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Photo of murder victim Samuel Holtaus with the Hall of Justice blurred in the background.

Man Sentenced for Brutal 2023 Murder and Series of Violent Crimes in El Cajon

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced today that Kenneth McNally Jr., 42, has been sentenced following his conviction for the murder of 59-year-old Samuel Holthaus (pictured below) and a series of additional violent crimes committed in Harbison Canyon in 2023. A jury found McNally guilty on all counts, including first-degree murder, two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm, shooting at an inhabited occupied structure/vehicle, and assault by means likely to produce great bodily injury. He was sentenced today to 216 years to life in prison.

McNally is a third-strike offender with a lengthy and violent criminal history. At the time of the murder, he was on probation for his second-strike offense after being convicted of attacking a dog with an axe. McNally was also on Post Release Community Supervision (PRCS) for two additional criminal cases; one involving assault and the other resisting an officer with force. His first strike conviction stemmed from a 2004 case, in which he was convicted of assault on a peace officer.

“This was an extraordinarily violent and disturbing case involving a defendant who terrorized multiple victims before committing a cold-blooded murder and attempting to conceal the crime,” DA Stephan said. “Because of the courageous witnesses who came forward, and the relentless work of law enforcement and prosecution team led by Deputy DA Javier Vargas, this dangerous defendant is being held fully accountable for his heinous crimes.”

[VIDEO: Victim Impact Statements from Samuel Holtaus’ sisters at the sentencing hearing.]

The charges stem from events that occurred on September 3, 2023, on a six-acre property in Harbison Canyon, which is an unincorporated area of El Cajon, where McNally had been intermittently staying with acquaintances in a trailer alongside several other residents. Earlier that day, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office received calls from residents reporting that McNally was aggressively demanding rides off the property while appearing to conceal a weapon beneath a jacket. One witness later told investigators that during a drive near Sloan Canyon Road off Dehesa Road, McNally confessed that he had killed Holthaus and dragged him down a hill with a noose around his neck. A second witness also revealed McNally made a similar confession to her earlier that day. She also reported seeing McNally driving the victim’s truck erratically before parking it near the grave.

A few hours later, Holthaus’ body was discovered buried in a shallow grave after a witness noticed the top of the victim’s head protruding from the ground. Investigators found an extension cord wrapped around the victim’s neck and observed a gunshot wound to the side of his face. Holthaus’ truck was parked next to the grave with blood covering the driver’s side doorframe. Detectives also located drag marks in the dirt leading away from the vehicle to another area of the property where they discovered coagulated blood and a pile of burned trash.

Over a year-and-a-half after the discovery of Holthaus’s body, a third witness came forward stating he saw McNally shoot Holthaus. According to the witness, McNally then tied one end of an electrical cord around Holthaus’s neck and attached the other end to Holthaus’s truck. McNally drove the truck 329 feet to the location where the body was ultimately found, dragging Holthaus’s body by his neck.

A search of the trailer where McNally had been staying revealed an empty gun case bearing the serial number of a small semi-automatic handgun. The trailer owner confirmed the gun case belonged to McNally. Multiple witnesses told investigators they had previously seen McNally carrying a small black handgun on the property, and one witness reported seeing him fire the weapon multiple times. The murder weapon itself, however, was never recovered.

On September 6, 2023, the Sheriff’s Fugitive Task Force located McNally at a motel in El Cajon. Investigators detained a van McNally was riding in and discovered a bag containing bloody clothing. Preliminary DNA analysis showed the majority of the blood on the pants tested positive for McNally’s DNA; only a single blood stain found on one of the pant legs belonged to Holthaus.

In addition to the murder conviction, prosecutors presented evidence of several other violent incidents involving McNally on the property in the weeks leading up to the killing. Hours before Holthaus’ murder, McNally accused residents of stealing his backpack and held a handgun to the neck of victim Maurizio Cairo while threatening him. Approximately two weeks before the murder, McNally fired at least five rounds into a van being driven by victim Michael Medland after a confrontation on the property. Detectives later recovered the bullet-riddled van and the fired rounds during the homicide investigation. Jurors also heard evidence that in July 2023, McNally strangled former roommate Gary Cash inside a trailer on the property while making nonsensical statements. Another resident intervened and stopped the attack.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Javier Vargas.

 

Photo of the four representatives holding up the MOU document, sitting at a table in One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center.

DA Announces Expanded Binational Partnership to Strengthen Victim Services Across the Border

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced the renewal and expansion of a binational partnership today, strengthening collaboration between the Attorney General of the State of Baja California, the Baja California Justice Center for Women, and the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office Family Justice Centers — One Safe Place North in San Marcos and One Safe Place South in National City. [WATCH ANNOUNCEMENT HERE]

Photo of the four representatives holding up the MOU document, sitting at a table in One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center.

