John Chiv: Yet another witness in Fortuna attempted murder case needed an attorney and asserted 5th amendment right, People and defense lose key motions

Jul 17, 2024

Yet another witness in Fortuna attempted murder case needed an attorney and asserted 5th amendment right, People and defense lose key motions

A lot has happened in the Fortuna attempted murder case since my last post. I am posting a summary of the highlights. Court minutes with details are included in the post.

The suspects are Miguel Moreno and Ruben Ramirez. Moreno is represented by Mr. Ken Bareilles. Ramirez by Mr. David Celli. Deputy District Attorney Trent Timm is the prosecitor. Retired Judge Christopher Wilson was assigned to the trial.

On 7/8, Ms. Andrea Sullivan was in court with witness Oscar Avendano who asserted his right against self incrimination. I was right about the Pitchess motion and who was involved. An in camera review involved attorney Ryan Plotz, Fortuna Police Chief Casey Day and Detective Brian Taylor. On 7/9 Avenado testifiesd and DA's Pitchess motion was denied.

On 7/10, ruling was reserved regarding new jail phone call recordings. Mr. Celli reserved motion for directed verdict. On 7/11, Mr. Celli's PC 1118.1 directed verdict motion was denied by Judge Wilson.

On 7/12, Nicole Quintero's bail bond was exonerated. Defense rested their case. People had no rebuttal evidence. Mr. Celli renewed his motion for directed verdict as to Counts 1 & 2 and was joined by Ken Bareilles. The motion was denied.

On 7/16, closing arguments started and the day ended with discussion about Mr Celli's closing. On 7/17, deliberations started at approximately 10:26 a.m.

This week court minutes are up and first amended information has been updated. Different clerk and what a difference. She is one of the few who are the best clerks and they manage to get minutes out regardless of what courtroom they are in and how busy the calendar is on a given day.

7/8 court minutes: