RON FREITAS
District Attorney
San Joaquin County
Office of the District Attorney
Ron Freitas
District Attorney

Meet District Attorney Ron Freitas

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
For Immediate Release

Breaking News


January 10, 2025

Steven Burns' Parole Denied for the 13th Time, Prioritizing Community Safety

Stockton, CA - In a case that has spanned over four decades, Steven John Burns, convicted for the 1979 murder of Catina Rose Salarno at the University of the Pacific, faced his 13th parole hearing yesterday. After 45 years in prison, the California Parole Board has once again determined that Burns remains an "unreasonable safety concern" for the community, denying his release.

Throughout these years, the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office and Deputy District Attorney Robert Himelblau have stood firmly alongside the Salarno family, advocating against Burns' release at several hearings. His commitment to justice has been resolute, ensuring the victim's and her family's voices are heard.

District Attorney Ron Freitas expressed his commitment to the case, stating, "Our duty is not only to prosecute but to protect. Each denial of parole for Steven Burns reaffirms our dedication to ensuring that our community remains safe and that justice continues to be served for Catina Salarno. We will continue to vigorously pursue parole denials for those who pose a threat to public safety, acknowledging the profound loss and ongoing pain felt by the Salarno family."

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Salarno family for their strength and resilience through this ordeal, to the Stockton Police Department for their response to and handling of the investigation, and to the Parole Board for their careful consideration and decision-making. This outcome reinforces our collective resolve to uphold justice and protect our community.

This press release marks another chapter in a long and sorrowful saga, reminding us of the impact of crime and its lasting effects, the importance of community safety, and the enduring quest for justice.

Ron Freitas
District Attorney, San Joaquin County
— Protecting Our Community Since 1850

Contact


Erin Haight
Public Information Officer
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Featuring!

San Joaquin County
Family Justice Center

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