Chef’s family scorns DA ‘betrayals’

This tale, so oft repeated over Gallegos' tenure, is particularly clear, and this time got some press. So many families have said as much over the years. Sometimes with heartbreaking poignancy, and were ignored.

READ IT.

◼ Chef’s family scorns DA ‘betrayals’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union

◼ Relatives laud (DDA) Rees - Paul Mann/Mad River Union

◼ Juan Joseph Ferrer raw - Kevin Hoover/Mad River Union
Ferrer's probation report contains a wealth of detail on the case. Union reporter Paul Mann will have a deep dive on this and related stories. Meanwhile, click ◼ here for the raw Ferrer file.

The End: 12 years, Voodoo Dolls, no remorse, and resounding commentary on Paul Gallegos' treatment of the victim's family.

From the family's statement, via John Chiv's post:

The family of Douglas would like to publicly thank DDA Roger Rees and DA Maggie Fleming for thier compassion and commitment to pursuing this case and obtaining justice for Douglas. They have restored our faith in the justice system which was badly damaged under the administration of Paul Gallegos.

Hopefully now the healing can begin.

◼ "The victim just happened to be my brother, it could have just as easily been anyone else", Doug Anderson's family express safety concerns for Humboldt County and Arcata citizens - John Chiv/Words Worth June 15, 2015

THIS MATTERS - JERRY BROWN, PAY ATTENTION. The victim's family read their statement today, as reported by John Chiv at the link above:

Don's wife, Patty Anderson was the last to read. In her own letter, she spoke very eloquently and powerfully about the anguish the family went through with the defense smearing the name of Doug in the past year and a half, how former DA Paul Gallegos hid facts from them, would not communicate with them, tried to railroad them into accepting the plea deal he wanted to offer and how he refused to give them current DA Maggie Fleming's contact information.

"I tried very hard to find forgiveness," she said. "I found forgiveness elusive." Citing the former prosecutor and DA Paul Gallegos who she singled out in scathing words, the defense smears and the complete lack of remorse by Juan Ferrer as reasons.

Patty Anderson talked about the "irreparable damage" done to "Doug's reputation" by the "resulting publicity in the Humboldt County DA's election." And she added, "No thanks to Paul Gallegos who argued against us in court."

She mentioned delay after delay or Paul Gallegos not offering them any explaination. All this has been detailed in my coverage last year when Paul Gallegos prosecuted the case. Patty Anderson said she found out about Nicholas Stoiber's and Sophie Rocheleau's plea deal in the media, not from Paul Gallegos.

That same refrain has played out over and over and over throughout Paul Gallegos' tenure as DA of Humboldt County. There have been complaints filed with the Attorney General, in hopes that something would be done, and nothing ever was. Any complaint was deemed 'political' and shelved.

It is a tragedy to see it yet again. The pain behind those tales, you need to pay attention, and not reward this man with any steps up the ladder. Not even on a pot board. ESPECIALLY NOT AS A JUDGE!

◼ Juan Ferrer made a voodoo doll to try and control the trial and after being convicted, was caught saying even after he "fucking killed" the victim Humboldt County gave him voluntary manslaughter instead of murder - John Chiv/Words Worth June 15, 2015
In one of the phone recordings he said he had no remorse for killing Doug and that he did not know how he would display remorse when probation would interview him. He said even though he "fucking killed" the victim, Humboldt County gave him voluntary manslaughter instead of murder.

In these recordings he said he described a voodoo doll he drew of DDA Roger Rees, drew pins on it and then covered it with his own blood he got from testing his blood sugar so he could control the outcome of the trial.
◼ Instead of expressing remorse, Ferrer makes his statement all about himself - John Chiv/Words Worth June 15, 2015

As he was being led away in cuffs, he turned to his family and said, "I'll be all right, I'll appeal and win."

◼ Juan Ferrer sentenced to maximum term of 12 years - John Chiv/Words Worth Jun 15, 2015

Judge John Feeney sentenced Ferrer to the maximum term of 11 years for voluntary manslaughter plus 1 year for special allegation of using a weapon.

The term is consecutive and Ferrer will be on parole/post supervision release for 3 years after his release.

◼ Ferrer sentenced to 12 years in prison - Paul Mann/Mad River Union June 15, 2015

Jurors dealt with a considerable lack of evidence: the murder weapon was missing and there were no usable blood samples, impartial eyewitnesses to the stabbing or surveillance videos of the physical encounter.

GUILTY.

◼ Former DA Candidate: Arcata Homicide Verdict Brings Accountability - Grant Scott-Goforth/The Journal

It was a rare Arcata homicide, and also became a sticking point in the 2014 District Attorney race, after candidate and then-prosecutor Elan Firpo reached an agreement with Ferrer where he would plead to involuntary manslaughter and serve two years in jail.

Opposing candidate Arnie Klein took issue with the plea and, following public debate, a judge tossed the deal. Deputy DA Roger Rees, under the leadership of newly elected DA Maggie Fleming, prosecuted the case in a trial that began this year.

Klein, reached by phone Monday, said he opposed the plea deal because he felt “it robbed the community of its voice and hid the facts.” He denied that his self-described representation of Anderson-Jordet’s family, which led to the dismissal of the plea, was politically motivated, and said “I think the message is: When you take a life in Humboldt County, there has to be some accountability.” KEEP READING

◼ District Attorney Press Release on Juan Ferrer verdict - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/19/15

◼ Doug's family will reserve any further statements until their victim impact statements on June 15, the sentencing date - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/18/15

◼ (UPDATED) Juan Ferrer Found Guilty of Manslaughter for 2013 Stabbing Death of Douglas Anderson-Jordet - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost (who links to MRU, but not John Chiv, who did the bulk of the coverage of this trial, shame.)

