Office of the District Attorney
Ronald J. Freitas is the 42nd District Attorney to lead San Joaquin County’s chief law enforcement agency. This administration maintains a zero-tolerance approach to prosecuting criminals, working with local, state, and federal partners to create a safe and secure San Joaquin County for everyone.
"The mission of the District Attorney's Office is to bring justice and closure to victims of crime."
“True public safety requires a collaboration
between law enforcement and the community.” - Betsy Hodges
San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announces Kristopher Sawyer, 38, of Stockton, has been sentenced to 40 years to life for the murder of a 58-year-old San Joaquin County woman during a home break-in in 2023.
On or between April 15, 2023, and April 16, 2023, Sawyer entered the victim’s residence in French Camp. He shot the victim in the head while she was in her bathroom. Sawyer took several items from her home and fled in her truck.
The victim was reported missing by her family on April 16th, 2023.
San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Deputies went to her residence and found her deceased.
Deputies located Sawyer near the victim’s truck on April 17th, 2023. Surveillance video showed that Sawyer was seen entering and leaving the victim’s residence around the time of the homicide.
Sawyer pled guilty to second-degree murder in court this week and admitted the 12022.53(d) (“personally and intentionally discharged a firearm” causing the death of the victim.)
On April 9, 2024, Sawyer was sentenced to 40 years to life in Department 8C at the San Joaquin County Courthouse.
A Family Justice Center is a collaborative model of service delivery that brings together a range of resources and support services under one roof to better serve victims of Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, Sexual Assault, Elder Abuse, Child Abuse, and Stalking.
The goal of a Family Justice Center is to provide comprehensive and coordinated support to individuals and families affected by abuse, helping them to feel safe and supported as they navigate the process of seeking help and rebuilding their lives.
Visit the Family Justice Center