On Friday March 8, 28-year-old Yasmani Ramirez of Redwood City pleaded guilty to stabbing a man in the abdomen and slashing the victim’s arms while attending a baptismal party last fall. Ramirez allegedly stabbed the victim after he asked Ramirez’ wife to dance, placing his hand on her back and shoulder according to Steve Wagstaffe, San Mateo County District Attorney.
The baptismal party took place on November 17 of 2012 at the Highland Community Club located on Fern Street. According to a news report at the San Francisco Examiner, the victim’s act ignited a brawl which involved several individuals at the party. Initially, the victim believed he had been punched in the stomach before realizing it had been sliced open with a knife.
A settlement was reached with prosecutors in the case which will allow Ramirez to avoid prison time. Wagstaffe said that the defendant had been in jail since the time of the stabbing, and was given credit for the 221 days he has already served. He was also ordered to pay $1,000 in restitution according to the San Francisco Chronicle which states that Ramirez was not eligible to post the bail of $25,000 he was being held on, because he is an illegal immigrant from Mexico. Upon his release, immigration officials may begin deportation proceedings.
Ramirez could have been subject to much harsher criminal penalties had he been prosecuted for the offense of assault with a deadly weapon. Redwood City assault lawyers know that any assault crime is serious; even though Ramirez may not have been subjected to a long prison term, a criminal record can have a lasting negative impact on an individual’s life.
If you or someone you know has been arrested for simple assault, assault with a deadly weapon, or any offense involving force and violence, consult with an experienced and aggressive Redwood City criminal defense attorney who will work vigorously to protect your legal rights and freedom, securing the best possible outcome.