◼ Ferrer guilty of manslaughter (updated with DA press release) - Mad River Union

Ferrer’s companions that night, Sophie Buttercup Rocheleau, 25, and Nicholas Stoiber, 29, Ferrer’s former co-defendants, each pleaded guilty last November to a reduced charge of misdemeanor battery and were sentenced to three years’ probation. They stood accused of striking Anderson-Jordet and piling on while Ferrer produced a knife, which was never found.

◼ Ferrer guilty of manslaughter and special allegation - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/18/15 12:53

For voluntary manslaughter Ferrer can get up maximum 11 years. Lower term 3 and mid term is 6 years. Special allegation is an additional 1 year.

Chiv's update: The Family's Statement

◼ Family of Douglas Anderson releases the only public statement they wish to make regarding the Ferrer trial - John Chiv/Words Worth

Light at the end of the tunnel as the Ferrer case comes to a close

◼ Ferrer jury to start deliberating tomorrow at 8:30 - John Chiv/Words Worth May 14, 2015

◼ "I don't think Mr. Ferrer is the person who killed Anderson-Jordet. This man killed Anderson-Jordet." Ferrer's attorney blames victim for his own death - John Chiv/Words Worth May 14, 2015

Blaming the victim for his own death, when his own client in several versions admitted to stabbing the victim, is certainly a novel approach and in line with the insensitivity displayed throughout Ferrer's defense.

◼ "This is not a self defense case." "This is a violent punk night case." - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

◼ Ferrer closing arguments today, jury has options of second degree murder, involuntary and voluntary manslaughter - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

◼ "This is Doug. That is where he died. This is the guy that killed him. Those are the facts of the case." - John Chiv/Words Worth May 13, 2015

Closing arguments in Ferrer at hand... Defense case in Arcata chef stabbing continued to sink like the Titanic

◼ People's last witness today claims that Ferrer told him that "Doug came at him with a knife" that he was "able to disarm Doug" - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ Ferrer's connection to Limmie Curry, aggressive punk music and a statement from Ferrer's grandmother that "he put his head down and rammed him", she denied but then was played on audio - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ The jury could start deliberating as early as Thursday this week. - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ Defense rests in Arcata chef stabbing case, People calling rebuttal witnesses - John Chiv/Words Worth May 11, 2015

◼ Recalled to the stand, Ferrer blows it by saying, "I can't recall every nook and cranny of the night" and getting testy and calling DDA's question stupid - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2015

◼ "Do you think anyone deserves to die for calling someone a faggot?; "Do you think someone should die for calling someone a fat bitch?" Response from Ferrer's friend is telling - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2015

◼ "If he wasn't sure he stabbed him or know extent of the injury, why get rid of the knife?" - John Chiv/Words Worth May 9, 2015

◼ Defense case in Arcata chef stabbing continues to sink like the Titanic as DDA Roger Rees cross of Ferrer and friends further bolsters prosecution theory

The former co-defendant (the girlfriend) speaks (UPDATED)

As you saw in yesterday's post, this case has received a lot of attention. It's stirred controversy, and had its twists and turns. If you believe that the victim was yelling at the soon-to-be killer, it's a case of men behaving badly, and it didn't need to end this way. Ferrer should have laughed and kept walking. But by his own admission, he didn't. It is a shame. And I suspect he will pay for his 'fatal' mistake. Read John Chiv's complete coverage, at the link.

◼ Defense forensic pathologist bolsters prosecution argument in Ferrer case, saying if Anderson had received medical help immediately, he could have survived - John Chiv/Words Worth May 6, 2015 (UPDATE)

DDA Rees has destroyed Ferrer's credibility, he has poked holes in Rocheleau's credibility and if the trend continues with Stoiber, the defense case is looking very bleak at this point.

◼ Possible witness tampering in Ferrer case? - John Chiv/Words Worth May 6, 2015 (UPDATE)
◼ DDA Rees exposes yet another key defense victim and Ferrer's former girlfriends's testimony; even on direct her testimony further sinks Ferrer's defense case - John Chiv/Words Worth May 6, 2015 (UPDATE)
◼ "Would you call it a violent punk night?" Sophie Rocheleau's denial later called out on cross by DDA Rees by showing a facebook post - John Chiv/Words Worth May 6, 2015

◼ Ferrer defense witness 3 and 4 don't make much of a difference - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

No one except Ferrer, Stoiber and Rocheleau were at the altercation. Anderson is dead. That leaves Ferrer whose credibility is toast due to his own actions and words. Character witnesses can't rehabilitate that damage.

◼ She saw the open knife in Ferrer's hand and he said, "we need to get rid of this and I saw him toss it somewhere" - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

Rocheleau said they walked away from Anderson at a fast pace and could hear "incoherent yelling" from Anderson. When they turned at 12th Street, "Joey stopped and said, 'Oh shit, I think I stabbed him.'." Rocheleau said both her and "Nick were like, what? I didn't believe it; it's not what I saw. It didn't seem plausible."

◼ "Oh shit, I think I stabbed him", is what Ferrer said to Sophie Rocheleau who made a very credible witness for the defense today but her truthful testimony further shows Ferrer's isn't telling the whole truth

Law enforcement and the DA's office has maintained that Stoiber and Rocheleau were truthful in their testimony from day one. Court took a short break and when Rocheleau walked out, she briefly glanced at Ferrer who did not eveen acknowledge her.

