Victims of domestic violence are remembered in candle-light vigil.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Event Honors Victims and Empowers Survivors

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan joined the San Diego Domestic Violence Council, community leaders and other social service agencies to mark the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month at a ceremony in Balboa Park today. The annual event is meant to empower survivors, award those who work with victims and remember those whose lives were taken in domestic violence incidents during the previous year. This year, the event theme was “Empowering Survivors, Supporting Our Community Together to End Abuse.”

In 2023, there were five domestic violence homicide victims of which the suspect was a current or former intimate partner, a 50% decrease from the year before. That is the lowest number of DV homicides recorded in San Diego County in the past three decades.

Attached here is a list of “Not to Be Forgotten” domestic violence homicide victims whom officials promise will not be forgotten. The San Diego Domestic Violence Council works with its community partners and law enforcement agencies, like the DA’s Office, to support victims in several ways.

“Domestic violence does not discriminate and does not know borders,” said District Attorney Summer Stephan. “Anyone who is living with any type of violence at home, especially intimate partner violence, needs to know they do not have to live this way. There are many resources and agencies available to help. This event is just one example of efforts that go beyond the month of October. Every day we are all fighting to prevent domestic violence, prosecute offenders and provide resources to empower victims so they can safely leave their abusers and lead a safe and dignified life.”

Last year, there were 16,666 domestic violence calls for assistance made to law enforcement across San Diego County. The DA’s Office filed charges in 1,892 domestic violence cases in 2023. Part of DA’s efforts to prevent domestic violence include coordinated trainings for hundreds of professionals across the county on recognizing the signs and symptoms of domestic violence, firearm safety, victim rights, stalking, and outreach and inclusion of diverse victim populations.

One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center, which is managed by the DA’s Office, provides resources and services all under one roof for anyone who has experienced abuse or violence. Since opening in 2022, more than 6,000 victims have been helped. This year, the DA’s One Safe Place began a historic partnership with the Attorney General of the State Baja California, Mexico, and the State of Baja California Justice Center for Women in Tijuana to cross-refer victims and provide vital services on both sides of the border to further regionalize help and ensure they can get to a safe and healing place no matter where they live or work.

During the Balboa Park event, which included a resource fair and a candlelight vigil ceremony honoring homicide victims, Amy Vance, who is a survivor of domestic violence shared her personal story.

“The journey to empowerment for survivors has been a goal in my personal and professional life for over a decade,” said Vance, who has spent the last 13 years advocating for other survivors. “For survivors of family violence and their families, it is critical to provide easily accessible, readily available shelter beds with supportive services including counseling, safety planning, workforce development, and a clear path back to a life without violence. Those services must include the input of individuals who have lived experience and understand the ripple effect of violence throughout the family, especially children. It is only through empowerment, healing, and time that the journey is successful.”

The San Diego Domestic Violence Council is a collaboration of organizations and community members who seek to reduce and prevent domestic violence. Partner agencies include the DA’s Office, San Diego County Health and Human Services, the San Diego City Attorney’s Office, the San Diego Sheriff’s Office, and other law enforcement and social services agencies.

“Domestic violence is a community issue, which requires community response,” said San Diego Domestic Violence Council President Dr. Vanessa Rodriguez. “As a psychologist providing clinical care specializing in domestic violence and first responder treatment, I know first-hand the trauma and vicarious trauma caused by domestic violence. Over the past two decades in this field, I have also witnessed remarkable resilience, growth, empowerment, and collaboration among families and communities, which is why I love this year’s theme. We made significant improvement this past year in saving lives, yet our work is far from over. I am confident that together we can build a more compassionate and just community where everyone feels safe and supported.”

If you or someone you know is being abused by a current or former partner, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) for confidential support and assistance planning for safety. More information and resources can be found on the DA’s website here.

The DV Council will host additional community events throughout October, which you can find here.

Murderer Resentenced to Life in Prison Without Parole

The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office said that a defendant who was convicted of four counts of first-degree murder and sentenced to death in 1999 has been re-sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Susan Eubanks, 60, was resentenced today by Superior Court Judge Joan Weber.

