In June of 2005, Jeffrey Lockwood had no record, no priors. According to his mother, Tammy Lockwood, he had never even seen the inside of the principal’s office in school. He went to high school in Woodland and was a baseball star. But his life would change forever when he went to party at a friend’s house.
It was there that he allegedly took a female that he only knew from one class upstairs into a closet and fondled her. Then he supposedly took her to another bedroom and had sex with her.
He denies both actions. Witnesses at the party deny both actions. According to his mother even the DNA evidence suggests that it was not him. Nevertheless, the girl accused him of rape.
According to his grandfather, the rape case would have been resolved if he had pled guilty to “consensual sex with a minor less than three years younger,” however the young Mr. Lockwood insisted that he had never touched the girl and the case went to trial. The girl was just under 18 and Mr. Lockwood was just over 18.
In that case, he was represented by Bob Blasier, renowned defense attorney who had worked on the OJ Simpson Dream Team in 1995. Despite not being able to introduce key evidence showing the girl had used sex issues in the past when she was mad at someone, including a sexual harassment charge against a fellow student that result in that student being expelled from school for six months, Mr. Blasier nearly was able to get Mr. Lockwood acquitted.
According to Mr. Blasier and the family, the jury deadlocked 9-3 with the 9 favoring acquittal.
The district attorney involved in this case tells a different story, according to Steve Mount, the jury indeed reached a 9-3 verdict, but it was really 3 to 3 with six others in the middle realizing that it was hopelessly deadlocked they apparently agreed to hang and all voted against the verdict. Those familiar with such cases were skeptical of Mr. Mount’s claim, nevertheless, Steve Mount made it clear that this case will be revisited.
Unfortunately for Jeff Lockwood this was not the end of his dilemma but simply the beginning.
Three weeks after the rape incident allegedly occurred, Mr. Lockwood was drving to Gamestop in Woodland with a friend who was perhaps more of an acquaintance, Dennis Pineda. When they arrived at the Gamestop, Mr. Lockwood saw the contents of the bag. Apparently they belonged to the brother of Mr. Pineda.
However, once Mr. Lockwood helped Mr. Pineda carry the bags into the store he became involved in the situation despite immediately going back outside, something that was caught on the video tape. Upon being questioned by the Woodland Police Department, Mr. Lockwood admitted that he had helped to carry the stuff into the store even after learning that it was stolen. The officer told him that his story matched what they saw on the video, but he would probably be charged with receiving stolen property, a misdemeanor.
However Deputy DA Steve Mount made a deal with Pineda and he received six months probation for the burglary despite a fairly lengthy record and Mr. Lockwood only having the pending rape charge. According to both the family and their attorney, Pineda told several different conflicting stories to the police and the court.
Nevertheless, Jeff Lockwood was charged with felony burglary since he had allegedly taken the Playstation from Pineda’s brother’s house. This despite the fact that the only evidence tying Mr. Lockwood to the house was the testimony of Mr. Pineda. There was no physical evidence that Mr. Lockwood had ever set foot in the house.
The worst part for the Lockwood family is that during the course of financing Jeff Lockwood’s defense during the rape trial, his mother mortgaged her house. They paid out over $100,000 in legal expenses, an amount not dissimilar to what the Buzayans had to pay. In short, they simply ran out of money to pay for Jeff Lockwood’s defense. So for the burglary charge, they were represented not by Bob Blasier but by the Yolo County Public Defender.
Because the burglary charge is a felony and deemed a serious charge, it carries with it a mandatory sentence of seven years in prison of which he can serve no less than 85%. The value of the Playstation was deemed to be less than $100.
On Friday of last week, Jeff Lockwood was found guilty of first degree burglary. He has been remanded into custody in Monroe detention Center, where he is being housed in the section with the most violent inmates, since he is listed as a sexual offender, despite the fact that he was never convicted of the rape charge. He resides next to the man who is on trial for killing the California Highway Patrol Officer.
There are a number of aspects of this trial that are disturbing. Judge Johnson resided over both trials. Apparently during the first trial he made disparaging remarks about the defendant being a privileged high school baseball player. Despite these comments, he was allowed to preside over the second trial as well.
Furthermore the family alleges that when arrested Mr. Lockwood was questioned despite repeated requests for counsel. This they claim was caught on videotape.
The most troubling aspect is that had the family been able to retain the services of Bob Blasier, he likely never would have been convicted on the burglary charge. According to my sources, this particular Public Defender has a reputation for being a very poor defense attorney.
While Jeff Lockwood certainly was not blameless here. He used incredibly poor judgment in aiding Pineda with the stolen property, itself a misdemeanor. He probably chose poorly in who he associated himself with. However, he also does not deserve to face at least 7 years in prison and possibly 13 years total if they get a conviction when Steve Mount retries the rape trial.
Nevertheless, this appear to be yet another case of overzealous prosecution by the Yolo County District Attorney’s office. When I spoke to Deputy DA Steve Mount, he told me since this was still ongoing he could not speak to the specifics of the case.
What I want to ask is why he decided to charge Mr. Lockwood for first degree burglary rather than plea down to possession of stolen property, a misdemeanor. And second, I really want to know what the community interest is in sending a young person to prison for seven years for stealing less than $100 worth of property.
Finally, to this community, I wonder how many more of these cases there actually are. Since I began this blog a year and a half ago, more and more people have come forth with simply mind boggling stories about the way this District Attorney’s office handles itself. The unfortunate thing about it is that even if you are innocent and you lack the resources, they will eventually wear you down. And once you end up in the Public Defender’s office, things can go either way.
—Doug Paul Davis reporting
For clarification, I assume the stolen property was taken to the store with the intention of selling it to the store. It appears that Mr. Peneda was the person involved in the transaction inside the store and was the person who handed money for the property.
I have heard it costs $30K to $40K per year to incarcerate a person. So the DA thinks it is perfectly ok to spend (waste) $180K to $280K of taxpayers dollars over a $100 playstation. The next thing we will hear is that the jail needs to be expanded.
The DA’s office has way too much time one it’s hands. I have said this before – reduce the size of the DA’s staff and force them to prioritize their work. Also remind them that the overall goal is justice, not their personal win/loss record. sah
For clarification, I assume the stolen property was taken to the store with the intention of selling it to the store. It appears that Mr. Peneda was the person involved in the transaction inside the store and was the person who handed money for the property.
I have heard it costs $30K to $40K per year to incarcerate a person. So the DA thinks it is perfectly ok to spend (waste) $180K to $280K of taxpayers dollars over a $100 playstation. The next thing we will hear is that the jail needs to be expanded.
The DA’s office has way too much time one it’s hands. I have said this before – reduce the size of the DA’s staff and force them to prioritize their work. Also remind them that the overall goal is justice, not their personal win/loss record. sah
For clarification, I assume the stolen property was taken to the store with the intention of selling it to the store. It appears that Mr. Peneda was the person involved in the transaction inside the store and was the person who handed money for the property.
I have heard it costs $30K to $40K per year to incarcerate a person. So the DA thinks it is perfectly ok to spend (waste) $180K to $280K of taxpayers dollars over a $100 playstation. The next thing we will hear is that the jail needs to be expanded.
The DA’s office has way too much time one it’s hands. I have said this before – reduce the size of the DA’s staff and force them to prioritize their work. Also remind them that the overall goal is justice, not their personal win/loss record. sah
For clarification, I assume the stolen property was taken to the store with the intention of selling it to the store. It appears that Mr. Peneda was the person involved in the transaction inside the store and was the person who handed money for the property.
I have heard it costs $30K to $40K per year to incarcerate a person. So the DA thinks it is perfectly ok to spend (waste) $180K to $280K of taxpayers dollars over a $100 playstation. The next thing we will hear is that the jail needs to be expanded.
The DA’s office has way too much time one it’s hands. I have said this before – reduce the size of the DA’s staff and force them to prioritize their work. Also remind them that the overall goal is justice, not their personal win/loss record. sah
It is sickening to find that a kid with no criminal history has his life ruined by a girl who uses sex as a weapon but is not held accountable for that by the judge who knows better; an overzealous DA who is trying to impress his new boss who is likewise overzealous and neither uses common sense nor has a sense of justice; a criminal who used the kid to facilitate a crime then turns on the kid to save himself and the DA is happily willing to let the criminal get off lightly to ruin another kid’s life.
Sure, hold this kid accountable but serve justice while you do it – this is misdemeanor behavior.
The judge, DA, Steve Mount, the Public Defender, the girl and the “friend” should be ashamed of themselves. How sickening.
It is sickening to find that a kid with no criminal history has his life ruined by a girl who uses sex as a weapon but is not held accountable for that by the judge who knows better; an overzealous DA who is trying to impress his new boss who is likewise overzealous and neither uses common sense nor has a sense of justice; a criminal who used the kid to facilitate a crime then turns on the kid to save himself and the DA is happily willing to let the criminal get off lightly to ruin another kid’s life.
Sure, hold this kid accountable but serve justice while you do it – this is misdemeanor behavior.
The judge, DA, Steve Mount, the Public Defender, the girl and the “friend” should be ashamed of themselves. How sickening.
It is sickening to find that a kid with no criminal history has his life ruined by a girl who uses sex as a weapon but is not held accountable for that by the judge who knows better; an overzealous DA who is trying to impress his new boss who is likewise overzealous and neither uses common sense nor has a sense of justice; a criminal who used the kid to facilitate a crime then turns on the kid to save himself and the DA is happily willing to let the criminal get off lightly to ruin another kid’s life.
Sure, hold this kid accountable but serve justice while you do it – this is misdemeanor behavior.
The judge, DA, Steve Mount, the Public Defender, the girl and the “friend” should be ashamed of themselves. How sickening.
It is sickening to find that a kid with no criminal history has his life ruined by a girl who uses sex as a weapon but is not held accountable for that by the judge who knows better; an overzealous DA who is trying to impress his new boss who is likewise overzealous and neither uses common sense nor has a sense of justice; a criminal who used the kid to facilitate a crime then turns on the kid to save himself and the DA is happily willing to let the criminal get off lightly to ruin another kid’s life.
Sure, hold this kid accountable but serve justice while you do it – this is misdemeanor behavior.
The judge, DA, Steve Mount, the Public Defender, the girl and the “friend” should be ashamed of themselves. How sickening.
Isn’t it sad that a family paid $100K for a defense attorney who couldn’t/wouldn’t finish the job of defending this child? (Does GREED sound like the right term?) That a girl can possibly do this much damage with impunity because the DA’s office has an ax to grind? There’s something wrong with this system. Terribly wrong.
Thanks DPD for keeping stories like this in the public eye. It’s the only way we’ll be able to make wrong things right…
Isn’t it sad that a family paid $100K for a defense attorney who couldn’t/wouldn’t finish the job of defending this child? (Does GREED sound like the right term?) That a girl can possibly do this much damage with impunity because the DA’s office has an ax to grind? There’s something wrong with this system. Terribly wrong.
Thanks DPD for keeping stories like this in the public eye. It’s the only way we’ll be able to make wrong things right…
Isn’t it sad that a family paid $100K for a defense attorney who couldn’t/wouldn’t finish the job of defending this child? (Does GREED sound like the right term?) That a girl can possibly do this much damage with impunity because the DA’s office has an ax to grind? There’s something wrong with this system. Terribly wrong.
Thanks DPD for keeping stories like this in the public eye. It’s the only way we’ll be able to make wrong things right…
Isn’t it sad that a family paid $100K for a defense attorney who couldn’t/wouldn’t finish the job of defending this child? (Does GREED sound like the right term?) That a girl can possibly do this much damage with impunity because the DA’s office has an ax to grind? There’s something wrong with this system. Terribly wrong.
