminal defense attorney immediately.

Whether it is in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Pasadena, Orange County, Santa Ana, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Tustin, Newport Beach or anywhere in Southern California, if one is convicted of a first-degree or second-degree murder charge, he could face prison time for the rest of his life.

The first- degree murder and second-degree murder are considered as the willful killing of another person. A first-degree murder can carry a minimum 25 years in prison, and second-degree murder is minimum of 15 years. It could be a sentense for life in prison depends on the circumstances.

Continue reading "Santa Ana Man Convicted of Murder get a new trial" »

According to Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles man Rodney Alcala is facing murder charges for the murders of four Los Angeles women who were sexually assaulted, beaten and strangled 2 years before the death of another woman Samsoe.of Huntington Beach,

12 year old Huntington Beach girl Robin Samsoe disappeared from the beach after she and her friend were asked by a man if he could take their picture. The friend accompanying Samsoe to the beach that day, later identified Rodney James Alcala as the man who took their picture. Alcala was twice convicted for the murder of Samsoe, but those convictions were reversed on appeal due to evidence improperly allowed into evidence. During Alcala's second appeal from his second conviction in 2001, DNA evidence was discovered by LA County Investigators. Alcala pleaded not guilty to the charges.

As stated in California Penal Code Section 187: murder is an act that results in the death of another human being, while California Penal Code Section 189: states 1st Degree Homicide is murder due to some form of deliberation and premeditation. While no DNA evidence was found in the Samsoe case, it appears the DNA evidence found from the victims prior to the death of Samsoe will be enough to hold Alcala accountable for murder. Because Alcala is facing multiple murder charges, the possibility of spending the rest of his life behind bars is certainly a possibility.

Under California criminal law, Homicide cases tend to be extremely complex. If you or someone you know has been arrested or under investigated for murder, homicide or manslaughter, it is imperative that you need to seek a strong legal representation from an experienced Southern California criminal defense attorney to protect your rights.

At Law offices of Michael L Guisti, our Los Angelels Criminal defense attonrey Michael L. Guisti has accumulated a wealth of knowledge about how to craft effective murder / homicide defenses over the past decade. Mr. Guisti has successful represented many criminal defendants charged with murder, felony sex crimes, assault and battery, felony violent crimes, as well as those facing capital crimes to avoid the death penalty.

To further discuss your felony criminal charges, murder crimes, please contact our Southern California criminal attorneys at Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti at 714-530-9690 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com.

TUSTIN, Orange County - Four Orange County men were arrested Tuesday for the murder of a Tustin teen who was shot to death on Sun at a house party in Tustin. On Tuesday, Nhem, Pablo Kachirisky Steven Kao, and David Escobar have been arrested and were charged with felony counts of terrorism and murder, with sentencing enhancements.

The enhancements are murder involves a criminal street gang activity, or a firearm which caused the death of another person. Santa Ana man John Saway and Sarith Yin have been arrested for the murder charges. Anaheim resident Belinda Vu, 19, was also arrested Tuesday, but has since been released and no charges are being filed.

Los Angeles - The body of an 84 year old woman was found in her home, a victim of sexual assault, robbery and murder, the Anaheim police reported Sunday. The woman's car had been found in a San Bernardino County grocery store. The suspect, 25 year old Anthony Wade of Los Angeles, allegedly tried to use the victim's stolen credit card when he was apprehended after he became agitated when the clerk would not accept the credit card.

The police went to the home of the victim, Bessie Whyman, to see if she knew the whereabouts of her car and to check on her welfare when her naked body was discovered in the living room of her home. Wade, was transferred to an Anaheim detention center and is expected to be arraigned on charges of first degree felony murder, robbery and sexual assault.

Under California Penal Code Section 187, murder defined as unlawful killing of another human being with the intent of malice. Murder is one of the most aggressively prosecuted crimes among all crimes and the punishment for murder is harsh. If a person is convicted of murder, it can carry a sentence of 25 years to life in prison depending upon the severity and degree of murder. If you or someone you care has been arrested for murder in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside or San Bernardino, it is imperative to retain an experienced Southern California Criminal Defense Attorney to represent you. Our attorneys handled hundreds of criminal cases in both state and federal courts.

Continue reading "Los Angeles Man arrested for the Murder of 84 year old Anaheim woman" »

Fullerton, Orange County - A Fullerton man, Gideon Omondi, who was convicted of first-degree murder and attempted murder in 2006, was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison yesterday. Omondi killed his 4-year-old son in the bathtub at his Fullerton Appartment in September, 2006 in order to avoid paying child support. Orange County social workers had been contacted about possible child abuse before his son was killed.