The re-sentencing comes after Eubanks’ attorney filed a petition in January of 2020 arguing that her trial attorneys committed ineffective assistance of counsel. An evidentiary hearing was scheduled to consider the claim by Judge Weber, who is the same judge that presided over the jury trial. If the claims were to be sustained by the court, it would result in a new trial. Eubanks has also filed a petition challenging her conviction and sentence in federal court and an appeal with the 4th District Court of Appeal.

After careful consideration by a team of experienced prosecutors and weighing the possible outcomes, the District Attorney’s Office moved forward in the interests of justice with prosecutor-initiated resentencing to ensure the defendant will never be released from prison. This decision will also conclude the petitions in Federal Court and in the Court of Appeal bringing much-needed finality to this case.

“As prosecutors, we are constantly making difficult decisions based on what is in the furtherance of justice and the protection of crime victims,” said San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan. “The moratorium on the death penalty in California and assuring that the victims’ family won’t be put through the anguish of a lengthy new trial, all factored into our decision to accept this agreement which is guaranteed to keep this murderer behind bars for the rest of her life.”

On October 26, 1997, Eubanks took the lives of her four innocent sons who ranged in age from 4 to 14-years-old. All were shot in the head. She then shot herself in the stomach. After just two hours of deliberations, a jury found her guilty on all four counts of first-degree murder. After two days, they also returned with a verdict of death. The judge denied the defense’s motion to modify the sentence and imposed the death sentence. Eubanks was then transferred to the Central California’s Women’s Facility, where she was sent to death row.

Currently, capital punishment is not allowed to be carried out in California, due to both a standing 2006 federal court order against the practice and a 2019 moratorium on executions ordered by Governor Gavin Newsom.

Photo of grocery basket on the floor of a food isle in a grocery store.

Albertsons and Vons to Pay $3.9 Million in Civil Case

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that Albertsons and Vons, entered into a stipulated judgment and will pay $3,962,500 to settle a civil law enforcement complaint that alleged the grocer engaged in false advertising and unfair competition. Albertsons Companies, Safeway Inc., and The Vons Companies operate 589 stores in California under the brand name banners of Albertsons, Safeway, Vons and others.

The action was filed in Marin County Superior Court by the prosecution team which was comprised of prosecutors from throughout the state including the District Attorneys of Alameda, Los Angeles, Marin, Riverside, San Diego, Sonoma and Ventura counties.

“Consumers should be able to trust that the advertised weight of a food product is accurate,” said DA Stephan. “Our Consumer Protection Unit works to hold grocers accountable for meeting their obligations under the law.”

The civil complaint filed by the prosecution team alleged that the grocers unlawfully charged customers prices higher than their lowest advertised or posted price. Beyond the scanner violations, Albertsons also had issues with inaccurate weights on the labels of their products.  Some items sold by weight such as produce, meats, baked goods and other items had less product in the package than was displayed on the package label. For those items, a grocer may only charge for the product’s actual weight, the packaging is not included in the overall weight.

The Judgment includes an injunction that prohibits the grocers from engaging in false or misleading advertising and prohibits fourteen different unfair practices from advertising short weight products to failing to disclose exclusions in its “Just for U” or “Club Card” programs.

The Judgment requires the grocer to implement a Price Accuracy Program which includes a Price Accuracy Guarantee provision that allows a consumer to be compensated up to $5.00 if they are overcharged. The program is an incentive to encourage consumers to report false advertising to the store directly as soon as it is discovered. The judgment also requires the grocers to pay $3,213,000.00 in civil penalties and $749,500 in costs and restitution to cover investigation costs and support future enforcement of consumer protection laws.

The San Diego County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures, is the agency that inspected the Albertsons and Vons stores throughout San Diego County and is instrumental in monitoring retailers to make sure that consumers are being charged the correct price. Consumers may report weight issues to Weights and Measures online by using the General Consumer Complaint Form or by calling 1-888-TRUE-SCAN (878-3722) (toll free) or e-mail wm.awm@sdcounty.ca.gov.

Deputy District Attorney Kathryn Turner was the prosecutor for the San Diego County District Attorney.

DA Investigator Marcus Macias.

Meet DA Investigator Marcus Macias

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet DA Investigator Marcus Macias.