Thanks DPD for keeping stories like this in the public eye. It’s the only way we’ll be able to make wrong things right…
I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, this is a partisan and biased DA, who won with the full support of Rexroad. The only way we can fix our County is to clean hosue of all Republicans. Plain and simple.
I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, this is a partisan and biased DA, who won with the full support of Rexroad. The only way we can fix our County is to clean hosue of all Republicans. Plain and simple.
I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, this is a partisan and biased DA, who won with the full support of Rexroad. The only way we can fix our County is to clean hosue of all Republicans. Plain and simple.
I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, this is a partisan and biased DA, who won with the full support of Rexroad. The only way we can fix our County is to clean hosue of all Republicans. Plain and simple.
Correction:
The items that were taken were not a brother’s. The brother of Dennis actually worked with the brother of the victim. Not Pineda brother!
Lockwood was seen on the video carrying in the playstation not a bag. Dennis carried in the back pack.
It is to bad that as many murder trials that are currently going on in Woodland that we need to tie up the courts with a case such as this. It appears that because Mount did not win the Trial for rape that he is bound to see the kid do time for something that is why he is really pushing this. It is to bad that the Public Defender’s are so over loaded that they aren’t allowed to give the proper amount of time to cases therefore the District Attorney railroads cases and filling our Prison systems to overload with smaller cases. Yet the DA bargains down sentences or allows co- defendents for people who are involved in actual murder cases to go free to get convictions when all should do the time.
Correction:
The items that were taken were not a brother’s. The brother of Dennis actually worked with the brother of the victim. Not Pineda brother!
Lockwood was seen on the video carrying in the playstation not a bag. Dennis carried in the back pack.
It is to bad that as many murder trials that are currently going on in Woodland that we need to tie up the courts with a case such as this. It appears that because Mount did not win the Trial for rape that he is bound to see the kid do time for something that is why he is really pushing this. It is to bad that the Public Defender’s are so over loaded that they aren’t allowed to give the proper amount of time to cases therefore the District Attorney railroads cases and filling our Prison systems to overload with smaller cases. Yet the DA bargains down sentences or allows co- defendents for people who are involved in actual murder cases to go free to get convictions when all should do the time.
Correction:
The items that were taken were not a brother’s. The brother of Dennis actually worked with the brother of the victim. Not Pineda brother!
Lockwood was seen on the video carrying in the playstation not a bag. Dennis carried in the back pack.
It is to bad that as many murder trials that are currently going on in Woodland that we need to tie up the courts with a case such as this. It appears that because Mount did not win the Trial for rape that he is bound to see the kid do time for something that is why he is really pushing this. It is to bad that the Public Defender’s are so over loaded that they aren’t allowed to give the proper amount of time to cases therefore the District Attorney railroads cases and filling our Prison systems to overload with smaller cases. Yet the DA bargains down sentences or allows co- defendents for people who are involved in actual murder cases to go free to get convictions when all should do the time.
Correction:
The items that were taken were not a brother’s. The brother of Dennis actually worked with the brother of the victim. Not Pineda brother!
Lockwood was seen on the video carrying in the playstation not a bag. Dennis carried in the back pack.
It is to bad that as many murder trials that are currently going on in Woodland that we need to tie up the courts with a case such as this. It appears that because Mount did not win the Trial for rape that he is bound to see the kid do time for something that is why he is really pushing this. It is to bad that the Public Defender’s are so over loaded that they aren’t allowed to give the proper amount of time to cases therefore the District Attorney railroads cases and filling our Prison systems to overload with smaller cases. Yet the DA bargains down sentences or allows co- defendents for people who are involved in actual murder cases to go free to get convictions when all should do the time.
I wonder what kind of convoluted obfuscation candidate Saylor would offer to explain his past strong support for Reisig who, as his choice for Yolo DA, is now calling the shots.
I wonder what kind of convoluted obfuscation candidate Saylor would offer to explain his past strong support for Reisig who, as his choice for Yolo DA, is now calling the shots.
I wonder what kind of convoluted obfuscation candidate Saylor would offer to explain his past strong support for Reisig who, as his choice for Yolo DA, is now calling the shots.
I wonder what kind of convoluted obfuscation candidate Saylor would offer to explain his past strong support for Reisig who, as his choice for Yolo DA, is now calling the shots.
Curious 10:27 – When I read the article I thought about Jeff, his parents, and his grandparents. I was sad that this set of unfortunate incidents had come to the state it’s in. Obviously from your comments all you are thinking about is Saylor. Did you read the article or are you just waiting for any opportunity to slam Saylor? Just in case you are wondering, no, I will not be voting for Saylor.
Curious 10:27 – When I read the article I thought about Jeff, his parents, and his grandparents. I was sad that this set of unfortunate incidents had come to the state it’s in. Obviously from your comments all you are thinking about is Saylor. Did you read the article or are you just waiting for any opportunity to slam Saylor? Just in case you are wondering, no, I will not be voting for Saylor.
Curious 10:27 – When I read the article I thought about Jeff, his parents, and his grandparents. I was sad that this set of unfortunate incidents had come to the state it’s in. Obviously from your comments all you are thinking about is Saylor. Did you read the article or are you just waiting for any opportunity to slam Saylor? Just in case you are wondering, no, I will not be voting for Saylor.
Curious 10:27 – When I read the article I thought about Jeff, his parents, and his grandparents. I was sad that this set of unfortunate incidents had come to the state it’s in. Obviously from your comments all you are thinking about is Saylor. Did you read the article or are you just waiting for any opportunity to slam Saylor? Just in case you are wondering, no, I will not be voting for Saylor.
Apparently, a jury unanimously agreed that Mr. Lockwood broke into a private residence with the intent of stealing property. I agree that the value of the item he stole was quite small. But it’s not too hard to understand that the real crime is breaking into someone’s house with the intent to steal. How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?
In case you don’t know why this a “first degree burglary,” look at this site:
“BURGLARY
The definition of burglary varies according to where you live, but in most states, it is a felony. Generally speaking, burglary is the act of entering into a building with the intention of stealing property or committing another felony. A burglary conviction can result in incarceration, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record.
California Burglary Law
Under California law (Penal Code Section 459), entering into a building with the intent to commit a theft or some other felony is classified as Burglary. First Degree Burglary is often referred to as Residential Burglary. First Degree burglary includes a home, attached garage, boat, floating home, trailer, railroad car, aircraft, warehouse or the inhabited portion of a building. The theft or other felony does not have to be actually committed; only the entry with intent to commit the theft or the felony has to be proved. First Degree Burglary is considered a serious felony and a “Strike” in California. All other burglaries of cars and businesses are classified as Second Degree Burglary. These auto or commercial burglaries of a store or auto are charged as misdemeanors but can be charged as a felony. Second Degree Burglary is often charged in connection with shoplifting charges. Second Degree Commercial Burglary can be charged if a shoplifter is caught with scissors or some cutting tool used to remove price tags.
BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered. First Degree Burglary is also a “Strike” under California’s “Three Strikes and You’re Out” Law. What this means is that if you commit any other felony (including some minor drug offenses and felony petty theft) in the future, your sentence on the new case is doubled.”
Apparently, a jury unanimously agreed that Mr. Lockwood broke into a private residence with the intent of stealing property. I agree that the value of the item he stole was quite small. But it’s not too hard to understand that the real crime is breaking into someone’s house with the intent to steal. How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?
In case you don’t know why this a “first degree burglary,” look at this site:
“BURGLARY
The definition of burglary varies according to where you live, but in most states, it is a felony. Generally speaking, burglary is the act of entering into a building with the intention of stealing property or committing another felony. A burglary conviction can result in incarceration, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record.
California Burglary Law
Under California law (Penal Code Section 459), entering into a building with the intent to commit a theft or some other felony is classified as Burglary. First Degree Burglary is often referred to as Residential Burglary. First Degree burglary includes a home, attached garage, boat, floating home, trailer, railroad car, aircraft, warehouse or the inhabited portion of a building. The theft or other felony does not have to be actually committed; only the entry with intent to commit the theft or the felony has to be proved. First Degree Burglary is considered a serious felony and a “Strike” in California. All other burglaries of cars and businesses are classified as Second Degree Burglary. These auto or commercial burglaries of a store or auto are charged as misdemeanors but can be charged as a felony. Second Degree Burglary is often charged in connection with shoplifting charges. Second Degree Commercial Burglary can be charged if a shoplifter is caught with scissors or some cutting tool used to remove price tags.
BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered. First Degree Burglary is also a “Strike” under California’s “Three Strikes and You’re Out” Law. What this means is that if you commit any other felony (including some minor drug offenses and felony petty theft) in the future, your sentence on the new case is doubled.”
Apparently, a jury unanimously agreed that Mr. Lockwood broke into a private residence with the intent of stealing property. I agree that the value of the item he stole was quite small. But it’s not too hard to understand that the real crime is breaking into someone’s house with the intent to steal. How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?
In case you don’t know why this a “first degree burglary,” look at this site:
“BURGLARY
The definition of burglary varies according to where you live, but in most states, it is a felony. Generally speaking, burglary is the act of entering into a building with the intention of stealing property or committing another felony. A burglary conviction can result in incarceration, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record.
California Burglary Law
Under California law (Penal Code Section 459), entering into a building with the intent to commit a theft or some other felony is classified as Burglary. First Degree Burglary is often referred to as Residential Burglary. First Degree burglary includes a home, attached garage, boat, floating home, trailer, railroad car, aircraft, warehouse or the inhabited portion of a building. The theft or other felony does not have to be actually committed; only the entry with intent to commit the theft or the felony has to be proved. First Degree Burglary is considered a serious felony and a “Strike” in California. All other burglaries of cars and businesses are classified as Second Degree Burglary. These auto or commercial burglaries of a store or auto are charged as misdemeanors but can be charged as a felony. Second Degree Burglary is often charged in connection with shoplifting charges. Second Degree Commercial Burglary can be charged if a shoplifter is caught with scissors or some cutting tool used to remove price tags.
BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered. First Degree Burglary is also a “Strike” under California’s “Three Strikes and You’re Out” Law. What this means is that if you commit any other felony (including some minor drug offenses and felony petty theft) in the future, your sentence on the new case is doubled.”
Apparently, a jury unanimously agreed that Mr. Lockwood broke into a private residence with the intent of stealing property. I agree that the value of the item he stole was quite small. But it’s not too hard to understand that the real crime is breaking into someone’s house with the intent to steal. How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?
In case you don’t know why this a “first degree burglary,” look at this site:
“BURGLARY
The definition of burglary varies according to where you live, but in most states, it is a felony. Generally speaking, burglary is the act of entering into a building with the intention of stealing property or committing another felony. A burglary conviction can result in incarceration, significant fines, and a permanent criminal record.
California Burglary Law
Under California law (Penal Code Section 459), entering into a building with the intent to commit a theft or some other felony is classified as Burglary. First Degree Burglary is often referred to as Residential Burglary. First Degree burglary includes a home, attached garage, boat, floating home, trailer, railroad car, aircraft, warehouse or the inhabited portion of a building. The theft or other felony does not have to be actually committed; only the entry with intent to commit the theft or the felony has to be proved. First Degree Burglary is considered a serious felony and a “Strike” in California. All other burglaries of cars and businesses are classified as Second Degree Burglary. These auto or commercial burglaries of a store or auto are charged as misdemeanors but can be charged as a felony. Second Degree Burglary is often charged in connection with shoplifting charges. Second Degree Commercial Burglary can be charged if a shoplifter is caught with scissors or some cutting tool used to remove price tags.
BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered. First Degree Burglary is also a “Strike” under California’s “Three Strikes and You’re Out” Law. What this means is that if you commit any other felony (including some minor drug offenses and felony petty theft) in the future, your sentence on the new case is doubled.”
A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in. The question is whether he got proper representation by the public defender. The only evidence was the word of the other thief whose story changed several times. I’m uncertain why a jury reached that verdict, but those are the facts as I know them.
A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in. The question is whether he got proper representation by the public defender. The only evidence was the word of the other thief whose story changed several times. I’m uncertain why a jury reached that verdict, but those are the facts as I know them.
A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in. The question is whether he got proper representation by the public defender. The only evidence was the word of the other thief whose story changed several times. I’m uncertain why a jury reached that verdict, but those are the facts as I know them.
A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in. The question is whether he got proper representation by the public defender. The only evidence was the word of the other thief whose story changed several times. I’m uncertain why a jury reached that verdict, but those are the facts as I know them.
“How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?”
I would not like it if he broke into my home. I don’t know that he broke into the home or alleged to have. However, if he stole my game, I would be far more upset that he would face seven years in prison for that crime. I wouldn’t like that he committed it, but I would be outraged that that was the sentence. As far as I’m concerned that would be a probation offense not a prison sentence and I have had people break into my home before.
“How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?”
I would not like it if he broke into my home. I don’t know that he broke into the home or alleged to have. However, if he stole my game, I would be far more upset that he would face seven years in prison for that crime. I wouldn’t like that he committed it, but I would be outraged that that was the sentence. As far as I’m concerned that would be a probation offense not a prison sentence and I have had people break into my home before.
“How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?”
I would not like it if he broke into my home. I don’t know that he broke into the home or alleged to have. However, if he stole my game, I would be far more upset that he would face seven years in prison for that crime. I wouldn’t like that he committed it, but I would be outraged that that was the sentence. As far as I’m concerned that would be a probation offense not a prison sentence and I have had people break into my home before.
“How would you feel if Mr. Lockwood broke into your home in order to steal from you?”
I would not like it if he broke into my home. I don’t know that he broke into the home or alleged to have. However, if he stole my game, I would be far more upset that he would face seven years in prison for that crime. I wouldn’t like that he committed it, but I would be outraged that that was the sentence. As far as I’m concerned that would be a probation offense not a prison sentence and I have had people break into my home before.
“BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered.”
In this case, he got county jail but seven years – why not 2,4 or 6 years? Even two years sound highs for a first time offender.
The apparent problems with this case are
-the excessive length of the sentence
and
-the deputy DA seemed to be motivated out of retaliation over losing the earlier case
I agree with an earlier post. If two people are involved in a crime both people should pay for it. The idea of using one suspect against another to enhance the possibility of winning a conviction just does not seem right. The Yolo DA uses this approach far too often. Is a half win more important than possibly losing a case or are they just too lazy to do the right thing? sah
“BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered.”
In this case, he got county jail but seven years – why not 2,4 or 6 years? Even two years sound highs for a first time offender.
The apparent problems with this case are
-the excessive length of the sentence
and
-the deputy DA seemed to be motivated out of retaliation over losing the earlier case
I agree with an earlier post. If two people are involved in a crime both people should pay for it. The idea of using one suspect against another to enhance the possibility of winning a conviction just does not seem right. The Yolo DA uses this approach far too often. Is a half win more important than possibly losing a case or are they just too lazy to do the right thing? sah
“BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered.”
In this case, he got county jail but seven years – why not 2,4 or 6 years? Even two years sound highs for a first time offender.
The apparent problems with this case are
-the excessive length of the sentence
and
-the deputy DA seemed to be motivated out of retaliation over losing the earlier case
I agree with an earlier post. If two people are involved in a crime both people should pay for it. The idea of using one suspect against another to enhance the possibility of winning a conviction just does not seem right. The Yolo DA uses this approach far too often. Is a half win more important than possibly losing a case or are they just too lazy to do the right thing? sah
“BURGLARY PENALTIES
First Degree Burglary is punishable by 2, 4 or 6 years in a state prison except in very unusual cases where probation and county jail are ordered.”
In this case, he got county jail but seven years – why not 2,4 or 6 years? Even two years sound highs for a first time offender.
The apparent problems with this case are
-the excessive length of the sentence
and
-the deputy DA seemed to be motivated out of retaliation over losing the earlier case
I agree with an earlier post. If two people are involved in a crime both people should pay for it. The idea of using one suspect against another to enhance the possibility of winning a conviction just does not seem right. The Yolo DA uses this approach far too often. Is a half win more important than possibly losing a case or are they just too lazy to do the right thing? sah
If the DA had not had not out and out lied regarding Jeff. Stating that, “ON the stand Jeff lied in the other trial. When Jeff never took the stand at all in the first case, then maybe the jury would no have found him guilty. The fact is that our system sucks when the DA can ruin a persons character making false statements and the court finds that okay. Yet he can continue to call the defendant a liar and fabricate that he took the stand when in fact he did not. I don’t believe that Mr. Lockwood should get off scott free but for crying out loud the time he is looking at is rediculess. Mr Mount needs to get a grip run for the senate and join the rest of the liars he will fit right in and make a name for his self with out screwing up a young mans life forever.
If the DA had not had not out and out lied regarding Jeff. Stating that, “ON the stand Jeff lied in the other trial. When Jeff never took the stand at all in the first case, then maybe the jury would no have found him guilty. The fact is that our system sucks when the DA can ruin a persons character making false statements and the court finds that okay. Yet he can continue to call the defendant a liar and fabricate that he took the stand when in fact he did not. I don’t believe that Mr. Lockwood should get off scott free but for crying out loud the time he is looking at is rediculess. Mr Mount needs to get a grip run for the senate and join the rest of the liars he will fit right in and make a name for his self with out screwing up a young mans life forever.
If the DA had not had not out and out lied regarding Jeff. Stating that, “ON the stand Jeff lied in the other trial. When Jeff never took the stand at all in the first case, then maybe the jury would no have found him guilty. The fact is that our system sucks when the DA can ruin a persons character making false statements and the court finds that okay. Yet he can continue to call the defendant a liar and fabricate that he took the stand when in fact he did not. I don’t believe that Mr. Lockwood should get off scott free but for crying out loud the time he is looking at is rediculess. Mr Mount needs to get a grip run for the senate and join the rest of the liars he will fit right in and make a name for his self with out screwing up a young mans life forever.
If the DA had not had not out and out lied regarding Jeff. Stating that, “ON the stand Jeff lied in the other trial. When Jeff never took the stand at all in the first case, then maybe the jury would no have found him guilty. The fact is that our system sucks when the DA can ruin a persons character making false statements and the court finds that okay. Yet he can continue to call the defendant a liar and fabricate that he took the stand when in fact he did not. I don’t believe that Mr. Lockwood should get off scott free but for crying out loud the time he is looking at is rediculess. Mr Mount needs to get a grip run for the senate and join the rest of the liars he will fit right in and make a name for his self with out screwing up a young mans life forever.
Miss Understanding the Law?
I thought that the defendent’s attorney has the right to excuse a judge once without giving reason. Is this true?
Miss Understanding the Law?
I thought that the defendent’s attorney has the right to excuse a judge once without giving reason. Is this true?
Miss Understanding the Law?
I thought that the defendent’s attorney has the right to excuse a judge once without giving reason. Is this true?
Miss Understanding the Law?
I thought that the defendent’s attorney has the right to excuse a judge once without giving reason. Is this true?
One of the problems with hanging out with thieves is you might get charged and even convicted of stuff they did, because they also tend to lie. So you choose your friends more carefully, especially when you already have a criminal complaint hanging over you.
I gather you assume the Yolo County public defenders are incompetent? A jury found him guilty.
One of the problems with hanging out with thieves is you might get charged and even convicted of stuff they did, because they also tend to lie. So you choose your friends more carefully, especially when you already have a criminal complaint hanging over you.
I gather you assume the Yolo County public defenders are incompetent? A jury found him guilty.
One of the problems with hanging out with thieves is you might get charged and even convicted of stuff they did, because they also tend to lie. So you choose your friends more carefully, especially when you already have a criminal complaint hanging over you.
I gather you assume the Yolo County public defenders are incompetent? A jury found him guilty.
One of the problems with hanging out with thieves is you might get charged and even convicted of stuff they did, because they also tend to lie. So you choose your friends more carefully, especially when you already have a criminal complaint hanging over you.
I gather you assume the Yolo County public defenders are incompetent? A jury found him guilty.
When you fail to challenge key evidence, it becomes difficult for a jury to do anything but find guilt.
I think Jeff and the family would acknowledge it was very poor judgment. Can you legitimately argue that this should be a felony and he should got to jail for seven years?
When you fail to challenge key evidence, it becomes difficult for a jury to do anything but find guilt.
I think Jeff and the family would acknowledge it was very poor judgment. Can you legitimately argue that this should be a felony and he should got to jail for seven years?
When you fail to challenge key evidence, it becomes difficult for a jury to do anything but find guilt.
I think Jeff and the family would acknowledge it was very poor judgment. Can you legitimately argue that this should be a felony and he should got to jail for seven years?
When you fail to challenge key evidence, it becomes difficult for a jury to do anything but find guilt.
I think Jeff and the family would acknowledge it was very poor judgment. Can you legitimately argue that this should be a felony and he should got to jail for seven years?
Last year a group of De Anza Junior College baseball players were accused of rape at a party. The DA took a very long look at the allegations and determined the charges were not supported by the facts of the case. There was sex but there was no rape. The DA,a woman, was severely chastised by womens groups who wanted vengence regardless of the evidence. The DA took the high road and dismised the case.
No such thing would happen in Yolo County.
Last year a group of De Anza Junior College baseball players were accused of rape at a party. The DA took a very long look at the allegations and determined the charges were not supported by the facts of the case. There was sex but there was no rape. The DA,a woman, was severely chastised by womens groups who wanted vengence regardless of the evidence. The DA took the high road and dismised the case.
No such thing would happen in Yolo County.
Last year a group of De Anza Junior College baseball players were accused of rape at a party. The DA took a very long look at the allegations and determined the charges were not supported by the facts of the case. There was sex but there was no rape. The DA,a woman, was severely chastised by womens groups who wanted vengence regardless of the evidence. The DA took the high road and dismised the case.
No such thing would happen in Yolo County.
Last year a group of De Anza Junior College baseball players were accused of rape at a party. The DA took a very long look at the allegations and determined the charges were not supported by the facts of the case. There was sex but there was no rape. The DA,a woman, was severely chastised by womens groups who wanted vengence regardless of the evidence. The DA took the high road and dismised the case.
No such thing would happen in Yolo County.
I have more questions than answers after reading this article.
1) We have only heard one side – the defendent’s story.
2) It is important for the male of the species to keep their pants zipped, because not to do so puts them at great risk.
3) Sentencing has become almost an art form, with vastly differing results that outwardly seem inconsistent.
4) It is important to start teaching teens that associating with the wrong person can lead to an arrest.
5) We have youngsters with far too much time on their hands, and no supervision – which can lead to some unintended consequences.
I honestly have no opinion on whether this young man’s sentence was just or not. We are only hearing his side; he clearly made very unwise choices; why wasn’t he at work or school?
