New Prop 36 Data Released

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan today released promising data related to prosecutions and court-mandated treatment under news laws created by the passage of Proposition 36. Numbers show that of the hundreds of defendants who have pleaded guilty to drug-related offenses under Prop 36 since early April and have gone through the treatment or probation screening process, only five have not been offered and accepted services from the Probation Department or court mandated drug treatment.

At the same time, local small and large businesses have expressed relief over the implementation of the repeat theft offender provisions of Prop 36, with some anecdotally reporting that stricter penalties are deterring theft and providing a sense of security for businesses previously targeted by repeat offenders.

“It’s a very positive picture eight months into the implementation of Prop 36 and four months into a regional plan for treatment options,” said DA Stephan. “We’re already seeing promising evidence that Prop 36 is restoring the rule of law, giving hope to businesses suffering the specter of repeat theft that has threatened the safety of employees and customers. By emphasizing accountability alongside treatment and rehabilitation, data also shows the law is working to address the core drivers of habitual criminal behavior.”

More information about Prop 36, including statistics updated each month can be found on the DA’s public website here.  Watch a video about how Prop 36 is working here.

Data released this month show that as of July 31, 2025, a total of 1,778 cases have been charged with one of the two key portions of Prop 36: repeat theft offenders charged under Penal Code section 666.1 and repeat hard drug offenders charged under Health and Safety Code section 11395.

The measure allows defendants charged with possession of a hard drug plus two or more prior convictions to opt for treatment instead of prison sentences, aiming to address underlying issues of addiction. In early April, the San Diego Superior Court approved the countywide implementation of mandated treatment under the new law. Since then, 98% of defendants who have resolved their cases and have gone through the treatment or probation screening process have been offered and agreed to accept services from the Probation Department or court mandated drug treatment providers.

Data shows Prop 36 is revitalizing drug courts by providing leverage to encourage individuals to engage in treatment programs. Drug Court, which turns lives around for those whose addiction led to a criminal history, has seen an increase in participants across the county with 309 individuals enrolled as of August 1, 2025 out of a capacity of 440.

Proposition 36, which passed with 68% of the vote, took effect in December of last year. DA Stephan said her office has been committed to successfully implementing the transformational proposition in partnership with the Sheriff, county’s police chiefs, the court and the community. The measure:

  • Provides stricter consequences for repeat theft offenders, those who are committing smash and grab retail crimes, and organized theft rings, which will stop the cycle of recidivism.
  • Requires convicted dealers of fentanyl and hard drugs to receive a warning that the next time they sell illegal drugs, and someone dies, they will be held responsible for a victim’s death. The law provides additional consequences for illegal drug dealers who cause great bodily injury or death, who carry firearms while dealing narcotics, or are involved in the distribution of unusually large quantities of narcotics.
  • Incentivizes lifesaving treatment for defendants suffering from addiction by creating the new Treatment Mandated Felony that offers treatment as an alternative to incarceration for those who illegally possess hard drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine, addressing the root cause of many crimes.

The DA is encouraging business owners and the public to report theft, share information, and support efforts to hold offenders accountable. Local small and large businesses have expressed relief over the implementation of Proposition 36, anticipating that stricter penalties will deter theft and provide a sense of security for businesses previously targeted by repeat offenders.

During DA Stephan’s recent tour of a Walmart store in San Diego, store officials said their goal is to improve the consumer’s shopping experience and noted that they have been able to unlock some products in their stores that previously were under lock and key to prevent theft.

“We’re already talking about which items can be moved around and unlocked, and which need to be locked,” said Nathan Smith, Lead Counsel with Walmart. “Those are numbers-driven decisions, but partnering with law enforcement and prosecutors is critical to make that happen.”

The District Attorney’s Office has specialized teams for retail theft, treatment courts, and major narcotics to effectively address all aspects of Proposition 36, working in partnership with law enforcement and the community. The DA’s Office also participates in the San Diego Organized Retail Crime Alliance, bridging the gap between public and private investigations of organized retail theft in both large and small businesses in the county.

