San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office

: District Attorney Ron Freitas had a great weekend!

First, he attended the Lodi Hospice Tree Lighting with Lodi Mayor Mikey Hothi and members of the Lodi City Council.

Then, keeping in tune with the holiday joy, DA Freitas joined in the festivities at the Lodi Light Parade.

Lastly, District Attorney Freitas had the pleasure of presenting a check for $10,000 to Lodi Police Department's Chief Sierra Brucia. The funds will benefit the city's GREAT Program, keeping kids away from gangs and violence.

Please join Victims of Violent Crimes of San Joaquin County and the District Attorney's Victim-Witness Unit for a Candlelight Vigil and March of Lights on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, to honor those who have lost their lives to violent crimes.

See the flyer below for details.

SAN JOAQUIN COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY RON FREITAS ANNOUNCES THE SUCCESSFUL SENTENCING OF ALLENRAY CALAMBRA

Stockton -The San Joaquin County District Attorney, Ron Freitas secured a resounding victory with the sentencing of Allenray Calambra. The Honorable Patrick Smalling sentenced Calamba to two consecutive terms of life without the possibility of parole for the murders of Valeria and Jesus Garcia-Cruz.

In June of 2021, the defendant went to his ex-girlfriend, 20-year-old Valeria Garcia-Cruz’s, house and lay in wait to ambush her when she got home from work. He surprised her in the driveway with a semi-automatic pistol. Both her brother and father ran outside upon hearing the events occurring outside. The defendant shot Valeria’s brother, Jesus Garcia-Cruz four times killing him. He then shot at her father, Juan Rojas, wounding him. He then shot Valeria four times, also killing her. Finally, he shot himself in the chest and was arrested and charged upon his release from the hospital.

Today's sentencing, a crucial milestone in the pursuit of justice, is a testament to the unwavering commitment of the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office. Chief Deputy District Attorney Donald Vaughn, leading an exceptional prosecuting team, including Paralegal Macie McKinstry, showcased their relentless dedication to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our community.

District Attorney Ron Freitas commended the outcome: "Our prosecuting team has achieved an outstanding result. Today's sentencing unequivocally sends the message that San Joaquin County imposes severe consequences for heinous crimes within our community. Zero tolerance is our stance, and we stand resolute in our duty to safeguard the residents of San Joaquin County."

A very special thank you goes to The Honorable Patrick Smalling, Tracy Police Department, Corporal Eric Smith (Tracy Police Department), Victim Witness Advocate Cuca Rosing, and the many witnesses and family members who came forward to ensure that justice was done.

After 30 remarkable years in the courtroom, Prosecutor Ron Goodreau is stepping into a well-deserved retirement. 🏛️ His commitment to justice has made a lasting impact on our community. Celebrating this milestone is bittersweet, bidding farewell to a legal titan. 👏

(Group picture: Assistant District Attorney Richard Price, Ron Goodreau, District Attorney Ron Freitas, and Chief Deputy District Attorney Kristine Reed.)

Stockton- San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announced defendant Alejandro Aguirre, 26, of Stockton was arraigned and officially charged with the following:

27 Counts- PC 311.4 (C) Use Underage Person for Obscene Matter

10 Counts – PC 647(J)(3)(A) Disorderly Conduct with Concealed Camcorder

1 Count – PC 311.11 (C) (1) Possess over 600 Obscene Images/Minor in Sexual Act

The defendant is alleged to have covertly placed a camera in the south entrance bathroom at Pacific Bowl. “Today’s arraignment marks a crucial step in ensuring the safety and privacy of our community”, said District Attorney Ron Freitas. “We will vigorously pursue justice for the victims, sending a clear message that invasion of privacy will absolutely not be tolerated. Our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our residents remains unwavering.”

The next court date is scheduled for 12/13/2023 at 8:30 am in department 8B. This is an ongoing investigation with the Stockton Police Department and the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office.

