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  • DA Stephan Releases ‘2024 Annual Report’ Highlighting Public Safety Achievements

  • Meet the DA’s Lifer Hearing Unit

    The DA's Lifer Hearing Unit
  • Man Sentenced to Prison for Killing Wife, and Throwing Her Severed Legs in Dumpster

    Laurie Diane Potter
  • DA Stephan Denounces Dismantling of Human Trafficking Bill AB 379 by Assembly Public Safety Committee

  • One Safe Place North Celebrates ‘Leap to Confidence’ Graduation

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Latest News

New Campaign Against Domestic Violence

New Campaign Against Domestic Violence

October 15, 2019

When a victim of domestic violence shows up in an emergency room or doctor’s office, the outward signs of abuse may not be visible. But their internal injuries could be life threatening, especially if they have been strangled. A new outreach campaign, that includes resource kits and posters, is being distributed countywide to help health […]

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Office Manager Convicted of 51 Felony Counts in Massive Patient Referral Scam

Governor Signs DA-Supported Bill Clearing Convictions

October 9, 2019

An estimated eight million Californians have criminal convictions on their records that hamper their ability to find stable housing, obtain permanent employment or continue their education. Assembly Bill 1076, introduced by Assemblymember Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) and supported by San Diego District Attorney Summer Stephan, addresses these issues head-on by proactively clearing the past criminal […]

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Community of Hope Comes Together for Domestic Violence Victims

Community of Hope Comes Together for Domestic Violence Victims

October 1, 2019

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time for reflection on all that has been accomplished to prevent violence and abuse in our communities, and all that must still be done. Today, the District Attorney’s Office joined the San Diego Domestic Violence Council (SDDVC), county officials and other social service agencies together as a “Community of […]

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https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/images/dv-month-2019-news-story.jpg 320 480 danewscenter /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png danewscenter2019-10-01 00:00:002021-06-25 16:20:34Community of Hope Comes Together for Domestic Violence Victims
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Video

The DA's Lifer Hearing Unit

The DA’s Lifer Hearing Unit

https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lifer-Hearing-Unit-2025-1.jpg 720 1280 Barbara Medina /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png Barbara Medina2025-05-05 14:19:542025-05-06 13:09:42The DA’s Lifer Hearing Unit

DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 05-01-25

https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/DA-News-for-YouTube-05-01-25.jpg 720 1280 Barbara Medina /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png Barbara Medina2025-05-01 15:39:352025-05-06 15:41:37DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 05-01-25

DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 04-24-25

https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/DA-Weekly-News-Video-Update-THUMBNAIL-04-24-25.jpg 714 1288 Barbara Medina /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png Barbara Medina2025-04-24 15:33:482025-05-06 15:37:47DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 04-24-25

DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 04-17-25

https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/DA-Weekly-News-Video-Update-THUMBNAIL-04-17-25.jpg 707 1293 Barbara Medina /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png Barbara Medina2025-04-17 15:26:022025-05-06 15:38:14DA Weekly News Update with DA Summer Stephan 04-17-25

Citizens of Courage 2025: Group of Good Samaritans

https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Good-Samaritans-CHP.jpg 720 1280 Barbara Medina /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png Barbara Medina2025-04-07 18:11:152025-04-07 18:11:15Citizens of Courage 2025: Group of Good Samaritans

Citizens of Courage 2025: Robert Moore

https://danewscenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Robert-Moore.jpg 720 1280 Barbara Medina /wp-content/uploads/2021/04/danews_logo-1.png Barbara Medina2025-04-07 18:08:572025-04-07 18:08:57Citizens of Courage 2025: Robert Moore

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San Diego County District Attorney

