Santa Ana man killed wife when she tossed him due to gambling and cheating

Orange County District Attorney Press Release
For Immediate Release, Case # 10CF2088: February 20, 2013
Contacts: Susan Kang Schroeder, Chief of Staff, Office: 714-347-8408, Cell: 714-292-2718; Farrah Emami, Spokesperson, Office: 714-347-8405, Cell: 714-323-4486

MAN FACES TRIAL FOR MURDERING WIFE AFTER MARITAL DISCORD OVER HIS GAMBLING AND CHEATING

SANTA ANA – A man faces trial today for murdering his wife after she asked him to move out of their home for gambling away $100,000 in pension money and learning of his extra-marital relationship. Agustin Armaraz Espinoza, 58, Santa Ana, is charged with one felony count of murder and faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison if convicted. Opening statements are expected to begin this afternoon, Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013, in Department C-44, Central Justice Center, Santa Ana. The time is to be determined.

Prior to July 29, 2010, Espinoza is accused of having marital trouble with his longtime wife, Marisela Espinoza, with whom he had adult children. Espinoza is accused of gambling away $100,000 in pension money and being in possession of a pre-paid cell phone containing text messages regarding an extra-marital sexual relationship. The victim told the defendant to move out of their Santa Ana home as a result.

On or about July 29, 2010, Espinoza is accused of bludgeoning and murdering Marisela Espinoza and leaving her body in the bedroom of their home. He is accused of then driving to San Bernardino and attempting to use the victim’s debit card before fleeing to Mexico.

On July 29, 2010, officers from the Santa Ana Police Department found the victim’s body during a welfare check after receiving a call from the victim’s concerned co-workers, who reported that Marisela Espinoza had not been to work for two days.

That same day, Espinoza was arrested while re-entering the United States from Mexico.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Mike Murray of the Homicide Unit is prosecuting this case.

###

Tony Rackauckas, District Attorney
401 Civic Center Drive West
Santa Ana, CA 92701