DA, Community Leaders Commit to Advance Healing and Hope for Survivors at Domestic Violence Awareness Event

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 at SBCS (formerly South Bay Community Services) in Chula Vista today. The annual event is meant to bring together professionals, survivors, and community members to raise awareness about domestic violence (DV) and remember those whose lives were taken in DV incidents during the previous year. This year, the event theme was “Hope and Healing, Families for Change.” This is the first event of five, with events to occur in every region of the county throughout October. [WATCH FULL EVENT HERE]

In 2024, seven people were killed by a current or former intimate partner and there was one additional homicide victim, such as a family member, new boyfriend, or bystander, who died during domestic violence related incidents. While this is an increase from five DV homicides the prior year, overall DV homicides continue to remain lower than the average from the prior two decades.

Here is a list of 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 shatters lives, and no one is immune to its impact,” said District Attorney Summer Stephan. “To survivors, I want you to know you are not alone, and you do not have to live in fear—there are resources and people ready to stand with you. To those who choose to abuse, know this: we will hold you accountable. We are committed to breaking the cycle of generational violence. Our work does not stop in October; every day we are committed to preventing violence, delivering justice, and empowering survivors with the support they need to leave abuse behind and reclaim safe, dignified lives.”

Last year, there were 15,298 domestic violence calls for assistance made to law enforcement across San Diego County. The DA’s Office filed charges in 1,345 domestic violence cases in 2024.

One Safe Place: San Diego County Family Justice Centers, which are managed by the DA’s Office, provide resources and services all under one roof for anyone who has experienced abuse or violence. Since opening the One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center in 2022, more than 9,000 people have been served in addition to their over 3,000 household members/dependents. This month, the DA’s Office will open One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center in National City, making it easier for victims and survivors of crime to find services all under one roof closer to them in South Bay. Just like in San Marcos, this will be a safe and healing place where anyone can obtain vital services and resources.

During the event, which included a resource fair and a candlelight vigil ceremony honoring homicide victims, De Angelo Singh shared his personal story of losing his mother and cousin to domestic violence.

“Although their lives were taken by domestic violence, their voices live on through me, my siblings, and my mission to help others,” said De Angelo Signh. “We, as a community, must work together to help families seek help earlier, before the domestic violence becomes deadly.”

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 not a private issue, it is a community issue,” said San Diego Domestic Violence Council President Analicia McKee-Chau. “The effects of domestic violence echo through families, through generations – but healing is possible. Families can break cycles, survivors can rebuild, and children can unlearn the fear and grow into emotionally strong, loving adults. But it takes all of us, it takes community. This year’s theme is an important one – families for change. Families for change means families who are not afraid to talk about hard things. It means providing our kids with the tools to recognize healthy relationships. It means friends checking in, neighbors speaking up, and systems that respond with compassion and no judgement. Today we are here to remind the families in our community that we are here for them, and help is available.”

 

“Domestic violence is a crime that shatters families and communities, but it is not one survivors have to face alone,” said San Diego City Attorney Heather Ferbert. “As your City Attorney, together with Your Safe Place — the San Diego Family Justice Center, I am committed to ending the epidemic of domestic violence and promoting awareness of the comprehensive, free services available to people in our community experiencing relationship violence.

 

“As someone who has personally worked with victims of domestic violence, I’ve seen the damage it causes, including to the families,” said Dr. Kimberly Giardina, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the County’s Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA). “It is important we use this month, and this occasion, to both remember the victims and recommit ourselves to a steady reduction in the number of cases and greater early support and services to prevent these tragedies from occurring.”

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.

Criminal Charges Filed Against Men Caught Cheating at Poker at Two Area Casinos

San Diego County District Attorney, Summer Stephan, said today that felony criminal charges have been filed against two men who won more than $30,000 at two local casinos by working together to gain an unfair advantage at poker tables by marking cards. Vaagn Galustyan, 52, and Armin Martirosyan, 53, have been charged with two felony counts of conspiracy to commit a crime. The pair were arraigned in San Diego County Superior Court today and face up to three years, eight months in prison if convicted of all the charges.

