Attorney Convicted Of Murder in Victorville (PC 187)
A 78-year-old attorney is convicted of murder in Victorville, California after he decided to represent himself. In 1989, a 33 year old woman and her boyfriend were assaulted and shot. The woman died while her boyfriend was left in critical condition. At the time Eric Fagan, who was an attorney, was a suspect. However, the police could not find sufficient evidence to prosecute him. However, over 20 years later due to new DNA evidence that linked Fagan to a latex glove found near the scene, prosecutors decided to file murder and attempted murder charges against Fagan.
On December 21, 2012 Fagan was convicted of murder in Victorville once the jury found him guilty of both charges after only a six week trial and a two hour deliberation.
There are many very interesting things about the facts of this case.
First, everyone should know there is no statute of limitations in a murder case. This permitted the District Attorney to bring criminal charges against Fagan even though the crime occurred in 1989.
Second, we cannot underestimate the critical importance of DNA evidence in criminal cases today. In most cases, if your DNA is tied to important physical evidence, DNA experts can testify to a very high degree of certainty that you are the person who touched that piece of evidence.
Third, and most importantly, this case points out very clearly that a person who acts as his own lawyer when facing serious criminal charges has an “idiot” for a client. It was reported that Fagan had very limited knowledge of criminal law. He chose to fire his lawyer after the first week of trial and acted as his own lawyer for the balance of the trial.
There are many bad decisions a person can make in their life. However, nothing could be more of a mistake than attempting to represent yourself when facing murder charges.
When you or a loved one is facing a criminal charge, you must contact an experienced criminal defense law firm immediately. If you or a loved one is charged with murder, it is important to contact our experienced California criminal attorneys at Wallin & Klarich today. Our knowledgeable criminal defense lawyers will protect your rights, and may prevent you from being convicted of murder in Victorville, Orange County, Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Ventura, San Diego or West Covina. We have been handling murder cases for over 40 years. Call us today at 888-749-0034. We will be there when you call.