A San Francisco jury has convicted a man of domestic violence and assault following a trial that highlighted the violence suffered by one woman at the hands of her attacker. The San Francisco District Attorney's office announced the conviction of 24-year-old Jose Guadalupe Cano Flores for domestic violence, defined under PC 273.5(a), and two counts of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury, as per PC 245(a)(4).
During the trial, evidence presented revealed that on April 5, Cano Flores attacked the unnamed victim after she received a phone call, punching her multiple times and breaking her nose. On April 28, he again attacked her, this time strangling and throwing her to the floor, causing her to lose consciousness briefly. Despite her attempts to escape, Cano Flores forcibly restrained and dragged her back. It was ultimately the front-desk staff's intervention that enabled her to get help and led to Cano Flores' arrest as he was discovered hiding in a closet. District Attorney Brooke Jenkins stated, "The survivor's courage in coming forward and demanding justice for these terrible crimes should be an inspiration to all who think they are alone."
Assistant District Attorney Megan Wang, who successfully prosecuted the case, worked in conjunction with paralegals Lena Ku and Loretta Luu, and received IT support from Leland Chan and Noaeh Pinaire. Victim Advocate Cody Martinez provided close support to the victim throughout the proceedings. The SFPD patrol officers from the Mission Station, who first responded to the scene, and officers from the Special Victims’ Unit further investigated the case, leading to a robust case against Mr. Cano Flores.
Wang expressed her gratitude toward all involved in the trial, stating via the San Francisco District Attorney's office press release, "I want to thank the victim for her bravery in telling her story, the witnesses for intervening in a dangerous situation, and the jury for their careful evaluation of the evidence." She added, "This verdict sends a clear message that domestic violence will not be tolerated in San Francisco." Currently in custody, Cano Flores is scheduled to be sentenced on October 1.
If you or someone you know needs assistance with a domestic violence situation, resources are available. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. Additionally, support can be found through the National Domestic Violence Hotline by texting START to 88788 or by calling 800.799.7233, WOMAN, Inc's 24/7 Support Line at 877.384.3578, and other local services detailed in the District Attorney's press release.