Sat May 31st

San Diego County District Attorney
In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed throughout the month of May, we are featuring stories of DA employees, what inspired them to pursue a career in public service and their contributions at the DA’s Office. Meet Confidential Legal Secretary Marilu Glassman, who has been with our office since 2021 and is currently the receptionist at the 13th floor at the Hall of Justice. Read more about what inspired Marilu to pursue a career at the DA’s Office, below. What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement/ at the DA’s Office? “Prior to joining the DA’s office, in 2007 I was working at the County’s Board of Supervisor’s Office as a Legislative Assistant to Supervisor Dianne Jacob of the Second District, until her term ended in 2021. I enjoyed my service work and was dedicated to continuing a public service career with the County. When I learned about the opportunity of joining the DA’s Office, I was thrilled to pursue the possibility, and I transferred to the DA’s office in 2021. Currently, as a Confidential Legal Secretary, I am a contributing team member of Human Resources staff and the Hall of Justice 13th floor’s Administration Receptionist. I love my role here!” Why is AAPI Month important to you? “My family roots, the culture, our faith and traditions. My parents are from Manila and went to school at the University of San Francisco. My siblings and I were born in San Francisco, and all reside in Southern California, we are close and see each other often. We are blessed to have a large family with first cousins all over the country and we always look forward to getting together and our reunions. I cherish the many stories and memories my parents, grandmother, aunts, and uncles have shared with us over the years with the same importance of family gatherings and their spending time together in Manila. I recall looking at some of their family pictures in Manila – they were always dressed so nice and had dance parties with a lot of food on the tables!” A fun fact about you or what do you enjoy doing in your free time? “I enjoy going to Padres games, spending time with family and travelling during my free time. I enjoy catching my niece play soccer and nephews’ basketball and baseball games when their school teams play in town. I especially look forward to our annual family summer vacation in Newport Beach and relaxing in the Duffy boats – we have several families and friends with us, and it is a blast! I also feel very lucky to stay in close touch with my ‘D2’ family (Supervisor Dianne Jacob’s District 2 staff). One of my favorite places to be in the County is at Dianne Jacob’s ranch – it is amazing, peaceful with a scenic view, and we have so much fun when we get together and spend time on her ranch. I do not get to do the drive up to the mountains often, so when we go, I truly enjoy the sightseeing. We are planning to go again soon, and it is always a special time for all of us!” ... See MoreSee Less

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‪🏛 Pursuing equal & fair justice for all.
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In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed througho In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed throughout the month of May, we are featuring stories of DA employees, what inspired them to pursue a career in public service and their contributions at the DA’s Office. 

Meet Confidential Legal Secretary Marilu Glassman, who has been with our office since 2021 and is currently the receptionist at the 13th floor at the Hall of Justice. Read more about what inspired Marilu to pursue a career at the DA’s Office, below. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement/ at the DA’s Office? 
“Prior to joining the DA’s office, in 2007 I was working at the County’s Board of Supervisor’s Office as a Legislative Assistant to Supervisor Dianne Jacob of the Second District, until her term ended in 2021. I enjoyed my service work and was dedicated to continuing a public service career with the County. When I learned about the opportunity of joining the DA’s Office, I was thrilled to pursue the possibility, and I transferred to the DA’s office in 2021. Currently, as a Confidential Legal Secretary, I am a contributing team member of Human Resources staff and the Hall of Justice 13th floor’s Administration Receptionist. I love my role here!” 

Why is AAPI Month important to you? 
“My family roots, the culture, our faith and traditions. My parents are from Manila and went to school at the University of San Francisco. My siblings and I were born in San Francisco, and all reside in Southern California, we are close and see each other often. We are blessed to have a large family with first cousins all over the country and we always look forward to getting together and our reunions. I cherish the many stories and memories my parents, grandmother, aunts, and uncles have shared with us over the years with the same importance of family gatherings and their spending time together in Manila. I recall looking at some of their family pictures in Manila – they were always dressed so nice and had dance parties with a lot of food on the tables!” 

A fun fact about you or what do you enjoy doing in your free time?... 
(CONTINUED IN COMMENTS!)
In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed througho In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed throughout the month of May, we are featuring stories of DA employees, what inspired them to pursue a career in public service and their contributions at the DA’s Office. 

Meet Elaine Bissett, who is the Administrative Analyst for the DA’s Legislative Unit, and has been with our office for 12 years. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in law enforcement/ at the DA’s Office?
“I’ve had an incredible journey with the District Attorney’s Office over the past 12 amazing years! My career started at the San Diego Superior Court, where I updated court dockets and discovered my passion for the prosecution side of the legal system when I started reading case stories. In 2012, when the court faced a budget crisis, I seized the opportunity to join the DA’s Office as a Legal Support Assistant I. 

My DA career began in the Economic Crimes Division and later took me to the Administration Division. Over the last 10 years, I’ve worked my way up from a Legal Support Assistant to an Administrative Analyst in the Legislation Unit. In my current role, I coordinate the District Attorney’s sponsored legislation, organize advocacy meetings, track important legislative amendments, and keep in touch with the legislative staff and the Governor’s Office. What I love most about my job is the opportunity to make a real difference in public safety laws and support victims by transforming their experiences into meaningful policies that align with our District Attorney’s vision. As my former director wisely remarked, ‘Your role is crucial for San Diego. We passionately strive to turn ineffective legislation into effective solutions because laws profoundly influence our daily lives.’ It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I am positively impacting our community!" ...
(CONTINUED IN THE COMMENTS)
In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed througho In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed throughout the month of May, we are featuring stories of DA employees, what inspired them to pursue a career in public service and their contributions at the DA’s Office.