DA Announces Expanded Binational Partnership to Strengthen Victim Services Across the Border.

The updated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), built upon an existing historical cross-border partnership that began on August 30, 2024, is expanding services and coordination to now include both Family Justice Center locations. One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center in National City, which opened in October 2025, was incorporated into the agreement to further extend access to comprehensive victim services throughout the region.

“Abusers, traffickers or anyone who exploits and harms victims do not recognize borders,” DA Stephan said. “With thousands of people traveling between San Diego and Tijuana each day for work, school, and family, we know victimization can happen on either side of the border—and our response must be just as seamless. This renewed partnership strengthens our binational network of support, ensuring victims can access critical services, protection, and justice wherever they are. We are committed to making sure no one is left without help because of geography or language, and that every person who comes to One Safe Place is met with culturally responsive care focused on safety, healing, and justice.”

Since opening in July 2022, One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center in San Marcos and then in October 2025, One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center in National City, the DA’s two family justice centers have served over 13,000 victims and survivors by providing comprehensive support services under one roof. Both Family Justice Centers offer trauma-informed, wraparound services under one roof for victims of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, elder abuse, hate crimes, and other forms of victimization, in collaboration with more than 100 community partners. This includes agencies like the Attorney General of the State of Baja California and the State of Baja California Justice Center for Women, created to prevent violence against women and girls by providing legal, psychological and social services.

The renewed and expanded partnership enhances cross-border coordination, allowing for seamless referrals between agencies and reducing barriers for victims who previously had to cross the border—often facing long wait times—to receive services. The collaboration ensures victims can receive support in the location where they live, work, or feel safe.

Baja California Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade Ramírez emphasized that the continued partnership strengthens binational efforts to provide comprehensive, compassionate care to victims while advancing justice across borders.

“This international cooperation reflects our shared commitment to joining forces across borders to protect those who need it most,” said Baja California Attorney General Maria Elena Andrade Ramírez. “Renewing and expanding this agreement will strengthen referral processes, specialized support, and multidisciplinary services, while also reducing the barriers that have historically limited access to legal, psychological, and social services. Through this binational support network, we aim to provide immediate, gender-responsive assistance while always prioritizing the safety, stability, and well-being of families affected by violent environments.”

Magdalena Bautista, Director of the Baja California Justice Center for Women (CEJUM), noted that expanding the agreement to include both Family Justice Centers marked an important step in increasing access to protection and services, reinforcing the shared commitment to ensuring no victim is left without support.

“This agreement reaffirms the strength of binational and interinstitutional collaboration as a means to expand protection, support, and effective access to justice for women and their families,” Director of the Baja California Justice Center for Women Magdalena Bautista said. “At CEJUM, we reaffirm our commitment to act with sensitivity, professionalism, and compassion in supporting those who need it most, and we are backed by Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda in consolidating a public policy focused on women and justice with a gender perspective. The true strength of this alliance lies in turning binational coordination into real protection and concrete results for women and their families.”

In a separate ceremony on March 26, 2026, the DA’s Office renewed a similar agreement with the Mexican Consulate, which continues to enhance outreach and prevention efforts, including participation in the monthly “Cafecito Con La Comunidad” events held at One Safe Place. These events connect the community with resources, information, and support services.

“Violence against women knows no borders,” said Ambassador Alicia G. Kerber-Palma, Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego. We celebrate this binational cooperative effort that strengthens coordination and support networks to provide greater protection and access to justice for women in our border region. From the Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego, we reaffirm our commitment to continue supporting initiatives that promote the dignity, safety, and well-being of our communities.”

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

One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center is located at 401 Mile of Cars Way, National City, CA 91950. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the second Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The State Baja California Justice Center for Women is located at Avenida Moctezuma #1, Colonia Residencial de Cortez, C.P. 22190 Tijuana, Baja California, with hours of operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

[WATCH a video about One Safe Place: The San Diego County Family Justice Centers, here.]

Photo of Tribal Chairpersons, DA, Sheriff Announcing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Collaborative; They are all sitting at a table outside in front of an indigenous statue to Sign MOU in Sacramento.

Tribal Chairpersons, DA, Sheriff Announce Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons Collaborative; Sign MOU in Sacramento

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan, San Diego County Sheriff Kelly Martinez, Pala Band of Mission Indians Chairman Robert Smith and Jamul Indian Village Chairwoman Erica Pinto announced today the formation of the San Diego County Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Collaborative (SDMMIPC) during a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony in Sacramento, marking a significant step forward in addressing serious and violent crimes impacting Indigenous communities.