Was the DA overzealous for personal reasons? I honestly don’t know. My feeling is that I am not aware of enough of the FACTS in this case to want to pass judgment on either side. As I said, I have more questions than answers…
I do know that the DA professes to be concerned about truant youths, because often youngsters seem to end up in trouble with the law. It would seem to me a strong effort should be made by the DA/public schools to have all teens take a class in “HOW TO STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW 101”. Teens can be extremely naive and easily led down the garden path to destruction.
I have more questions than answers after reading this article.
1) We have only heard one side – the defendent’s story.
2) It is important for the male of the species to keep their pants zipped, because not to do so puts them at great risk.
3) Sentencing has become almost an art form, with vastly differing results that outwardly seem inconsistent.
4) It is important to start teaching teens that associating with the wrong person can lead to an arrest.
5) We have youngsters with far too much time on their hands, and no supervision – which can lead to some unintended consequences.
I honestly have no opinion on whether this young man’s sentence was just or not. We are only hearing his side; he clearly made very unwise choices; why wasn’t he at work or school?
Was the DA overzealous for personal reasons? I honestly don’t know. My feeling is that I am not aware of enough of the FACTS in this case to want to pass judgment on either side. As I said, I have more questions than answers…
I do know that the DA professes to be concerned about truant youths, because often youngsters seem to end up in trouble with the law. It would seem to me a strong effort should be made by the DA/public schools to have all teens take a class in “HOW TO STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW 101”. Teens can be extremely naive and easily led down the garden path to destruction.
I have more questions than answers after reading this article.
1) We have only heard one side – the defendent’s story.
2) It is important for the male of the species to keep their pants zipped, because not to do so puts them at great risk.
3) Sentencing has become almost an art form, with vastly differing results that outwardly seem inconsistent.
4) It is important to start teaching teens that associating with the wrong person can lead to an arrest.
5) We have youngsters with far too much time on their hands, and no supervision – which can lead to some unintended consequences.
I honestly have no opinion on whether this young man’s sentence was just or not. We are only hearing his side; he clearly made very unwise choices; why wasn’t he at work or school?
Was the DA overzealous for personal reasons? I honestly don’t know. My feeling is that I am not aware of enough of the FACTS in this case to want to pass judgment on either side. As I said, I have more questions than answers…
I do know that the DA professes to be concerned about truant youths, because often youngsters seem to end up in trouble with the law. It would seem to me a strong effort should be made by the DA/public schools to have all teens take a class in “HOW TO STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW 101”. Teens can be extremely naive and easily led down the garden path to destruction.
I have more questions than answers after reading this article.
1) We have only heard one side – the defendent’s story.
2) It is important for the male of the species to keep their pants zipped, because not to do so puts them at great risk.
3) Sentencing has become almost an art form, with vastly differing results that outwardly seem inconsistent.
4) It is important to start teaching teens that associating with the wrong person can lead to an arrest.
5) We have youngsters with far too much time on their hands, and no supervision – which can lead to some unintended consequences.
I honestly have no opinion on whether this young man’s sentence was just or not. We are only hearing his side; he clearly made very unwise choices; why wasn’t he at work or school?
Was the DA overzealous for personal reasons? I honestly don’t know. My feeling is that I am not aware of enough of the FACTS in this case to want to pass judgment on either side. As I said, I have more questions than answers…
I do know that the DA professes to be concerned about truant youths, because often youngsters seem to end up in trouble with the law. It would seem to me a strong effort should be made by the DA/public schools to have all teens take a class in “HOW TO STAY ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE LAW 101”. Teens can be extremely naive and easily led down the garden path to destruction.
“A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in.”
If that is the case, I stand corrected. Nevertheless, it appears that the jury believed that Mr. Lockwood entered that residence with the intent of stealing property. If he did that, that seems to me to be a serious offense.
I don’t know enough to pass any judgment on Mr. Lockwood, other than to note that the jury believed that the DA met the burden of proof of his guilt. It’s possible that they jury was incompetent, wrong or misled. I don’t know if that is the case.
BTW, I have spoken with our public defender, Barry Melton, a couple of times, and he struck me as a bright and competent person. I have also heard positive things about Mr. Melton from others in Yolo County. I would think that if one of his lieutenants was doing as bad a job as DPD says he was, Mr. Melton would remove that person.
“A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in.”
If that is the case, I stand corrected. Nevertheless, it appears that the jury believed that Mr. Lockwood entered that residence with the intent of stealing property. If he did that, that seems to me to be a serious offense.
I don’t know enough to pass any judgment on Mr. Lockwood, other than to note that the jury believed that the DA met the burden of proof of his guilt. It’s possible that they jury was incompetent, wrong or misled. I don’t know if that is the case.
BTW, I have spoken with our public defender, Barry Melton, a couple of times, and he struck me as a bright and competent person. I have also heard positive things about Mr. Melton from others in Yolo County. I would think that if one of his lieutenants was doing as bad a job as DPD says he was, Mr. Melton would remove that person.
“A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in.”
If that is the case, I stand corrected. Nevertheless, it appears that the jury believed that Mr. Lockwood entered that residence with the intent of stealing property. If he did that, that seems to me to be a serious offense.
I don’t know enough to pass any judgment on Mr. Lockwood, other than to note that the jury believed that the DA met the burden of proof of his guilt. It’s possible that they jury was incompetent, wrong or misled. I don’t know if that is the case.
BTW, I have spoken with our public defender, Barry Melton, a couple of times, and he struck me as a bright and competent person. I have also heard positive things about Mr. Melton from others in Yolo County. I would think that if one of his lieutenants was doing as bad a job as DPD says he was, Mr. Melton would remove that person.
“A jury agreed that he took something from a residence, there was never a claim made that he broke in.”
If that is the case, I stand corrected. Nevertheless, it appears that the jury believed that Mr. Lockwood entered that residence with the intent of stealing property. If he did that, that seems to me to be a serious offense.
I don’t know enough to pass any judgment on Mr. Lockwood, other than to note that the jury believed that the DA met the burden of proof of his guilt. It’s possible that they jury was incompetent, wrong or misled. I don’t know if that is the case.
BTW, I have spoken with our public defender, Barry Melton, a couple of times, and he struck me as a bright and competent person. I have also heard positive things about Mr. Melton from others in Yolo County. I would think that if one of his lieutenants was doing as bad a job as DPD says he was, Mr. Melton would remove that person.
I don’t know what the truth is, but I have a few questions. First, was Mr. Lockwood’s burglary offense committed when he was out on bail or released on his own recognizance? If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence. That might shed light on why the sentence is 7 years. Second, Mr. Lockwood commits the second act right after being a defendant in a rape trial? This calls into question the claim that this young man is the victim of an overzealous DA. It sounds like he’s more the victim of his own stupidity.
I wonder if a copy of the criminal complaints are public record. They might shed a little more light on this.
A jury of 12 convicted Mr. Lockwood – I believe a judge sentenced him. So, are they all wrong? Also, any members of the jury read the Vanguard? What say ye? There is a lot of speculation going on here – let’s get more facts.
I don’t know what the truth is, but I have a few questions. First, was Mr. Lockwood’s burglary offense committed when he was out on bail or released on his own recognizance? If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence. That might shed light on why the sentence is 7 years. Second, Mr. Lockwood commits the second act right after being a defendant in a rape trial? This calls into question the claim that this young man is the victim of an overzealous DA. It sounds like he’s more the victim of his own stupidity.
I wonder if a copy of the criminal complaints are public record. They might shed a little more light on this.
A jury of 12 convicted Mr. Lockwood – I believe a judge sentenced him. So, are they all wrong? Also, any members of the jury read the Vanguard? What say ye? There is a lot of speculation going on here – let’s get more facts.
I don’t know what the truth is, but I have a few questions. First, was Mr. Lockwood’s burglary offense committed when he was out on bail or released on his own recognizance? If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence. That might shed light on why the sentence is 7 years. Second, Mr. Lockwood commits the second act right after being a defendant in a rape trial? This calls into question the claim that this young man is the victim of an overzealous DA. It sounds like he’s more the victim of his own stupidity.
I wonder if a copy of the criminal complaints are public record. They might shed a little more light on this.
A jury of 12 convicted Mr. Lockwood – I believe a judge sentenced him. So, are they all wrong? Also, any members of the jury read the Vanguard? What say ye? There is a lot of speculation going on here – let’s get more facts.
I don’t know what the truth is, but I have a few questions. First, was Mr. Lockwood’s burglary offense committed when he was out on bail or released on his own recognizance? If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence. That might shed light on why the sentence is 7 years. Second, Mr. Lockwood commits the second act right after being a defendant in a rape trial? This calls into question the claim that this young man is the victim of an overzealous DA. It sounds like he’s more the victim of his own stupidity.
I wonder if a copy of the criminal complaints are public record. They might shed a little more light on this.
A jury of 12 convicted Mr. Lockwood – I believe a judge sentenced him. So, are they all wrong? Also, any members of the jury read the Vanguard? What say ye? There is a lot of speculation going on here – let’s get more facts.
Two points of clarification:
“If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence.”
This is correct that there could be an additional enhancement but talking to a former DA, it would require convictions on both cases.
Second point, there has not been a sentence, he faces a potential 7 year term according to all parties.
The judge has not sentenced him.
I understand people are inclined to agree with a seven member jury but remember what a jury hear is dependent on both the judge and the defense attorney. If the judge gives the prosecution wide berth, if the defense attorney does not object or get prejudicial remarks stricken, that can impact the jury. That’s what the family is claiming.
I really wish that Mr. Mount would have given their side, I understand why he didn’t. I don’t think a 7 year sentence is justified in a case like this–regardless of guilt. A misdemeanor, yes. Felony, I don’t think so. Especially since it was based on the testimony of the other kid who got a deal and gave conflicting statements.
Two points of clarification:
“If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence.”
This is correct that there could be an additional enhancement but talking to a former DA, it would require convictions on both cases.
Second point, there has not been a sentence, he faces a potential 7 year term according to all parties.
The judge has not sentenced him.
I understand people are inclined to agree with a seven member jury but remember what a jury hear is dependent on both the judge and the defense attorney. If the judge gives the prosecution wide berth, if the defense attorney does not object or get prejudicial remarks stricken, that can impact the jury. That’s what the family is claiming.
I really wish that Mr. Mount would have given their side, I understand why he didn’t. I don’t think a 7 year sentence is justified in a case like this–regardless of guilt. A misdemeanor, yes. Felony, I don’t think so. Especially since it was based on the testimony of the other kid who got a deal and gave conflicting statements.
Two points of clarification:
“If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence.”
This is correct that there could be an additional enhancement but talking to a former DA, it would require convictions on both cases.
Second point, there has not been a sentence, he faces a potential 7 year term according to all parties.
The judge has not sentenced him.
I understand people are inclined to agree with a seven member jury but remember what a jury hear is dependent on both the judge and the defense attorney. If the judge gives the prosecution wide berth, if the defense attorney does not object or get prejudicial remarks stricken, that can impact the jury. That’s what the family is claiming.
I really wish that Mr. Mount would have given their side, I understand why he didn’t. I don’t think a 7 year sentence is justified in a case like this–regardless of guilt. A misdemeanor, yes. Felony, I don’t think so. Especially since it was based on the testimony of the other kid who got a deal and gave conflicting statements.
Two points of clarification:
“If true, then there may have been an enhancement charged in the case and, if found to be true by the jury, could have resulted in additional time being added to the sentence.”
This is correct that there could be an additional enhancement but talking to a former DA, it would require convictions on both cases.
