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. The case arises from the October 27, 2025 death of San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Nunez, according to a press release from 24-7PressRelease.
Saldivar is charged with murder and related offenses in San Bernardino County Superior Court, Case No. FWV25004311. The prosecution has alleged special circumstances and firearm enhancements that, if proven, could expose Saldivar to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or the death penalty. Sterling will serve as defense counsel as the case proceeds through pretrial and trial stages.
In a statement, Sterling acknowledged the gravity of the situation: "This is an extraordinarily tragic case, and we recognize the profound loss experienced by Deputy Nunez's family, his colleagues and the broader community. 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, a veteran Los Angeles trial attorney whose practice focuses on high-stakes criminal defense, including capital defense, underscores the seriousness of the charges. Capital cases are among the most complex and resource-intensive in the legal system, often involving extensive pretrial motions, expert witnesses, and lengthy trials. The involvement of a prominent defense attorney could shape the legal strategies employed and the public's perception of the case.
This news is important because it highlights the intersection of high-profile criminal defense and the pursuit of justice in a case involving the death of a law enforcement officer. The outcome could have significant implications for the community, law enforcement, and the broader debate over the death penalty in California. For readers, it serves as a reminder of the constitutional principles of presumption of innocence and the right to a fair trial, even in cases that evoke strong public emotion.
Because the prosecution remains pending, Sterling and the defense team will not litigate the evidence through the media. Additional public statements will be made when appropriate and consistent with Saldivar's right to a fair trial. The case will proceed through the San Bernardino County Superior Court, where both sides will present their arguments. As the legal process unfolds, it will be closely watched by those interested in the administration of justice and the handling of capital cases.
For more information, the original press release can be found at 24-7PressRelease. However, the defense has emphasized that it will not try the case in the media, and further statements will be made only when appropriate.
