Winterhaven Man Pleads No Contest to Attempted Murder in Brutal Domestic Violence Case

IMPERIAL COUNTY - Nearly a year after his arrest, 19-year-old Jason Jose Jr. of Winterhaven has pleaded no contest to attempted murder and admitted to an enhancement for causing great bodily injury in a domestic violence case that left his victim hospitalized.

Jose, who has been in custody since February 2, 2024, agreed to a 12-year sentence in state prison for the crime. Authorities say he held the mother of his child captive at gunpoint for nearly two weeks in a residence on San Pasqual School Road, where he repeatedly assaulted her. According to law enforcement reports, the victim was beaten, struck in the head with a firearm, and subjected to other forms of violence before she managed to escape and seek medical treatment at Yuma Regional Medical Center.

The victim contacted the Imperial County SheriffsOffice from the hospital, stating she had been held against her will and severely assaulted. Deputies immediately obtained an emergency protective order and launched an investigation, which led to Joses arrest. He was booked on multiple felony charges, including attempted murder, assault with a firearm, false imprisonment, and inflicting corporal injury on a cohabitant.

The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Kia Harris. The victim testified in court about the abuse she endured, supported by Victim Witness Advocate Damien Aguilera and Victim Services of the Quechan Indian Tribe. Authorities also acknowledged the Imperial County Sheriffs Office and the Quechan Tribe for their role in investigating the case and providing resources for the victim.

Joses sentencing is scheduled for February 26, 2025, where he will formally receive his 12-year prison term.