Jury finds Erika Sandoval guilty of murdering ex-husband

TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Erika Sandoval has been found guilty of first-degree murder in the death of her former husband, Exeter Police officer Daniel Green.

The verdict was read Thursday afternoon in a Tulare County courtroom.

Both families were visibly emotional as the jury's verdict was read.

It has been a long 10 years for both the Green and Sandoval families.

The jury deliberated for two days before reaching a verdict.

This was the second time Sandoval was on trial for her ex-husband's death.

The first trial, in 2019, ended in a mistrial when just one juror said they could not find Sandoval guilty.

Sandoval admitted to shooting and killing Green in 2015 after breaking into his home to pick up some of their child's belongings.

Her defense team argued that she was an abused and worried mother in fear of her ex-husband, who was pushed over the edge.

Prosecutors argued Sandoval was a jealous ex-wife, driven to kill by Green's new relationship.

Action News spoke to both the defense and prosecutors after the verdict was read.

We also heard from a juror from the first trial who says she wanted to be here for closure.

"Obviously, there's some disappointment," said Sandoval's defense attorney, Megan Casebeer.

"We've always known that this wasn't a death penalty case. We have fought tirelessly to make sure that part was told, and I think that was heard loud and clear today."

A previous juror on Sandoval's first trial was also in the room when the latest verdict was read.

"I feel relieved for the family, and I just needed to be here for closure. It was a hard case to be on," said the previous juror.

Action News also spoke to one of the current jurors, who echoed that this was a difficult case.

They mentioned they were overwhelmed, and they feel no one wins in a situation like this.

Sandoval could be sentenced to 25 to life for murder and an additional 25 to life for use of a firearm.

She has already served 10 years and could be eligible for an Elderly Parole Hearing when she both serves 20 years of continuous incarceration and reaches age 50.

Sandoval's sentencing will take place on June 5 at the courthouse in Porterville.

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