◼ U guys were going to put the beat on him" ; "Do you think Doug's family wishes he could have the luxury to go home?" Deputy District Attorney Rees asks Juan Ferrer - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

On a brief re-cross, DDA Rees brought that statement up and said, "Do you think Doug's family wishes he had the luxury to go home?"

Ferrer snapped at Mr. Rees, "I knew you would bring that up. That is a stupid question to ask."

And that is the image Ferrer left the jury with this morning.

◼ Even when given a chance to express remorse for his actions on the stand, Ferrer calls Douglas Anderson "rabid jackal" - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015
◼ Two family members drove all night to be here for the trial of the man who denies killing Douglas Anderson - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

One thing I know, Doug was loved.

◼ Considering the history of this case: Yesterday's post includes the links to coverage by John Chiv, KIEM, The Mad River Union, Times-Standard and Lost Coast Outpost

◼ Ferrer’s girlfriend testifies she saw him punch stabbing victim - Will Houston/Times-Standard 4/29/15
◼ Ferrer gives testimony in Arcata chef murder trial - Will Houston/Times-Standard 4/28/15

Considering the history of this case (Updated)

It's interesting where it is ending up.

It's a good thing it went to trial.

◼ "You keep using that word fatal, why?"; "So he didn't fall on the knife, it went into his chest when you pushed him off?" DDA Rees uses Ferrer's own words to trip him up - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 28, 2015

DDA Roger Rees was masterful in his cross. If this was a chess game, DDA Rees got Ferrer to checkmate with every move; in this case every question. This is how Mr. Rees opened his cross of Ferrer.

DDA Rees: "You were angry because you never got to see a photo of Anderson-Jordet?"

Ferrer: "Yes."

◼ "I will fucking kill you"; "I will fuck that fat bitch up", Ferrer recalls statements today never brought up before - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 28, 2015

This is the first time we have heard these threats mentioned. This interaction is also important because when Mr. Rees questioned Ferrer on cross, he gets caught in his own words.

◼ It was not a good day for the defense.: "I was lying, yes" admits Ferrer to DDA Roger Rees who decimated Ferrer's credibility on cross following Ferrer's own direct testimony which caught him in a mess - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 28, 2015

DDA Roger Rees got to finally question Ferrer during the last hour until court adjourned at noon. He was masterful in decimating Ferrer's credibility and catching him in lie after lie and inconsistency and one point when DDA Rees questioned Ferrer, his response was "I was lying, yes."

History of the case:

◼ Ferrer defense witness 3 and 4 don't make much of a difference - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

No one except Ferrer, Stoiber and Rocheleau were at the altercation. Anderson is dead. That leaves Ferrer whose credibility is toast due to his own actions and words. Character witnesses can't rehabilitate that damage.

◼ She saw the open knife in Ferrer's hand and he said, "we need to get rid of this and I saw him toss it somewhere" - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

Rocheleau said they walked away from Anderson at a fast pace and could hear "incoherent yelling" from Anderson. When they turned at 12th Street, "Joey stopped and said, 'Oh shit, I think I stabbed him.'." Rocheleau said both her and "Nick were like, what? I didn't believe it; it's not what I saw. It didn't seem plausible."

◼ "Oh shit, I think I stabbed him", is what Ferrer said to Sophie Rocheleau who made a very credible witness for the defense today but her truthful testimony further shows Ferrer's isn't telling the whole truth - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

Law enforcement and the DA's office has maintained that Stoiber and Rocheleau were truthful in their testimony from day one. Court took a short break and when Rocheleau walked out, she briefly glanced at Ferrer who did not eveen acknowledge her.

◼ U guys were going to put the beat on him" ; "Do you think Doug's family wishes he could have the luxury to go home?" Deputy District Attorney Rees asks Juan Ferrer - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

On a brief re-cross, DDA Rees brought that statement up and said, "Do you think Doug's family wishes he had the luxury to go home?"

Ferrer snapped at Mr. Rees, "I knew you would bring that up. That is a stupid question to ask."

And that is the image Ferrer left the jury with this morning.

◼ Even when given a chance to express remorse for his actions on the stand, Ferrer calls Douglas Anderson "rabid jackal" - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015
◼ Two family members drove all night to be here for the trial of the man who denies killing Douglas Anderson - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 29, 2015

One thing I know, Doug was loved.

