The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling has been retained to represent Angelo Jose Saldivar in a San Bernardino County capital murder prosecution stemming from the October 27, 2025 death of San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Nunez. The case, filed in San Bernardino County Superior Court as Case No. FWV25004311, charges Saldivar with murder and related offenses. The prosecution has alleged special circumstances and firearm enhancements that, if proven, could result in a sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. The involvement of a prominent Los Angeles defense attorney signals the high stakes and complexity of the proceedings.
Attorney Justin E. Sterling, a veteran trial attorney whose practice focuses on high-stakes criminal defense, including capital cases, will serve as defense counsel through the pretrial and trial stages. In a statement, Sterling acknowledged the tragedy: "This is an extraordinarily tragic case, and we recognize the profound loss experienced by Deputy Nunez's family, his colleagues and the broader community." He emphasized the constitutional imperative that Saldivar be presumed innocent and that the allegations be tested through a fair and impartial judicial process, rather than through district attorney press conferences, headlines, or public speculation. Sterling's team plans to conduct a comprehensive and independent investigation, scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, and protect Saldivar's constitutional rights at every stage.
The retention of Sterling highlights the importance of robust legal representation in capital cases, where the consequences are irreversible. It also brings attention to the broader debate over the death penalty and the fairness of the judicial process in high-profile prosecutions. The case has drawn significant public interest, partly due to the involvement of a law enforcement victim, which can heighten emotions and pressure for swift justice. Sterling's commitment to not litigate the evidence through the media reflects a strategic and ethical approach to ensuring a fair trial, free from prejudicial publicity.
For more information on the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, visit their website at https://www.justinsterlinglaw.com. The firm handles a range of criminal defense matters, including capital cases. As the case proceeds, additional public statements may be made when appropriate and consistent with Saldivar's right to a fair trial. The outcome will be closely watched, as it may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in San Bernardino County and beyond. The balance between the rights of the accused and the pursuit of justice for the victim remains at the heart of this legal battle.