Marcus was born and raised in National City. He graduated from Southwestern College Police Academy in December 1998. Since September 2019, he has worked with the Gang Prosecution Unit and is currently assigned to Juvenile gangs.  He also works with the San Diego Police Department on a gang prevention program.

During his spare time, he enjoys hanging out with his wife and daughters.

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement?

“Like most young high school students, I was lost, looking for my calling. I saw a classmate in a National City Police Explorer uniform, and it intrigued me. The thought of helping people, policing, and protecting people I genuinely cared about was a true calling. I joined NCPD Explorer program in June of 1996 and eventually became a cop there.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“My favorite part of the job is the preventative efforts our office takes. Talking with young people, helping them navigate life and redirect their energy to making positive choices is my favorite part of the job.” 

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important?

“As a mixed-race Latino, I embrace the heritage I was given (no one gets to pick their heritage). Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to highlight the many similarities Latinos have with all walks of life, such as culture, food, and family. It’s a time to reflect on the contributions of so many but also focus on the bright future of everyone.” 

The First Two Years of One Safe Place.

DA’s One Safe Place Hits Milestone of Supporting More Than 6,000 People in North County

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced that One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center in San Marcos, is celebrating its two-year anniversary and has released an Impact Report, which highlights the achievements and services offered at this state-of-the-art Family Justice Center. The report was released during a celebration at One Safe Place on Monday with more than 100 community partners, leaders and dignitaries in attendance.

Watch a video of the two-year anniversary celebration, here. You can read the complete Two-Year “Impact Report” for One Safe Place, here.

“For two years, One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center became a place for hope, healing and justice for over 6,000 victims and survivors including more than 2,000 children,” said DA Stephan. “Our collaboration with an unprecedented 107 community and government partners, especially Palomar Health and its nationally accredited Child Advocacy Center, allows us to meet the safety and health needs of every person who walks through our doors from help with trauma services, restraining orders, sexual assault and domestic violence examinations to connections with housing and jobs that allow victims to live with dignity and safety.”

Since opening on July 5, 2022, One Safe Place has supported more than 6,000 people, provided legal services to over 1,600 people, and received more than 14,000 calls to its helpline. The center serves as a community hub, where more than 23,000 people have taken part in various public safety-related events, trainings and meetings. One Safe Place provides support services all under one roof to anyone who has experienced any type of crime or victimization. Currently, One Safe Place collaborates with some 107 community organizations and agencies from across the county.

The two-year history of services offered at One Safe Place include:

  • Adult forensic examinations following a sexual assault, performed by trained health care professionals who assess a victim’s health care needs, coordinate treatment for any injuries, offer support and crisis intervention, and collect and document any potential evidence. More than 280 adult forensic evidentiary exams have been conducted.
  • A nationally accredited Child Advocacy Center which has conducted more than 100 medical exams and 578 forensic interviews with children and teens since opening.
  • Crime victims have received over 10,000 services including safety planning, resource navigation, hands-on assistance with applications for services, and more.
  • Palomar Health Trauma Recovery Center therapists conducted 6,756 therapy sessions with children, teens, and adults.
  • 1,358 individuals helped through a restraining order clinic.
  • 440 crime victims were helped to obtain safe shelter and housing.
  • One Safe Place provided food, clothing, shoes, and over 30,000 packs of diapers in our first two years.

The two-year anniversary celebration included formal remarks from San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones, Carlsbad Police Chief Christie Calderwood, Palomar Health Executive for Strategic Planning Sheila Brown, and Mexican Consul General Alicia Kerber-Palma.

Three survivors who have received services at One Safe Place spoke at the ceremony, including Amy, who took part in a mentorship program called Pathways and a summer camp called Camp Hope, designed for children who have experienced trauma.

“Pathways events have helped me feel normal, when everything in my life at the moment was everything but normal,” Amy said. “One Safe Place has become my safe haven. I can confidently say I feel safe when I am here. Every single person here, with a simple hello, has made me feel valued.”