Meet Information Technology Principal Yabin Su, who has been with our office for 14 years, and as an I.T. professional, she has been responsible for designing, developing, implementing, and supporting the DA’s intranet and public-facing website. Read more about what inspired Yabin to pursue a career at the DA’s Office, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?
“I was driven to choose a career in public service by my belief in contributing to the public good and the sense of self-fulfillment I get in serving others. Being a part of the DA’s office, applying my skills to support the office, the victims, and bringing justice to the people have all made this a fulfilling job.”

What does AAPI Month mean to you/why is it important?
“AAPI month is a time to celebrate and honor the rich culture, history, contributions, and achievements of AAPI communities in our country. As a member of the AAPI community, I see this month as an opportunity to raise awareness for the challenges we face, build connections among our communities, reflect on our roots, and reconnect with our traditions.”

A fun fact about you or what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
“In my free time, I enjoy exploring the beautiful beaches and countless trails that San Diego has to offer. One of my favorite things to do is to cook fusion Chinese food.”
A probationer who stabbed an elderly trolley rider A probationer who stabbed an elderly trolley rider was sentenced today to prison for  the attack. Israel Valdivia, 27, has been sentenced to prison for an early morning attack on a 71-year-old man that left the victim bleeding in the street with multiple stab wounds and a nearly severed ear.

Valdivia was sentenced to seven years to life in prison. He was found guilty by a jury of attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon on February 19. Both crimes carry allegations of use of a dangerous and deadly weapon and inflicting great bodily injury on a person over 70.

“This was a vicious, unprovoked attack on a vulnerable older man who was simply exiting the trolley to go to work,” District Attorney Summer Stephan said. “Today’s sentence brings a measure of justice to the victim and to the community at large. We will not tolerate senseless assaults in our trolley system or anywhere. This case demonstrates that violent criminals will be held accountable under the law.”

Valdivia approached the victim after he exited the trolley on his way to work at about 5 a.m. and attacked him, repeatedly stabbing him with an 11 to 13-inch knife. As the victim, 71-year-old Jose Serra, lay bleeding on the ground, Valdivia kicked him and fled the scene. He was eventually captured in Texas later the same month and extradited back to San Diego to face criminal charges. 

Deputy District Attorney Mei Owen prosecuted this case.

Last year, defendant Angelina Montes Stricklen was sentenced to 13 years in prison for stabbing a sleeping 21-year-old man on the Blue Line Trolley in La Jolla. And in 2023, Ryan Rukstelis, was sentenced to 15 years-to-life in prison for fatally pushing a 68-year-old man into a moving freight train in an unprovoked attack.

EN ESPAÑOL: Hombre en Libertad Condicional que Apuñaló a un Anciano que Usaba un Tranvía fue Sentenciado a Prisión por el Ataque https://danewscenter.com/?p=8715
In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed througho In honor of #AAPImonth, which is observed throughout the month of May, we are featuring stories of DA employees, what inspired them to pursue a career in public service and their contributions at the DA’s Office.

Meet Deputy District Attorney An Dang, who joined the DA’s Office in 2021. Prior to that, she spent two years at the San Diego City Attorney’s Office, and before that, she spent three years at the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office. Since joining our team, she’s been a Deputy DA in the Family Protection Division.

Read more about what inspired An to pursue a career at the DA’s Office, below.

Why did you choose a career in public service/what inspired you to pursue this career?
“My mother was a trailblazer among Asian Americans in public service in San Diego. She is my biggest supporter, my hero, and I wouldn’t be where I am without her. I knew I wanted to be in public service, not only to prosecute Family Protection crimes, but to also be that source of support for those who did not have someone like my mom.” 

What does AAPI Month mean to you/why is it important?
“AAPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the AAPI community, not only by honoring our past generations who paved the way for us to be here, but also by empowering the current and future generations to thrive. This month is particularly important to me as a first generation Asian American, and the Co-President of the San Diego chapter of the National Asian Pacific Islander Prosecutors Association (NAPIPA). I hope by celebrating the achievements and diverse and sometimes traumatic histories of AAPIs in the United States, we can foster a greater sense of understanding and inclusion, and all stand together to fight hate.”

An and other Deputy DAs are featured in a recent PSA about hate crimes against the AAPI community that NAPIPA created, you can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8uUh8ph7dhs