◼ Ferrer voices pity for his stabbing victim - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 29, 2015
◼ D.A.: Ferrer went too far with lethal use of force - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 29, 2015
◼ Ferrer’s girlfriend testifies she saw him punch stabbing victim - Will Houston/Times-Standard 4/29/15
◼ Ferrer gives testimony in Arcata chef murder trial - Will Houston/Times-Standard 4/28/15
◼ "You keep using that word fatal, why?"; "So he didn't fall on the knife, it went into his chest when you pushed him off?" DDA Rees uses Ferrer's own words to trip him up - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 28, 2015
◼ "I will fucking kill you"; "I will fuck that fat bitch up", Ferrer recalls statements today never brought up before - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 28, 2015
◼ It was not a good day for the defense.: "I was lying, yes" admits Ferrer to DDA Roger Rees who decimated Ferrer's credibility on cross following Ferrer's own direct testimony which caught him in a mess - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 28, 2015
◼ Ferrer tells jurors his version of stabbing - Paul Mann/Mad River Union - Apr 28, 2015
◼ Despite taking the stand, Ferrer's brief testimony today paled in comparison to People's last two witnesses - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015
◼ Ferrer: "My grandma is fucking crazy, she has dementia"; "My girlfriend is autistic, she has Asperger's"; Ferrer throws loved ones under the bus - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015
◼ "When this is presented to 12 people who have to make a decision about you, don't you want them to see your side?"; "You are insulting the intelligence of people who will make the decision..." - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015
◼ People rest in Ferrer case; first defense witness today is the defendant - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015
◼ Dueling surprises at Ferrer trial - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 27, 2015
◼ Week two, Ferrer murder trial “I just stuck him, to get past him” - KIEM-TV News w/video
◼ Forensic pathologist testifies that Arcata chef could have survived stab wound, had he got to the ER within the hour - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 24, 2015
◼ Lawyers in fatal stabbing case spar over ‘reasonable doubt’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015
◼ Defense claims anti-gay bigotry in fatal stabbing case - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 15, 2015
◼ Watching his client's case tank, defense attorney in Ferrer case takes an unprofessional swipe at the prosecution in an outburst in court - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 23, 2015
◼ A lone hiking sandal, blood and urine near the sidewalk and glasses; Anderson-Jordet died alone on the streets of Arcata less than 2 blocks away from making it home - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 22, 2015
◼ Lawyers in fatal stabbing case spar over ‘reasonable doubt’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015
◼ D.A.: ‘Ferrer ran and hid’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015
◼ "Only my sister aside from you and soph and my fam are gangsters no snitching" - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Rees: "Without that video, we would never know the defendant was responsible for Doug's death," - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Reavis: "However Mr. Jordet was to his family and friends, what Mr. Ferrer knew was a drunk, homophobic individual"; defense claims "he fell on that knife" - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Defense states Arcata chef fell on knife in Ferrer trial opening statements - Will Houston, Eureka Times-Standard
◼ Juan Ferrer invoking auspices of Krishna before his upcoming jury trial? - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Dear Mr. Chiv, - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ "Sexual orientation is a key issue, this is how all this started"; homophobia and views on LGBT community important in Ferrer jury trial - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Day 2 of Juan Ferrer's jury trial: Defense says Ferrer statement of "killing fucking sandniggers" not his view but a response to law enforcement about what white, conservative majority thinks of Arabs - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Judge Cissna to meet with attorneys in Ferrer tomorrow to possibly resolve case - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Earlier today: Sneak preview on Ferrer: Defense to pull time waiver and DDA Roger Rees to take over prosecution - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Laggard witnesses turn up in Arcata chef murder case - Paul Mann/Mad River Union
◼ Some witnesses avoiding subpoena. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ The question of the day is will outgoing District Attorney Paul Gallegos show up for this hearing? The last time we waited almost half an hour, while court staff and the DDA in court tried "to locate Mr. Gallegos." - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Co-defendants in Ferrer case get 3 years summary probation and 50 hours of community service - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Two defendants plead guilty to battery charges in Arcata fatal stabbing case - Will Houston/Times-Standard
◼ Juan Ferrer who is charged with stabbing Douglas Anderson Jordet back in court on Dec 17 - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ "Doug was a victim that day...we will be victims the rest of our lives" - John Chiv/Words Worth
The Question Of The Day was: ◼ Will Paul show up this time? Will the Arcata chef stabbing case ever go to trial?
And then: ◼ Paul did saunter in 20 minutes later and apologized to the Court twice. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Ferrer case continued again until Nov 10 - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Disposition reached for Stoiber, all decisions delayed another 2 weeks in Ferrer case - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ "Every week we come back and hear the same excuse"; attorneys in Ferrer case express frustration with delays by Gallegos - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ People oppose motion to sever Ferrer but have yet to file; another date set - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Defense attorneys are still awaiting discovery and District Attorney Paul Gallegos who opposed the motion to sever already had the case continued once and today did not even show up for Court. Instead he had DDA Zach Curtis ask for another week with no reason, again. - John Chiv/Words Worth 8/11/14 2:31
◼ Paul requests two more weeks in Ferrer because all transcripts not ready - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Ferrer jury trial date of August 4 vacated based on request by defense - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Motion to sever Ferrer, Stoiber and Rocheleau cases temporarily on hold until July 21st - John Chiv/Words Worth Jul 7, 2014
◼ Gallegos gets a bit of a dress down in defense's oral arguments before the court today in Ferrer case
◼ A request will be made by the People to reschedule the hearing for two weeks since Paul Gallegos is out of town. - John Chiv/Words Worth 6/18/14
◼ All three defendants were arraigned, they did not waive time. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Suspects plead not guilty in death of Arcata chef; trial date set - Will Houston/Times-Standard
◼ Ferrer defendants held to answer on all charges - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/29/14
◼ Reavis and Okin get Sligh to admit testimony left out during prosecution cross in Ferrer case - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/29/14
◼ Possibility of other assailants and more heroin connections raised in Ferrer prelim day 2 - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/29/14
◼ A witness in Ferrer case describes what she heard. Detailed testimony from today's preliminary updated later. - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/28/14
◼ Arcata detective describes scene of fatal stabbing - Will Houston/Times-Standard 5/28/14
◼ The Ferrer case has been moved to Courtroom 6 with Judge Christopher Wilson. Will start at 2:30 today and continue tomorrow at 8:30. - John Chiv/Words Worth 5/28/14
◼ This afternoon, in Courtroom 4 there is Intervention for the Ferrer case. Courtroom is closed with attorneys only. Will Houston from the Times-Standard is waiting with me in the hallway to speak to attorneys. They came out within a few minutes. - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Courtroom delays, scheduling conflicts lead to decision - Will Houston/Times-Standard
◼ Ben Dale Letter to Editor Times-Standard
◼ Plea deals tossed in Arcata fatal stabbing case; Judge: Decision made to keep 'public's confidence in the justice system' - Will Houston/The Times-Standard
◼ Plea bargains rejected in Ferrer case - John Chiv/Words Worth UPDATED 4/2014
◼ Judge Tosses Plea Deals in Anderson-Jordet Stabbing Case - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost UPDATED
◼ The Judge explains her reasoning. Gallegos late to the hearing. - John Chiv/Words Worth UPDATED
◼ Ferrer sentencing may not happen until 4 p.m., information you would not know except for this post - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Ferrer hearing to start at 4 - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Allan Dollison declines Arnie Klein's request to attend Ferrer sentencing; will public have access to enough seats, read why - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Showdown Over Arcata Stabbing Suspect’s Plea Deal This Afternoon - Hank Sims/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Community Encouraged to Come to Ferrer Sentencing Hearing - Arnie Klein
◼ Anderson-Jordet's family ask Klein to challenge district attorney's plea deal, DA, local expert weigh in on case -Will Houston/The Times-Standard
◼ Arcata fatal stabbing case reassigned from Firpo to Gallegos - Times-Standard
◼ Gallegos reassigns Firpo from Arcata fatal stabbing case; DA will not challenge killer's plea deal - Will Houston/The Times-Standard
◼ Firpo Seeks To Quit Ferrer Case - Mad River Union
◼ Elan Firpo has requested Paul Gallegos reassign the Ferrer case; this and more at the Arcata Town Hall meeting today "I have asked the District Attorney, Paul Gallegos, to reassign the People v. Juan Ferrer case." - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Ferrer Sentence Becomes A Political Issue In DA Race - Kevin Hoover/Mad River Union
◼ A Note to Arnie from a Friend of Douglas Anderson-Jordet via Facebook
◼ Family of slain Arcata chef to challenge plea deal; several district attorney candidates speak out on the case - Will Houston/The Times-Standard
◼ D.A. Candidate Klein Seeks To Suspend Firpo’s Ferrer Plea - Mad River Union
◼ DA’s Race Heats Up as Deal Struck in Fatal Stabbing Faces Possible Challenge by Victim’s Family - Kym Kemp/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ ...What has gone terribly wrong is that the victim’s character has been assassinated and HE has been put on trial.
◼ Response Regarding the Ferrer Stabbing Disposition: - Facebook
◼ Firpo Responds To Concerns About Ferrer Disposition - Mad River Union
◼ Elan Firpo responds to concerns about Ferrer disposition - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Firpo Responds to Plea Deal Critics - Thadeus Greenson/the Journal 2/24/14
◼ Friend Wants to Clear Arcata Stabbing Victim’s Name - Kym Kemp/Lost Coast Outpost 2/25/14
◼ Letter of Impact to the Humboldt County Court - Sue Campbell
◼ Press Release Re: Ferrer Case - Watchpaul
◼ DA Candidate Dollison Speaks Out Against Ferrer Plea Deal - Mad River Union
◼ Three Arcata residents entered no contest pleas Thursday to charges associated with the fatal stabbing of a popular Abruzzi chef and musician late last year. - Will Houston/The Times-Standard
◼ Juan Ferrer Faces Four Years in Prison For the Stabbing Death of Douglas Anderson-Jordet (UPDATED) - Andrew Goff/Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Ferrer to serve 4 years in jail; Trio enters no contest plea for fatal Arcata stabbing - KIEM-TV (image source)
◼ Ferrer Gets Two Years Jail For Killing A Man - Kevin Hoover/Mad River Union
◼ (UPDATED) Three Arrested by APD for Homicide - Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Man Stabbed to Death in Downtown Arcata - Lost Coast Outpost
◼ Officials ID one of three charged in Arcata homicide case as main assailant - TIMES-STANDARD

