Prison Violence: Kern County Inmates Convicted for Attacking Fellow Prisoner!
Two inmates at the California Correctional Institution in Tehachapi have been convicted of attacking a fellow prisoner in a violent incident that occurred on May 6, 2022.
The Kern County jury found Eric Castilleja and Frankie Villareal guilty of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury.
According to District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer, the assault took place in the facility’s exercise yard. Castilleja and Villareal repeatedly struck the victim in the face and upper body with their fists.
As the victim fell to the ground, he tried to protect himself, but the assault continued. Despite multiple verbal commands from correctional officers to stop the attack, the defendants ignored the orders, forcing officers to intervene.
During the trial, it was revealed that both defendants have histories of violent offenses. Castilleja’s record includes prior convictions for attempted murder, gang participation, and multiple robberies. Villareal has a prior murder conviction.
“These individuals have shown through their actions that they remain a significant threat to public safety, even while incarcerated,” said Zimmer in a statement.
“Their violent behavior demonstrates the necessity of holding them accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about inmate violence within the prison system. Castilleja is already implicated in another high-profile case involving the death of Juan Trujillo, a fellow inmate who was killed during an altercation at Kern Valley State Prison in February 2024.
That case remains under investigation, with charges pending against eight inmates, including Castilleja.
The court has scheduled sentencing for January 30, 2025. Castilleja could face an additional 25 years to life in prison, while Villareal faces a potential 12-year sentence.
Both men’s convictions highlight the challenges of maintaining safety and order within the prison system.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of swift and decisive action against violent offenders, even in custody, to protect both inmates and correctional staff.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers inherent in managing high-risk populations and the need for vigilant enforcement of prison rules.
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