Omondi was a Kenyan student studying at Cal State Fullerton in 2004. Omondi and his wife was divorced and shared custody of their son. On Sunday night in September 2006, he drowned his son Richie. He drove to the Fullerton police station and confessed to the Fullerton police. He pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity, but he was found to be sane in court.

Under California law, under California Penal Code section 187, murder is an act that results in the death of another human being. There are several factors involve homicide. Homicide include: 1st degree Murder: under California Penal Code section 189, defined as murder committed after deliberation and premeditation. Those murders not qualify for first-degree murder are usually considered as second-degree murder. Voluntary Manslaughter: The intentional killing of a human being, when the defendant had no prior intent to kill. Vehicular Manslaughter: Under California Penal Code Section 191 and Penal Code Section 192, Gross Vehicular manslaughter defines as causing the death of another person due to illegal driving, including negligence, DUI, drunk driving or reckless driving.

In California, Murder crime is one of the most serious crimes of all the violent crimes. The punishment is very harsh. If convicted of first degree murder, the defendant is usually sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. When the murder crime involves firearm or any other felony, the sentence could be enhanced by 3 to 10 years.

Whether it is a first degree murder, second degree murder, attempted murder, or a vehicular manslaughter, you should consult a strong Orange County criminal defense attorney or a skilled Los Angeles Criminal Attorney to help you immediately. The experienced Southern California criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti will review your case and discuss the options with you to ensure your rights are protected. We will do everything we can to protect you and keep you out of jail.

Continue reading "Orange County Man Sentenced to 25 years to life for drowning son " »

Los Angeles - The body of an 84 year old woman was found in her home, a victim of sexual assault, robbery and murder, the Anaheim police reported Sunday. The woman's car had been found in a San Bernardino County grocery store. The suspect, 25 year old Anthony Wade of Los Angeles, allegedly tried to use the victim's stolen credit card when he was apprehended after he became agitated when the clerk would not accept the credit card.

The police went to the home of the victim, Bessie Whyman, to see if she knew the whereabouts of her car and to check on her welfare when her naked body was discovered in the living room of her home. Wade, was transferred to an Anaheim detention center and is expected to be arraigned on charges of first degree felony murder, robbery and sexual assault.

Under California Penal Code Section 187, murder defined as unlawful killing of another human being with the intent of malice. Murder is one of the most aggressively prosecuted crimes among all crimes and the punishment for murder is harsh. If a person is convicted of murder, it can carry a sentence of 25 years to life in prison depending upon the severity and degree of murder. If you or someone you care has been arrested for murder in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside or San Bernardino, it is imperative to retain an experienced Southern California Criminal Defense Attorney to represent you. Our attorneys handled hundreds of criminal cases in both state and federal courts.

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.

Continue reading "The Murder of Los Angeles Boy shocks Azusa city" »

Los Angeles, California - LAPD patrol officers and detectives found a 72-year-old man who owned a 98-Cent Store. According to the released facts, police discovered the victim who was suffering from a gunshot wound to the back of the head caused by an attempted robbery.

The crime allegedly involved three suspects, described as two male Hispanics, and a third man who allegedly wore a grey long-sleeve pullover shirt with a black beanie knit cap. All three of the victims also appeared to be wearing black knit gloves. During this series of events, the 72 year-old was mortally wounded with a gunshot to his head.

According to California Penal Code Section 187, Murder is defined as "the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought." Moreover, according to Section 211 of the California Penal Code, Robbery is defined as "felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accomplished by means of force or fear." Both of the aforesaid crimes (Murder and Robbery) are substantial crimes which carry heavy fines and/or jail/prison time.

Under California law, Murder is an extremely serious crime, if convicted, the punishment fof a murder charge can be very harsh. It could carry a sentence of 25 years to life in prison depending upon the seriousness of the case and degree of murder.

If you or your loved one have been charged or arrested for murder or robbery, or related felony crimes and/or misdemeanors in the State of California, you need to hire an experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney or Southern California criminal lawyer to protect your rights and freedom. Criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti have handled hundreds of criminal cases in both state and federal court, including murder, three strikes, felony assault and battery and robbery, among many other claims.

If you want to get legal guidance from a highly skilled Southern California criminal defense lawyer, you need to contact the Law Offices of Michael L. Guisti immediately.
We have many years of experience defending people with serious felonies, including aggravated murder, attempted murder, first-degree murder, second-degree murder and manslaughter, Vehicular Manslaughter, felony assault charges, or a three strikes.

Attorney Michael Guisti also has extensive experience in appeals, appellete and habeas corpus in both state and federal court throughout Southern California, Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Bersardino and Riverside. If you would like to further discuss about your case, please contact our skilled Orange County criminal lawyer immediately at 714-530-9690 or visit us at www.topcalifornialawyer.com