According to Los Angeles Police Department statistics, the homicide rate increased significantly in Los Angeles last year. ABC 7 News reported that in 2019, “the homicide rate in the entire city jumped 5%” from the previous year. However, in the downtown area of LA, the homicide rate “skyrocketed - jumping 20% from the year before.”

This increase in the homicide rates downtown are very concerning, especially since the new year began with a fatal stabbing at a restaurant in Skid Row. Surveillance video of the event “show[ed] the suspect and victim arguing and the suspect stabbing the other man.”  Though paramedics responded and the victim was taken to the hospital, he later died. Police are now looking for the stabbing suspect.

If the suspect is found, he will face charges for homicide. Under California Law, homicide is split into several different categories. California Penal Code 187 defines murder as “the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought.” First degree murder includes intentional and premeditated (planned) homicide which is punishable by 25 years to life, life imprisonment, or possibly the death penalty. Second degree murder can be punished by 15 years to life in prison.

Any type of homicide charge is very serious and can be especially devastating to the life of the accused as well as their family upon conviction. If you or someone you care about is facing this type of serious charge, it is crucial that you seek out the experienced representation of a Los Angeles homicide defense attorney at the Kann California Law Group. We work hard to have charges reduced or completely dismissed and help you navigate the criminal justice system to ensure you get the justice you deserve. For more information on how we can help you, call our office at (888) 744-7730.