Ex-Marine charged in girlfriend's Allied Gardens murder to get new preliminary hearing

Raymond Samuel McLeod Jr. , a 41-year-old ex-Marine, is set for a new preliminary hearing in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, Krystal Mitchell, who was found dead in June 2016. His defense claims the death was accidental during consensual sexual activity, supported by evidence of McLeod's past sexual behavior involving choking. Prosecutors admitted to failing to provide critical evidence from Mitchell's cell phone and computer, which indicated her interest in similar sexual activities. This oversight was described as an "inadvertent mistake" by Deputy District Attorney Franciesca Balerio, who nonetheless moved to dismiss the current case and refile charges, allowing the defense to use the new evidence.

McLeod, who has pleaded not guilty, remains in custody without bail and could face 25 years to life if convicted. His attorneys argue that the need for a new hearing places him at a disadvantage, both financially and in terms of time spent in jail. The prosecution has maintained that McLeod's actions on the night of Mitchell's death indicated intent to kill, as he fled the country and was later placed on the U. S. Marshals' 15 Most Wanted List.

The upcoming hearing will allow for a re-examination of the evidence, which could be pivotal for McLeod's defense.