San Francisco, CA – San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced today that her office secured a conviction of Lionell White (47), after a trial by jury for a domestic incident with a woman where he attacked her in her home. Mr. White was convicted of domestic violence (PC 273.5(a)) and assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury (PC 245(a)(4)). The jury also found true multiple allegations including that the offense involved great violence, and that Mr. White had prior convictions of increasing seriousness, including a 2019 crime of domestic violence.
“I would like to thank the jury for their service in this trial,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “The jury’s verdict holds Mr. White accountable and sends a clear message that domestic violence is unacceptable, and perpetrators will face consequences. My office will continue to do everything we can to fight for justice on behalf of survivors in the courtroom. I hope this verdict helps the survivor as she continues to heal from this trauma.”
According to testimony and other evidence presented at trial, on February 24, 2024, during an argument, Mr. White attacked the victim in her bedroom by punching her in the face and slamming her head against the wall. He then strangled her with his belt until she lost consciousness. After the attack, Mr. White left the apartment. He was apprehended by SFPD several months later.
The case against Mr. White was successfully prosecuted by Assistant District Richard Hullinger, with assistance from District Attorney Investigator Dana Lee, paralegals Loretta Luu and Lena Ku, and IT support from Noaeh Pinaire. Victim Advocate Janet Pedroza provided support for the survivor during her trial testimony. Prosecutors were able to develop a strong case against Mr. White based on the San Francisco Police Department’s Tenderloin Station investigation.
“Domestic violence affects the most personal and intimate parts of a person’s life,” said Assistant District Attorney Richard Hullinger. “I have the greatest respect and admiration for the survivor in this case who had the courage to testify against her abuser despite the great personal cost she paid in doing so. I also would like to thank the jurors for their patience and attention to the testimony and evidence in reaching their verdict.”
Mr. White is currently in custody. Sentencing is scheduled for January 14, 2025.
If you or a loved one is in need of support, please seek help. In an emergency call 9-1-1.
Below are additional resources for support:
• National Domestic Violence Hotline (text) START to 88788 or call 800.799.7233
• WOMAN, Inc 24/7 Support Line, 877.384.3578
• Cooperative Restraining Order Clinic (CROC) 415.969.6711
• La Casa De Las Madres Crisis text, 415.200.3575
• A Women’s Place 415.487.2140
• Mission Neighborhood Resource Center 415.869.7977
• Asian Women’s Shelter 24/7 crisis line, 877.751.0880
Court Number: 24012198
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