Read the full statement at: https://www.sjgov.org/department/da/home

District Attorney Ron Freitas had the honor of participating in the groundbreaking ceremony for the new medical examiner facility in San Joaquin County located at the Sheriff's Complex in French Camp. This is a momentous occasion that is nearly 85 years in the making. Congratulations San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors and thank you for inviting us to share in this exciting endeavor.

District Attorney Ron Freitas was proud to join the Board of Supervisors in honoring retired Undersheriff Steve Walker for his Veterans Day heroism.

San Joaquin County also recognized the invaluable contributions of our Hmong and Sikh communities in San Joaquin County. Together, we celebrate diversity and service to our great community.

This past Saturday, I was able to join with .citycenter and participate in a Thanksgiving Food Giveaway for those in need in our community. Always good to give back and give people a reason to be thankful, especially during the holiday season.

Yesterday I was able to be a panelist on a Webinar hosted by the organization Fight Crime: Invest in Kids, where we discussed cutting-edge research on how early childhood experiences affect behaviors in adolescence. We covered how this can influence community outcomes, including public safety and juvenile justice, and why investments in early childhood programs are crucial.

Search Warrant Executed at Private Residences and Portions of the Stockton Unified School District Office.

Stockton- This morning, the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, and as part of its ongoing investigation into the Stockton Unified School District, executed a search warrant at a private residence and portions of the Stockton Unified School District Office.
Further details will be provided as they develop.

Thank you to my friends in the Hmong Community for inviting me out to this weekend’s Hmong New Year! It was a pleasure celebrating with a community that has given so much to the fabric of San Joaquin County!

It was a pleasure and an honor to spend yesterday morning celebrating our Veterans and Blue Star Families. Thank you for your service!

Thank you to everyone who has served. You service allows us to enjoy our freedoms each and every day!

Yesterday District Attorney Ron Freitas was able to attend the San Joaquin County Veterans Treatment Court Graduation. The mission of the Veterans Treatment Court is to identify eligible veterans in the criminal justice system and place them into treatment and court supervision as an alternative to incarceration. This event allows those present to recognize these men and women who worked hard to reach all court mandates.

San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Charges Four Individuals in an Alleged Organized Retail Crime Ring


Stockton - This week, the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Charged four individuals: Cesar Avalos Godinez, 52, Lucila Hernandez Gaytan, 46, Cesar Avalos Hernandez, 20, and Francisco Castro Hernandez, 24, with involvement in an organized retail crime ring.

All four were charged with 18 counts in relation to the theft, receipt, and possession of an estimated $1 million dollars in stolen retail goods. All four also were charged with sentence enhancements in relation to the leadership, planning, possession, and value of the stolen goods.

Bail for Cesar Hernandez was set at $300,000.

Acting on information received, the CHP’s Delta RATT Team, with assistance from the Stockton, Manteca, and Tracy Police Departments, along with the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department, conducted a raid where an estimated $1 million dollars in stolen goods arising from retail theft were recovered.

District Attorney Ron Freitas praised the work of local law enforcement in breaking up the organized retail theft ring. Added District Attorney Freitas, “I hope last week’s arrest, and the charges just levied against the four suspects, sends a message loud and clear, that organized retail theft will not be tolerated here in San Joaquin County. If you want to engage in such behavior, do so at your own risk. You will be arrested, and we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law.”

All four will next return to court on November 9, 2023.

It was an amazing 1st ever “Boo Fest” at the District Attorney’s Office! We were able to welcome local school children to the office to enjoy a very safe trick-or-treating event. A big thank you to Tina Cook who planned and organized this amazing event! We already can’t wait until next year!

Today District Attorney Ron Freitas and Deputy District Attorney Lisa Mann met with Rabbi Jason Gwasdoff of Stockton’s Temple Israel to discuss the current uptick of Anti-Jewish Hate Crimes and to offer support to the Jewish Community.