To prepare for Prop. 36 to take effect, the DA’s Office trained law enforcement officers across San Diego County about the new laws, collaborating with the San Diego County Sheriff and police chiefs throughout the region, conducting internal trainings for prosecutors, meeting with criminal justice stakeholders, working with business leaders in the region, consulting with the California District Attorneys Association and brainstorming with other District Attorney Offices across the state to leverage best practices to effectively implement the new law.

Photo of a consumer with a credit card and cell phone.

DA Announces $13.6 Million in Consumer Protection Judgments Against Three Companies

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan today announced key updates to the way her office is protecting consumers from fraud and abuse, including a modernized online reporting tool on its public website and increased access for the public to make complaints in person. The expanded consumer protections come amid news of stipulated judgements involving the San Diego District Attorney’s Office to settle civil law enforcement complaints against three companies: HelloFresh, Walmart Corporation, and Attractive Gems.

Over the past 10 years, the San Diego DA’s consumer protection filings have led to 87 civil judgments, resulting in court-ordered statewide penalties totaling more than $134 million.

“The civil actions we file protect the consumer and hold corporations accountable when they fail to follow the laws in place to ensure the public is getting accurate and fair pricing information on products they purchase, as well as making sure companies aren’t using fine print to trigger costly automatic renewals that take advantage of unsuspecting consumers,” said DA Stephan. “Our Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division is committed to holding retailers accountable for meeting their obligations under the law and we work with our colleagues across the state of California to accomplish that.”

In what is believed to be one of the largest such judgments ever ordered in California, it was announced today that HelloFresh, the world’s largest meal kit delivery company, will pay $7.5 million to settle a civil lawsuit alleging the company violated California’s Automatic Renewal Law by deceptively enrolling consumers into auto-renewing subscription plans without proper disclosure or consent. The lawsuit alleged that HelloFresh misled California consumers into ongoing subscription charges without adequate notice or authorization.

In a separate action, Walmart Corporation was ordered last week to pay a $5.6 million stipulated judgement to settle a civil law enforcement complaint that alleged that the retailer unlawfully charged customers prices higher than their lowest advertised or posted price.

And in a settlement announced last month, a $500,000 judgement was ordered against the San Diego-based jewelry store Attractive Gems Jewelers and its two owners, resolving allegations that the company engaged in deceptive lending practices. A joint investigation by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office and California Department of Justice found that Attractive Gems misled consumers by falsely promoting a store credit line to build credit. The company also failed to provide required credit disclosures and used unlawful arbitration clauses in installment contracts with military service members in violation of the federal Military Lending Act.

The DA today also announced an updated online reporting tool on its public website, which allows the public to file a complaint if they are aware of a fraudulent or unlawful business practice taking place in the county. Consumer protection-related criminal or civil cases are developed in several ways, including information from law enforcement and regulatory agency investigations, referrals from consumer protection prosecutors in other areas of California, and complaints from the citizens of San Diego through the DA’s Consumer Complaint Form process.

“My office is committed to supporting the San Diego community and providing a means of reporting individuals and businesses engaged in unlawful business practices,” DA Stephan said. “We want to streamline the reporting process as much as possible and want consumers to know where they can go to more easily report suspected fraud or unlawful business practices.”

The DA is making consumer protection experts available at two locations in the county, allowing the public a more accessible way to report suspected consumer fraud, make consumer complaints, and receive consumer protection advice in person. These specialists will be on-site every week, part-time at the DA’s CARE Center located at 12 North Euclid Avenue in National City, as well as One Safe Place:  the North County Family Justice Center located at 1050 Los Vallecitos Boulevard in San Marcos.

The San Diego County District Attorney’s Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division, brings civil and criminal actions to protect San Diego County consumers. The division investigates and prosecutes fraud and unlawful business practices in the marketplace. The division includes a team of experienced attorneys, investigators, and other professional staff who investigate and evaluate reports of fraudulent and unfair business practices and determine appropriate action.

Last year alone, the DA’s Consumer Protection Unit filed several civil actions related to unfair or deceptive business practices that netted a total of $14,652,500 in civil judgments. The cases involved illegal automatic renewals, improper pricing policies and pricing inaccuracies. Companies that reached settlements with the DA’s Office include Thrive Market Technologies; Albertsons, Vons, and Safeway grocery stores; Travelers Insurance and Lamps Plus

Residents are encouraged to follow the DA’s Office on social media for information and updates on consumer protection efforts. For more information on consumer protection resources and how to report fraud, visit the DA’s website.

