A preliminary hearing date has been set for the man suspected of being a serial killer responsible for 13 deaths statewide, including a half dozen in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. Joseph DeAngelo is accused of being the Golden State Killer. Prosecutors say they’ve linked DeAngelo to the murders, plus to some of the more than 50 sexual assaults and 100 burglaries attributed to the killer in the 1970’s and 80’s.
He was arrested in 2018, with detectives saying DNA evidence played a key role in the case.
The 74 year old man has been ordered to reappear in court in Sacramento May 12th for his preliminary hearing. A judge denied a defense request to postpone the hearing to give them more time to prepare.
Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty in the case.