Handyman to Face Trial for Murder of Cork-born Bishop in LA Court
A 61-year-old handyman, Carlos Medina, is set to stand trial for the murder of Cork-born Bishop of Los Angeles, David O’Connell. The preliminary court hearing, scheduled for Thursday, will see the District Attorney present the evidence in the case.
Medina, residing in Torrance in LA County, had previously pleaded not guilty to one felony count of murder. He was arraigned on February 22nd at the Foltz Criminal Justice Centre in downtown LA. The trial date is expected to be decided on Thursday.
If convicted, Medina faces a sentence of 35 years to life in prison. His arrest took place on February 20th, two days after the murder, at his Los Angeles residence.
Bishop David O’Connell, 69, was discovered deceased on February 18th by a church deacon who had gone to his home in Hacienda Heights, located approximately 30km east of downtown LA, after he failed to attend a meeting.
Affectionately known as Bishop Dave, O’Connell was highly regarded for his efforts in promoting peace during the 1992 LA riots, which erupted following the acquittal of four white police officers involved in the brutal beating of Rodney King, an African American.
The late Bishop was also a dedicated advocate for immigrants and expressed his mission to work with disadvantaged individuals in the wealthiest region of the United States in various newspaper interviews.
Following his untimely death, the city of LA held three days of remembrance, culminating in a funeral Mass attended by nearly 5,000 people at the Cathedral of the Our Lady of the Angels, where Bishop O’Connell was interred in a crypt. Additionally, an exhibit commemorating his life and legacy was unveiled at the Cathedral.
In June 2015, Pope Francis appointed David O’Connell as Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles. Archbishop Jose H Gomez of Los Angeles described Bishop O’Connell as a compassionate individual who consistently extended his care to the poor, homeless, immigrants, and all those marginalized by society.
Upon learning of Bishop O’Connell’s tragic passing, Pope Francis conveyed his condolences to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, indicating that the late Bishop’s ministry was characterized by his deep concern for the marginalized.
A special Mass was held in honor of Bishop O’Connell at the Sacred Heart Church in Glounthaune, Co Cork, on March 25th.
As the trial proceedings begin, the LA court will now assess the evidence against Medina and determine the next course of action in seeking justice for the murder of Bishop David O’Connell. The community remains hopeful for a fair trial and closure in this tragic case.
