RON FREITAS
District Attorney

Office of the District Attorney
Protecting our community for 175 Years
Ron Freitas
District Attorney

Meet District Attorney Ron Freitas

Ronald J. Freitas is the 42nd District Attorney to lead San Joaquin County’s chief law enforcement agency. This administration maintains a zero-tolerance approach to prosecuting criminals, working with local, state, and federal partners to create a safe and secure San Joaquin County for everyone.

"The mission of the District Attorney's Office is to bring justice and closure to victims of crime."

“True public safety requires a collaboration
between law enforcement and the community.” - Betsy Hodges

"One Pill Can Kill" Campaign Raises Fentanyl Awareness in San Joaquin County
 

 

For Immediate Release

Breaking News


June 1, 2026

Defendant Held to Answer for Attempted Murder of Peace Officer and Arson Attacks

San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announces that defendant Adam Lopez has been held to answer on charges following a preliminary hearing regarding a violent attack involving gasoline and fire on July 10, 2025.

 

Evidence presented in court detailed a series of dangerous acts, including an attempt to burn down the San Joaquin County Probation Office on South Hunter Street. During the incident, the defendant allegedly targeted law enforcement officers. Officer James Christensen suffered serious injuries during the attack, while a second officer’s clothing was set on fire. A civilian’s vehicle was also destroyed in the blaze.

 

"The safety of our community depends on the brave men and women who wear the badge," said District Attorney Ron Freitas. "This case highlights the immense dangers our officers face every day. Our office remains committed to working hand-in-hand with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who target public servants and threaten the safety of our neighborhoods are held fully accountable under the law."

 

The defendant was held to answer on the following charges:

•Counts 1-4: Attempted Murder of a Peace Officer, Aggravated Mayhem, Arson causing Great Bodily Injury, and Resisting an Officer causing serious injury (Victim: Officer James Christensen).

•Counts 5-6: Arson of Property and Resisting an Executive Officer (Victim: Peace Officer).

•Count 7: Arson of Property (Victim: Civilian Vehicle).

•Count 8: Attempted Arson of a Structure (San Joaquin County Probation Office).

Special allegations were also sustained regarding the use of gasoline and lighters as accelerants.  The People are also alleging Defendant was convicted of two previous Strike Offenses.

The defendant remains in custody, and bail remains as previously set at No Bail allowed. The next court date is scheduled for Arraignment on Information (AOI) on June 15, 2026, in Department 8B at 8:30 a.m.

Ron Freitas
District Attorney, San Joaquin County
— Protecting Our Community Since 1850

Contacts


Erin Haight
Public Information Officer
Rosie Calderon
Public Information Officer
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San Joaquin County
Family Justice Center

A Family Justice Center is a collaborative model of service delivery that brings together a range of resources and support services under one roof to better serve victims of Domestic Violence, Human Trafficking, Sexual Assault, Elder Abuse, Child Abuse, and Stalking.

The goal of a Family Justice Center is to provide comprehensive and coordinated support to individuals and families affected by abuse, helping them to feel safe and supported as they navigate the process of seeking help and rebuilding their lives.

Visit the Family Justice Center