Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Justin E. Sterling and the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling have been retained to represent Angelo Jose Saldivar in a pending San Bernardino County prosecution arising 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 life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or the death penalty.
Sterling, a veteran trial attorney whose practice focuses on high-stakes criminal defense, including capital defense, will serve as defense counsel through the pretrial and trial stages. In a statement, Sterling emphasized the tragic nature of the case while underscoring the constitutional presumption of innocence. "This is an extraordinarily tragic case, and we recognize the profound loss experienced by Deputy Nunez's family, his colleagues and the broader community," Sterling said. "At the same time, the Constitution requires that Mr. Saldivar be presumed innocent and that the allegations against him be tested through a fair and impartial judicial process — not through district attorney press conferences, headlines or public speculation. Our team will conduct a comprehensive and independent investigation, scrutinize the prosecution's evidence, and ensure that Mr. Saldivar's constitutional rights are protected at every stage of these proceedings."
The retention of Sterling signals a robust defense in a case that has drawn significant public attention. Capital cases inherently involve complex legal and ethical considerations, and the involvement of an experienced attorney like Sterling may influence how the prosecution presents its evidence and how the trial unfolds. For leaders in business and technology, this case underscores the importance of due process and the rule of law, which are foundational to stable and predictable environments for innovation and investment. High-profile criminal proceedings can also impact public trust in legal institutions, with broader implications for how communities perceive justice and safety.
Sterling and his team have stated they will not litigate the evidence through the media while the prosecution remains pending. Additional public statements will be made when appropriate and consistent with Mr. Saldivar's right to a fair trial. This approach reflects a commitment to preserving the integrity of the judicial process and avoiding pretrial publicity that could prejudice the outcome.
For further information on the Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, visit sterlingdefense.com. The case highlights ongoing debates about capital punishment, the role of defense counsel in ensuring fair trials, and the impact of high-profile cases on public discourse. As the legal proceedings advance, they will be closely watched for their implications on constitutional rights and the administration of justice in California.