A fun fact about you or what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
“I started surfing at 33 years old, and now I’m obsessed. It’s intimidating to start, but once you overcome the challenges, it is the most healing and happy sport.”
📢 Exciting News from the San Diego County Distr 📢 Exciting News from the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office and One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center!
On May 19, our team joined forces with leaders from 27 California family justice centers at the Sacramento State Capitol for Advocacy Day, organized by the California Family Justice Network (CFJN). 🏛️
District Attorney Summer Stephan’s team, which included Chief Deputy DA Patrick Espinoza, One Safe Place Assistant Executive Director Taraneh Sarebanha, and DA Legislative Coordinator Elaine Bissett, met with local lawmakers to highlight the critical role family justice centers play in supporting abuse survivors with hope, healing, and justice. Special shoutout to Your Safe Place’s Executive Director Diane Doherty for representing the central FJC under the San Diego City Attorney’s leadership! 🙌
A heartfelt thank you to San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas and Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (District 13) for speaking on the importance of family justice centers as sanctuaries for those fleeing violence and abuse. 🚨
We were thrilled to join Senator Tim Grayson (District 9) as he introduced Senate Resolution (SCR) 67, declaring May 19, 2025, as Family Justice Center Day in California! 🎉
Family justice centers provide life-saving services to over 70,000 survivors, including 20,000 children, every year. They are a beacon of hope, breaking the cycle of abuse and preventing domestic violence homicides. ❤️
One Safe Place: The North County Family Justice Center is a project led by DA Summer Stephan to regionalize family justice centers in San Diego County and in just three years it has already helped over 7,000 individuals. Stay tuned for more! 🌟
#AdvocacyDay #FamilyJusticeCenters #SupportingSurvivors #HopeAndHealing #EndAbuse
Today, we stand with friends, family and colleague Today, we stand with friends, family and colleagues to remember and honor our military heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
They will never be forgotten.
Thank you for your service.
#MemorialDay
#NeverForget
In honor of #AAPIMonth, which is observed througho In honor of #AAPIMonth, which is observed throughout the month of May, we are featuring stories of DA employees, what inspired them to pursue a career in public service and their contributions at the DA's Office. 

Meet Legal Support Manager Maria Garlejo, who has been with the DA’s Office for 18 years.  She began her career in the office as an Intermediate Clerk in our North County Branch, then she transferred to the Hall of Justice in 2021 when she promoted to Legal Support Supervisor II in the Superior Court Division – Records Unit. As a supervisor she led a team of 8-10 support staff; Office Assistants, Legal Support Assistants, and Student Workers, and provided training for each desk in the unit. She made sure to motivate staff to always do their best in their assignments and encouraged professional growth. Just recently, Maria was promoted to Legal Support Manager. “I am very excited to start this new chapter and opportunity in my career with the DA’s office,” she said. 

When she’s not busy working, you might see her spending a lot of time at Disneyland, because she loves “Disney and Mickey Mouse! I have an annual pass and go to Disneyland twice a month with my boys. Thankfully, they too love going and are not getting tired of it.” 

Read more about what inspired Maria to pursue a career at the DA’s Office, below.

What inspired you to pursue a career in public service? 
“I started at a younger age and honestly at the time, I did not know much about the District Attorney’s office. This was the first department in the County of San Diego to offer me an interview. Other departments offered me positions but it was our office that captured my interest. As my time in the DA’s office grew, I have learned to understand so much about how the justice system is important to the public in pursuing justice and helping victims. I am proud of what the DA’s Office stands for and honored to be part of the DA family. “

Why is AAPI Month important to you?
(CONTINUED IN THE COMMENTS)
Today we announce a major victory for crime victim Today we announce a major victory for crime victims, public safety, and due process! 

The California Office of Administrative Law (OAL) has granted a petition filed by the San Diego DA’s Office, striking down a controversial policy by the California Board of Parole Hearings (BPH) that banned the submission of crime scene and autopsy photographs in parole hearings.

Based on a petition submitted by the District Attorney’s Office, the OAL determined that the Board’s policy—enacted without public input or proper regulatory procedure—constituted an illegal “underground regulation” under California’s Administrative Procedure Act. The ruling requires the Board to cease enforcement of the policy and to follow formal rulemaking procedures if it wishes to pursue any similar restrictions in the future.

“This is a huge win for justice, transparency, and for every crime victim and family who deserves to have their voices heard and the full truth of a crime considered in parole decisions,” said DA Stephan. “The Board’s attempt to erase the harsh realities of violent crimes from parole hearings was not only improper—it was a disservice to public safety and victims’ rights. We’re proud to have stood up for what’s right, and we thank the OAL for correcting the Board’s procedure.”

The now-invalidated policy prohibited prosecutors, victims, and other stakeholders from submitting photographs that the Board deemed “graphic,” including crime scene and autopsy photos. The DA’s Office argued that these images are vital for parole board commissioners to fully understand the nature and impact of crimes and to evaluate an inmate’s credibility and insight. The OAL’s decision reaffirms that all relevant, reliable evidence must be considered in parole proceedings.

In its petition, the DA included legal arguments, examples of hearings where such photos were instrumental, and public outcry from victims and their families who were denied the ability to submit these materials. The specific cases cited included:
(CONTINUED IN THE COMMENTS)
 
EN ESPAÑOL: https://danewscenter.com/?p=8677
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