As part of the two-year anniversary celebration, a conference room was dedicated and named after Dr. Wilma Wooten, retired San Diego County Chief Public Health Officer and was named the “Dr. Wooten Health and Healing Collaboration Space.” Dr.Wooten was a champion for victims recognizing the importance of collaboration between public health and public safety professionals. The onsite Forensic Health Services Suite was also named the “Cathy McLennan Forensic Health Services Suite” named after the late Cathy McLennan, a nationally recognized forensic interviewer from Palomar Health who dedicated her career to the protection of children.

One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center is located at 1050 Los Vallecitos Blvd., San Marcos, CA 92069. It is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on the first Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Paralegal Veronica Flores.

Meet Paralegal Veronica Flores

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Paralegal Veronica Flores.

Veronica was born and raised in San Diego. She graduated from SDSU in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology/Social Work.

“I was 39 when I went back to school. It’s never too late!! Si Se Puede!”

As a Paralegal II for the Insurance Fraud Division, Veronica assists in writing the six different Insurance Fraud Grants that fund that division and help gather, analyze, organize, and accurately report all the data for the multiple statistical reports required for our programs. She also organizes the division’s mass media, outreach programs, and community events they participate in throughout the entirety of San Diego County. Additionally, she is assigned many special projects and duties, such as the maintenance of the division’s arrest warrant database and various restitution projects.

During her spare time, Veronica likes to travel and explore new places. She loves spending time with her family, her three grandchildren, going to concerts, and going to Raider games in Vegas!

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement?

“I did not originally plan to pursue a career at the DA’s Office, and it was pure luck that I started working here. I first applied for a position with the Health and Human Services Agency and luckily the DA’s Office called to interview me for a secretarial position. I was hired and assigned to the Gangs Unit. That is where I started learning more about the DA’s Office and how we pursue justice for our victims. Former Deputy DA Sophia Roach pushed me to become a paralegal, she even wrote a recommendation letter for me that went a long way toward helping me get into the USD paralegal program. After working in the Gangs Unit, I was transferred to the Insurance Fraud Division and gained experience with paralegal duties. Once I got my certification, I applied for and got a paralegal position in the Family Protection Division where I did more case management. Eventually, I returned to the Insurance Fraud Division to assist with the grant program, but I still work on some Family Protection cases, one of which is going to trial this month.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“I am a very high (I) – Influence behavior style (people involvement), so I enjoy helping others and being social. Luckily, I know how to multi-task so I’m able to get my work done! I love that there is still the opportunity to learn new things every day so that I continuously improve at my job.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important?

“Lately, there is so much negativity in the news media about immigrants, so events like Hispanic Heritage Month are important because they shine a spotlight on the contributions and achievements made by Latinxs across the United States and beyond. Holidays like Mexican Independence Day on September 16th, ‘El Grito,’ which is celebrated the day before, are huge holidays that allow us to share our culture and history with others. These kinds of things help foster inclusivity and acceptance in the community.”

1991-Cold-Case-victim-Terri-Bistodeau

1991 Cold Case Murder Suspect Extradited from El Salvador to Face Charges

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan today announced important progress toward justice in a cold case homicide that occurred in San Diego 33 years ago. Alfredo Hernandez, 66, was extradited this week from El Salvador and arraigned today in San Diego Superior Court for the 1991 murder of 39-year-old Terri Bistodeau. If he is found guilty of the murder charge, Hernandez faces up to 25 years-to-life in state prison.

1991-Cold-Case-victim-Terri-Bistodeau

Terri Bistodeau.

On August 4, 1991, San Diego Police Officers responded to a home on 5367 Geneva Avenue in the Emerald Hills neighborhood of San Diego. The victim was found strangled to death on the floor of her bedroom. Despite the best-efforts from law enforcement investigators at the time, the case went cold.

In 2006 and 2008, the case was reopened for further investigation but remained unsolved. In 2019, further investigation and DNA testing was conducted and based on the work of dedicated law enforcement professionals— including District Attorney Investigator Tony Johnson— and lab analysts, Hernandez was charged in 2021 and a warrant for his arrest was issued. Hernandez was located out of the country and the government of El Salvador recently granted an extradition request, clearing the way for Hernandez to be returned to the United States.