The MOU establishes a framework for cooperation and collaboration among participating agencies dedicated to improving criminal justice responses and enhancing public safety within San Diego County. The partnership includes the Pala Band of Mission Indians, Jamul Indian Village of California, Bureau of Indian Affairs, San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, and San Diego County District Attorney’s Office. The agreement formalizes a shared commitment to work across jurisdictions to investigate and solve cases involving Indigenous victims, including murder, missing persons—with a special focus on minors—kidnapping, and human trafficking.

“It is such an honor to sign a historic MOU to advance justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons with Tribal Government Chairpersons devoted to their people,” DA Stephan said. “Together, we are committed to building trust between law enforcement and our tribal partners, while empowering early reporting and strengthening support for victims. Justice for Indigenous victims is not just a goal—it is a shared responsibility we all carry. In honor of MMIP Day, through this MOU we strengthen our commitment to work together to investigate and solve cases of murder, missing persons, kidnapping, and human trafficking involving Indigenous victims. To the survivors here with us and those we hold in our hearts—thank you for your courage, your advocacy, your resilience, and your partnership. This work is for you.”

 

“The formation of the SDMMIP Collaborative is a commitment to sustained cooperation, regular communication, and aligned investigative practices,” said Sheriff Kelly Martinez. “Our shared goal is simple: to bring people home, to bring families answers, and to ensure that no community feels alone in that search.”  

In California, Indigenous people continue to go missing and/or are murdered at disproportionately high rates. The SDMMIPC will focus on strengthening investigative efforts through information-sharing, coordinated responses, and enhanced partnerships among participating entities. The collaboration also prioritizes early reporting, culturally informed victim services, and ongoing education and training to improve outcomes in Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) cases.

“For too long, too many Indigenous families have carried the pain of unanswered questions and loved ones who were never brought home,” said Chairman Robert Smith of the Pala Band of Mission Indians. “This collaboration represents more than an agreement between agencies, it is a commitment to our communities that these cases will not be ignored, and these victims will not be forgotten. When tribal leaders and law enforcement work together with trust and purpose, we give families something they deserve, hope that justice is still possible.”

 

“As Chairwoman of the Jamul Indian Village, this effort is deeply personal to our community,” said Erica Pinto, Chairwoman of the Jamul Indian Village. “The formation of the SDMMIPC and the MOU reflect our commitment to upholding tribal sovereignty while working together to protect our people and honor those we have lost. For too long, Indigenous families have faced these tragedies without the coordinated response and resources that they deserve. This partnership strengthens collaboration across jurisdictions, builds trust, and ensures that cases involving our communities are handled with urgency, respect, and cultural understanding. Together, we are establishing a path forward that is rooted in accountability and justice for Native communities.”

The participating agencies share several core goals, including:

  • Enhancing public safety through coordinated, multi-agency investigations
  • Ensuring comprehensive and collaborative casework
  • Facilitating the prosecution of offenders and reopening cases when appropriate
  • Building trust among law enforcement, tribal partners, and the community
  • Promoting awareness and early reporting to law enforcement
  • Providing appropriate and supportive victim services in MMIP cases

The MOU recognizes that individual cases may present unique circumstances requiring additional coordination and agreements among partners.

Today’s signing ceremony reflects a growing statewide and national effort to address the disproportionate impact of violence against Indigenous people. Through the SDMMIPC, San Diego County is reinforcing its commitment to collaborative action, transparency, and meaningful engagement with tribal communities.

 

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

Crew of Five Target FedEx Delivery Trucks Carrying Louis Vuitton Merchandise

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced robbery, theft and carjacking charges against five defendants who worked together to target FedEx delivery trucks containing high-end merchandise from designer brand Louis Vuitton.

Deshawn Birden, 34, Jamal Buck, 33, Stephen Buck, 30, Maurice Cyrus, 29, and Frederick Jackson, 25, have each been charged with several felony counts in relation to the five incidents and face between seven years and four months and life in prison if convicted.

“This crew violently targeted lucrative luxury merchandise transported by FedEx,” DA Stephan said. “Their crime spree is over, and these defendants will begin facing justice and accountability for their bad acts.”

Between July 2024 and June 2025, the defendants stole over $667,000 worth of Louis Vuitton merchandise including sunglasses, handbags, shoes and belts. In one instance, they stole 25 boxes of designer products from the Fashion Valley Shopping Center during a scheduled delivery. In another instance, the driver fought off the gun wielding suspect, forcing the suspect to abandon his plan. On three occasions, the defendants intercepted and car jacked a delivery truck with the use of a firearm as the driver was getting gasoline and drove the truck to a pre-staged area where they were prepared with getaway vehicles to load the stolen merchandise into. In each case they were dressed in clothing that disguised their appearance from head to toe.