Deputy District Attorneys Kathryn Turner, Stephen Spinella, and Tom Papageorge are prosecutors who specialize in consumer protection and handle these complex cases.

 

Babysitter Who Provided Special-Needs Children for her Boyfriend to Molest Sentenced to Life in Prison

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that Brittney Lyon, 31, has been sentenced to life in prison for her role in procuring at least four young girls for her boyfriend Samuel Cabrera to molest, and for participating in the disturbing abuse with him. Two girls were 7 and the others were just 3 years of age. Two had an autism diagnosis, one was non-verbal.

Lyon was sentenced today to 100 years-to-life in prison after pleading guilty in May to two felony counts of lewd act upon a child and two counts of forcible lewd act upon a child. She also admitted the allegations of kidnapping, residential burglary and to sexually assaulting multiple victims. Her co-defendant, Cabrera, was previously convicted by a jury in 2019 and sentenced to eight life terms without parole in 2021.

“Today’s just sentence ends a despicable chapter that has destroyed innocence and devastated families in San Diego County,” DA Stephan said. “This defendant was ruthless in posing as a trustworthy babysitter and recruiting autistic children, only to commit the most atrocious acts upon them.”

The abuse came to light when one of the 7-year-old girls told her mother in 2016 that she no longer wanted to go anywhere with Lyon, a family friend who sometimes babysat her. The girls told her mother about the abuse, which led police to Cabrera. After a brief chase, police found a double-locked box in his car containing six computer hard drives with hundreds of videos depicting Lyon and Cabrera sexually abusing the children, and at times, drugging or assaulting them, using extreme cruelty and brutality. In addition to the videos of the young victims, there were dozens of videos that Lyon had taken surreptitiously of women and girls in changing rooms at clothing stores, bathrooms and locker rooms at various North County businesses.

With other unknown victims on the tapes, police sought assistance from the public looking for parents who hired Lyon, a San Marcos resident who had advertised her services on a babysitting website. The three remaining victims had connected with Lyon from the website where she specifically touted her interest in working with special needs children.

Communications between Lyon and Cabrera showed they regularly coordinated access to the children for abuse by Lyon bringing the children to Cabrera’s home or by Lyon allowing Cabrera to access the children in their own homes or Lyon’s home. She also sexually assaulted the children with Cabrera and alone. Lyon would obtain drugs and other items used to abuse the children.

Although Lyon has been sentenced to more than 100 years-to-life in prison, she will be eligible under current elder parole laws to begin petitioning the court for parole at age 50 and if granted, will have only served approximately 28 years, a fraction of the life sentence handed down by the court.

To address situations like this, the District Attorney’s Office is a sponsor of Senate Bill 286, authored by State Senator Brian Jones, which would exclude convicted sex offenders from applying for elderly parole. The proposed legislation is currently sitting in the suspense file in the Senate Appropriations Committee and most likely will not make it to a floor vote this legislative session.

“After the horrific sexual crimes Brittney Lyon committed against children, District Attorney Summer Stephan did her job in securing a just sentence of 100 years-to-life,” said Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones. “Now, it’s time for the state to do its job and honor that sentence for the sake of the victims. Shamefully, a loophole in California law could allow Lyon to walk free after serving less than a third of her sentence. Senate Bill 286 would close that loophole and ensure violent child rapists serve their full sentences. I’m calling on my Democrat colleagues to stop protecting predators, move this important bill forward, and deliver justice for victims.”

Assembly Bill 47, a similar bill that’s also supported by the District Attorney’s Office, authored by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen, also seeks to prevent sex offenders from qualifying for early parole under the elder parole law. It too, is in limbo in the Assembly Appropriations Committee suspense file.

“Our goal in supporting these bills is to safeguard the just sentences that violent sex offenders and murderers are given by the courts after they committed some of the most heinous offenses and stop them from being released back into the community with plenty of opportunity to reoffend,” DA Stephan said. “The victims, their families and the safety of all children in California need to be the priority, not Ms. Lyon and other violent child molesters like her. The age of 50 is hardly ’elderly,’ particularly is the realm of child molesters, who need only be in a position of trust and power to access and sexually abuse children.”

