The sentencing phase for Christian Moreno and Abilene Schneider, the San Antonio couple who pleaded guilty to charges related to a fatal dog attack on their 81-year-old neighbor, Ramon Najera, is slated to begin. The couple's unexpected plea forewent the need for a trial, as KSAT reports, and now Judge Velia Meza will hear arguments to determine their punishment.
Despite the pleas, the prosecution is pushing for the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. On the other hand, the defense believes probation is an adequate penalty. According to KENS 5 that the attack, which occurred more than a year ago, also severely injured Najera's wife, Juanita, who is expected to face the couple during the sentencing hearing.
The events in question unfolded on February 24, 2023, when Ramon and Juanita Najera were attacked by two of the trio of dogs owned by Moreno and Schnieder. Witnesses and first responders to the scene faced a grisly and deadly confrontation with the dogs, leading to Najera's death from the sustained injuries and additional bite wounds inflicted on others trying to help.
Throughout the court's proceedings, the defense tried to divert some blame onto the history of the dogs, who had previously been impounded by Animal Care Services and had a known record of aggression. "These two killing machines had a history, but they weren’t convinced enough that they were dangerous and that is the problem here," defense attorney Jorge Aristotelidis, according to the KSAT interview. However, Judge Meza ruled to proceed with the charges.
The testimony phase, expected to begin at 9 a.m. earlier today, will include a variety of witnesses such as first responders, eyewitnesses, and ACS employees. As announced by both KSAT and KENS 5, the entire sentencing period is expected to last throughout the week with the final decision anticipated on September 20. Moreno and Schnieder will have the opportunity to directly address the victim's wife during the hearing and read letters expressing their remorse.