_______________
Mad River Union Coverage: (for updating purposes)
◼ Thin evidence hedges Ferrer jury - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 5/17/15
◼ Ferrer jury begins deliberations - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 5/14/15
◼ Irked Ferrer hounds prosecutor - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 5/12/15
◼ News analysis: Dissecting the Ferrer fatal stabbing case - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 5/7/15
◼ Ferrer voices pity for his stabbing victim - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 4/29/15
◼ DA: Ferrer went too far with use of lethal force - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 4/29/15
◼ Ferrer tells his version of stabbing - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 4/28/15
◼ Dueling surprises at Ferrer trial - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 4/27/15
◼ DA: Ferrer ran and hid
◼ Lawyers in fatal stabbing case spar over 'reasonable doubt' - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 4/21/15
◼ Arcata trio balks at aiding Ferrer defense - Paul Mann/Mad River Union 12/17/14

Coming to an end: People Rest In The Ferrer Case

◼ Despite taking the stand, Ferrer's brief testimony today paled in comparison to People's last two witnesses - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015

"I'm a vegetarian, not a killer," said Ferrer. "I was scared." DDA Roger Rees asked Deputy Harris if Ferrer ever said he was in fear of his life, of great bodily injury or that he was afraid for his companions. To all questions, Deputy Harris replied with "No."