None of the merchandise has been recovered.

“These items are stolen with the express purpose of eventually being sold to unsuspecting consumers,” DA Stephan said. “We are grateful to the San Diego Police Department and the FBI for their partnership in this investigation and helping identify the defendants.”

Defendants Stephan Buck and Maurice Cyrus pleaded not guilty at arraignment today and are next due in court on May 14 for a readiness hearing. Buck was released on supervised own recognizance, and Cyrus is being held on no bail. The three additional defendants in this case are awaiting extradition to San Diego and will be arraigned at a future date.

Deputy District Attorney Cassidy McWilliams is prosecuting this case.

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

Man Who Stabbed Girlfriend to Death the Day After Christmas, Sentenced to Prison

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan said today that a 31-year-old man, who stabbed his girlfriend to death in San Marcos in December 2023, has been sentenced to 26 years-to-life in prison. In February, a jury found Ziyah Patterson guilty of first-degree murder. The defendant brutally stabbed 42-year-old Angela Lanway in the ear and neck, severing an artery and breaking a bone in her spine.

“Too often circumstances surrounding domestic violence are made even more dangerous when people are living in vulnerable conditions like being homeless, but our prosecutor and law enforcement believed the victim’s life mattered and deserved justice,” DA Stephan said. “This was a devastating and senseless loss of life and Angela’s attacker is being held accountable for his actions.”

The defendant and the victim were homeless and living behind a business in San Marcos at the time of the incident. Before the attack, Patterson became upset when Lanway asked him to turn down his music. Annoyed, he asked Lanway to return a gift he had given her, and she threw it at him. He then beat her. After the beating, he said it wasn’t enough, so he took out his knife and stabbed her.

Patterson refused to give aid to Lanway and waited more than 10 minutes to call 911. During the trial, he testified that he killed Lanway in self-defense and that he was the victim of domestic violence, but there was no evidence to support his claim and he had no injuries. Lanway was especially vulnerable because she had hip dysplasia and could not walk without assistance and could not see out of one of her eyes.

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 domestic violence-related homicides the prior year, these types of homicides continue to remain lower than the average from the prior two decades. Figures for 2025 won’t be available for several months.

Deputy District Attorney Nicolette Estrada prosecuted this case.

Citizens of Courage 2026 - Group Photo-2

DA Honors Four Local Heroes at 36th Annual ‘Citizens of Courage’ Awards

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan honored four brave individuals today during the DA’s 36th annual Citizens of Courage Awards, held as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This year, National Crime Victim’s Rights Week was observed April 19-25. As part of this annual event, the DA not only highlights the courageous individuals who survived or witnessed a crime, but also the important services that are offered through the largest provider of victim services in the county, the DA’s Victim Assistance program and One Safe Place: The San Diego County Family Justice Centers, which are a project of the DA’s Office.

“Every year, the Citizens of Courage Awards remind us that courage lives within each of us,” DA Stephan said. “The individuals we honor today demonstrate extraordinary strength and resilience in the face of crime, danger and adversity, inspiring us all to stand up for one another and for what is right. This event also shines a light on the many victims our office serves every day in the pursuit of justice and underscores the importance of protecting victims’ rights — core to our mission. I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication of our Victim Advocates, whose compassion and commitment make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

The DA’s Victim Services Division strives to reduce the trauma, fear and pain experienced by victims, witnesses, and family members affected by crime. The Victim Assistance Program provides comprehensive services to all crime victims, while Victim Advocates are focused on providing assistance to victims of violent crimes. In 2025, they assisted 8,523 new crime victims. This assistance included 506 crisis interventions and 10,169 referrals to community resources.

Additionally, our office serves victims even before a police report is made, at One Safe Place: The San Diego County Family Justice Centers, which have two locations; One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center, which opened in San Marcos in July 2022 and One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center in National City, which opened in October 2025. Combined, the DA’s two family justice centers have served over 12,587 victims and survivors by providing comprehensive support services under one roof. These visits include services such as case management, restraining orders, trauma therapy, forensic exams, connections to shelter and more.

