Uncle Charged with Murder of Nephew
44 year old José Jesus Contreras Monreal was charged with the murder of José Gonzalez in 2008. He is now on trial for the crime, which now relies mainly on witness testimonies, many of which have changed. The prosecution alleges Gonzalez was defenseless and begging for his life. The defense team says otherwise.
Gonzalez, who went by Joey, was 24 and visiting his uncle and aunt. According to reports, it was not uncommon for Gonzalez to visit and then get into an argument. Their arguments were often caused by alcohol and cocaine binges, and this time it was over the disrespectful showing of a photo.
Monreal's defense attorney does not deny that the two got into an argument over a family photo and that he shot his nephew. They claim, however, that Monreal shot Gonzalez out of self defense. He said the 360 pound man, who had only a few months earlier kicked in the door on their mobile home, had become violent and he feared for his life. It was not until Monreal was hit in the head with a beer bottle that he shot Gonzalez.
If he is convicted, Gonzalez could spend the rest of his life in prison.
Accused of a crime? Contact San Antonio Criminal Defense Lawyer Tylden Shaeffer today!