◼ Ferrer: "My grandma is fucking crazy, she has dementia"; "My girlfriend is autistic, she has Asperger's"; Ferrer throws loved ones under the bus - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015

Sergeants ask what should happen to the person that stabbed Douglas Anderson. "Nobody should die for hurling an insult, maybe bitch slapped or something."

Acting Sgt. Ortega: "Give me a reason why Sophie and Nick would say you stabbed him?

"I don't know," responds Ferrer.

◼ "When this is presented to 12 people who have to make a decision about you, don't you want them to see your side?"; "You are insulting the intelligence of people who will make the decision..." - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015

"I don't know what you are talking about," says Ferrer. When they mention his two friends again and that they will be held responsible for something he did, Ferrer responds, "That's unfortunate."

◼ People rest in Ferrer case; first defense witness today is the defendant - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 27, 2015

◼ Dueling surprises at Ferrer trial - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 27, 2015

◼ Week two, Ferrer murder trial “I just stuck him, to get past him” - KIEM-TV News w/video

◼ Forensic pathologist testifies that Arcata chef could have survived stab wound, had he got to the ER within the hour - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 24, 2015

Forensic pathologist testifies that Arcata chef could have survived stab wound, had he got to the ER within the hour
This morning's testimony in the jury trial for Juan Ferrer started with forensic pathologist Dr. Mark Super testifying that Douglas Anderson did not have to die. If he had made it to the ER, his life could have been saved and the wound to his heart repaired.

The defense immediately called Arcata murder suspect Juan Joseph Ferrer to the witness stand in surprise testimony today, April 27 after the prosecution abruptly rested its case without calling some of its key witnesses.

◼ Lawyers in fatal stabbing case spar over ‘reasonable doubt’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015

◼ D.A.: ‘Ferrer ran and hid’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015
◼ Lawyers in fatal stabbing case spar over ‘reasonable doubt’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015

Rees used Ferrer’s post-arrest statements to Arcata police to portray the suspect as a liar and a dissimulator who sought to avoid coming forward and taking responsibility for his lethal action against a lone, unarmed victim who did no more than shout curse words at Ferrer and his two companions on H Street in downtown Arcata.

Marshaling police interview recordings, Ferrer’s text messages and a Power Point of the defendant’s statements to police, Rees zeroed in immediately on the defendant’s credibility.

◼ Defense claims anti-gay bigotry in fatal stabbing case - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 15, 2015

The evolving story, the texts are particularly damning

◼ Watching his client's case tank, defense attorney in Ferrer case takes an unprofessional swipe at the prosecution in an outburst in court - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 23, 2015
DDA Roger Rees continued to build a successful case on the third day in the jury trial where Juan Ferrer is charged with the murder of Arcata chef Douglas Anderson-Jordet. KEEP READING
◼ A lone hiking sandal, blood and urine near the sidewalk and glasses; Anderson-Jordet died alone on the streets of Arcata less than 2 blocks away from making it home - John Chiv/Words Worth Apr 22, 2015

The rest of Detective Ortega's testimony was a very detailed description on how they identified Ferrer and his two friends, how they obtained the two videos from Humboldt Clothing and ReMax, how they tracked the timeline of the events leading up to the parties path's crossing. At the end of his direct testimony, Mr. Rees had Detective Ortega mark all the significant spots mentioned in his testimony: where the body was found, the bars were located, the businesesses that gave the video surveilance and the location of the Crew house.

◼ Lawyers in fatal stabbing case spar over ‘reasonable doubt’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015
◼ D.A.: ‘Ferrer ran and hid’ - Paul Mann/Mad River Union Apr 21, 2015

Text messages obtained by police include:

• “Long as that weapon don’t come up I think we are cool.”

• “Only my sister aside from you and soph and my fam are gangster no snitching.”

• “You think we’re clear?”

• “Clear enough. Not (cq) witnesses besides us.”

• “Word thanks brother.”

The defense attorney's job, of course, is to get his guy off.

◼ "Only my sister aside from you and soph and my fam are gangsters no snitching" - John Chiv/Words Worth

Opening arguments in the Juan Ferrer jury trial this morning paint two completely different sides of the man charged with the death of Arcata chef Douglas Anderson-Jordet, which occurred when he was stabbed by Ferrer in November 2013.

...DDA Roger Rees gave a very powerful opening statement in which he played an audio recording where Ferrer's own words contradict a self-defense claim and his own texts incriminate him. Showing pictures of "Doug", Mr. Rees made a far more effective opening to the jury. The above quote is from a text between Juan Ferrer and his friend Nicholas Stiober, who was originally charged as a co-defendant and plead out to simple assault.

◼ Rees: "Without that video, we would never know the defendant was responsible for Doug's death," - John Chiv/Words Worth

You are here because that defendant killed that man, killed him right here in the streets of Arcata and left him to die". That is how DDA Roger Rees ended his very powerful opening statement to a four women, 8 man jury with five alternates, which includes one woman this morning.

◼ Reavis: "However Mr. Jordet was to his family and friends, what Mr. Ferrer knew was a drunk, homophobic individual"; defense claims "he fell on that knife" - John Chiv/Words Worth
◼ Defense states Arcata chef fell on knife in Ferrer trial opening statements - Will Houston, Eureka Times-Standard

For those who are following this case:

◼ Earlier posts here
◼ Earlier posts at Words Worth
◼ Earlier coverage at The Mad River Union
◼ Times-Standard links

The 'peaceful Buddhist' and the murder trial

Interesting report from John Chiv on the Ferrer jury selection process: ◼ Juan Ferrer invoking auspices of Krishna before his upcoming jury trial? - John Chiv/Words Worth

Juan Ferrer who has been described by his defense attorney as a peaceful Buddhist, had a photo similar to the image (at the link) of Hindu deity Krishna playing the flute with a cow placed in front of him on the table in the courtroom.... Ferrer is charged with the murder of Arcata chef Douglas Anderson-Jordet.

