Teenager Charged with Attempted Murder of 49ers Receiver Ricky Pearsall Makes First Court Appearance
The 17-year-old who was charged with attempted murder, attempted second-degree robbery, and assault with a semiautomatic firearm in the shooting of San Francisco 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall made his first court appearance on Wednesday. The teenager, whose identity was concealed due to his age, appeared in a crowded room at the Juvenile Justice Center in San Francisco.
Judge Roger Chan ruled that the teenager will remain in detention as the case awaits resolution. The next hearing is scheduled for September 10, and according to the law, a potential trial must begin within 15 days of Wednesday’s appearance.
The teenager sat beside his attorney, Robert Dunlap, who is a public defender assigned to the case. Throughout the hearing, the teenager faced forward, never turning around to face the crowded room. Dunlap expressed remorse on behalf of his client and his family, stating that they are genuinely sorry for the incident. He also extended their thoughts to the Pearsall family and Mr. Pearsall himself.
The San Francisco district attorney, Brooke Jenkins, stated that her office is considering whether to try the teenager as an adult, a decision that would require a fitness hearing. Dunlap expressed hope that this would not happen, as he believes his client should be treated as a juvenile. He emphasized that it is rare for a transfer to occur in cases like this and hoped it would not be the case here.
During the hearing, a probation official from San Francisco recommended transferring the teenager to San Joaquin County, where he has another pending matter in the legal system. However, Dunlap clarified that the transfer would only occur after the case involving Pearsall is resolved.
Dunlap also acknowledged that he attempted to exclude the media from the proceeding due to the nature of the charges. However, certain offenses are open to the public, and this case falls into that category. Dunlap mentioned that he is still gathering information on the case and believes that video footage from the incident, which took place near Union Square, will provide crucial details.
In terms of injuries sustained during the incident, Dunlap revealed that the teenager was shot in the left arm but, similar to Pearsall, the injury was a “through and through” shot that did not cause significant damage. Both individuals are reportedly doing well, with their injuries being relatively minor.
The teenager’s parents were present at the hearing and occupied the front row. Judge Chan also mentioned that relatives of Pearsall were in attendance, though it is unclear whether they were physically present or connected via Zoom.
In conclusion, the 17-year-old charged with the attempted murder of Ricky Pearsall made his first court appearance, with the judge ruling that he will remain in detention. The next hearing is scheduled for September 10, and the possibility of trying the teenager as an adult is being considered. While the defense hopes to treat him as a juvenile, a transfer to San Joaquin County may occur after the case is resolved. The teenager’s parents were present, as were relatives of Pearsall. The case is still in progress, with more information yet to be gathered, including video footage that may shed light on important details. Both the teenager and Pearsall sustained minor injuries and are recovering well.