“The family and friends of Terri Bistodeau have waited 33 years for the moment when her killer was linked to the crime through DNA evidence and returned to San Diego to finally face justice,” said DA Stephan. “This case demonstrates the kinds of successful investigations we’re seeing in cold case homicides thanks to the tireless work that our specialized investigators do along with our law enforcement partners, including the FBI and the San Diego Police Department. It also is a credit to our extraditions team, which continues to work effectively with foreign governments to return criminals to our jurisdiction in the pursuit of justice.”

The DA’s Cold Case Homicide Division has dedicated and experienced investigators and prosecutors that use the latest forensic evidence technology to deliver justice to victims. The division promotes public safety by working with local law enforcement to resolve unsolved homicides within San Diego County. These partnerships are key to solving and successfully prosecuting cases where the trail has gone cold for years. Since it was established in 2003, the Cold Case Homicide Division has played a role in solving and prosecuting numerous murders.

The DA’s Extraditions Unit successfully brings fugitives from abroad or from other states to face criminal prosecution in San Diego and seeks justice for crime victims. International extradition is complex and varies from nation to nation with very specific legal requirements involving multiple agencies. We work with local and federal law enforcement organizations as well as the U.S. Department of Justice and foreign governments to extradite, deport or expel fugitives back to San Diego, within the parameters of extradition treaties and foreign immigration laws.

Deputy District Attorney Chris Lindberg is prosecuting this case.

Meet DA Investigator Xanthe Rosario

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet District Attorney Investigator Xanthe Rosario.

Xanthe was born in San Diego, California, but spent the first years of her life in Mexico. Her mother brought her back to the US when she was six years old.

She is currently a DA Investigator assigned to the Child Abduction Unit in the Family Protection Division, where her role is to investigate parental child abduction. She investigates cases where a child is unlawfully taken or kept by a parent or guardian in violation of custody agreements or court orders. These cases often involve situations where one parent takes the child across state lines, conceals their location, or refuses to return the child after a visitation period. The Child Abduction Unit works to locate missing children and the parent who abducted them; ensure the enforcement of custody orders issued by family courts, coordinate with law enforcement agencies, child protective services, and sometimes federal authorities (like the FBI) when abductions involve crossing state or international borders; recover the child safely and return them to the legal guardian or custodial parent;  and prevent future abductions by prosecuting violations of custody agreements or court orders. The unit also investigates “Hagues” cases. In the context of parental child abduction, The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is a multilateral treaty designed to address international child abduction cases. The Hague Convention on Child Abduction aims to promptly return children who have been abducted by a parent or guardian across international borders, ensuring custody disputes are settled in the child’s country of habitual residence.

During her spare time, Xanthe enjoys spending time with her teens, guiding them through life, hiking, and cooking for family and friends while having gatherings at her house because “food always brings people together.” She also belongs to a volunteer group that allows her to travel to other countries and volunteer by working with kids in unfortunate neighborhoods, like the child she is pictured with while volunteering in Costa Rica.

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement?

“I was inspired by the honor and respect I have for law enforcement. At a young age, I pursued a law enforcement career because I felt compassion and wanted to protect vulnerable and innocent people. I’ve admired the dedication and commitment of officers who put their lives on the line specifically for that purpose. The career inspired me to be a better human, a better mother, and a better servant. I began my career in law enforcement as a correctional officer at the San Diego County Probation Department. Then, I was hired by the Los Angeles Police Department, where I worked as an undercover in high schools, internal affairs, and a narcotics unit. In 2004, I was hired by the Chula Vista Police Department. At CVPD, I was a School Resource Officer and a detective in the Family Protection Unit and Crimes of Violence Unit. After 19 years at CVPD, I was hired by the DA’s Office. A strong sense of justice drove me to pursue a career at the DA’s Office. I knew my passion and my ability to connect with people would pay off. Working in the DA’s Office allows me to hold offenders accountable while seeking fair and balanced outcomes. The ability to advocate for kids and innocent people truly motivates me daily.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“My favorite part of the job is being deeply motivated by the responsibility of ensuring fairness. I am fulfilled by coming to work and helping my partners and co-workers. Knowing that I enjoy what I do and being thankful for my everyday growth.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important?