District Attorney Ron Freitas personally visited the scene of today’s massive retail theft bust. Members of the Delta RATT Task Force today arrested suspects in connection with one of the largest retail theft/fencing busts in recent memory. It is estimated that over $700,000 in retail goods was recovered today. The District Attorney’s Office is looking forward to prosecuting today’s suspects, and making a statement that retail theft has no place in San Joaquin county.

At the heart of justice lies a dedicated team of Deputy District Attorney’s, and under the exceptional leadership of District Attorney Ron Freitas and Chief Deputy District Attorney Mark Dennings, our community is fortunate to have a powerhouse Family Crimes Unit!

Domestic Violence cases can be incredibly complex and sensitive. These Deputy District Attorney’s tirelessly work to ensure that victims are heard, supported, and that offenders are held accountable.

Let’s appreciate the hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment of these heroes who ensure that no one has to suffer in silence. Together, we’re building a safer, more compassionate community!

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:

📱 209-468-2600
🏢 222 East Weber Ave. - Stockton
💻 sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to speak at the Manteca Homeless summit. It was great speaking with our wonderful partners, in the city of Manteca, and collaborating on ways to help ease the homeless epidemic.

Yesterday I joined Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua in lauding the passage and signing of AB701. AB701 adds fentanyl to the list of controlled substances – which currently includes he**in, co***ne, and co***ne base, for which sentence enhancements and stiffer penalties may be levied against dealers against kilo-levels and higher, giving us more tools to help us rid our communities of those who peddle this poison. Thank you Assemblymember Villapudua for your hard work in passing this important legislation.

“Our DAs and investigators have been working tirelessly with the Lodi Police Department and U.S. Marshals to see that the proper people are brought to justice and the proper charges are filed,” San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas said. “We’re working non-stop now to see that (Hernandez) is quickly returned to California and can face charges.”

I commend Deputy District Attorney Elton Grau and Chief Deputy District Attorney Mark Ott for their hard work on this case.

Lodi murder suspect apprehended in Missouri The suspect in Monday’s double homicide in Lodi was arrested Wednesday morning in Missouri, about 2,000 miles away from the scene of the crime.

Victim Witness Advocates are the unsung heroes of the legal system. They provide unwavering support to survivors, helping them navigate the challenging journey towards justice and healing.

The Victim Witness Unit is comprised of Victim Advocates that are system based and work directly with victims of all violent crime. The Victim Witness Office is located in the District Attorney’s Office and also staffs satellite offices in different locations including local law enforcement agencies. Advocates are staffed in these locations to be accessible and to receive referrals in order to make contact with victims. The goal of the advocates is to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to all victims of violent crime with fairness, dignity and respect. The advocates strive to empower victims in the recovery from the effects of crime through crisis intervention and related support services.

We know that victims of crime often feel lost and frustrated during the course of the criminal justice system. Victim Advocates serve as the liaison between the victims and law enforcement officials and ensure that each victim is treated with equality and respect.

It is essential to the Victim Witness Unit that victims and family/friends/relatives are included in the criminal justice process and notified of their rights.

In order to achieve this goal, advocates are trained to actively listen to the victim in order to identify resources that address those needs. This may include but is not limited to filing for temporary restraining orders, completing applications for victim compensation, providing case dispositions, providing court support, and arranging meetings with the DDA and victims.


If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:

📱 209-468-2600
🏢 222 East Weber Ave. - Stockton
💻 sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com

District Attorney Ron Freitas wraps up Hispanic Heritage Month by highlighting one of our excellent Deputy District Attorneys, Jessica (Benitez) Wong!

What does Hispanic heritage month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage month is a month dedicated to celebrating the beauty and successes of the Hispanic culture.

How did your family and heritage influence your career?
As a child of Mexican immigrants, getting an education was a way to repay my parents for all of the sacrifices they made for us when they immigrated to this country. The hard work they put in while working as farm workers when they first got to this country showed me what hard work and perseverance look like and I try very hard to emulate those learnings in my career. The Hispanic culture focuses greatly on family on helping create opportunities for the next generations.

