District Attorney Freitas proposes funding boost for cold case investigations in San Joaquin County

In a pivotal meeting on April 8, 2025, the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors gathered to address pressing issues surrounding cold case investigations and the allocation of resources to improve the effectiveness of the District Attorney's Office. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as officials discussed the need for enhanced collaboration among law enforcement agencies to bring justice to victims and their families.

District Attorney Freitas highlighted the restructuring of the homicide unit, which now includes a dedicated chief and additional prosecutors to manage the increasing caseloads. This change aims to ensure that cases, particularly those involving serial crimes, receive the focused attention they require. Freitas emphasized the importance of reducing the workload on prosecutors, allowing them to delve deeper into investigations and improve outcomes for victims.

The discussion also centered on the establishment of a cold case task force, which has garnered support from various law enforcement partners, including the sheriff's office. The task force aims to tackle unresolved cases across the county, ensuring that no victim's story is left untold. Freitas noted the significance of funding, stating that financial constraints should never hinder the pursuit of justice. He expressed optimism about utilizing a $1 million fund designated for cold case investigations, which would enable quicker access to private DNA testing services.

The board members echoed Freitas's sentiments, recognizing the critical role of collaboration in solving cold cases. Supervisor Ding praised the partnership between the District Attorney's Office and local law enforcement, emphasizing the shared commitment to serving the community. The meeting underscored the necessity of innovative approaches, including the use of private labs for DNA testing, to expedite the resolution of cases that have lingered for years.

As the meeting concluded, the board's commitment to funding these initiatives was clear. The proposed budget allocations from the Proposition 69 DNA identification fund aim to support the ongoing efforts of the District Attorney's Office and the Family Justice Center, ensuring that victims and their families receive the closure they deserve. The collaborative spirit displayed during the meeting signals a hopeful future for cold case investigations in San Joaquin County, where every effort is being made to bring justice to those who have waited far too long.