Prosecutors say they still haven’t decided whether they will seek the death penalty for a man believed to be a serial killer responsible for 13 murders statewide, including six on the South Coast.
DA’s from the six counties where the crimes occurred will consolidate the prosecution of Joseph DeAngelo into one trial, which will take place in Sacramento.
The prosecutors announced the joint effort at a news conference in Santa Ana Tuesday.
The crimes occurred during an 11 year period in the 1970’s and 80’s. In addition to the 13 murders, detectives believe the Golden State Killer was responsible for more than 50 sexual assaults, and 100 plus burglaries.
Orange County District Attorney Tony Rackauckas says because investigators are still gathering evidence for the trial, they haven’t made a decision on whether to seek the death penalty for the 72 year old man.