Second point, there has not been a sentence, he faces a potential 7 year term according to all parties.
The judge has not sentenced him.
I understand people are inclined to agree with a seven member jury but remember what a jury hear is dependent on both the judge and the defense attorney. If the judge gives the prosecution wide berth, if the defense attorney does not object or get prejudicial remarks stricken, that can impact the jury. That’s what the family is claiming.
I really wish that Mr. Mount would have given their side, I understand why he didn’t. I don’t think a 7 year sentence is justified in a case like this–regardless of guilt. A misdemeanor, yes. Felony, I don’t think so. Especially since it was based on the testimony of the other kid who got a deal and gave conflicting statements.
It is a travesty of Justice!!! It appears, unless Im wrong tha tthe same prosecutor and same judge tried both cases. How does the law protect the accused, who is supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, if the two cases are tried and heard by the same people. The advantage the prosecutor has in knowing the previous case has to be tothe disadvantage of the accused. And currently in the last months/years how many others have gone through this “cattle pen” and are behind bars somewhere suffereing the “ambience” of prison. Furthermore, to have a jury struggle to come to a verdict til the end is not uncommon, and it should be hailed tha tthe jury system works because they KNOW NOTHING except what is presented to them and they judge as individuals that some from different backgrounds and places in society. Some higher authority should look in to this and check it out carefully, maybe some people think they are above the law or at the least not looked at by anyone.
It is a travesty of Justice!!! It appears, unless Im wrong tha tthe same prosecutor and same judge tried both cases. How does the law protect the accused, who is supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, if the two cases are tried and heard by the same people. The advantage the prosecutor has in knowing the previous case has to be tothe disadvantage of the accused. And currently in the last months/years how many others have gone through this “cattle pen” and are behind bars somewhere suffereing the “ambience” of prison. Furthermore, to have a jury struggle to come to a verdict til the end is not uncommon, and it should be hailed tha tthe jury system works because they KNOW NOTHING except what is presented to them and they judge as individuals that some from different backgrounds and places in society. Some higher authority should look in to this and check it out carefully, maybe some people think they are above the law or at the least not looked at by anyone.
It is a travesty of Justice!!! It appears, unless Im wrong tha tthe same prosecutor and same judge tried both cases. How does the law protect the accused, who is supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, if the two cases are tried and heard by the same people. The advantage the prosecutor has in knowing the previous case has to be tothe disadvantage of the accused. And currently in the last months/years how many others have gone through this “cattle pen” and are behind bars somewhere suffereing the “ambience” of prison. Furthermore, to have a jury struggle to come to a verdict til the end is not uncommon, and it should be hailed tha tthe jury system works because they KNOW NOTHING except what is presented to them and they judge as individuals that some from different backgrounds and places in society. Some higher authority should look in to this and check it out carefully, maybe some people think they are above the law or at the least not looked at by anyone.
It is a travesty of Justice!!! It appears, unless Im wrong tha tthe same prosecutor and same judge tried both cases. How does the law protect the accused, who is supposed to be innocent until proven guilty, if the two cases are tried and heard by the same people. The advantage the prosecutor has in knowing the previous case has to be tothe disadvantage of the accused. And currently in the last months/years how many others have gone through this “cattle pen” and are behind bars somewhere suffereing the “ambience” of prison. Furthermore, to have a jury struggle to come to a verdict til the end is not uncommon, and it should be hailed tha tthe jury system works because they KNOW NOTHING except what is presented to them and they judge as individuals that some from different backgrounds and places in society. Some higher authority should look in to this and check it out carefully, maybe some people think they are above the law or at the least not looked at by anyone.
If you can’t afford to do the time, don’t do the crime.
Every criminal in jail will probably tell you — I DIDN’T DO IT (Scott Petersen?). Only one side of the story is represented here…and as we all no there is always more than one side.
If you can’t afford to do the time, don’t do the crime.
Every criminal in jail will probably tell you — I DIDN’T DO IT (Scott Petersen?). Only one side of the story is represented here…and as we all no there is always more than one side.
If you can’t afford to do the time, don’t do the crime.
Every criminal in jail will probably tell you — I DIDN’T DO IT (Scott Petersen?). Only one side of the story is represented here…and as we all no there is always more than one side.
If you can’t afford to do the time, don’t do the crime.
Every criminal in jail will probably tell you — I DIDN’T DO IT (Scott Petersen?). Only one side of the story is represented here…and as we all no there is always more than one side.
Another DPD, “throw out the statement and see what happens. The convicted, is most likely a liar. He did it and now claims circumstances.
Another DPD, “throw out the statement and see what happens. The convicted, is most likely a liar. He did it and now claims circumstances.
Another DPD, “throw out the statement and see what happens. The convicted, is most likely a liar. He did it and now claims circumstances.
Another DPD, “throw out the statement and see what happens. The convicted, is most likely a liar. He did it and now claims circumstances.
As someone who served on a criminal jury once, I would never place credence on a jury verdict. During the deliberations, the most common phrase I heard was “if they weren’t guilty, we wouldn’t be here.” In my limited experience, jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
As someone who served on a criminal jury once, I would never place credence on a jury verdict. During the deliberations, the most common phrase I heard was “if they weren’t guilty, we wouldn’t be here.” In my limited experience, jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
As someone who served on a criminal jury once, I would never place credence on a jury verdict. During the deliberations, the most common phrase I heard was “if they weren’t guilty, we wouldn’t be here.” In my limited experience, jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
As someone who served on a criminal jury once, I would never place credence on a jury verdict. During the deliberations, the most common phrase I heard was “if they weren’t guilty, we wouldn’t be here.” In my limited experience, jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
Court case information is public record. I found this on the Yolo Superior Court website:
http://www.yolo.courts.ca.gov/FAQ/
Yolo Superior Court, 725 Court Street RM. 111, Woodland, CA. 95695
(530) 406-6705
“Is my case information open or viewable to the public and what can they see?”
“Yes. Anyone can review a case that has been filed with the court. Viewable information includes the charging document, minutes of the court, reporter transcripts, sentencing information and various other documents and filings. Confidential information such as police reports, probation reports or any document deemed confidential under the law is not made available or viewable to the general public.”
Court case information is public record. I found this on the Yolo Superior Court website:
http://www.yolo.courts.ca.gov/FAQ/
Yolo Superior Court, 725 Court Street RM. 111, Woodland, CA. 95695
(530) 406-6705
“Is my case information open or viewable to the public and what can they see?”
“Yes. Anyone can review a case that has been filed with the court. Viewable information includes the charging document, minutes of the court, reporter transcripts, sentencing information and various other documents and filings. Confidential information such as police reports, probation reports or any document deemed confidential under the law is not made available or viewable to the general public.”
Court case information is public record. I found this on the Yolo Superior Court website:
http://www.yolo.courts.ca.gov/FAQ/
Yolo Superior Court, 725 Court Street RM. 111, Woodland, CA. 95695
(530) 406-6705
“Is my case information open or viewable to the public and what can they see?”
“Yes. Anyone can review a case that has been filed with the court. Viewable information includes the charging document, minutes of the court, reporter transcripts, sentencing information and various other documents and filings. Confidential information such as police reports, probation reports or any document deemed confidential under the law is not made available or viewable to the general public.”
Court case information is public record. I found this on the Yolo Superior Court website:
http://www.yolo.courts.ca.gov/FAQ/
Yolo Superior Court, 725 Court Street RM. 111, Woodland, CA. 95695
(530) 406-6705
“Is my case information open or viewable to the public and what can they see?”
“Yes. Anyone can review a case that has been filed with the court. Viewable information includes the charging document, minutes of the court, reporter transcripts, sentencing information and various other documents and filings. Confidential information such as police reports, probation reports or any document deemed confidential under the law is not made available or viewable to the general public.”
I did not read DPD to say Yolo County public defenders are incompetent. I understood him to say that this particular public defender did not do what he could have or should have to protect this young man.
And, Baretta, comparing this in any way to the Scott Peterson case is absurd.
I did not read DPD to say Yolo County public defenders are incompetent. I understood him to say that this particular public defender did not do what he could have or should have to protect this young man.
And, Baretta, comparing this in any way to the Scott Peterson case is absurd.
I did not read DPD to say Yolo County public defenders are incompetent. I understood him to say that this particular public defender did not do what he could have or should have to protect this young man.
And, Baretta, comparing this in any way to the Scott Peterson case is absurd.
I did not read DPD to say Yolo County public defenders are incompetent. I understood him to say that this particular public defender did not do what he could have or should have to protect this young man.
And, Baretta, comparing this in any way to the Scott Peterson case is absurd.
What is DA Mount suggesting reguarding the jury system “the part that is unbiased and heard carefully in attempts to judge based on evidence, is not there for either side nor for the defendant) When he said there were three and three and six in the middle? Is he suggesting that six orginally undecided jurers were coirsed to go against their conscience and cast their vote a certain way? What six strangers can anyone of us make to think our way just because. DA Mount, to suggest that that happened is treading on the most pure part of the court room process. All the rest of the players know some or much about the case. The jurers walk in in not knowing each other, not knowing the case, not knowing the accused, not knowing the evidence or who is going to testify PLUS they are not to discuss the case among themselves or to anyone else, not even their families and DA Mount wants to retry the Jeff Lockwood case again based on the fact six jurers made a decision. Surely, the jury did not have a “I want to get him” mentality that seems evident in DA Mount’s desire to retry the rape case again. Why? Is it because he succeeded to go tit for tat with Blasier “thats a feather in his cap”, or he thinks he can out perform a public defender handily, or he wants to hear again the titillating details of the rape case, or he has the mentality of the law enforcement officer in Victor Hugo’s LE MISERABLES book, who chased Jean Valjean all his life because he could not accept that Jean had been declared innocent, or he has chosen the young man Jeff as his first scape goat becuse he is on a career path LA-big-name-prosecutors, or is this man so hard hearted that all of the above suits him just fine, and he doesnt care that justice had her say already when 9 out of 12 jurors said, after careful deliberation, that Jeff was not proved guilty. There is something VERY wrong here. Folks, it doesnt smell good.
What is DA Mount suggesting reguarding the jury system “the part that is unbiased and heard carefully in attempts to judge based on evidence, is not there for either side nor for the defendant) When he said there were three and three and six in the middle? Is he suggesting that six orginally undecided jurers were coirsed to go against their conscience and cast their vote a certain way? What six strangers can anyone of us make to think our way just because. DA Mount, to suggest that that happened is treading on the most pure part of the court room process. All the rest of the players know some or much about the case. The jurers walk in in not knowing each other, not knowing the case, not knowing the accused, not knowing the evidence or who is going to testify PLUS they are not to discuss the case among themselves or to anyone else, not even their families and DA Mount wants to retry the Jeff Lockwood case again based on the fact six jurers made a decision. Surely, the jury did not have a “I want to get him” mentality that seems evident in DA Mount’s desire to retry the rape case again. Why? Is it because he succeeded to go tit for tat with Blasier “thats a feather in his cap”, or he thinks he can out perform a public defender handily, or he wants to hear again the titillating details of the rape case, or he has the mentality of the law enforcement officer in Victor Hugo’s LE MISERABLES book, who chased Jean Valjean all his life because he could not accept that Jean had been declared innocent, or he has chosen the young man Jeff as his first scape goat becuse he is on a career path LA-big-name-prosecutors, or is this man so hard hearted that all of the above suits him just fine, and he doesnt care that justice had her say already when 9 out of 12 jurors said, after careful deliberation, that Jeff was not proved guilty. There is something VERY wrong here. Folks, it doesnt smell good.