What is your experience like at the District Attorney’s Office? What meaning did this opportunity hold for you?
Becoming a Deputy District Attorney in the community I was raised in has given me the opportunity to provide justice and safety to not only the Hispanic community I was raised in, but to everyone residing here.

Allenray Castillano Calamba, 23, faces the possibility of life in prison without parole.

Stockton - Allenray Castillano Calamba, 23, of Tracy, was recently convicted on two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances: multiple murders, lying in wait, and gun enhancements. He was also convicted of one count of attempted, willful, deliberate, and premeditated murder, also with gun enhancements.

On June 3, 2021, the defendant went to his ex-girlfriend, 20-year-old Valeria Garcia-Cruz’s, house at 2:45 a.m. and lay in wait to ambush her when she got home from work. He surprised her in the driveway with a semi-automatic pistol. Both her brother and father ran outside upon hearing the events occurring outside. The defendant shot Valeria’s brother, Jesus Garcia-Cruz four times killing him. He then shot at her father, Juan Rojas, wounding him. He then shot Valeria four times, also killing her. Finally, he shot himself in the chest and was arrested and charged upon his release from the hospital.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Chief Deputy District Attorney Donald Vaughn and Paralegal Macie McKinstry for their unwavering commitment to seeking justice for the victim's family,” stated Ron Freitas, District Attorney of San Joaquin County. “As we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, it is crucial to shed light on interpersonal violence and underscore the enduring repercussions it has on individuals and communities alike. Together, let us raise awareness, break the silence, and work towards a safer, more compassionate society for all.”

Special thanks also goes to the Tracy Police Department, Corporal Eric Smith (Tracy Police Department), Victim Witness Advocate Cuca Rosing, and the many witnesses who came forward to ensure that justice was done.

Sentencing is set for December 4, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in Dept. 6C. The defendant faces life without the possibility of parole.

District Attorney Ron Freitas recently joined members of the Stockton City Council and San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors at the promotion ceremony for Officers of the Stockton Police Department!

District Attorney Ron Freitas continues to highlight District Attorney Employees of Hispanic Heritage during Hispanic Heritage Month! Today’s spotlight employee is Ana Butler! Ana is a Senior Office Assistant with Victim Assistance!

What does Hispanic heritage month mean to you?

Hispanic Heritage month gives me the pleasure of seeing Hispanic culture and accomplishments being celebrated in this wonderful country. It is a great opportunity for me to learn and share my culture.

How did your family and heritage influence your career?

My older brother and his wife came to the United States from Panama before I did. My brother became an electrician and his wife an anesthesiologist. This inspired me to follow them and start my own journey. My husband was In the Army and I lived in three states where I had various jobs before coming to California. I started to work at El Concilio where my ability to speak Spanish and English fluently helped me with assisting various Hispanic cultures in our community. This led to my career with the District Attorney’s Office where I can assist Hispanic Victims of Crime to understand the California Victim Compensation Program. My siblings and I owe our accomplishments to our parents who were hard-working and humble people.

What is your experience like at the District Attorney’s Office? What meaning did this opportunity hold for you?

Each working day at the District Attorney’s Office is never the same which makes it challenging and exciting at the same time. This opportunity helped me to share my culture and expose the public and my co-workers to the diverse Hispanic culture (music, food, clothing, dialect, etc) and their distinct individual appearance. This opportunity has helped me to raise two wonderful children, purchase my own home and to continue to live the American dream.

Strangulation is a silent but deadly form of domestic violence that often goes unnoticed. It's not just physical; it's about control and the threat to life. Let's shed light on this crucial issue:

Strangulation is a clear sign of escalating violence and a predictor of future lethality in abusive relationships.

Victims may suffer from severe physical and psychological consequences, even when there are no visible injuries.

Strangulation is NEVER okay. It's a criminal act, and it's critical to report it.

Let's break the silence and support survivors. Knowledge is power, and awareness is the first step towards ending domestic violence.



