San Diego, November 26, 2025
A Poway man, James Charles Kingery, has been convicted of first-degree murder and rape in the 1987 death of Julia Hernandez-Santiago in Carlsbad. After more than three decades, DNA evidence linked Kingery to the crime scene, leading to his arrest in 2020. The jury’s decision highlights the effectiveness of advancements in DNA technology in solving cold cases. Kingery is now facing a sentence of 31 years to life in prison, marking a significant development in this long-unsolved case.
San Diego Man Convicted of 1987 Murder and Rape
San Diego, California – A Poway man has been convicted of first-degree murder and rape in connection with the 1987 death of Julia Hernandez-Santiago in Carlsbad. The conviction was secured after DNA evidence linked James Charles Kingery, 57, to the crime scene. Hernandez-Santiago’s body was discovered on October 10, 1987, along Alga Road in Carlsbad, with the cause of death determined to be strangulation. The case remained unsolved for over three decades until recent advancements in DNA technology led to Kingery’s arrest in 2020. He now faces a sentence of 31 years to life in prison.
Details of the Conviction
Kingery was arrested in 2020 after DNA collected from the crime scene matched his genetic profile. A jury found him guilty of first-degree murder and rape in early June 2022. The conviction was based on forensic evidence that had been preserved since the original investigation.
Background of the Case
Julia Hernandez-Santiago, 26, was reported missing in October 1987. Her body was found along Alga Road in Carlsbad, and the cause of death was determined to be strangulation. Despite initial investigations, the case went cold due to a lack of evidence. In early 2020, Carlsbad police identified Kingery as a suspect after discovering that his DNA matched samples taken from the crime scene.
Advancements in DNA Technology
The breakthrough in this case highlights the significant role of DNA technology in solving cold cases. Advances in forensic science have allowed law enforcement agencies to revisit unsolved crimes, leading to new leads and convictions.
Implications for Cold Case Investigations
This conviction underscores the importance of preserving forensic evidence and the potential for technological advancements to bring closure to victims’ families. It also serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to solve cold cases and deliver justice, regardless of the time elapsed since the crime.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Julia Hernandez-Santiago, 26 |
| Location of Crime | Alga Road, Carlsbad, California |
| Cause of Death | Strangulation |
| Convicted Individual | James Charles Kingery, 57, from Poway |
| Conviction | First-degree murder and rape |
| Conviction Date | Early June 2022 |
| Sentence | 31 years to life in prison |
| Significance | Highlights the role of DNA technology in solving cold cases |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who was convicted in the 1987 murder and rape case?
James Charles Kingery, 57, from Poway, was convicted of first-degree murder and rape in connection with the 1987 death of Julia Hernandez-Santiago in Carlsbad.
How was James Charles Kingery linked to the crime?
DNA evidence collected from the crime scene matched Kingery’s genetic profile, leading to his arrest in 2020.
What was the cause of Julia Hernandez-Santiago’s death?
The cause of death was determined to be strangulation.
When was the conviction secured?
The conviction was secured in early June 2022.
What is the significance of this case?
This case highlights the role of DNA technology in solving cold cases and bringing closure to victims’ families.
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