“This method of cheating at cards goes back hundreds of years but with modern technology, the practice can be detected and those who would scam local casinos can be brought to justice,” said DA Stephan. “I’m proud of my office’s relationships with tribal governments and the cooperation we continue to have with them to successfully prosecute a variety of crimes that occur on tribal lands.”

The defendants, and a third unidentified person, went to Pala Casino and entered the facility separately but took seats at a table together playing Mississippi Stud Poker. Each man was caught on casino surveillance cameras surreptitiously bending the corners of the high-value cards they received—Tens, Jacks, Queens, Kings, and Aces. Each defendant is seen multiple times marking cards to help them see what cards the dealer might have in front of them to assist them in deciding how to bet on the subsequent rounds of the game.

After playing for a few hours, the poker table was shut down and the defendants left the casino without cashing in their chips. Both returned about five hours later in the early morning hours dressed differently. They completed a partial cash-in of their winnings, each going to two different cashiers. The total loss to Pala Casino was $19,250.

The next week, the defendants went to Harrah’s Casino in Valley Center and repeated the same crime playing Mississippi Stud Poker. The defendants won $13,410.

Because of its location and proximity to Native American reservations and casinos located in East County, the DA’s East County branch often handles cases involving crimes committed on the reservations or arising from casino activities. The DA’s cooperation and partnership with the tribes, their tribal councils, tribal law enforcement, and the Sheriff’s Department has enabled the DA’s Office to successfully investigate and prosecute these cases resulting in increased public safety on the reservations and in the casinos.

Casinos rely on randomness and fair play. Any physical alteration to the cards is a breach of those rules, and in most jurisdictions, it’s also a criminal offense. Modern casinos actively look for card marking with surveillance cameras, table inspections, and frequent deck changes. Dealers are trained to spot bent corners, unusual handling, or other signs of tampering, and many casinos now use plastic-coated cards or card changes every 20 to 30 minutes to make this tactic harder.

A preliminary hearing was set for January 15. Deputy District Attorney Cal Logan from the DA’s Special Operations Division is prosecuting this case. Deputy District Attorney Kristi Gill handled today’s arraignment.

Meet Senior Human Resources Officer Desiree Gonzalez

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 Senior Human Resources Officer Desiree Gonzalez.

Desiree has worked for the County for 24 years, of which 22 of those years have been at the DA’s office. She started off as a student worker and worked her way up to Senior Human Resources Officer for the Human Resource Management Unit. Her wide range of duties include position management, recruitment, transfers, human resources policies and procedures, Covid management, workplace accommodations, workers’ compensation, leave administration, benefits administration, employee relations, performance appraisals and appeals, discipline, and performance management.

When she’s not busy working, she spends her free time with her family and two little dogs, a Yorkiechon and a Pomapoo.  She also loves travelling because it gives her the opportunity to discover and appreciate different cultures. Read more about what inspired Desiree to pursue a career in public service, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?

“My grandmother impressed upon me the importance of giving back to the community.  My mother had a career in public service as a public-school teacher for 32 years and my aunts and uncles also retired from careers in public service. They were excellent role models.  I could see how much happiness they derived from serving the public and that inspired me to follow that same path.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“My favorite part of the job is being able to interact and engage with employees at all levels and being able to positively impact people’s careers. I also love the variation of the work; no two days look the same.”

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

“It is a time for me to connect to my heritage and honor the accomplishments and contributions of Latinos to our community. I was raised to be proud of my heritage and celebrate our cultural holidays. It is important to recognize where you come from and encourage others to achieve their goals.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Photo of a Judge's gavel and a gun.

Man Who Killed Friend and Stuffed Him into Trash Can Sentenced to Prison

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that a 26-year-old Ramona man has been sentenced to prison for the shooting death of Eduardo Aguilar Alba, 26, in his home in October 2023.

Sean Hawksworth was sentenced to 47 years-to-life in prison after a jury convicted him in May of all counts and allegations, including murder, residential burglary, grand theft and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

“This was a willful, deliberate and premeditated murder,” DA Stephan said. “I hope that today’s sentence brings a measure of closure and justice for the victims left behind in the wake of this violent crime.”

In October 2023, Hawksworth fatally shot Aguilar Alba in the head while the victim was asleep in his apartment. He then stuffed the body into a trash can, stripped the apartment of valuables, and stole Aguilar Alba’s Camaro, clothing, and designer sneakers. Detectives later recovered the victim’s property in a storage unit Hawksworth had rented and transferred into his brother’s name.