Peaceful Buddhists are supposed to be averse to killing, not even killing gnats, or mosquitos.

Whatever else happens here, there's been no dispute about who stabbed the chef. Just a dispute as to why. No dispute that this guy and his friends left the chef to die. Just some dispute as to why.

And, a message from the victim's family:

◼ Dear Mr. Chiv, - John Chiv/Words Worth

...Mr. Ferrer took Douglas’ life (a point Mr. Ferrer does not dispute) and now he and his attorney are trying to smear Douglas character in an attempt to invent a plausible defense. We find this particularly shameful.... (There's more, and it is well worth your time, if you've been following the case.)

Ferrer trial...

Lots of questions on this one. It became a high profile case during the last election, and became a hot-potato case when paul took it away from Elan Firpo. Arnie Klein was working with the victim's family.

◼ "Sexual orientation is a key issue, this is how all this started"; homophobia and views on LGBT community important in Ferrer jury trial - John Chiv/Words Worth

The case for the stabbing of Arcata Chef Douglas Anderson-Jordet is expected to take approximately 8 weeks including Jury selection.

◼ Day 2 of Juan Ferrer's jury trial: Defense says Ferrer statement of "killing fucking sandniggers" not his view but a response to law enforcement about what white, conservative majority thinks of Arabs - John Chiv/Words Worth

Will add other media links as they become available.

A busy Monday...

◼ Jury finds James Colby Jr not guilty on all counts of alleged attempted rape and child molestation - John Chiv/Words Worth

James Colby Jr was acquitted of all charges against him a minute ago by a jury consisting of three women and eight men.

◼ Fieldbrook double murder case dates confirmed, didcovery outstanding, defense msy continue once discovery received - John Chiv/Words Worth

◼ Court subpoenas reluctant witnesses in Arcata chef stabbing case - John Chiv/Words Worth

This afternoon, there was a pre trial hearing scheduled for Jason Arreaga, the suspect in the double murders that took place in Fieldbrook.

This afternoon there was a pretrial hearing nd a motion to compel attendance of necessary witnesses requested by the defense. The suspect Juan Ferrer is being represented by Marek Reavis from the Conflict Counsel's office. The case was being prosecuted previously by former DA Paul Gallegos.

◼ Laggard witnesses turn up in Arcata chef murder case - Paul Mann/Mad River Union

Three reluctant defense witnesses in the 2013 Arcata chef murder case appeared voluntarily in Humboldt County Superior Court Jan. 26 and affirmed they would return to testify when the trial of suspect Juan Joseph Ferrer begins, probably in April.

At a hearing before Judge Arvid Johnson today, Jan. 26, the three Arcata residents, Sarah Brody, Virginia Jimenez and Cher Southard, agreed to appear initially for jury selection to familiarize themselves with the legal arguments in the prosecution of Ferrer, 36. He is charged with murder in the fatal street-side slaying of Abruzzi chef Douglas Anderson-Jordet, 50, on Nov. 25, 2013. KEEP READING

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I'd note that anyone who has covered the Colby case should be sure to prominently update all posts and articles with the updated news, that he was found Not Guilty on all counts.

UPDATE:
◼ Jury in Fieldbrook double homicide case second trial finds Arreaga not guilty on both counts - John Chiv/Words Worth 2/25/2016

Arcata chef stabbing case back in court this afternoon, Co-defendants plead, get probation and community service

◼ The question of the day is will outgoing District Attorney Paul Gallegos show up for this hearing? The last time we waited almost half an hour, while court staff and the DDA in court tried "to locate Mr. Gallegos." - John Chiv/Words Worth

Juan Ferrer, is represented by Marek Reavis, Nicholas Stoiber is represented by Jennifer Dixon and Sophie Rocheleau is represented by Benjamin Okin. They are all co-defendants in this case.

◼ Co-defendants in Ferrer case get 3 years summary probation and 50 hours of community service - John Chiv/Words Worth

"I realize that a person died, " said Judge Reinholtsen, after he sentenced Rocheleau and Stoiber who were out of custody and stood by their attorneys. Their loved ones and friends as well as Juan Ferrer's family, who is the one charged with the stabbing that resulted in the death of Douglas Anderson-Jordet and is in custody, silently listened as Judge Reinholtsen pronounced the sentence after hearing from victim witness who read letters from the victim's family and after DA Paul Gallegos and the attorneys made brief statements.

Before he sentenced them, the Judge read the definition and penalties that could be imposed on them and advised them of the rights they were giving up by not going to trial.

◼ Two defendants plead guilty to battery charges in Arcata fatal stabbing case - Will Houston/Times-Standard

(Defense Attorney Ben) Okin said that everyone involved in the case is a "good person," but a "catastrophic combination" of events occurred.

"I think we need to look at what Ms. Rocheleau knew at the time she acted," Okin said, further stating that Rocheleau did not know Anderson-Jordet had been stabbed when she kicked him.

◼ Juan Ferrer who is charged with stabbing Douglas Anderson Jordet back in court on Dec 17 - John Chiv/Words Worth

DA Paul Gallegos said the family wants to proceed with a jury trial and he wants that scheduled as soon as possible.