This year, the Citizens of Courage Awards ceremony was held at the Liberty Station Conference Center in front of more than 300 invited dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders and guests. Below are the 2026 Citizens of Courage recipients and links to videos telling their stories:

  • Marcus Long – When violence erupted, Marcus bravely stepped in to stop a brutal attack and through his quick thinking helped locate the suspect.
  • Alyssa – After surviving sexual assault by a trusted church leader and attempts to cover up by the church she trusted, Alyssa chose resilience over silence, rebuilding her life with courage and refusing to let the trauma define her.
  • Linda Marshall – Targeted in a contractor scam, Linda has remained steadfast and determined throughout the ongoing prosecution, demonstrating unwavering courage in her pursuit of justice.
  • Harmeena Omoto – When confronted with a serious school threat, Principal Omoto responded with calm authority and decisive leadership to protect her students and staff in her school and in court proceedings.

In a special moment, the DA marked seven years since Lori Gilbert-Kaye was viciously murdered while praying at the Chabad of Poway Synagogue by presenting her courageous daughter Hannah with a Citizens of Courage award in memory of her mother.

Photo of AB 1959 testimony DA Summer Stephan.

DA Testifies in Support of AB 1959 to Close Dangerous Resentencing Loophole as Exposed by the Santana High School Shooter Case

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan testified this morning in front of the California State Assembly Public Safety Committee in Sacramento, urging lawmakers to pass Assembly Bill 1959. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel (District 76), strengthens public safety by closing a dangerous loophole in California’s recall and resentencing laws by updating Welfare and Institutions Code section 707 to allow a transfer hearing for a court to decide whether a now-adult offender should be sentenced in juvenile court or adult court.

Current law, Penal Code section 1170(d), allows people who were sentenced to life without parole as minors to have their sentence reconsidered after they have served at least 15 years in prison, known as recall and resentencing. Due to laws emerging after the enactment of 1170(d), if a court finds a defendant eligible for resentencing, they are transferred to juvenile court. If they were under the age of 16 when they committed their crime, the juvenile court cannot impose custody and is forced to release the defendant without any determination that it is safe to do so. A defendant who was 16 or 17 would proceed to a transfer hearing pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code section 707 to determine the appropriate jurisdiction for resentencing: juvenile court or adult court.

Under the AB 1959, the existing transfer hearing process would also apply to a defendant who was under 16 at the time of the offense, allowing a court discretion to weigh youthful offender factors with public safety concerns. This change restores judicial discretion and fairness to the resentencing process.

“This bill is about protecting our communities and fulfilling the original intent of resentencing laws,” DA Stephan said. “AB 1959 ensures that the intent of resentencing laws to consider danger to the public when evaluating serious and violent offenders is fulfilled. These laws were never meant to result in the immediate release of individuals who commit murder, school shootings or serial rapes in our communities. This law would close a dangerous loophole for juvenile offenders under 16 that results in their immediate release without any meaningful demonstration of rehabilitation, remorse, or assurance of public safety. Instead of thorough resentencing, they move directly to a juvenile disposition, often resulting in release without a true assessment of risk or justice for victims.”

DA Stephan pointed to the case of the Santana High School shooter, Andy Williams, who carried out a planned attack in 2001, killing two students and injuring 13 others. Despite being sentenced to 50 years to life and recently being denied parole in 2024 due to ongoing public safety concerns, Williams filed a petition for recall and resentencing in 2025 under current law. Because of this loophole, his case could be transferred to juvenile court for resentencing—even though he is now nearly 40 years old and has served less than half of his sentence. This outcome undermines accountability and was never the intent of the Legislature when it enacted recall and resentencing statutes.

Photo of DA Summer Stephan with Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel and Phil Ortiz

Photo of DA Summer Stephan with Assemblymember Dr. Darshana Patel and Phil Ortiz

Phil Ortiz, who was a student at Santana High School and survived the shooting in 2001, also testified in front of the Public Safety Committee in support of AB 1959. He is now an El Cajon City Councilmember.

“Assemblymember Patel, DA Summer Stephan and their staff are ensuring justice is balanced,” Ortiz said. “The victims of the shooting at Santana High School have no ability to be free from their physical, mental and emotional wounds, including Randy Gordon and Brian Zuckor who were killed. Therefore, perpetrators shouldn’t be free from the consequences of their actions. The damage to the victims is permanent and the consequences to the perpetrators should be permanent as well.” 

The bill is a targeted, balanced response that restores the court’s discretion to weigh factors related to rehabilitation, youthful offender factors, and public safety and ensures the most serious offenses receive appropriate accountability while maintaining judicial oversight and the possibility of rehabilitation for deserving youth.

“AB 1959 seeks to close a loophole within resentencing law that has recently been exploited in San Diego County by a school shooter at Santana High School in 2001,” said Assemblymember Patel. “San Diegans deserve to have faith in their justice system to ensure that violent offenders that do not show remorse do not have a loophole to exploit and avoid accountability.”