San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond has will introduce a board letter in support of SB 286 and AB 47 on August 26, seeking wider support from his colleagues on the Board.

“This is a critical step in protecting the safety of our communities, particularly our most vulnerable populations,” Supervisor Desmond said. “By excluding violent sex offenders and murderers from the Elderly Parole Program, these bills ensures that those who have committed heinous crimes will not be prematurely released. Public safety must always be our top priority, and it’s vital that we safeguard victims, especially those who have already suffered immeasurable harm. Allowing individuals convicted of violent sex offenses to be considered for early release undermines the trust and security of the public, and we cannot allow that to happen.”

Deputy District Attorney Jodi Breton in the DA’s Family Protection Division prosecuted this case.

Photo of Gavel and prison cell.

Prison Sentence for Defendant who Killed Girlfriend’s Tenant over Rent Dispute

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that a 75-year-old man, who killed the tenant of his girlfriend over a property dispute in East County, has been sentenced to prison for the 2020 murder.

Michael Hughes was sentenced to 50 years-to-life in prison for the shooting death of Mario Velasquez Cardoso, 46. A jury found Hughes guilty of first-degree murder in September 2024.

“This defendant carefully planned and carried out a deliberate act of murder that mercilessly ended the life of Mario Cardoso,” DA Stephan said. “I am proud of the thorough investigation by the Sheriff’s Office that solved this murder and the dedicated prosecution by Deputy District Attorney Shane Waller and team that brought justice in this case.”

On an early morning in November 2020, Hughes drove to Cardoso’s home in Ramona. Hughes’ girlfriend, the landlord at the house, had been feuding with Cardoso’s family for months. Hughes decided to end the feud and took matters into his own hands by executing Cardoso.

In the weeks leading up the murder, Hughes and staked out the house and removed a key surveillance camera that would have clearly captured the killer. Hughes set a trap by closing a driveway gate, forcing Cardoso to get out of his car and open it. Hughes then moved to his sniper position to wait for his victim to walk into the kill zone. When Cardoso tried opening the gate so he could go to work, Hughes fired a single shot that killed Cardoso, then calmly walked away from the scene and to his truck hidden in a nearby field. Hughes was identified as a suspect by Sheriff’s homicide detectives and contacted 16 hours later, but there was not enough evidence to arrest him at that time.

It was clear Hughes carefully planned the murder. He conducted reconnaissance on the house, tested his rifle in the days leading up to the murder, disposed of the murder weapon, wiped his computer history, and attempted to place blame on an innocent third party.

Thanks to Sheriff’s homicide detectives, led by Detective Eric Garcia, a thorough investigation including the review of tens of thousands of surveillance videos, interviews, and multiple searches proved Hughes killed Cardoso.

Public Encouraged to Follow the District Attorney’s Office on Social Media

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan is reminding the public they can follow the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office on multiple social media platforms, reinforcing the DA’s commitment to transparency, public safety, education, and to building strong partnerships with the communities it serves.

“Our partnership with the community is strengthened through direct and transparent communication using our social media. It is critical to our mission of pursuing justice and protecting victims,” said DA Stephan. “The DA’s social media shares groundbreaking crime stories and jury trial outcomes, new laws that impact public safety, the latest consumer fraud and scams, victim resources and latest tips to keep you and your family safe. We believe knowledge is power and we want our community to be informed and empowered to live with dignity and safety. Join us.”

The public can follow the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office on all its social media platforms for updates on criminal justice initiatives, victim services, high-profile prosecutions, public safety warnings, crime prevention campaigns, and community events. Users can scan a QR code or [click here] to get all the social media links directly.

The District Attorney’s Office uses social media to keep the public informed about:

  • Major criminal case announcements
  • Consumer alerts and warnings
  • Crime prevention tips
  • Resources for victims of crime
  • Community outreach events
  • Legislative efforts impacting criminal justice reform

The DA’s Office is active on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, BlueSky, and X (formerly Twitter), with tens of thousands of followers staying connected through updates and stories from our multiple office locations across San Diego County. The office also has a presence on LinkedIn, sharing professional milestones and job opportunities.

