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Eva Knott

Eva Knott is a Reader contributor. See staff page for published articles.

Shootout in Pauma Valley

On the day of his sentencing, June 10, Jose Luis Nieto read a prepared statement to the judge. He faced up to 45 years in prison. Nieto told the judge, “All the elements were against me.” And, “The only ones present, was involved, was a minority male that was myself, with no other significant witnesses, making it the always controversial he said - she said circumstance.” And he said, “It was a huge misunderstanding.” Nieto told the judge that on the day of the shooting, “I voluntarily medicated myself with medical cannabis. The cannabis had an adverse reaction to my body and my mind, with devastating and severe consequences.” Nieto read to the judge, “I had no intentions to harm anyone, or commit any act of violence. Look at my clear record and background.” Nieto expressed regret at losing his nursing career. He finished by begging, “It is in your power, your honor, give me a second chance. I will not let you down, your honor.” Prosecutor Chandelle Konstanzer told the judge she spoke to the deputies who survived the shootout and “They all felt completely ambushed by Mr. Nieto. They were responding to a 911 call from him, asking for help.” Deputies also reported that they saw defendant Nieto “smirking” during his trial. One deputy said he feared that a minimal sentence for Nieto would set a precedent that it is “okay” to attack or kill law enforcement. After he listened to Nieto's prepared statement, Honorable judge Harry Elias said it was fortunate that “his aim was no good.” He noted that Nieto had fired at least five shots. Judge Elias reviewed the guilty verdicts and “stayed” many years of punishment for use of firearm, however those years will be enforced upon Nieto if he eventually violates parole, the judge said. The judge announced 29-year-old Nieto’s sentence as 31 years plus 8 months. Nieto is not expected to be transported to State prison immediately, because the San Diego County Sheriff is not moving anyone due to the virus scare. Nieto has 620 days “custody credit” so far.
— June 22, 2020 6:49 p.m.

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