June 7, 2023
Contact: Ted Asregadoo, Public Information Officer, 925-957-8638
[email protected]
Statement on the Dismissal of People vs. Montalvo and Boone
Martinez, California – On June 6th 2023, the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office determined the prosecution of The People of the State of California vs Ashton Montalvo and Deangelo Boone could not proceed to trial and moved to dismiss the case.
A dismissal at this juncture affords the District Attorney’s Office the ability to refile criminal charges against Montalvo and Boone and reinitiate legal action if new evidence is developed.
In this case, the prosecution of Montalvo and Boone for mutilation of human remains and arson on October 17, 2022, relied heavily on the investigative work of Antioch Police Officers who are associated with racist text communications.
After thoroughly reviewing the officers’ role in this case, applying relevant legal principles, and considering ethical responsibilities, the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office no longer has confidence in the integrity of this prosecution.
Our office extends our deepest sympathies to the family of Mykaella Sharlman and we aspire to renew this prosecution if presented with the opportunity to do so.
Case No. 04-22-01086 | The People of the State of California vs. Montalvo, Ashton
Case No. 04-22-01085 | The People of the State of California vs. Boone, Deangelo Laraye
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