RON FREITAS
District Attorney
Office of the District Attorney
Protecting our community for 175 Years
Protecting our community for 175 Years
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
Halloween is one of the most anticipated nights of the year in San Joaquin County. A time when our streets come alive with superheroes, ghosts, and giggling children in search of candy. But as District Attorney Ron Freitas reminds us, “a little
preparation and awareness go a long way toward making sure the night stays fun, not frightening.”
Whether you’re taking kids trick-or-treating, driving home from a Halloween party, or just handing out candy on the porch, safety should be part of your costume this year.
Before the candy hunt begins, map out a safe route
through familiar neighborhoods. Choose well-lit streets and make sure someone in the group carries a flashlight or glow stick for visibility. Small children should always be accompanied by an adult, and older kids should travel in groups with a clear
curfew and check-in plan.
Remind trick-or-treaters to stay on sidewalks whenever possible and never dart between parked cars. When crossing streets, make eye contact with drivers and use crosswalks. Once home, check all candy for torn wrappers or anything suspicious. Be extra aware of the possibility that Fentanyl often looks like candy to a child (see photo at right). When in doubt, throw it out. (Click here for more information on the District Attorney's Fentanyl awareness program)
A great costume doesn’t have to come at the cost of safety. Opt for light-colored fabrics or add reflective tape so children are visible after dark. Avoid masks that block vision; non-toxic face paint or makeup is a safer and more comfortable
option. Make sure costumes fit properly. Too long, and they can easily cause trips or falls. And while props like swords and scythes look cool, keep them soft and flexible to prevent injuries during play.
Halloween night can be unpredictable. Excited kids might forget the rules of the road, so motorists need to be extra alert. Slow down in residential areas, especially between 5:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., when most trick-or-treating happens. Put away distractions. No texting, no social media, and absolutely no “just checking one thing” while driving.
If you’re a homeowner, help make your property safe for little visitors by clearing walkways, securing pets, and keeping your porch well-lit.
For Adults: Celebrate ResponsiblyHalloween isn’t just for kids. Many adults enjoy parties or events around the county. If alcohol is part of your evening, make transportation plans before you start celebrating. Use a designated driver, call a rideshare, or stay overnight with friends. The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office reminds everyone: Don’t drink and drive. The consequences, both legal and personal, can last far longer than a hangover.
From law enforcement and first responders to neighborhood watch volunteers and parents, keeping Halloween safe takes teamwork. District Attorney Ron Freitas encourages everyone to “look out for one another and make safety part of our community tradition.”
So this Halloween, keep the scares spooky but safe. Enjoy the costumes, the candy, and the camaraderie, and make sure everyone gets home with nothing more than a sugar rush.
The San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office charged Jevon T. Jennings, a 27-year-old from Tracy, with multiple felonies following a disturbing incident at a minor’s residence. Jennings, observed on surveillance footage, tampered with a camera, cut a window screen, and entered the victim’s bedroom. The minor awoke to Jennings rummaging through her belongings and observed multiple flashes, possibly from a phone. Jennings fled after a cell phone rang. A subsequent investigation revealed Jennings possessed and distributed over 600 images of child pornography.
Jennings faces the following charges:
• Count 1: Penal Code 220(b) – Assault to commit a felony during first-degree burglary with intent to commit rape, sodomy, oral copulation, or violations of Sections 264.1, 288, or 289 (Felony).
• Count 2: Penal Code 459 – First-degree residential burglary, person present (Felony).
• Counts 3 & 4: Penal Code 311.11(a) and (c)(1) – Possession and distribution of over 600 images of child pornography, including over 10 images of children under 12 (Felonies).
• Count 5: Penal Code 311.2(c) – Distribution of child pornography (Felony).
Aggravating factors include the use of a box cutter during the crime (Rule of Court 4.421(a)(2)). Jennings has prior convictions for misdemeanor peeking (Penal Code 647(j)(1).
District Attorney Ron Freitas stated, “Jevon Jennings’ predatory behavior, stalking a minor, and invading her home with malicious intent, is an affront to our community’s safety. His possession and distribution of vile child pornography only deepen our resolve to ensure he faces the harshest consequences.
Jennings' next scheduled court date is July 1, 2025, in Department M1 for further arraignment. He is being held without bail.
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