On May 26, 2009, Tulare County Superior Court Judge Joeseph Kalashian imposed a prison sentence of 23 years on 24-year-old Jose Abraham Juarez-Fernandez of Tulare. The defendant was charged with attempted murder, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary, possession of methamphetamine, and failing to disclose the origin of pirated recordings.

In the early morning hours of February 28, 2009, Juarez-Fernandez forced his way into the victim’s home and attempted to murder her by slashing her throat with a box cutter. Also in the home was the husband and granddaughter of the victim. During the altercation, the defendant also attempted to stab the victim’s husband who was attempting to help his wife. While inside the home, the defendant stole miscellaneous property. After a lengthy stand off with police, the defendant was taken into custody. During a search of the defendant’s vehicle, officers located methamphetamine as well as numerous pirated audio recordings and movies. Juarez pled guilty to all charges.

At the time of the crime, Juarez-Fernandez was on felony probation for a previous attempted robbery.

The case was prosecuted by Melissa Benites, Deputy District Attorney, and investigated by Detective Brian Haney of the Tulare Police Department.

Contact Person: Assistant District Attorney Shani D. Jenkins (559) 733-6411