The public can follow the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office on:

For more information about the District Attorney’s Office and the resources it provides, visit: www.SanDiegoDA.com. News videos about the DA’s Office can be found on  DAnewsCenter.com and residents can get DA news updates directly via email by signing up to receive the DA’s weekly updates, here.

 

Photo of a judge's gavel and handcuffs on top of books.

Two Men Sentenced in Elder Strangulation Homicide

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that two convicted murder defendants, Brendan Doyle and Luther Brown, have been sentenced to prison terms for killing 65-year-old Laura Doyle, the mother of defendant Brendan Doyle.

Both defendants were convicted in April 2024 of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. Doyle, 36, was also convicted of identity theft and robbery. Doyle was sentenced to 28 years-to-life in prison last August 30. Brown was sentenced today to 55 years-to-life in prison.

“This is a disturbing and despicable case of murder of one’s own mother for financial gain,” DA Stephan said. “The dedicated team from our Elder Abuse Unit came together to hold these defendants accountable and deliver justice for the victim. It continues to be a priority for us to fight elder abuse in all its forms and support seniors who become victims of everything from online scams to the most serious violent acts.”

In 2019, Doyle entered his mother’s home and strangled her until she agreed to write him two checks in the amount of $1,000. He later met Brown and developed a plan to murder his mother to acquire her $1.5 million trust fund.

In October 2020, Ms. Doyle was found dead in her house with no obvious injuries. Neighbors contacted authorities and the District Attorney’s Office saying that if Ms. Doyle was dead, her son should be investigated. A police investigation ensued, and an autopsy was performed. It was determined that Ms. Doyle’s death was the cause of a brutal strangulation resulting in multiple fractures.

After the victim’s death, her son took her credit card and went on a shopping spree, spending more than $11,000. He was arrested in November 2020. Forensic evidence located inside the home, including DNA located on the clothing the victim was wearing at the time of her murder, linked Brown to the crime scene. Brown was a self-proclaimed “contract killer” and bragged to a roommate about killing someone for a friend back in fall of 2020. Brown was arrested in 2021.  Search warrants of Brown and Doyle’s electronic devices and social media connected the two defendants. Specifically, communication between the two discussing Ms. Doyle and entry into her home leading up to the murder.

Doyle continues to litigate disbursement of his mother’s trust in probate court.

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Jaimie Thomas and expertly investigated by District Attorney Investigators.

Prison, Restitution Ordered for Woman Who Forged Real Estate Documents

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today a woman who illegally recorded false real estate documents involving two different San Diego County properties was sentenced Wednesday to two years in state prison and ordered to pay $110,000 in restitution. A jury convicted 58-year-old Farrah Nazemi last month of three felony counts of recording false documents and one felony count of forgery. Superior Court Judge Robert Amador handed down the sentence during a hearing downtown. The District Attorney’s Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division’s investigation led to the felony charges.

“The investigation and prosecution of real estate fraud is important and complex, and this case is a stark reminder of the impact of real estate fraud,” said DA Stephan. “The defendant’s deliberate actions to forge legal documents and seize homes that were not hers caused real harm to rightful property owners. I’m proud of the work by our Real Estate Fraud Unit to uncover the truth and hold her accountable, sending a clear message that this kind of deception won’t be tolerated in San Diego County.”

Farrah Pirahanchi Nazemi recorded two false documents in November 2019 related to a property in Bonita.  She recorded the documents in an unsuccessful attempt to prevent the foreclosure of and her eviction from a house she formerly owned in Bonita. The defendant lost her unlawful detainer case and left the Bonita property only after she was locked out by the San Diego Sheriff’s Department in January of 2020.

After leaving the Bonita property, Ms. Nazemi moved into a house in Vista where her brother was living at the time. Her brother had previously entered into a contract to purchase the Vista property from the owner in exchange for an apartment in Tehran, Iran and cash to make up the difference in value. The sale/exchange fell through and in the settlement of the subsequent lawsuit, Nazemi’s brother agreed to vacate the Vista property.  Her brother moved out, but Nazemi refused to leave.  She forged the owner’s signature on a recorded a Grant Deed transferring the Vista property from the owner to herself.

Nazemi was caught after the owners of the properties involved reported the crimes to the Real Estate Fraud Unit of the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. The case was investigated by District Attorney Investigator Michael Brown who interviewed numerous witnesses and collected hundreds of documents.  The investigation culminated with the search of the Vista property where Ms. Nazemi was living.  At the residence, Investigators found the original copies of the false recorded documents, fraudulent county recorder’s stickers, other forged documents, and a stolen notary stamp. Deputy District Attorney John Dunn used this evidence to build a successful prosecution and present a compelling case to the jury, which found the defendant guilty on all four felony counts.

If you suspect you are a victim of real estate fraud, or have knowledge of such activity, please report the information to the District Attorney’s Office on its public website here.

Owner Alert is a free real estate fraud notification service from the County Assessor/Recorder that sends an immediate email notification to subscribed property owners anytime a document is recorded in their office that transfers title to your property.

The DA’s Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division is responsible for prosecuting a wide variety of wrongdoings, including elder financial abuse, consumer protection, price gouging, false advertising, cybercrimes, complex identity theft, investment scams, embezzlements, real estate matters, counterfeit goods, organized retail crime, and environmental crimes. It’s one of the few divisions in the District Attorney’s Office that initiates investigations.

The District Attorney has a dedicated Real Estate Fraud Unit that’s part of the division, focused on investigating cases such as forged loan or title documents, fraudulent transfers or foreclosures, scam trust deeds, home‑equity and rescue scams.

Photo of gavel and scales of justice.

DA Opposing Release of Two Violent Inmates Under Elder and Youthful Parole Laws

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that two defendants have been granted hearings before the Board of Parole tomorrow because of laws that allow early release for inmates under elder and youthful parole laws. The DA’s Office is vigorously opposing the release of both individuals—a convicted murderer and a self-confessed serial rapist.

Last year, the San Diego DA’s Office handled 136 hearings that were scheduled due to Youthful Parole, 202 hearings scheduled under elder parole, and 58 hearings that qualified pursuant to both early parole laws. That means 69% of the parole hearings were scheduled pursuant to elder and/or youthful parole last year.

“In many cases, new parole laws in California have undone the reassurance to murder and rape victims of justly imposed lengthy sentences and the promise of protection of our communities,” DA Stephan said. “In some cases, murderers and rapists get a chance at early parole under youthful parole laws and then have another chance at age 50 under ridiculous elder parole laws. Victims and survivors have zero early parole from their loss and trauma.”

Serial Rapist

Between 1993 and 1996, Robert Dean Rustad, known as the ‘Del Mar Rapist,’ broke into the residences of seven women and brutally sexually assaulted or raped six of them. Most victims were threatened at knifepoint and tied up; one was badly beaten. Rustad was between the ages of 19 and 22 when he committed the crimes and pleaded guilty to 39 criminal counts, including rape, forced oral copulation, sexual battery, false imprisonment, and residential burglary. Rustad received a sentence of 326 years and four months-to-life in 1997.

After a hearing in February 2024 to weigh his suitability for release, parole officials denied Rustad’s request and said he should not be up for consideration again for another three years. However, his next hearing was moved up pursuant to the Board of Parole Hearings’ Administrative Review process. He will receive special consideration at the hearing under the state’s elder parole law because he is 51-years-old and has spent more than 20 years in prison. The District Attorney’s Office is vigorously opposing Rustad’s parole and will do all it can under the law to keep him in prison.

“This defendant’s horrific actions and motivations for his serial rapes were sadistic and cruel and he has not accepted responsibility making him a serious threat to society,” said DA Stephan. “Justice was served last year with the board’s denial of early parole. Unfortunately, victims will once again suffer through the process of re-living their trauma in an attempt to keep this defendant behind bars.”

In 2020, Rustad was eligible for parole early through the state’s youthful parole law and was denied release for five years. Due to changes in the law, he is no longer eligible for youthful parole but is now eligible for elder parole. He was eligible again for the 2024 hearing by filing a petition to advance his hearing, which was granted. Two of Rustad’s victims were present at the 2024 hearing and gave powerful impact statements, leading to the three-year denial. Rustad has claimed his actions were driven by a desire for a girlfriend-type relationship.