What is DA Mount suggesting reguarding the jury system “the part that is unbiased and heard carefully in attempts to judge based on evidence, is not there for either side nor for the defendant) When he said there were three and three and six in the middle? Is he suggesting that six orginally undecided jurers were coirsed to go against their conscience and cast their vote a certain way? What six strangers can anyone of us make to think our way just because. DA Mount, to suggest that that happened is treading on the most pure part of the court room process. All the rest of the players know some or much about the case. The jurers walk in in not knowing each other, not knowing the case, not knowing the accused, not knowing the evidence or who is going to testify PLUS they are not to discuss the case among themselves or to anyone else, not even their families and DA Mount wants to retry the Jeff Lockwood case again based on the fact six jurers made a decision. Surely, the jury did not have a “I want to get him” mentality that seems evident in DA Mount’s desire to retry the rape case again. Why? Is it because he succeeded to go tit for tat with Blasier “thats a feather in his cap”, or he thinks he can out perform a public defender handily, or he wants to hear again the titillating details of the rape case, or he has the mentality of the law enforcement officer in Victor Hugo’s LE MISERABLES book, who chased Jean Valjean all his life because he could not accept that Jean had been declared innocent, or he has chosen the young man Jeff as his first scape goat becuse he is on a career path LA-big-name-prosecutors, or is this man so hard hearted that all of the above suits him just fine, and he doesnt care that justice had her say already when 9 out of 12 jurors said, after careful deliberation, that Jeff was not proved guilty. There is something VERY wrong here. Folks, it doesnt smell good.
What is DA Mount suggesting reguarding the jury system “the part that is unbiased and heard carefully in attempts to judge based on evidence, is not there for either side nor for the defendant) When he said there were three and three and six in the middle? Is he suggesting that six orginally undecided jurers were coirsed to go against their conscience and cast their vote a certain way? What six strangers can anyone of us make to think our way just because. DA Mount, to suggest that that happened is treading on the most pure part of the court room process. All the rest of the players know some or much about the case. The jurers walk in in not knowing each other, not knowing the case, not knowing the accused, not knowing the evidence or who is going to testify PLUS they are not to discuss the case among themselves or to anyone else, not even their families and DA Mount wants to retry the Jeff Lockwood case again based on the fact six jurers made a decision. Surely, the jury did not have a “I want to get him” mentality that seems evident in DA Mount’s desire to retry the rape case again. Why? Is it because he succeeded to go tit for tat with Blasier “thats a feather in his cap”, or he thinks he can out perform a public defender handily, or he wants to hear again the titillating details of the rape case, or he has the mentality of the law enforcement officer in Victor Hugo’s LE MISERABLES book, who chased Jean Valjean all his life because he could not accept that Jean had been declared innocent, or he has chosen the young man Jeff as his first scape goat becuse he is on a career path LA-big-name-prosecutors, or is this man so hard hearted that all of the above suits him just fine, and he doesnt care that justice had her say already when 9 out of 12 jurors said, after careful deliberation, that Jeff was not proved guilty. There is something VERY wrong here. Folks, it doesnt smell good.
jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
I also served on a jury, and I would add to your comment that while a jury conviction is the gold standard, I personally felt very uncertain about whether we were making the right decision or not.
The information you get as a juror is pretty limited. We had the DA saying one thing and the defendant saying another thing that directly contradicted it. We essentially picked sides based on what seemed the most likely scenario, but who knows? Maybe we were wrong.
jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
I also served on a jury, and I would add to your comment that while a jury conviction is the gold standard, I personally felt very uncertain about whether we were making the right decision or not.
The information you get as a juror is pretty limited. We had the DA saying one thing and the defendant saying another thing that directly contradicted it. We essentially picked sides based on what seemed the most likely scenario, but who knows? Maybe we were wrong.
jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
I also served on a jury, and I would add to your comment that while a jury conviction is the gold standard, I personally felt very uncertain about whether we were making the right decision or not.
The information you get as a juror is pretty limited. We had the DA saying one thing and the defendant saying another thing that directly contradicted it. We essentially picked sides based on what seemed the most likely scenario, but who knows? Maybe we were wrong.
jurors are more interested in going home by 4:00 than necessarily focusing on the fate of the accused.
I also served on a jury, and I would add to your comment that while a jury conviction is the gold standard, I personally felt very uncertain about whether we were making the right decision or not.
The information you get as a juror is pretty limited. We had the DA saying one thing and the defendant saying another thing that directly contradicted it. We essentially picked sides based on what seemed the most likely scenario, but who knows? Maybe we were wrong.
Going back to the original post I want to highlight a comment –
“Despite not being able to introduce key evidence showing the girl had used sex issues in the past when she was mad at someone, including a sexual harassment charge against a fellow student that result in that student being expelled from school for six months”
It is certainly nice to have victims rights, but the reality is that “victims” sometimes use the system as a weapon. Victims rights can be used to hide the truth.
If I am ever on a jury involving a rape I would want to know everything about both sides- I would want to get to know the personalities of both the male and the female.
We undermine the process when information is withheld and therefore we distort the outcomes.
Going back to the original post I want to highlight a comment –
“Despite not being able to introduce key evidence showing the girl had used sex issues in the past when she was mad at someone, including a sexual harassment charge against a fellow student that result in that student being expelled from school for six months”
It is certainly nice to have victims rights, but the reality is that “victims” sometimes use the system as a weapon. Victims rights can be used to hide the truth.
If I am ever on a jury involving a rape I would want to know everything about both sides- I would want to get to know the personalities of both the male and the female.
We undermine the process when information is withheld and therefore we distort the outcomes.
Going back to the original post I want to highlight a comment –
“Despite not being able to introduce key evidence showing the girl had used sex issues in the past when she was mad at someone, including a sexual harassment charge against a fellow student that result in that student being expelled from school for six months”
It is certainly nice to have victims rights, but the reality is that “victims” sometimes use the system as a weapon. Victims rights can be used to hide the truth.
If I am ever on a jury involving a rape I would want to know everything about both sides- I would want to get to know the personalities of both the male and the female.
We undermine the process when information is withheld and therefore we distort the outcomes.
Going back to the original post I want to highlight a comment –
“Despite not being able to introduce key evidence showing the girl had used sex issues in the past when she was mad at someone, including a sexual harassment charge against a fellow student that result in that student being expelled from school for six months”
It is certainly nice to have victims rights, but the reality is that “victims” sometimes use the system as a weapon. Victims rights can be used to hide the truth.
If I am ever on a jury involving a rape I would want to know everything about both sides- I would want to get to know the personalities of both the male and the female.
We undermine the process when information is withheld and therefore we distort the outcomes.
wasn’t comparing to Scott Petersen case…just that SP still denies he had anything to do with the murder…
wasn’t comparing to Scott Petersen case…just that SP still denies he had anything to do with the murder…
wasn’t comparing to Scott Petersen case…just that SP still denies he had anything to do with the murder…
wasn’t comparing to Scott Petersen case…just that SP still denies he had anything to do with the murder…
With respect to the district attorney and public defender, if they are able to get a person convicted at the trial, then that person can not sue the public defender for malpractice; nor is it possible to sue if you accept a plea bargain in your case. I would almost bet that the public defender who was assigned to this young man’s case a) waived the preliminary hearing; b) did not acquire or do discovery prior to the preliminary hearing or the actual trial and/or c) made no effort to actually mount an investigation or a defense. I would bet the general public of Yolo County does not know that the “Public Defender” Barry Melton did not attend a day of law school nor did he graduate from college. With the public defender having such a limited education–an out-of-business correspondence school studied in the back of a bus after mind-expanding gigs–I honestly question his ability to supervise more educated attorneys under him. Don’t the people of Yolo County deserve more and better than someone who barely scraped into the bar by his fingernails or do Yolo County residents want to target and convict the innocent? Apparently some people in Yolo County do, because the bulk of law enforcement operations, especially the District Attorney’s office, are funded through grants, the receipt of which depend on prosecution statistics, not an evaluation of the state of justice in Yolo County, and without regard for whether the targets are innocent. Friends, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, through its grant coordinator, applies for and receives, with the blessing of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, burglary prosecution grants. This young man is an example and a symptom of entrepeneurial law enforcement–prosecution for profit. The prison costs come out of the state budget, not the county budget, so Yolo County profits. Yolo County farms its poorest residents for money in this way instead of attracting development and improving its economy and tax base. Apparently that’s too much of a challenge for local politicos. It could be that there is no grant money for receiving stolen property charges, while there is money for burglary charges. Of course, this kind of abuse of prosecutorial discretion is totally unethical amd a disqualifying conflict of interest, but in a county where deputy district attorneys tell the court they are prosecuting to avoid civil liability for the county, ethics don’t count for much. I note the disparaging comments made by Judge Johnson; the question you haven’t answered is whether or not the Public Defender filed a statement of disqualification against him or not; certainly the family should have reported this matter to the Judicial Performance Commission. I personally have heard Judge Johnson make racist remarks in his courtroom, which makes me wonder about the race of the young man. It is common knowledge the judges in Yolo County assist the district attorneys to get convictions rather than remain fair and unbiased; for example, in the Toney case Judge Shockley told her “You will be convicted” and threatened her with a greater sentence in order to extort a plea bargain from her on the day of the first scheduled trial; to Toney’s credit, when told she would have to confess to something she didn’t believe she was guilty of, she withdrew from the deal. In addition to the pressure from Judge Shockley to deal, Toney was under pressure from the Public Defender, who showed up unprepared for the first scheduled trial date and told her he would not give her any real defense. It is apparent the public defenders play right along with the district attorneys to get their clients convicted; not only is it easier than doing their jobs, it’s cost-effective for the county, and ensures a caseload that keeps them and the district attorneys employed. I’m tired of hearing unsubstantiated excuses about public defender caseloads; if they have more work than they can competently handle or too little money to competently handle their cases, they have an ethical duty to refuse those cases because every defendant is entitled to a competent defense. DPD, this story is about the Public Defender’s failure and refusal to defend, so where is his or her name? NAME THEM AND SHAME THEM. Where is the interview with the failed defender? BEEN THERE DONE THAT
With respect to the district attorney and public defender, if they are able to get a person convicted at the trial, then that person can not sue the public defender for malpractice; nor is it possible to sue if you accept a plea bargain in your case. I would almost bet that the public defender who was assigned to this young man’s case a) waived the preliminary hearing; b) did not acquire or do discovery prior to the preliminary hearing or the actual trial and/or c) made no effort to actually mount an investigation or a defense. I would bet the general public of Yolo County does not know that the “Public Defender” Barry Melton did not attend a day of law school nor did he graduate from college. With the public defender having such a limited education–an out-of-business correspondence school studied in the back of a bus after mind-expanding gigs–I honestly question his ability to supervise more educated attorneys under him. Don’t the people of Yolo County deserve more and better than someone who barely scraped into the bar by his fingernails or do Yolo County residents want to target and convict the innocent? Apparently some people in Yolo County do, because the bulk of law enforcement operations, especially the District Attorney’s office, are funded through grants, the receipt of which depend on prosecution statistics, not an evaluation of the state of justice in Yolo County, and without regard for whether the targets are innocent. Friends, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, through its grant coordinator, applies for and receives, with the blessing of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, burglary prosecution grants. This young man is an example and a symptom of entrepeneurial law enforcement–prosecution for profit. The prison costs come out of the state budget, not the county budget, so Yolo County profits. Yolo County farms its poorest residents for money in this way instead of attracting development and improving its economy and tax base. Apparently that’s too much of a challenge for local politicos. It could be that there is no grant money for receiving stolen property charges, while there is money for burglary charges. Of course, this kind of abuse of prosecutorial discretion is totally unethical amd a disqualifying conflict of interest, but in a county where deputy district attorneys tell the court they are prosecuting to avoid civil liability for the county, ethics don’t count for much. I note the disparaging comments made by Judge Johnson; the question you haven’t answered is whether or not the Public Defender filed a statement of disqualification against him or not; certainly the family should have reported this matter to the Judicial Performance Commission. I personally have heard Judge Johnson make racist remarks in his courtroom, which makes me wonder about the race of the young man. It is common knowledge the judges in Yolo County assist the district attorneys to get convictions rather than remain fair and unbiased; for example, in the Toney case Judge Shockley told her “You will be convicted” and threatened her with a greater sentence in order to extort a plea bargain from her on the day of the first scheduled trial; to Toney’s credit, when told she would have to confess to something she didn’t believe she was guilty of, she withdrew from the deal. In addition to the pressure from Judge Shockley to deal, Toney was under pressure from the Public Defender, who showed up unprepared for the first scheduled trial date and told her he would not give her any real defense. It is apparent the public defenders play right along with the district attorneys to get their clients convicted; not only is it easier than doing their jobs, it’s cost-effective for the county, and ensures a caseload that keeps them and the district attorneys employed. I’m tired of hearing unsubstantiated excuses about public defender caseloads; if they have more work than they can competently handle or too little money to competently handle their cases, they have an ethical duty to refuse those cases because every defendant is entitled to a competent defense. DPD, this story is about the Public Defender’s failure and refusal to defend, so where is his or her name? NAME THEM AND SHAME THEM. Where is the interview with the failed defender? BEEN THERE DONE THAT
