California: Trial for Man Accused of Killing Tow Truck Operator Continues

A Yolo County judge refused to throw out the case against a man accused of running down a tow truck operator just outside Woodland two years ago. The lawyer for 73 year-old Pacifico San Pedro made a motion to dismiss the case after prosecutors uncovered new evidence during jury selection that the speed limit was lower than previously reported, throwing the defense for a loop.

Public defender Public Defender Amber Poston skewered the D.A.’s office today for causing even more delays after the trial was postponed seven times in over two years. She accused prosecutors of ignoring court orders to produce evidence during that time and for a gross failure to prepare their case causing the delays.

She argued that her client was being denied a speedy trial and due process. Judge Mcguire said he was unhappy and frustrated with what he says were egregious delays by prosecutors. But he refused to dismiss the case after hearing from Gladden’s family, including the victim’s father Ray Gladden.

“They were trying to throw it out on a technicality,” said Gladden.

He told the judge in court that the system was broken and not working. He said the trial should continue.

“That’s what I’m here to do is fight for my son for his rights because he has rights too,” Gladden told Fox40.

Judge McGuire ordered that the trial continue on Monday. During the proceedings tow truck from the region circled the courthouse in Woodland in support of the family. They have been undergoing an awareness campaign to get people to follow the law that requires them to slow or move over for emergency vehicles in the roadway.

“I don’t want to lose any of my tow drivers,’ said Doug Nelson, co-owner of College Tow.