The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office remains committed to advocating for policies that balance fairness with accountability while prioritizing the safety of all communities.

AB 1959 passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee and will now advance to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Photo of DA Summer Stephan at press conference announcing human trafficking and wage theft charges today against two defendants who were taking advantage of the immigration status of their workers, forcing them to work around the clock without the pay required under California laws.

Exploited and Underpaid: Two Charged for Trafficking Elder Care Workers in Around-the-Clock Labor Scheme

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan announced human trafficking and wage theft charges today against two defendants who were taking advantage of the immigration status of their workers, forcing them to work around the clock without the pay required under California laws. View today’s news conference, here.

Rolando “Bobby” Solancho Corpuz, 57, and Maria Elsabel Sio Corpuz, 41, who are the administrators of two residential care facilities for the elderly in Vista and Escondido have each been charged with six counts each of wage theft and human trafficking.

“This case is a chilling example of human trafficking hiding in plain sight within our community,” DA Stephan said. “These defendants didn’t just steal wages, they stripped away the dignity and fundamental rights of vulnerable individuals, leveraging their immigration status as a weapon of exploitation. The defendants forced human beings to work around the clock for a pittance, while pocketing $175,000 of their hard-earned pay. In San Diego County, we will not tolerate the exploitation of those who care for our elderly, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that those who profit from human trafficking and theft of labor are held fully accountable.”

An investigation began after one of the workers contacted the Pilipino Workers Center to initiate a complaint against her former employers. The Pilipino Workers Center referred the investigation to San Diego County’s Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement who recognized elements of criminal violation of the law and transferred it to the San Diego District Attorney’s Office Workplace Justice team.

One victim worked at Rose Garden in Vista and Rose Garden Capo in Escondido from May 2023 until June 2024. The victim reported she was paid $150 a day to work six to seven days a week, 24 hours a day. The victim agreed to a monthly deduction from her wages with the understanding that the defendants would use those funds to retain an immigration attorney to help the victim become a legal permanent resident.

The victim was required to live at the facility and share a room with one of the patients. The victim would cook, clean as well as feed, bathe, and change the diapers of the patients. The victim was required to administer medication to patients as well as give patients insulin injections, even though the victim did not possess certifications or training that qualify her as a caregiver.

The victim contacted the immigration attorney and was told they were paid approximately $3,900 despite the victim having had over $19,000 withheld from her pay. The California Department of Industrial Relations performed an audit that determined the victim is owed over $175,000 in unpaid wages.

The investigation revealed two additional victims of this labor trafficking scheme who reported similar working conditions and illegal pay. These individuals were also required to care for patients after their shift, providing care for the patients throughout the night.

The investigation concluded that these employees were paid daily wages, which was not in accordance with California minimum wage laws. In addition, they were required to work overnight due to the patients needing 24-hour care. They were not compensated for overtime or paid even the minimum wage for the 24-hour work shift.

“Pilipino Workers Center is standing with these courageous Filipino home care workers who are taking action to hold exploitative employers accountable so that other workers are not exploited in the same way,” said Aquilina Soriano-Versoza, Executive Director of the Pilipino Workers Center. “They are showing that it is possible for workers to file wage claims and win, and that the more workers stand up, employers will know there are real consequences to committing wage theft and other labor violations.”

Collaboration with other county agencies and community organizations helps bring these cases to light.

“Our partnership with the District Attorney’s Office is essential to making sure employers who exploit workers are held accountable,” said Branden Butler, Director of the County Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement. “When labor violations cross the line into criminal behavior, coordinated action is critical. These cases have profound impacts on workers and their families, and we remain committed to delivering meaningful justice and ensuring safe, fair conditions for every worker in San Diego County.”

The defendants were arrested on March 26. They pleaded not guilty at today’s arraignment and will be in court again on May 14 for a readiness hearing. If convicted, they face a maximum term of 19 years and four months in prison.

This case is the result of an investigation by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office Workplace Justice Unit. Deputy District Attorney David Vallero is prosecuting this case and District Attorney Investigator Yvette Gaines is the lead investigator. The investigation led to three search warrants that were simultaneously served and shows that there is a potential for many more victims of this labor trafficking and exploitation scheme. The DA’s Office is calling on any former employees who believe they were a victim to come forward. Reports can be made by calling or emailing Investigator Gaines at 619-531-3515 or Yvette.Gaines@sandiegoda.gov.

The DA’s Office requested the assistance of Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division to be on site to ensure the elderly residents of the Rose Garden facilities were receiving proper care.