With respect to the district attorney and public defender, if they are able to get a person convicted at the trial, then that person can not sue the public defender for malpractice; nor is it possible to sue if you accept a plea bargain in your case. I would almost bet that the public defender who was assigned to this young man’s case a) waived the preliminary hearing; b) did not acquire or do discovery prior to the preliminary hearing or the actual trial and/or c) made no effort to actually mount an investigation or a defense. I would bet the general public of Yolo County does not know that the “Public Defender” Barry Melton did not attend a day of law school nor did he graduate from college. With the public defender having such a limited education–an out-of-business correspondence school studied in the back of a bus after mind-expanding gigs–I honestly question his ability to supervise more educated attorneys under him. Don’t the people of Yolo County deserve more and better than someone who barely scraped into the bar by his fingernails or do Yolo County residents want to target and convict the innocent? Apparently some people in Yolo County do, because the bulk of law enforcement operations, especially the District Attorney’s office, are funded through grants, the receipt of which depend on prosecution statistics, not an evaluation of the state of justice in Yolo County, and without regard for whether the targets are innocent. Friends, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, through its grant coordinator, applies for and receives, with the blessing of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, burglary prosecution grants. This young man is an example and a symptom of entrepeneurial law enforcement–prosecution for profit. The prison costs come out of the state budget, not the county budget, so Yolo County profits. Yolo County farms its poorest residents for money in this way instead of attracting development and improving its economy and tax base. Apparently that’s too much of a challenge for local politicos. It could be that there is no grant money for receiving stolen property charges, while there is money for burglary charges. Of course, this kind of abuse of prosecutorial discretion is totally unethical amd a disqualifying conflict of interest, but in a county where deputy district attorneys tell the court they are prosecuting to avoid civil liability for the county, ethics don’t count for much. I note the disparaging comments made by Judge Johnson; the question you haven’t answered is whether or not the Public Defender filed a statement of disqualification against him or not; certainly the family should have reported this matter to the Judicial Performance Commission. I personally have heard Judge Johnson make racist remarks in his courtroom, which makes me wonder about the race of the young man. It is common knowledge the judges in Yolo County assist the district attorneys to get convictions rather than remain fair and unbiased; for example, in the Toney case Judge Shockley told her “You will be convicted” and threatened her with a greater sentence in order to extort a plea bargain from her on the day of the first scheduled trial; to Toney’s credit, when told she would have to confess to something she didn’t believe she was guilty of, she withdrew from the deal. In addition to the pressure from Judge Shockley to deal, Toney was under pressure from the Public Defender, who showed up unprepared for the first scheduled trial date and told her he would not give her any real defense. It is apparent the public defenders play right along with the district attorneys to get their clients convicted; not only is it easier than doing their jobs, it’s cost-effective for the county, and ensures a caseload that keeps them and the district attorneys employed. I’m tired of hearing unsubstantiated excuses about public defender caseloads; if they have more work than they can competently handle or too little money to competently handle their cases, they have an ethical duty to refuse those cases because every defendant is entitled to a competent defense. DPD, this story is about the Public Defender’s failure and refusal to defend, so where is his or her name? NAME THEM AND SHAME THEM. Where is the interview with the failed defender? BEEN THERE DONE THAT
With respect to the district attorney and public defender, if they are able to get a person convicted at the trial, then that person can not sue the public defender for malpractice; nor is it possible to sue if you accept a plea bargain in your case. I would almost bet that the public defender who was assigned to this young man’s case a) waived the preliminary hearing; b) did not acquire or do discovery prior to the preliminary hearing or the actual trial and/or c) made no effort to actually mount an investigation or a defense. I would bet the general public of Yolo County does not know that the “Public Defender” Barry Melton did not attend a day of law school nor did he graduate from college. With the public defender having such a limited education–an out-of-business correspondence school studied in the back of a bus after mind-expanding gigs–I honestly question his ability to supervise more educated attorneys under him. Don’t the people of Yolo County deserve more and better than someone who barely scraped into the bar by his fingernails or do Yolo County residents want to target and convict the innocent? Apparently some people in Yolo County do, because the bulk of law enforcement operations, especially the District Attorney’s office, are funded through grants, the receipt of which depend on prosecution statistics, not an evaluation of the state of justice in Yolo County, and without regard for whether the targets are innocent. Friends, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, through its grant coordinator, applies for and receives, with the blessing of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, burglary prosecution grants. This young man is an example and a symptom of entrepeneurial law enforcement–prosecution for profit. The prison costs come out of the state budget, not the county budget, so Yolo County profits. Yolo County farms its poorest residents for money in this way instead of attracting development and improving its economy and tax base. Apparently that’s too much of a challenge for local politicos. It could be that there is no grant money for receiving stolen property charges, while there is money for burglary charges. Of course, this kind of abuse of prosecutorial discretion is totally unethical amd a disqualifying conflict of interest, but in a county where deputy district attorneys tell the court they are prosecuting to avoid civil liability for the county, ethics don’t count for much. I note the disparaging comments made by Judge Johnson; the question you haven’t answered is whether or not the Public Defender filed a statement of disqualification against him or not; certainly the family should have reported this matter to the Judicial Performance Commission. I personally have heard Judge Johnson make racist remarks in his courtroom, which makes me wonder about the race of the young man. It is common knowledge the judges in Yolo County assist the district attorneys to get convictions rather than remain fair and unbiased; for example, in the Toney case Judge Shockley told her “You will be convicted” and threatened her with a greater sentence in order to extort a plea bargain from her on the day of the first scheduled trial; to Toney’s credit, when told she would have to confess to something she didn’t believe she was guilty of, she withdrew from the deal. In addition to the pressure from Judge Shockley to deal, Toney was under pressure from the Public Defender, who showed up unprepared for the first scheduled trial date and told her he would not give her any real defense. It is apparent the public defenders play right along with the district attorneys to get their clients convicted; not only is it easier than doing their jobs, it’s cost-effective for the county, and ensures a caseload that keeps them and the district attorneys employed. I’m tired of hearing unsubstantiated excuses about public defender caseloads; if they have more work than they can competently handle or too little money to competently handle their cases, they have an ethical duty to refuse those cases because every defendant is entitled to a competent defense. DPD, this story is about the Public Defender’s failure and refusal to defend, so where is his or her name? NAME THEM AND SHAME THEM. Where is the interview with the failed defender? BEEN THERE DONE THAT
I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual. I do know for a fact that Judge Johnson is known for being fair, decent, thoughtful and respectful. As a result, I am not inclined to believe your “story” here and suspect there is more to this than has been reported here.
I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual. I do know for a fact that Judge Johnson is known for being fair, decent, thoughtful and respectful. As a result, I am not inclined to believe your “story” here and suspect there is more to this than has been reported here.
I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual. I do know for a fact that Judge Johnson is known for being fair, decent, thoughtful and respectful. As a result, I am not inclined to believe your “story” here and suspect there is more to this than has been reported here.
I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual. I do know for a fact that Judge Johnson is known for being fair, decent, thoughtful and respectful. As a result, I am not inclined to believe your “story” here and suspect there is more to this than has been reported here.
“I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual.”
Believe what you like. I suggest you go over to the court house and see/hear what is going on. I guarantee the more you the more you get to know the justice system the less you will like it. Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worst than what you will find in most counties.
“I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual.”
Believe what you like. I suggest you go over to the court house and see/hear what is going on. I guarantee the more you the more you get to know the justice system the less you will like it. Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worst than what you will find in most counties.
“I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual.”
Believe what you like. I suggest you go over to the court house and see/hear what is going on. I guarantee the more you the more you get to know the justice system the less you will like it. Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worst than what you will find in most counties.
“I suspect that the presentation of this case by DPD is a rather slanted affair that is not factual.”
Believe what you like. I suggest you go over to the court house and see/hear what is going on. I guarantee the more you the more you get to know the justice system the less you will like it. Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worst than what you will find in most counties.
correction
Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worse than what you will find in most counties.
correction
Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worse than what you will find in most counties.
correction
Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worse than what you will find in most counties.
correction
Also the form of “justice” in Yolo County is worse than what you will find in most counties.
Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here. I see no relationship to the Helema Buzaya case here. Can anyone relate the two so that it is clear? No speculation please.
Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here. I see no relationship to the Helema Buzaya case here. Can anyone relate the two so that it is clear? No speculation please.
Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here. I see no relationship to the Helema Buzaya case here. Can anyone relate the two so that it is clear? No speculation please.
Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here. I see no relationship to the Helema Buzaya case here. Can anyone relate the two so that it is clear? No speculation please.
Dpd,
Denied his right to representation multiple times? Can you prove that? If so please respond and many people will come forward for due process of law. Thanks.
Dpd,
Denied his right to representation multiple times? Can you prove that? If so please respond and many people will come forward for due process of law. Thanks.
Dpd,
Denied his right to representation multiple times? Can you prove that? If so please respond and many people will come forward for due process of law. Thanks.
Dpd,
Denied his right to representation multiple times? Can you prove that? If so please respond and many people will come forward for due process of law. Thanks.
His lawyer told me that they had it on video that he request an attorney and was denied. So I cannot “prove” it, but it may be provable.
His lawyer told me that they had it on video that he request an attorney and was denied. So I cannot “prove” it, but it may be provable.
His lawyer told me that they had it on video that he request an attorney and was denied. So I cannot “prove” it, but it may be provable.
His lawyer told me that they had it on video that he request an attorney and was denied. So I cannot “prove” it, but it may be provable.
“Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here.”
Too bad you think that way. Decent people have more respect for life than you do.
“Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here.”
Too bad you think that way. Decent people have more respect for life than you do.
“Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here.”
Too bad you think that way. Decent people have more respect for life than you do.
