San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced yesterday the conviction of 25-year-old Jose Dejesus Rodriguez for the 2019 domestic violence killing of his girlfriend. In a trial that concluded this week, Rodriguez was found guilty of voluntary manslaughter and resisting an officer by attempting to remove a weapon. His sentencing is now set for October 9. "I would like to express my condolences to the victim’s friends and family," Jenkins stated. "I hope that this verdict offers them some comfort and aids in their healing process", Jenkins said.
The incident dates back to October 24, 2019, when Rodriguez fatally shot his ex-girlfriend, a 21-year-old student from San Francisco State University, at her Outer Sunset residence. Despite making the initial 9-1-1 call, he refused to fully cooperate with law enforcement or provide details about the shooting. The case was strengthened by evidence of his past violent and controlling behavior toward the victim, which was documented in her journal and corroborated by witness testimony. "The defendant’s callous act of violence extinguished the young life of a kind, smart and beautiful woman," Assistant District Attorney Leigh Frazier was quoted as saying via the San Francisco District Attorney's press release, emphasizing the tragic nature of Valeria Villagomez's death and the broader issue of domestic violence in the community.
The prosecution, led by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Frazier, built a strong case against Rodriguez with assistance from the San Francisco Police Department, SFPD Crime Laboratory, the Silicon Valley Regional Forensics Laboratory, and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Victim Witness Advocate Maria Reynoso worked closely with the victim's family throughout the trial, providing critical support. "The killing of Valeria Villagomez is a tragic reminder of the urgent need to address domestic violence", Frazier remarked, highlighting the important ongoing battle against this societal scourge.
Rodriguez has been in custody since the arrest and will remain so until sentencing. In the wake of this conviction, the District Attorney's office seeks to remind the public that help is available for those experiencing domestic violence. Resources such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline and WOMAN Inc. are readily accessible for those in need. Individuals in crisis are encouraged to reach out to these support systems, ensuring that no one has to face such hardships alone.