“Being Hispanic, speaking Spanish fluently, and working for multiple agencies where a high percentage of the people we serve are Hispanic and vulnerable has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Hispanic Heritage Month is the time to recognize and celebrate Hispanic and Latino Americans’ contributions, history, culture, and achievements. It highlights people’s diverse backgrounds, traditions, and rich cultural heritage. For this reason, I will continue to use my language and my Hispanic background as a strength.”

 

 

Photo of gavel and scales of justice.

Dad Who Drove off Sunset Cliffs with Twin Girls in Car Sentenced to Prison

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that  Robert Brians, 51, who in a fit a rage amid a divorce and custody dispute, intentionally drove off Sunset Cliffs with his 2-year-old twin girls in the car has been sentenced to 31 years in state prison.

Brians pleaded guilty on August 9 to two counts of attempted murder, child abuse, kidnapping, domestic violence, and burglary. He had taken the children from his parents’ home in the middle of the night before driving away, intent on killing the girls and himself.

“Attempting to kill your innocent children to hurt your spouse is beyond despicable,” DA Stephan said. “I am grateful to first responders who found this defendant’s whereabouts and were able to save the young girls from drowning. I’m also proud of our Family Protection Division for holding this defendant accountable for his unspeakable act.”

During a 2021 preliminary hearing, Jenna Brians testified that after Brians took the children, she exchanged several text messages with him as she tried to learn their whereabouts. At one point, Brians called Jenna on Facetime so she could say goodbye to the girls. Brians told her that he was planning to drive off a cliff in his truck while his girls were inside. One text message he sent read, “I told you, girls are going to Heaven and I’m going to Hell to wait for you.”

Domestic violence has many forms including physical aggression, sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, stalking, or financial abuse. This includes any behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, frighten, terrorize, injure, or wound someone.

If you or someone you know is being abused, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline

1-800-799-7233. More resources can be found on the District Attorney’s website.

In addition, One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center provides free support services all under one roof to anyone who has experienced child abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, hate crime, elder abuse, human trafficking, violent loss, family violence, or other abuse or victimization. OneSafePlaceNorth.org

Deputy District Attorney Franciesca Balerio prosecuted this case.

Meet Paralegal Sandy Barajas

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, we are highlighting stories from DA employees and what inspired them to pursue a career in public service. Meet Paralegal Sandy Barajas.

Sandy was born in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico, but came to the United States when she was only six months old. She grew up in San Diego County, in the community of Barrio Logan, where her family has lived for over 50 years.

She attended Southwestern College and graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies, then went directly to National University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. She then pursued a Pre-Law degree in Paralegal Studies at the University of San Diego.

Currently, Sandy is assigned as a Paralegal I for the East County Division, where she works on Misdemeanor DUI cases. She also serves in the County’s Peer Support Team because she has always been passionate about giving back to her community.

When she is not busy working, she loves to make her spare time useful. She currently has a business which consumes half of her time, but she also likes to stay active in her community.

“I volunteer my time and expertise to help others,” she said. “I feel I have a duty to give back and help younger women to reach their potential. Once I had women who gave to me, who mentored me, so it’s only fair that I continue to keep the ball rolling. I enjoy non-profit volunteer work.”

What inspired you to pursue a career at the DA’s Office/in law enforcement?  

“There were several factors that inspired me to pursue a career at the District Attorney’s office. Firstly, I have always had a strong passion for justice and protecting the rights of individuals. Here at the DA’s Office, we believe in protecting victims, building safe neighborhoods and partnering with the community. I have worked with diverse communities for the past 20 years.”

What is your favorite part of the job?  

“I love to work with diverse populations and give back to my community. I believe it’s important to pay it forward and help others.”

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you? Why is it important?  

“Hispanic Heritage Month holds a special significance for me as it is a time to celebrate and honor the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic individuals to our society. It is also a time that I get to indulge in the beautiful traditions, history and accomplishments of the Hispanic community and to educate others about the diversity within this group. I am very passionate about my roots and that is why I decided to create a business that entails the art, culture and traditions of my Hispanic culture. As a Latina, Hispanic Heritage Month allows me to connect with my roots, showcase the beauty and resilience of my culture, and feel a sense of pride in my heritage.”