People v. Ortiz CA3

FACTS AND PROCEEDINGS

Bridget Castillo witnessed the murder of her boyfriend, Skhy Abrahamian, on a sidewalk on January 2, 2010, around 10:00 p.m. Defendant’s first trial which took place in November 2011 ended in a mistrial when the jury deadlocked at four guilty and eight not guilty. At the second trial, Bridget said she went with her baby that night to see the victim at the apartment of his business partner, Nick Patti. Patti was not at the apartment. Though given immunity in return for her testimony, Bridget testified she was unaware at that time that the nature of Abrahamian’s and Patti’s business was growing and selling marijuana. Going to the apartment, Abrahamian was nervous due to an earlier unexpected visit from someone named “Corky,” who was not defendant. Abrahamian walked Bridget to her car. Defendant -- whom Bridget has known for 15 years and identified in court -- drove up in a silver SUV, left it running with the lights on, got out, and wanted to talk to Abrahamian. Defendant was wearing a baseball cap backwards. Defendant and Abrahamian were members of the Norten͂ o street gang and had business dealings together. Defendant said, “let’s go in the house.”…