Convicted Murderer

Aerith Asora (the defendant was prosecuted under different legal name) was convicted by a jury of first-degree murder, along with the inmate’s sister and co-defendant Brae Hansen. The pair had hatched a plot to kill their stepfather, Timothy McNeil, for financial gain. Asora purchased black clothing at a Goodwill store before driving from Phoenix to McNeil’s home in San Diego. When MacNeil arrived home the day after his birthday, he had plans to take Hansen out to eat. Asora was already inside MacNeil’s home with Hansen. Asora put on a mask, was armed with a firearm and pretended to commit a robbery of McNeil and Hansen. Asora directed Hansen to zip tie MacNeil’s hands, and then Asora zip tied Hansen’s hands. McNeil asked to go to the restroom and managed to get free, struggling for his life before Asora shot him four times, including twice in the head at point blank range.

Asora was convicted of murder on April 15, 2009, and sentenced to 25 years-to-life in prison. Asora was 19 years old at the time of the murder. Under California’s youth parole law, nearly all defendants sentenced to 15 years or more for a crime that occurred before their 26th birthday are eligible for an advanced parole hearing before the parole board. There are narrow exceptions for sentences imposed under the Three Strikes Law.

“This was a callous, premeditated murder based in greed and the justly imposed lengthy sentence by the court, which weighed all the evidence, should be honored,” Stephan said. “While there may be cases where a defendant deserves a second chance based on their age at the time they committed a crime, this is most certainly not one of them. Releasing this inmate early would be an emotional gut punch to the victim’s loved ones.”

In 2024, there were 577 lifer parole hearings scheduled in San Diego County. Of those, 70 inmates received parole grants from the California Board of Parole Hearings. The remainder of the hearings –507– resulted in denials, postponements, or stipulations to a denial of parole.

The DA’s Lifer Hearing Unit, under the leadership of Deputy District Attorney John Cross, has two main goals: to ensure that dangerous prisoners with life sentences are not released carelessly or improvidently, and to ensure that crime victims and their families are given an opportunity to participate in the parole hearing process and have their voices heard. When a defendant is given a life sentence, the Lifer Hearing Unit processes the case to ensure that it is ready for future parole suitability hearings. This involves preserving victims’ statements and documenting the gravity of the crimes to ensure the offenders serve sentences proportional to their crimes.

In addition, the Lifer Hearing Unit tracks court activity on lifer cases and assists the Attorney General’s Office in opposing writs of habeas corpus seeking release. The Lifer Hearing Unit has submitted amicus briefs on behalf of the California District Attorneys Association on important cases and actively works on legislation concerning the parole hearing process. The Lifer Hearing Unit is the statewide leader in lifer matters and San Diego County serves as the training office for other prosecutors who seek to understand the complex laws governing parole hearings.

DA Summer Stephan Senate Testimony on Organized Retail Crime. July 15, 2025, Washington, D.C.

DA Stephan Testifies Before U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee

San Diego County District Attorney and President of the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA) Summer Stephan testified today before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee, urging swift Congressional action to combat the growing threat of organized retail crime (ORC) and transnational theft networks that are harming communities and businesses across the nation with commercial and residential thefts and burglaries. DA Stephan was called to testify as the voice for America’s prosecutors in her role as President/Chair of the National District Attorneys Association and for her expertise in combatting these organized crimes in San Diego County.

Watch a recording of the hearing here.

In her testimony, DA Stephan outlined the evolution of organized theft from isolated incidents into sophisticated, multi-state and international criminal enterprises responsible for billions in losses and threats to public safety. Drawing from her office’s successful prosecutions in San Diego County, Stephan emphasized that these crimes are far from victimless and require a coordinated, national response. DA Stephan brought the experience of the many victims such as employees of small and large businesses, and homeowners victimized by these sophisticated and at times violent criminal rings.

“Organized retail crime is not only eroding business and job stability but is also threatening the safety and well-being of our communities,” said DA Stephan. “From high-end smash-and-grabs to international burglary rings, we’re seeing an increase in violence and criminal sophistication that demands strong legislative and enforcement action.”

Stephan detailed her office’s proactive strategies in San Diego, including forming specialized teams to prosecute ORC, collaborating with the California Highway Patrol, and establishing partnerships through the Organized Retail Crime Alliance. Stephan emphasized the success of recent legislation in California which allows prosecutors to aggregate thefts and pursue more serious charges. At the national level, the NDAA has joined with the Retail Industry Leaders Association to launch initiatives like store walks and the Vibrant Communities Initiative, aimed at improving coordination and safety in retail environments. The DA also partnered with the U.S. Chamber and National Retail Federation to educate about effective prevention and prosecution.