Hawksworth returned to the crime scene multiple times in the days after the killing, attempting to cover up his actions while continuing his drug-dealing activities as though nothing had happened.

Deputy District Attorney Philippa Cunningham prosecuted this case.

Meet Deputy District Attorney Jerry Gonzales

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 Deputy District Attorney Jerry Gonzales.

Jerry has been with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since May 2007, when he was a Legal Intern. He was sworn in as a Deputy District Attorney in 2009 and is currently assigned to the Gangs Prosecution Unit in our South Bay branch.

When he is not busy working, he enjoys going to the Xolos soccer games in Tijuana. Read more about what inspired Jerry to pursue a career as a prosecutor, below.

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

“During my first internship, I saw the dedication and skill of the prosecutors and staff at the DA’s office. I was amazed by the work that the DA’s office does and saw how it had real impact on the victims and community. The sense of family I felt as an intern showed me that I was in the right place, and that I could take my education and training and use it to make the community a safer place.”

What is your favorite part of the job?

“I enjoy working with law enforcement, especially in the initial stages of building a case, to hold the guilty accountable for the crimes they have committed. I also enjoy volunteering in the community both in a legal capacity (Project LEAD, SUHI Mock Trial, USD Moot Court) and non-legal capacity (youth baseball and soccer, church groups).”

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

“Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of previous generations that laid the groundwork so that I could take advantage of the opportunities that have been presented to me. It’s about reflecting on the efforts of the countless individuals who have gone before me to pave the way, and to make sure that we work to allow those same opportunities to hard working individuals that follow.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Lowe’s Settles Price Overcharging Allegations and Agrees to Pay $1 Million in Settlement

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that Lowe’s entered into a stipulated judgment and will pay $1.1 million to settle a civil law enforcement complaint that alleged the home improvement retailer engaged in false advertising and unfair competition in California.

The action was filed in San Diego County Superior Court by a team of prosecutors from Northern and Southern California including the District Attorneys of San Diego, Alameda, Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Sonoma counties. Lowe’s operates 110 stores in California.

“Retailers must charge consumers the lowest advertised price – that’s the law,” DA Stephan said. “I am grateful to our Economic Crimes and Consumer Protection Division for holding retailers accountable and for protecting San Diegans.”

The civil complaint filed by the prosecution team alleged that the retailer unlawfully charged customers prices higher than their lowest advertised or posted price throughout California. The judgment includes an injunction that prohibits Lowe’s from engaging in false or misleading advertising. It requires the retailer to initiate and maintain a new robust price accuracy policy and procedures which include more employees involved in price accuracy, additional internal audits and an agreement not to raise prices over the weekend. The judgment also requires the home improvement retailer to pay $1 million in civil penalties and just under $90,000 in costs and restitution to cover the counties’ weights and measures investigations and support future enforcement of consumer protection laws.

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

The San Diego County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures inspected Lowe’s 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 scanner 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 sdcawm@sdcounty.ca.gov.

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.

Deputy District Attorney Kathryn Turner prosecuted this case for the San Diego County District Attorney.

 

Photo of a gavel with a knife and handcuffs.

Man who Ambushed and Killed His Sister’s Former Boyfriend Sentenced to Prison

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that a 33-year-old man has been sentenced to 51 years-to-life in prison for killing the ex-boyfriend of his sister in July 2020 before fleeing to Mexico for nearly two years.

Raymond Lynde, who was convicted by a jury in May of second-degree murder, had just been released from 12-year prison sentence for a string of armed robberies in Orange County when he ambushed Ariel Burquez, 23, outside of an apartment complex in Chula Vista. Lynde stabbed Burquez 28 times, leaving him for dead. Burquez collapsed at his front door, before he died.

“This was a savage murder that was motivated by animosity and revenge,” DA Stephan said. “I hope today’s sentence closes a chapter and brings a measure of justice for the family of Mr. Burquez. We’re grateful to our law enforcement colleagues in Mexico for their help in bringing the defendant back to San Diego to be held accountable for his vicious crime.”