◼ "Doug was a victim that day...we will be victims the rest of our lives" - John Chiv/Words Worth

This is one of the heart wrenching statements in 5 letters by Douglas-Anderson Jordet's family read by victim witness representative Marybeth Bian. This statement was written by Douglas' 80 year old parents.

"We are trying to find Mr. Gallegos"

The Question Of The Day was: ◼ Will Paul show up this time? Will the Arcata chef stabbing case ever go to trial?

This afternoon, yet another hearing is scheduled to discuss the ongoing soap opera of the case involving the stabbing of Arcata chef, Douglas Anderson-Jordet. It is on for status of discovery, again, in Courtroom 4 at 2 p.m. with Judge Dale Reinholtsen.

District Attorney Paul Gallegos, who is prosecuting the case, makes ocassional guest appearances, often leaving either ADA Kelly Neel or DDA Zach Curtis to cover for him. The "every week we come back" will put that statement in context.

And then: ◼ Paul did saunter in 20 minutes later and apologized to the Court twice. - John Chiv/Words Worth

Humboldt County justice came to a standstill today for several minutes in Courtroom 4 because no one could locate District Attorney Paul Gallegos. Calling of the case was delayed twice today because of him. "We are trying to find Mr. Gallegos," said DDA Zach Curtis, the first time Judge Dale Reinholtsen tried to call the case.

◼ Ferrer case continued again until Nov 10 - John Chiv/Words Worth

After District Attorney Paul Gallegos finally appeared in court, he then appeared to change his mind about the agreement he made with Ms. Jennifer Dixon, Nicholas Stoiber's attorney....

The 995 motion to dismiss the case against Rocheleau and other matters such as the status of discovery which has still to be addressed will be dealt with on November 10 at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 4.

◼ Ferrer/Stoiber/Buttercup=Rocheleau background

Ferrer: The saga goes on. The next court date is October 22 at 2 p.m. in Courtroom 4.

◼ Disposition reached for Stoiber, all decisions delayed another 2 weeks in Ferrer case - John Chiv/Words Worth

Now Paul wants to (RE) consolidate the Ferrer defendants

◼ People oppose motion to sever Ferrer but have yet to file; another date set - John Chiv/Words Worth

So now there is another date set for the motion to (re)consolidate.
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Another delay, delay, delay, not ready, mixed messages...

Ferrer UPDATES

Today was the day to decide whether to sever the Ferrer case(s) - try the defendants as one or separately...

◼ Ferrer jury trial date of August 4 vacated based on request by defense - John Chiv/Words Worth

New date will be set on July 21st. Defense has not received discovery essential to the case and that they also need to provide to expert witnesses. In Juan Ferrer's case and Sophie Rocheleau's case, two expert witnesses schedules also impacted the decision.

◼ Motion to sever Ferrer, Stoiber and Rocheleau cases temporarily on hold until July 21st - John Chiv/Words Worth

District Attorney Paul Gallegos opposed the motion to sever each case.

◼ Gallegos gets a bit of a dress down in defense's oral arguments before the court today in Ferrer case

Gallegos's decision to edit, leave out statements in Ferrer case was called incorrect by defense counsel, Benjamin Okin who represents Sophie Rocheleau and he was told to listen to interviews by Ms. Jennifer Dixon, who represents Nicholas Stoiber.

Mr. Gallegos suggested that statements implicating other co-defendants could simply be excluded and redacted and this was challenged by all three defense counsel.

"I think Mr. Gallegos incorrectly purports..." said Mr. Okin. He said that Mr. Gallegos thinks by changing pronouns from we to I cannot prevent the reason all three defense counsel are requesting cases to be severed.

"These statements cannot be carved out by scapel," said Mr. Okin. "It is not possible to not use the statements in their entirety. Without the statements of the three defendants, there is no case. The only way to proceed is to sever all three cases"
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So, if the media shows up for the case when the race was on, but not after - then who was politicizing the case? The candidates? Or the media?

Motion filed in Ferrer case to sever cases

◼ A request will be made by the People to reschedule the hearing for two weeks since Paul Gallegos is out of town. - John Chiv/Words Worth 6/18/14

◼ Previously: Where's Waldo?

Ferrer jury trial set Aug 4

◼ All three defendants were arraigned, they did not waive time. - John Chiv/Words Worth

◼ Suspects plead not guilty in death of Arcata chef; trial date set - Will Houston/Times-Standard

Arcata resident Juan Joseph Ferrer pleaded not guilty during a brief arraignment hearing on Tuesday to the charge of murder in connection with last year's fatal stabbing of an Arcata chef....

The two other suspects in the case — Sophie Buttercup Rocheleau, 24, and Nicholas Benjamin Stoiber, 28 — were also present in the courtroom, and stood before the bench during the proceeding. Rocheleau is accused of shoving Anderson-Jordet and kicking him while he was on the ground, while Stoiber is accused of punching Anderson-Jordet in the face after Ferrer allegedly stabbed him.

Representing Stoiber in place of Deputy Public Defender Jennifer Dixon, Public Defender Kevin Robinson said Stoiber pleaded not guilty to the felony charge of assault likely to produce great bodily harm and asked that the trial dates be set. Rocheleau's attorney Benjamin Okin said his client was entering a not guilty plea for a felony assault charge....

All three suspects will return to court on July 7 for a pretrial hearing, July 14 for a trial confirmation hearing and Aug. 4 for a jury trial.