“Under the law,1985, in California, you no longer have to prove that you’re personal safety is in danger to use deadly force on the intruder. Too bad that wasn’t the case here.”
Too bad you think that way. Decent people have more respect for life than you do.
Sounds like the above contributor missed the point.
Sounds like the above contributor missed the point.
Sounds like the above contributor missed the point.
Sounds like the above contributor missed the point.
There are some fighters at the Yolo public defender’s office, but, many of the best have left for some reason in the last year and a half. It is unimaginable that even if this poor 18 year old was convicted for not going into a home to steal something, that he would be sent to prison. Especially for a $100 Playstation.
If that is the case, then there is something very seriously wrong with that public defender’s office.
I ditto the comment that if workload is a problem, then there should be an overload declared.
At the same time, that office has lost some of their best litigators, and without a good knowledge base, what is to be expected?
There are some fighters at the Yolo public defender’s office, but, many of the best have left for some reason in the last year and a half. It is unimaginable that even if this poor 18 year old was convicted for not going into a home to steal something, that he would be sent to prison. Especially for a $100 Playstation.
If that is the case, then there is something very seriously wrong with that public defender’s office.
I ditto the comment that if workload is a problem, then there should be an overload declared.
At the same time, that office has lost some of their best litigators, and without a good knowledge base, what is to be expected?
There are some fighters at the Yolo public defender’s office, but, many of the best have left for some reason in the last year and a half. It is unimaginable that even if this poor 18 year old was convicted for not going into a home to steal something, that he would be sent to prison. Especially for a $100 Playstation.
If that is the case, then there is something very seriously wrong with that public defender’s office.
I ditto the comment that if workload is a problem, then there should be an overload declared.
At the same time, that office has lost some of their best litigators, and without a good knowledge base, what is to be expected?
There are some fighters at the Yolo public defender’s office, but, many of the best have left for some reason in the last year and a half. It is unimaginable that even if this poor 18 year old was convicted for not going into a home to steal something, that he would be sent to prison. Especially for a $100 Playstation.
If that is the case, then there is something very seriously wrong with that public defender’s office.
I ditto the comment that if workload is a problem, then there should be an overload declared.
At the same time, that office has lost some of their best litigators, and without a good knowledge base, what is to be expected?
Jeff was going to get another judge and filed the form but when they were going to pull it Judge Johnson said he was going to deny it anyway. It is the young mans right to get another judge but it was going to be denied anyway. This was said in open court amongst the other harsh verbal comments the same judge had made against the defendent.
Another, this so called “victim” claimed in another of her many statements that she had a crush on the defendant. She also said in court that she never drank alcohol and did not know what marijuana was. She was portrayed as an innocent angel when it turns out she throws parties at her house and gets drunk and was sleeping around with married men! The jury was not given a clear picture of who she was but Jeff’s name has been thrown in the trash several times by not only the judge but the district attorney himself. When is it ok to call the defendant a lying bastard in open court?! this whole case is an outrage. I used to think that the justice system would always prevail in the end and the truth will set you free. Well here is a kid who has said nothing but the truth and has had the same story though out the three years that this has lasted and he is getting the most punishment! If anything in yolo county the best is to just lie like the rest and you might have a standing chance! What is our county teaching the youth? The PD was telling the defendant that the best chance he has is if he just admits to a crime that he didn’t commit because they will have more sympathy for him! This whole thing is just ridiculous. I hope no one I know ever gets caught up in the Yolo county Justice system because I now know what will become of him.
Jeff was going to get another judge and filed the form but when they were going to pull it Judge Johnson said he was going to deny it anyway. It is the young mans right to get another judge but it was going to be denied anyway. This was said in open court amongst the other harsh verbal comments the same judge had made against the defendent.
Another, this so called “victim” claimed in another of her many statements that she had a crush on the defendant. She also said in court that she never drank alcohol and did not know what marijuana was. She was portrayed as an innocent angel when it turns out she throws parties at her house and gets drunk and was sleeping around with married men! The jury was not given a clear picture of who she was but Jeff’s name has been thrown in the trash several times by not only the judge but the district attorney himself. When is it ok to call the defendant a lying bastard in open court?! this whole case is an outrage. I used to think that the justice system would always prevail in the end and the truth will set you free. Well here is a kid who has said nothing but the truth and has had the same story though out the three years that this has lasted and he is getting the most punishment! If anything in yolo county the best is to just lie like the rest and you might have a standing chance! What is our county teaching the youth? The PD was telling the defendant that the best chance he has is if he just admits to a crime that he didn’t commit because they will have more sympathy for him! This whole thing is just ridiculous. I hope no one I know ever gets caught up in the Yolo county Justice system because I now know what will become of him.
Jeff was going to get another judge and filed the form but when they were going to pull it Judge Johnson said he was going to deny it anyway. It is the young mans right to get another judge but it was going to be denied anyway. This was said in open court amongst the other harsh verbal comments the same judge had made against the defendent.
Another, this so called “victim” claimed in another of her many statements that she had a crush on the defendant. She also said in court that she never drank alcohol and did not know what marijuana was. She was portrayed as an innocent angel when it turns out she throws parties at her house and gets drunk and was sleeping around with married men! The jury was not given a clear picture of who she was but Jeff’s name has been thrown in the trash several times by not only the judge but the district attorney himself. When is it ok to call the defendant a lying bastard in open court?! this whole case is an outrage. I used to think that the justice system would always prevail in the end and the truth will set you free. Well here is a kid who has said nothing but the truth and has had the same story though out the three years that this has lasted and he is getting the most punishment! If anything in yolo county the best is to just lie like the rest and you might have a standing chance! What is our county teaching the youth? The PD was telling the defendant that the best chance he has is if he just admits to a crime that he didn’t commit because they will have more sympathy for him! This whole thing is just ridiculous. I hope no one I know ever gets caught up in the Yolo county Justice system because I now know what will become of him.
Jeff was going to get another judge and filed the form but when they were going to pull it Judge Johnson said he was going to deny it anyway. It is the young mans right to get another judge but it was going to be denied anyway. This was said in open court amongst the other harsh verbal comments the same judge had made against the defendent.
Another, this so called “victim” claimed in another of her many statements that she had a crush on the defendant. She also said in court that she never drank alcohol and did not know what marijuana was. She was portrayed as an innocent angel when it turns out she throws parties at her house and gets drunk and was sleeping around with married men! The jury was not given a clear picture of who she was but Jeff’s name has been thrown in the trash several times by not only the judge but the district attorney himself. When is it ok to call the defendant a lying bastard in open court?! this whole case is an outrage. I used to think that the justice system would always prevail in the end and the truth will set you free. Well here is a kid who has said nothing but the truth and has had the same story though out the three years that this has lasted and he is getting the most punishment! If anything in yolo county the best is to just lie like the rest and you might have a standing chance! What is our county teaching the youth? The PD was telling the defendant that the best chance he has is if he just admits to a crime that he didn’t commit because they will have more sympathy for him! This whole thing is just ridiculous. I hope no one I know ever gets caught up in the Yolo county Justice system because I now know what will become of him.
I heard that this case was Mounts first adult case. Before he only got minors and misdemeanor cases. What does that say about his motives?
I heard that this case was Mounts first adult case. Before he only got minors and misdemeanor cases. What does that say about his motives?
I heard that this case was Mounts first adult case. Before he only got minors and misdemeanor cases. What does that say about his motives?
I heard that this case was Mounts first adult case. Before he only got minors and misdemeanor cases. What does that say about his motives?
After reading all of these entries, all I can say is that I hope none of you ever become a victim. If you DO become a victim and want the perpetrator held accountable BY A JURY OF PEERS, read what you have written. It will NEVER happen. Most rape victims do not come forward because of comments made by those of you who think that the DA’s office has nothing better to do than go after innocent people. WAKE UP. Would you like to be sexually assaulted, then have to go to a hospital and wait for 12 hours with gunshot victims and gang bangers while the medical staff takes evidence out of you? Then, you have to tell the police, the DA, a defense attorney, a judge and a jury in excruciating detail exactly the indignities placed upon you? How many of you have the courage to do that???
What if it was your child/sister/mother/grandmother/wife?????
If the testimony doesn’t sound JUST LIKE how a tv show sounds, where there is always DNA found and the case is solved in an hour, then there is reasonable doubt.
Geez, no wonder victims of sexual assault are reluctant to come forward? Maybe because THEY are put on trial and more often then not found GUILTY.
After reading all of these entries, all I can say is that I hope none of you ever become a victim. If you DO become a victim and want the perpetrator held accountable BY A JURY OF PEERS, read what you have written. It will NEVER happen. Most rape victims do not come forward because of comments made by those of you who think that the DA’s office has nothing better to do than go after innocent people. WAKE UP. Would you like to be sexually assaulted, then have to go to a hospital and wait for 12 hours with gunshot victims and gang bangers while the medical staff takes evidence out of you? Then, you have to tell the police, the DA, a defense attorney, a judge and a jury in excruciating detail exactly the indignities placed upon you? How many of you have the courage to do that???
What if it was your child/sister/mother/grandmother/wife?????
If the testimony doesn’t sound JUST LIKE how a tv show sounds, where there is always DNA found and the case is solved in an hour, then there is reasonable doubt.
Geez, no wonder victims of sexual assault are reluctant to come forward? Maybe because THEY are put on trial and more often then not found GUILTY.
After reading all of these entries, all I can say is that I hope none of you ever become a victim. If you DO become a victim and want the perpetrator held accountable BY A JURY OF PEERS, read what you have written. It will NEVER happen. Most rape victims do not come forward because of comments made by those of you who think that the DA’s office has nothing better to do than go after innocent people. WAKE UP. Would you like to be sexually assaulted, then have to go to a hospital and wait for 12 hours with gunshot victims and gang bangers while the medical staff takes evidence out of you? Then, you have to tell the police, the DA, a defense attorney, a judge and a jury in excruciating detail exactly the indignities placed upon you? How many of you have the courage to do that???
What if it was your child/sister/mother/grandmother/wife?????
If the testimony doesn’t sound JUST LIKE how a tv show sounds, where there is always DNA found and the case is solved in an hour, then there is reasonable doubt.
Geez, no wonder victims of sexual assault are reluctant to come forward? Maybe because THEY are put on trial and more often then not found GUILTY.
After reading all of these entries, all I can say is that I hope none of you ever become a victim. If you DO become a victim and want the perpetrator held accountable BY A JURY OF PEERS, read what you have written. It will NEVER happen. Most rape victims do not come forward because of comments made by those of you who think that the DA’s office has nothing better to do than go after innocent people. WAKE UP. Would you like to be sexually assaulted, then have to go to a hospital and wait for 12 hours with gunshot victims and gang bangers while the medical staff takes evidence out of you? Then, you have to tell the police, the DA, a defense attorney, a judge and a jury in excruciating detail exactly the indignities placed upon you? How many of you have the courage to do that???
What if it was your child/sister/mother/grandmother/wife?????
If the testimony doesn’t sound JUST LIKE how a tv show sounds, where there is always DNA found and the case is solved in an hour, then there is reasonable doubt.
Geez, no wonder victims of sexual assault are reluctant to come forward? Maybe because THEY are put on trial and more often then not found GUILTY.
an interesting note- Steve Mount is on the Board of Directors for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center, hows that for being non bias??
an interesting note- Steve Mount is on the Board of Directors for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center, hows that for being non bias??
an interesting note- Steve Mount is on the Board of Directors for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center, hows that for being non bias??
an interesting note- Steve Mount is on the Board of Directors for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center, hows that for being non bias??