California – In a chilling incident in California, a 49-year-old man, identified as D. Aldrich, faces severe legal repercussions after he murdered his 38-year-old girlfriend, identified as J. Sanetra. The DA’s Office has charged Aldrich with one felony count of murder and an additional felony enhancement for the personal use of a deadly weapon.
The tragic event unfolded on the evening of October 20, 2024, after the couple spent the night drinking at their residence. According to the prosecutors, an argument between the couple ensued, leading to a violent confrontation where Aldrich reportedly strangled Sanetra and then cut her wrists with a folding knife. Authorities did not provide information on whether Aldrich cut the victim’s wrists to make it look like she took her own life or to make sure she was dead.
Authorities allege that after committing the heinous act, Aldrich left Sanetra’s lifeless body on the living room couch as he nonchalantly continued to watch television before retiring to bed. The following day, demonstrating a shocking disregard for human life, Aldrich dragged Sanetra’s body outside and concealed it inside a trash can next to their residence.
The grim reality came to light when landscapers, arriving to mow the lawn on October 22, stumbled upon Sanetra’s body, which was partially visible from the trashcan. The workers immediately contacted the police department, and the subsequent investigation quickly led to Aldrich’s arrest at his mother’s home, approximately 65 miles from the scene of the crime.
According to authorities, Aldrich faces a maximum sentence of 26 years to life in prison if found guilty on the charges. The shocking nature of the crime was underscored by District Attorney T. Spitzer, who expressed his horror at the case’s brutality. “Sanetra did not deserve to be strangled and stuffed into a trashcan like a piece of garbage,” Spitzer stated. “The callousness of this crime shocks the conscience, and we will do everything to get justice for the victim and her loved ones.”
The community has been deeply disturbed by this violent act. Police Deputy Chief J. LaPointe commented on the rarity of such brutal incidents in the area, noting that Aldrich’s home is located in a “very nice area” of the city, making the crime even more unsettling.
Aldrich is currently held on a $1 million bond and awaits his arraignment scheduled for November 19, 20244. As the legal proceedings continue, the community and Sanetra’s family seek closure and justice in a case that has highlighted the stark realities of domestic violence and its devastating consequences.