Court Finds Christopher Bernal Guilty on Multiple Felony Charges in Bexar County

The afternoon docket of the 187th District Court, presided over by Judge Stephanie Boyd on August 5, 2025, focused on the case of Christopher Xavier Bernal. The court convened to address multiple charges against Bernal, including unauthorized use of a vehicle, evading arrest, and continuous violence against a family member.

The proceedings began with the announcement of parties involved, with attorneys Michael De Leon and Robert Gallon representing Bernal. The court confirmed that all discovery materials had been reviewed with the defendant, and Bernal acknowledged understanding the true bill of indictment.

Judge Boyd proceeded to outline the charges against Bernal. He faces a state jail felony for unauthorized use of a vehicle, with a potential punishment ranging from 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000. Additionally, he is charged with evading arrest, and two counts of continuous violence against a family member, which are classified as third-degree felonies, carrying a punishment of 2 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.

The court confirmed that Bernal had voluntarily waived his right to a jury trial and understood the implications of entering plea bargain agreements. Bernal expressed satisfaction with his legal representation and confirmed that no coercion or threats influenced his decision to plead.

The plea agreements were reviewed, with Bernal agreeing to serve 149 days in Bexar County Jail for the unauthorized use of a vehicle, while the evading arrest charge would result in a 6-year prison sentence. The continuous violence charge also carried a 6-year prison sentence, with an affirmative finding of family violence, which prohibits Bernal from owning firearms and restricts his custodial rights.

The court accepted the plea agreements and confirmed that Bernal understood the conditions, including restitution to the victim, Olga Tobar, and no contact orders with specified individuals. The court found sufficient evidence to support the guilty pleas in all cause numbers.

As the session concluded, the state indicated it would not proceed with sentencing at that time, leaving the next steps in the case pending further court action.