Santa Monica Man Convicted of Murder

In Van Nuys, California, a Santa Monica man was convicted of murdering a 22-year-old female friend whose body was found in the trunk of her car in Valley Village after a fax was sent to a television station.

The Van Nuys Superior Court jury deliberated about three hours before finding 25-year-old Adel Tabrizi Chapel guilty of first-degree murder in the Feb. 28, 2009, slaying of Denise Figueroa of North Hills. Jurors also found true the allegation that Chapel had used a hammer in the commission of the slaying.

The woman's body was discovered in the trunk of her Nissan Altima in the 11700 block of Hortense Street, near Colfax Avenue, on March 7, 2009, after authorities were notified by KTLA-TV that an anonymous fax had been sent to the news station. Figueroa had been reported missing by her mother.

The victim was struck at least nine times in the head and suffered other wounds that were likely defensive to her arm, according to the prosecutor. Chapel is facing a maximum 56-year-to-life term.

If you have been arrested or under investigation for murder, our attorneys have a long history of success in all Los Angeles County Courts. It’s critical that you consult an experienced homicide criminal defense attorney immediately. At Cron, Israels and Stark, murder criminal defense attoneys Steve Cron and Philip Israels have decades of experience in homicide criminal defense. When you call our law office, you will speak to an experienced Los Angeles and Santa Monica murder criminal defense lawyer who will explain your legal rights and your best options. Our number one priority is making sure that you walk away from court with your freedom intact!

For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your homicide criminal charges with one of our lawyers, please contact Cron, Israels and Stark today.