If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:

📱 209-468-2600
🏢 222 East Weber Ave. - Stockton
💻 sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com

24-Hour Helplines:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
National Domestic Violence SMS: Text START to 88788
Chest of Hope: 209-259-5552
PREVAIL: 209-465-4878

District Attorney Ron Freitas today had the pleasure of joining members of the County Board of Supervisors in presenting New Birth Christian Center a check from Asset Forfeiture Fund to go towards New Birth’s programs for Weston Ranch Youth, as we continue to partner to eliminate the playground to prison pipeline.

It's crucial to remember that leaving an abusive relationship can be one of the most challenging but life-changing decisions. Your safety matters, and there is help available. Here's a guide on how to leave a domestic violence situation safely:

1. Safety First: Plan your exit strategy carefully. If you fear for your safety, call 911 immediately.

2. Reach Out for Support: Connect with local domestic violence organizations, hotlines, or shelters. They can provide guidance, resources, and a safe place to stay. We have the Family Justice Center at the District Attorney’s office- ready and able to help!

3. Confide in Someone: Share your situation with a trusted friend or family member who can offer emotional support and help you stay safe.

4. Prepare an Escape Bag: Pack essential documents, identification, money, medications, clothing, and any irreplaceable items in a discreet bag.

5. Create a Safety Plan: Develop a plan with specific steps for leaving, including where to go, who to contact, and how to maintain communication without being detected. (Check out https://www.sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com/ under DV Resources for access to an online safety plan- or contact Family Justice Center to set up an appointment).

6. Block Communication: Change your phone number, block all communication from the abuser, and secure your online presence.

7. Legal Protections: Consider obtaining a restraining order or protection order to legally protect yourself.

8. Stay Vigilant: Be cautious when leaving. Abusers may react unpredictably. Trust your instincts and prioritize your safety.

9. Support System: Surround yourself with friends, family, or support groups who understand your situation and can offer emotional assistance.

Remember, you deserve a life free from fear and violence. Leaving an abusive situation takes courage, but there are people and organizations ready to help. You are not alone.

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:

📱 209-468-2600
🏢 222 East Weber Ave. - Stockton
💻 sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com

Let's stand together to break the silence and end domestic violence.

What is Domestic Violence? Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that is used to gain power and control over a partner or family member. It can be physical, emotional, financial, or psychological.

How to Report Domestic Violence: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911 or your local emergency number.

If you suspect or want to report domestic violence, here are some steps to take:

1. Contact Your Local Police: Reach out to your local law enforcement agency to report the abuse.

2. National Domestic Violence Hotline: You can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY) for help, resources, and support.

3. Speak to a Counselor or Advocate: Reach out to a local domestic violence shelter or organization. They have trained professionals who can provide guidance and support. The Family Justice Center can get you connected!

4. Document the Abuse: Keep records of incidents, take photos if it's safe to do so, and save any threatening messages or emails.

5. Encourage Open Communication: If you suspect someone you know is a victim, offer your support and encourage them to talk to a professional.

Remember, you are not alone. Help and support are available. Let's raise awareness, break the cycle, and create a safer world for everyone. Together, we can make a difference.

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:

📱 209-468-2600
🏢 222 East Weber Ave. - Stockton
💻 sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com

24-Hour Helplines:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
National Domestic Violence SMS: Text START to 88788
Chest of Hope: 209-259-5552
PREVAIL: 209-465-4878

District Attorney Ron Freitas continues to celebrate by highlighting our wonderful District Attorney’s Office Employees of Hispanic Heritage! This week’s highlighted employee is Senior Office Assistant Yvette Escalante.

What does Hispanic heritage month mean to you?

For me it means to celebrate where we come from and celebrate our accomplishments and traditions. It’s a time to be proud of our culture and the differences we have made.

How did your family and heritage influence your career?