Stephan called on Congress to pass the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025 (CORCA), which would establish a federal Organized Retail Crime Coordination Center to enhance national collaboration among prosecutors, law enforcement, and private sector stakeholders. She also called for enforcement of the INFORM Act that requires identification of third-party sellers to expose stolen properly online. Finally, DA Stephan stressed the importance of balanced prosecution strategies that differentiate between a young person who makes a mistake from a habitual criminal who preys on small businesses and neighborhoods. She advocated for the coordination center to link the dots to combat the organized crime and transnational criminal organizations that harm our nation.

In San Diego, the DA’s Office has prosecuted over 218 ORC defendants over the past two years, in partnership with law enforcement and retailers, involving theft losses of more than $2.6 million. Cases include multi-defendant smash-and-grab operations, repeat theft rings targeting national retailers, and transnational criminal networks responsible for multi-state burglaries and multi-million-dollar jewelry heists.

“Our experience shows that smart laws, real consequences, and close collaboration across jurisdictions work,” Stephan stated. “Now we need Congress to scale these efforts nationally so that no community is left vulnerable.”

Stephan also stressed the need for public-private partnerships to extend beyond enforcement and into prevention and education. She called for a national public awareness campaign to inform consumers about the impact of buying stolen goods, particularly through online marketplaces and informal venues like swap meets.

DA Stephan argued that just as robust laws and strategic prosecution are essential, so too is the active participation of consumers and community members in curbing organized retail theft. By combining legal tools, law enforcement coordination, and informed public engagement, Stephan concluded, communities can reclaim safety and economic vitality from the grip of organized crime.

Photo of a gavel over law books and scales of justice.

Teacher Who Committed Sex Crimes against two Underage Students Sentenced to Prison

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that a teacher who inappropriately engaged in sexual relationships with two underage students has been sentenced to six years in prison after pleading guilty to seven felony counts of related to various sex crimes.

Kyiri Tisdale, 32, a former teacher at Escondido High School, was arrested in August 2024 following an investigation by the Escondido Police Department’s Family Protection Unit. He was arrested at school while preparing for the upcoming school year.

“This defendant used his position of trust as a teacher to commit sex crimes against teenage students whom he’s supposed to nurture and protect,” DA Stephan said. “He not only physically violated his students but also violated the trust that the overwhelming number of teachers in our county work so hard to build with their students. There is no room in our schools for corrupt teachers who abuse their positions of trust to gain the confidence of students, only to take advantage of them sexually. I hope today’s sentence serves as a warning to anyone in a position of power that the truth eventually comes out, and you will be held accountable. I am proud of the victims for coming forward and I hope the end of this case provides the closure they need to move on and live healthy lives.”

Tisdale was 29 when he began the first sexual relationship with a 17-year-old student. While that conduct was ongoing, Tisdale committed several illegal sexual acts with a separate, 16-year-old victim.

Detectives with Escondido Police worked quickly to investigate when the report from the first victim came to light just days before the start of a new school year. They developed enough information to make the arrest even as Tisdale was in his classroom, prepping for classes to start and to meet a new group of students. After the arrest, the District Attorney’s Office worked with detectives to locate and speak to the second victim, developing further evidence for additional criminal charges.

Every student in San Diego County deserves to have a safe and nurturing educational environment, free of sexual and physical abuse. But if that kind of abuse does happen, students, parents and teachers should report to their local police department or Sheriff’s Office. If anyone suspects any misdeeds related to schools but is uncertain about what to do, they can report to the District Attorney’s Office at https://www.sdcda.org/helping/studentsafety/.

Once suspected abuse is reported, the task force members will evaluate and investigate the claim, law enforcement will be notified to investigate allegations when appropriate, and families will be connected with trauma-informed resources and support.

Another important public safety reminder is that mandated reporters have a duty under the law to report suspected child abuse, which includes sexual abuse.

Deputy District Attorney Peter Estes from the DA’s Sex Crimes and Human Trafficking Unit prosecuted this case.