Rose Garden Vista, located at 1266 Pleiades Dr., Vista, and Rose Garden Capo, located at 28688 Mountain Meadow Road, Escondido.

View today’s news conference, here.

Photo of news conference where District Attorney, San Jose Mayor & Senator Blakespear Calling for State to Fund Prop. 36.

DA, San Jose Mayor, Senator Blakespear & Treatment Providers Join Forces Calling for State to Fund Prop. 36

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan joined with San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, leaders and participants in behavioral health treatment, and the small and large business community to update the public on San Diego’s successful implementation efforts of Proposition 36 and to call on the state to fully fund this transformative voter-passed initiative.

California voters made their will clear in passing Prop. 36, but the state has yet to provide sufficient funding for full implementation across all counties, leaving people struggling with severe addiction and mental illness, often driving homelessness to cycle repeatedly through the criminal justice system.

“San Diego County has shown through a year of persistent implementation that Proposition 36 works—saving lives and reducing crime by incentivizing treatment for addiction and mental health,” DA Stephan said. “Even without state funding, we moved forward, balancing compassion with accountability. The results are clear: 96.4% of eligible felony defendants chose a treatment track, while only 3.5% were sentenced to local or state prison. Overdose deaths among people experiencing homelessness dropped 25%, and property crimes decreased 12.7%, giving businesses much-needed relief. It is now the legal and ethical responsibility of the Legislature and Governor to fund this voter-approved law.”

During a news conference, DA Stephan provided an update on Prop. 36-related prosecutions, highlighting the mandated treatment aspect of the law that incentivizes lifesaving treatment for defendants suffering from addiction. The law requires treatment as an alternative to incarceration, addressing the root cause of many crimes.

“I’m deeply grateful to County Behavioral Health Services, the Court, the Sheriff’s Office, and County Probation, whose partnership is essential to making Proposition 36 work.”

DA Stephan also praised California State Senators Catherine S. Blakespear, Susan Rubio and Thomas J. Umberg, who have called for $400 million to be added to the state budget to help counties and local law enforcement agencies pay for licensed drug and alcohol treatment and other services required under Proposition 36. The DA thanked Mayor Mahan who was one of the first big city mayors to support the new law and to push for funding and implementation of this initiative.

Data released last month shows that as of February 28, 3,879 criminal cases have been charged in San Diego County 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. About 68% of the cases fall under drug charges, with the remainder pertaining to retail theft.

In approximately 71.4% of cases, courts placed defendants on a Proposition 36–mandated treatment track, with another 25% assigned to treatment through probation conditions—bringing the total to 96.4% on a treatment path designed to address the root causes of repeat criminal behavior, primarily addiction, mental illness, or both.

In addition to Mayor Mahan, DA Stephan was joined at the news conference by James Callaghan, the CEO of TURN Behavioral Health Services, a dual track treatment program for individuals with severe mental illness and/or a chronic substance use disorder; Chirs Cate, the CEO of the Regional Chamber of Commerce, business owners and an individual who successfully completed treatment.

Mayor Mahan has been committed to supporting his city and the state to properly fund and implement Prop. 36 and to reduce homelessness.

“The nearly 70% of voters who passed Prop. 36 were clear: we need an era of mass treatment that combines accountability with real access to care and meets people where they are while refusing to abandon them to the streets,” said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. “San Diego has worked hard to answer to the will of the people — now, we need the rest of the state to follow suit. I’m looking forward to seeing what’s working in Southern California and talking about how it can scale to every corner of California.” 

In San Diego County, Mayor Todd Gloria and nearly all local mayors support the proposition.

Over the past decade, California’s homelessness crisis has worsened even as other parts of the country saw periods of decline, underscoring the need for more effective tools to address addiction and connect people to treatment.

“Californians made it abundantly clear that funding and implementing Proposition 36 should be a top state priority,” said Senator Catherine S. Blakespear. “Last year’s $100 million initial investment was a good first step but the State needs to fully fund the critical needs of those on the ground doing the diversion, supervision, and treatment work associated with this law.

Officials say licensed drug and alcohol treatment along with supportive services and evidence-based care help people reclaim their lives.

“This is not only a health issue — it’s a community issue,” Callaghan said, the CEO of TURN Behavioral Health Services. “Untreated behavioral health conditions contribute to overdoses, homelessness, repeated emergency response, and strain on law enforcement and hospitals. Integrated, evidence‑based treatment reduces emergency room visits, lowers recidivism, and helps people stabilize long enough to reconnect with housing, employment, and family supports. When people receive the right care at the right time, communities are safer and systems function more effectively.”

