Man Charged in Walmart Beating Death Makes First Court Appearance
In Los Angeles County last week, a man was clubbed to death inside a local WalMart with a baseball bat. The police who are investigating the incident say the motive may have been completely random. The suspect, 47-year-old Richard Laurance Kalfin, made his first court appearance on Thursday.
He was charged with one count of murder in Los Angeles County and is accused of killing 74-year-old David Oakleaf. Apparently, Kalfin asked Oakleaf for some money and when Oakleaf refused, Kalfin grabbed an aluminum baseball bat and struck Oakleaf in the head a number of times. Oakleaf died at the scene.
Kalfin’s arraignment has been postponed until Nov. 22 and he remains in custody with his bail set at over a million dollars.
What Must be Proven to be Convicted of Murder?
To be convicted of a charge of murder, the People must prove that:
- You committed an act that caused the death of another person or a fetus; and
- When you acted, you had a state of mind called malice aforethought; and
- You killed without lawful excuse or justification.
If convicted of first degree murder in California, every person shall be punished by death, imprisonment in the state prison for life without the possibility of parole, or imprisonment in the state prison for a term of 25 years to life. There are several defenses a skilled Los Angeles County murder attorney can use to have the length of your sentence reduced or ever reduce the severity of the charges against you.
Call Wallin & Klarich Today
If you or a loved one is facing a charge of murder, contact the murder defense attorneys at Wallin and Klarich. We at Wallin and Klarich have many years of experience successfully defending people charged with these types of crimes. We will work to aggressively defend you by investigating all aspects of your case and will work to ensure that your rights are protected and that you clearly understand the legal process.
With offices located in Los Angeles, Sherman Oaks, Torrance, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, West Covina and Victorville, there is an experienced Wallin & Klarich federal attorney available to help you no matter where you work or live.
Call our offices at (877) 4-NO-JAIL or (877) 466-5245 for a free phone consultation. We will be there when you call.
