courtroom

Jose Antonio Barajas has plead not guilty to killing 19-year-old Ariana Zendejas in 2014. Photos by John Chadwell.

Police / Fire

Barajas hearing delayed until June

Accused of murder and attempted murder in 2014 case.

Jung Choi greets her translator before taking a seat during a May 1 hearing at San Benito County Superior Court. Photo by Noe Magaña.

Police / Fire

Ji and Choi hearings delayed

Defense attorney Gregory LaForge asks for two weeks to review Ji’s mental competency evaluation.

Sang Ji walks into the courtroom during a March hearing as Jung Choi confers with defense attorney Harry Damkar through her Korean interpreter. Photos by John Chadwell.

Police / Fire

Ji and Choi will be tried separately

Criminal proceedings against Ji suspended while expert determines if he is mentally competent to stand trial.

Jung Choi and Sang Ji glance at San Benito County District Attorney Candice Hooper as she speaks with defense attorney Harry Damkar. Photo by John Chadwell.

Police / Fire

Ji and Choi to be tried for murder

Two-day hearing reviews forensic evidence from sheriff’s deputies and detectives. Superior Court Judge Felice rules there is enough evidence to go to trial.

Omar Rodriguez speaks with voters while campaigning for the open Superior Court Judicial seat. Photo provided.

Government / Politics

Omar Rodriguez focuses on San Benito County’s future in race for open judicial seat

The former Haybaler discusses his roots in the region and what he would bring to the bench.

Court bailiffs lead Jose Antonio Barajas into court where he may soon be on trial for murder and other felonies. Photos by John Chadwell.

Police / Fire

Murder suspect Barajas back in court

Decision on preliminary hearing date expected this week.

Flags outside the courthouse. A new judge will be elected to the San Benito County Superior Court after the November elections. Photo by Becky Bonner.

Government / Politics

Election 2018: San Benito County Superior Court Judge No. 2

Following the June elections, Gregory LaForge and Omar Rodriguez continue on to the November ballot.

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