Prominent 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 the pending San Bernardino County prosecution arising from the October 27, 2025 death of San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Nunez. The case, San Bernardino County Superior Court Case No. FWV25004311, charges Mr. Saldivar with murder and related offenses. The prosecution has alleged special circumstances and firearm enhancements that, if proven, could expose Mr. Saldivar to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole or the death penalty.
Mr. Sterling will serve as defense counsel as the case proceeds through the pretrial and trial stages. In a statement, Sterling said, "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."
Justin E. Sterling is a veteran Los Angeles trial attorney whose practice focuses on high-stakes criminal defense cases, including capital defense. Because the prosecution remains pending, Mr. Sterling and the defense team will not litigate the evidence through the media. Additional public statements will be made when appropriate and consistent with Mr. Saldivar's right to a fair trial.
This development holds significant implications for the Long Beach and surrounding communities. The retention of a high-profile defense attorney in a capital case underscores the gravity of the charges and the complex legal battle ahead. For residents, it serves as a reminder of the justice system's role in adjudicating serious offenses and the constitutional principles that apply to all defendants. Businesses and organizations in the region may monitor the case as it could influence public discourse on law enforcement, public safety, and the legal process. The involvement of Justin E. Sterling, known for his work in capital defense, brings additional attention to the case, potentially affecting how the community views the balance between seeking justice for a fallen deputy and ensuring a fair trial for the accused.
As the case progresses, it may also impact local legal professionals and advocacy groups focused on criminal justice reform. The high stakes, including the possibility of the death penalty, highlight ongoing debates about capital punishment and the resources required for such defenses. For the Long Beach area, this case is a notable event that touches on public safety, legal ethics, and community response to tragedy. The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, based in Los Angeles, represents clients across Southern California, and this retention further solidifies the firm's reputation in handling complex, high-profile matters. The case will proceed in San Bernardino County Superior Court, with Mr. Sterling leading the defense through pretrial and trial stages. Further updates are expected as the legal process unfolds, consistent with the defendant's right to a fair trial.