Seeing both sets of my Grandparents work so hard taught me to apply their work ethic to my life. I am who I am today because of them, they never gave up. They took the risk coming to the U.S. despite not knowing anyone or speaking the language. Their strength is always a reminder to me, to always keep trying to succeed and reach my goals.

What is your experience like at the District Attorney’s Office? What meaning did this opportunity hold for you?

My experience has been amazing! I wake up every day looking forward to coming in and hoping I can help and make a difference in the community. I am also thankful for all the people I have met being here, I felt welcomed since the very 1st day. This opportunity has meant so much to me because I am able to represent my Mexican culture and my family and make them proud.

Scott Sherman, 39, Charged with First-Degree Murder in Lodi Shooting

Stockton- Today, the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Charged Scott Sherman, 39, of Lodi, with one count of First-Degree Murder (PC 187) with a sentence enhancement of a Personal Use of a Firearm (PC 12022.54(d)). The maximum sentence for the defendant if found guilty is 50 years to life in prison.

The defendant is charged in the Tuesday morning murder of Felix Makinano, 53, also of Lodi. Local law enforcement was notified at 3:52 a.m. of gunshots in the area of South School Street in Lodi. When they arrived, they found Mr. Makinano with gunshot wounds. He was taken to a local hospital where he died of his injuries.

San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Charges Suspect Accused of Attempted Kidnapping

Shiva Sharma, 20, Charged on Four Counts

Stockton- Today, the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Charged Shiv Sharma, 20, of Tracy, on four counts in the attempted kidnapping of two minors in Tracy, CA.

The four counts charged are:

Count 1: PC 664/207(B) Attempted Kidnapping for Child Molestation
Count 2: PC 664/207(B) Attempted Kidnapping for Child Molestation
Count 3: PC 273A(a) Child Endangerment
Count 4: PC 273A(a) Child Endangerment
These charges additionally carry the sentence enhancement of:

PC 12022(B)(1) Use of a deadly or dangerous weapon in the commission of a felony or attempted felony
The defendant went to the Poet Christian Elementary School located in Tracy, California, in the early afternoon as kindergarten classes were being released for the day. Armed with a screwdriver, the defendant approached the school and made contact with both victims in an attempt to kidnap them. The defendant was then chased away by an alert schoolteacher as well as nearby parents and fled before being arrested by local law enforcement.

Join us next Monday, October 9th, at 5:30pm, for a very important Town Hall discussion on .

At the San Joaquin County District Attorney's Office, under the leadership of District Attorney Ron Freitas, our mission is clear: to serve and support victims of crime with unwavering dedication. Here's a glimpse of what we do to stand by your side during difficult times:

Investigations: Our skilled team of investigators works tirelessly to gather evidence, ensuring that those who commit crimes are held accountable. We are committed to thorough, respectful, and victim-centered investigations that prioritize your safety and well-being.

Prosecutors: Our prosecutors are champions of justice, fighting on your behalf in the courtroom. They bring their expertise, compassion, and determination to every case, working to secure the best possible outcomes and provide you with a voice in the legal process.

Family Justice Center: Our Family Justice Center is a haven for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and more. Here, you'll find a safe, supportive environment where professionals from various agencies come together to provide comprehensive services under one roof. Your well-being is our top priority.

Victim Witness Division: Our Victim Witness Division is your dedicated support system. From the moment a crime occurs, through investigations, trials, and beyond, we offer guidance, information, and resources to help you navigate the legal system.

Your strength inspires us, and your resilience fuels our commitment. Together, we stand against crime, providing you with the support and resources you deserve.

If you or someone you know is a victim of a crime, please reach out. You are not alone, and we are here to help.

If you or someone you know needs help, please reach out to the San Joaquin County Family Justice Center:

📱 209-468-2600
🏢 222 East Weber Ave. - Stockton
💻 sjcfamilyjusticecenter.com

24-Hour Helplines:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233
National Domestic Violence SMS: Text START to 88788
Chest of Hope: 209-259-5552
PREVAIL: 209-465-4878