San Diego County has been implementing Prop. 36 faster than many California counties, establishing a specialized treatment system within four months of the law’s passage to address both addiction and mental health.

“Through leadership and collaboration, San Diego County is emphasizing a treatment-first approach for drug offenses with equal access to treatment for the rich and the poor, DA Stephan said. “San Diego has pushed forward and proven that Prop. 36 can work. We need leaders to stand up and demand Prop. 36 be funded.”

Key elements of San Diego’s implementation include:

  • Faster Implementation: San Diego established a specialized treatment plan for Prop 36 offenders within four months, leading the state.
  • High Treatment Enrollment: About 96% of eligible defendants in San Diego are engaging in the treatment track through deferred judgment or probation.
  • Focus on Drug Rehabilitation: The San Diego DA has been charging over 80% of Prop. 36 cases under the umbrella of drug-related offenses, prioritizing addiction treatment over immediate incarceration.
  • Leveraging Drug Courts: Expanding Drug Court to manage the influx of participants.
  • Proactive Planning: Recognizing potential capacity issues, we began mapping out treatment needs early to address addiction and recidivism effectively.

Prop. 36 has made a difference to local businesses and prosecuting habitual offenders is making stores and the community safe.

“I have noticed a complete 180-degree turn on two things surrounding our businesses: homeless activity is down and shoplifting and theft are down,” said Tony Konja, president of Keg N Bottle and Chairman and CEO of the Neighborhood Market Association. “It’s simply amazing how policy coupled with enforcement equals peace.”

Prop. 36, which passed with 68 percent of the vote in 2024, took effect in December of the same year. The DA’s Office has been committed to successfully implementing the transformational proposition in partnership with the Sheriff, the 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, to help 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.

More information about the ongoing implementation of Prop. 36, including monthly updated data, can be found on the DA’s website here.

 

 

Photo of Ambassador Alicia Kerber Palma and District Attorney Summer Stephan holding MOU after the MOU signature cermeony.

DA, One Safe Place and the Consulate General of Mexico in San Diego Sign Updated Agreement to Support Victims

San Diego County District Attorney Summer Stephan and Ambassador Alicia Kerber Palma, Consul General of Mexico signed today a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that strengthens a vital partnership between the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office One Safe Place: The San Diego County Family Justice Centers, and the Mexican Consulate. The updated agreement reinforces a collaborative commitment to support victims of crime who live, work, or travel on both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border.

The MOU formalizes continued cooperation to connect victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, child abuse, and other forms of victimization with critical services in the region. Through this partnership, the institutions will coordinate outreach, share resources, and provide cross-referrals to ensure victims can access culturally sensitive support services regardless of which side of the border they are on.

“Every day, thousands of people move between San Diego and Tijuana for work, school and family, likewise, crime and victimization do not stop at the border, and neither should our support for victims of domestic violence, human trafficking and elder abuse,” said District Attorney Summer Stephan. “Through this partnership between One Safe Place and the Mexican Consulate, we are strengthening a cross-border network of care so victims can access safety, services and justice wherever they are. Our goal is to ensure that no human being falls through the cracks because of geography or language. Our continued collaboration with the Mexican Consulate and innovative leader Consul General Alicia Kerber Palma strengthens trust within our binational community and ensures that victims who come to One Safe Place receive help in their language, in a culturally responsive way, and with a focus on safety, justice and healing.”

Since opening in July 2022, One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center in San Marcos and then in October 2025, One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center in National City, the DA’s two family justice centers have served over 12,000 victims and survivors by providing comprehensive support services under one roof. The centers offer assistance to individuals affected by domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, elder abuse, hate crimes, human trafficking, violent loss, and other forms of victimization. Services include legal assistance, counseling, advocacy, and connections to community resources, all designed to support survivors on their path toward safety and healing.

“Providing assistance and protection to the Mexican community is our highest priority, and the MOU that we have signed with the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office is a strong additional tool with which the Consulate strives to facilitate legal resources, advice, and a more effective access to justice for Mexican nationals and their families who are victims of domestic violence, abuse, trafficking and other crimes,” said Ambassador Alicia Kerber Palma, Consul General of Mexico in San Diego.

The Mexican Consulate in San Diego continues to play an important role as a partner at One Safe Place, participating in community outreach, prevention initiatives, and providing consular services for Mexican nationals. Consulate staff also collaborate on educational events such as “Cafecito Con La Comunidad,” a monthly gathering that connects the community with resources, information, and support services.

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

One Safe Place: The South County Family Justice Center is located at 401 Mile of Cars Way, National City, CA 91950. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the second Saturday of the month from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.