Lynde had been a fugitive for nearly two years before he was located in Mexico by Mexican authorities. Members of a U.S. Marshals Service’s Fugitive Task Force took him into custody at the San Ysidro Port of Entry in May 2022. During the trial, Lynde’s sister said her relationship with Burquez lasted about six months from 2018 to 2019. When the relationship ended, Burquez allegedly vandalized property belonging to Lynde’s sister and allegedly shot at her weeks prior to the murder. Lynde admitted that he stabbed Burquez but claimed he only did so in self-defense. After the violent stabbing, Lynde disposed of the knife, hid the bloody clothes, and fled to Mexico.

Over the last five years, the District Attorney’s Office has successfully extradited 11fugitives from Mexico to face criminal prosecution in San Diego County.

Deputy District Attorney Cassandra Alfaro from the DA’s South Bay Branch prosecuted this case.

 

Meet DA Investigator Yvette Gaines

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 Yvette Gaines.

Yvette has been with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office since January 2023. Prior to the DA’s Office, she was with the San Diego Policed Department for 18 years. She is currently assigned as the sole investigator for the Workplace Justice Division, where she investigates criminal wage theft and labor trafficking cases.

When she is not busy working, she spends her free time with her husband and daughter, traveling, going to concerts and baseball games.

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

“I am born and raised in San Diego. I come from a family of police officers. My father and two uncles were San Diego Police Officers. I was inspired by their dedication to public service, which strongly influenced my decision to pursue a career in law enforcement. My younger sister has since followed in our footsteps and is Deputy Sheriff with the San Diego Sheriff’s department.”

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

“Hispanic Heritage means being proud of where I come from and honoring the traditions and values passed down through my family. It recognizes the pride in my culture that emphasizes hard work, family, and tradition. For me, it is something that goes beyond the month it is celebrated. It is important to me because it connects me to my roots and inspires me to carry forward my traditions.”

What is a fun fact about you?

“Something unique about me is three of my grandparents are alive (my grandmother and grandfather on my father’s side and my grandmother on my mother’s side). They all grew up in Logan Heights and went to San Diego High School. They were very active in the community during that time and have amazing photos. There is a mural of my grandmother on my father’s side in Chicano Park. It reminds me of how deep my roots are here in San Diego and makes me proud.”

Read more Hispanic Heritage Month stories from the DA’s Office, here.

Photo of a Judge's gavel and a gun.

Defendant Who Shot Police Officer Sentenced

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that a 32-year-old man, who shot a San Diego Police Department officer after being pulled over in a stolen truck, has been sentenced to prison.

J.C. Blake Sartor, who was convicted of attempted murder, assault on a peace officer, shooting at an inhabited structure and other felony counts was sentenced today to 38 years-to-life in state prison. A jury found guilty of the crimes on July 10.

“This case demonstrates why traffic stops can be among the most dangerous situations peace officers on patrol encounter,” DA Stephan said. “Fortunately, Officer James Romero survived the attempt on his life and I’m proud of our prosecution team’s dedicated work to deliver justice on his behalf and on behalf of the community.”

In June 2023, SDPD Officer Romero attempted to pull over Sartor who was driving a stolen vehicle. Sartor abandoned the truck and fled on foot through a narrow passage in an apartment complex. The officer pursued Sartor who fired two shots during the chase. One bullet struck Officer Romero, seriously wounding him in the arm and another bullet hit a building in the apartment complex. Officer Romero was treated for his injuries at the hospital and released.

The suspect initially eluded police who lifted fingerprints and DNA from the stolen truck, allowing them to identify Sartor as the driver. A manhunt ensued, and Sartor was located at a house in Kearny Mesa. When he was arrested, Sartor was in possession of the same gun used to injure Officer Romero.

“Every day when our officers put on their uniform to protect and serve, they risk not coming home to their families,” said San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl. “This incident underscores the dangers inherent in routine police work. We are deeply grateful that Officer Romero is still with us and to the prosecution for delivering justice and closure to him and his family.”

According to the Fraternal Order of Police, about 325 peace officers are shot each year in the line of duty, with about 50 being killed by gunfire.

Deputy District Attorney Clay Biddle in the DA’s Superior Court Division prosecuted this case.

Photo of gavel, law book opened and scales of justice on a table in front of books.

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.