Huntington Beach Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder of Girlfriend

A courtroom scene representing the verdict delivered in a high-profile murder case.

News Summary

Craig James Charron has been convicted of first-degree murder for the fatal stabbing of his girlfriend, Laura Sardinha, in Huntington Beach. The incident occurred in 2020, and evidence presented during the trial included a distressing voicemail from Sardinha, threatening her safety. Charron faces a possible life sentence when he is sentenced on July 25, 2023, reinforcing the alarming issue of domestic violence.

Huntington Beach Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder of Girlfriend

Craig James Charron, 39, was convicted of first-degree murder on Tuesday in the fatal stabbing of his girlfriend, Laura Sardinha, aged 25. The murder took place on September 2, 2020, within their apartment in the 8400 block of Jenny Drive, Huntington Beach, California. As part of the conviction, Charron now faces a sentencing enhancement due to the personal use of a knife during the crime. He is set to be sentenced on July 25, 2023, where he risks receiving a life sentence.

Details of the Crime

Prior to the tragic incident, Laura Sardinha had taken significant precautions against Charron, including obtaining a restraining order and changing the locks on her apartment to prevent him from entering. On the day of the murder, she was involved in a three-way phone conversation with her mother and best friend when Charron made an unexpected appearance at her home.

As Charron launched a violent attack using multiple knives, Sardinha left a distressing 37-second voicemail message, uttering phrases such as “He’s gonna kill me” and “Get away from me.” This voicemail later became critical evidence during the trial, with prosecutors affirming it detailed the events leading to her murder. Evidence indicated that Charron stabbed Sardinha twice in the chest, inflicted severe facial injuries, and exerted such force that one knife bent upon impact.

Prosecution and Defense Arguments

Orange County Deputy District Attorney Janine Madera highlighted the nature of Charron’s actions as an “ambush,” demonstrating his intent to kill. The prosecution presented a series of testimonies from three of Charron’s former girlfriends, each of whom had previously sought restraining orders against him due to his history of domestic violence. This background painted a picture of a man with a pattern of abusive behavior.

In response, Charron’s defense attorney, Michael Guisti, proposed that there might have been reasonable doubt surrounding the case. Guisti pointed to a knife found at the crime scene that had not been tested for DNA, suggesting that it could imply potential mutual combat. Charron expressed that he acted in self-defense, claiming he had little recollection of the events due to the traumatic nature of the conflict.

Aftermath and Evidence

Following the attack, Charron reportedly inflicted wounds upon himself, a move the prosecution suggested was intended to fabricate a self-defense narrative. Sardinha was found deceased in the bathroom of her apartment by authorities who responded to the scene. The trial also revealed that Charron had received nearly $100,000 from Sardinha after she won a significant settlement related to a motorcycle accident.

Additionally, the trial incorporated smartphone videos showcasing instances of domestic discord between the couple, further illustrating the context of their tumultuous relationship. Despite the defense’s efforts to cast doubt, jurors took less than a day to reach their verdict against Charron, concluding that he was guilty of first-degree murder.

Conclusion

The case serves as a somber reminder of the tragic outcomes that can arise from domestic violence situations. As Craig James Charron awaits his sentence, the community reflects on the life of Laura Sardinha and the importance of addressing such critical issues within relationships.