Tulare County, California — Erika Sandoval, 38, was convicted of first-degree murder after breaking into her ex-husband’s home, stealing his guns, and shooting him when he returned home.
Details of the Crime
The crime occurred in Goshen, California, on February 6, 2015, when Daniel Green, an Exeter police officer, was found dead in his home after failing to report for duty. He had been shot four times, including once in the head. His body was found wrapped in a shower curtain.
Surveillance video reportedly showed Sandoval arriving at Green’s house shortly before him and leaving about an hour later.
Conviction and Sentence
During Sandoval’s second trial, the jury did not find that she was “lying in wait” for Green, which meant she was not eligible for the death penalty. However, the jury did find a special allegation that she personally and intentionally fired the gun, causing great bodily injury.
As a result, Sandoval is facing a life sentence in prison, with her sentencing hearing scheduled for June 5.
Defense and Prosecution Arguments
In her defense, Sandoval’s lawyers argued that she had been a victim of abuse during her marriage and that she was acting in self-defense when she shot Green. They presented multiple alleged incidents of abuse, though Green was never formally charged in connection to those claims.
Prosecutors, however, argued that Sandoval was not acting in self-defense, but was instead jealous of Green’s new relationship. They pointed to Sandoval’s taunting remarks to Green, such as telling him, “No one is ever going to want you.” Just days before the killing, Green posted a photo with his new girlfriend, and Sandoval was found to have a note with the woman’s name and birthdate in her purse.
Previous Trial and Jury’s Decision
In 2019, Sandoval’s first trial ended in a hung jury after one juror refused to convict her. However, in the second trial, the jury found enough evidence to convict Sandoval. A juror from the second trial told KSEE, a local news station, that reviewing Sandoval’s confessions helped them make their final decision.
“It was honestly very difficult because there was so much to look into, but I think what actually closed it for us was we went back through her confessions and were able to clearly hear them,” the juror said.