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Suspect Arrested in Alleged Murder of Diamond Heights Man

January 25, 2013June 4th, 2018Criminal Defense, San Francisco

On June 12 of last year, a 27-year-old man was found dead in San Francisco’s Diamond Heights neighborhood; according to news reports, he was found in the 5000 block of Diamond Heights Boulevard. His body was found bound and gagged inside his apartment. Now, San Francisco Police have arrested a suspect in the homicide.

On Tuesday September 4th, police arrested 45-year-old James Rickleffs of San Francisco after Rickleffs was interviewed by investigators on Sunday evening. He was arrested on suspicion of murder in the death of the victim, later identified as Eriq Escalon. The suspect is also accused of a probation violation and burglary.

News reports state that according to investigators Escalon and Rickleffs met at a Castro neighborhood bar; the two were allegedly seen leaving together in a cab. About 17 hours later, Escalon’s roommate found his bound and gagged body. The victim’s apartment had also been burglarized; investigators are appealing to residents or potential witnesses to come forth in helping to identify anyone they saw in that area carrying computers, game consoles or flat-screen televisions.

San Francisco criminal defense lawyers understand the serious consequences those convicted for homicide or murder face. Those accused face losing their freedom if convicted; in fact, depending on the circumstances and whether the accused is convicted of first- or second-degree murder, voluntary or involuntary manslaughter, you may spend life in prison or even be sentenced to the death penalty in rare cases. In cases such as that above where burglary and probation violation may incur additional charges, individuals are usually subject to additional penalties/punishment.

Individuals do commit murder; it happens every day in our country. However, many innocent people go to prison for crimes they did not commit. Sometimes an individual is falsely accused, or it may be a case of mistaken identity. Regardless of your situation, it is imperative that you seek legal counsel immediately if you have been arrested for homicide, manslaughter or murder. By consulting with a capable San Francisco murder defense attorney right away, vigorous work can begin on your case in order to protect your future, reputation and freedom.