A recent investigation and subsequent analysis by the Sacramento Bee newspaper shows that individuals convicted of homicide in California are more likely to receive the death sentence in conservative counties, particularly in the southern part of the state. According to this news report; between 1998 and 2007, prosecutors got approximately one death penalty conviction for every 100 murders statewide. In Orange County, the rate was twice as high. And in Riverside County the death penalty rate was three times as high, the report stated.
Any violent crime conviction in California can have devastating consequences. But with a murder conviction, you are looking at the ultimate penalty. California is a death penalty state. So if someone is found guilty of a special circumstance first-degree murder, they are looking at the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
The stakes are extremely high in any murder case or any other violent crime. If you or someone close to you has been arrested murder or manslaughter or any violent crime such as homicide, robbery, rape or sexual assault; please contact an experienced Southern California criminal defense attorney who has the skill and expertise to defend your rights and fight to get your charges dismissed. At Sitkoff & Hanrahan, our attorneys are former prosecutors who have experience and a successful track record defending these serious charges. Call us today for a free consultation.