San Francisco, CA – San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins announced today that her office secured a conviction of Karla Aguillon-Merino (36), after a trial by jury for driving under the influence. Ms. Aguillon-Merino was convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol (VC 23152(a)) and driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or greater (VC 23152(b)).

“Driving under the influence is extremely dangerous and will not be tolerated,” said District Attorney Brooke Jenkins. “I am grateful to the jury for their service in this trial and for holding Ms. Aguillon-Merino accountable for her actions.”

According to testimony and other evidence presented at trial, on February 29, 2024, at approximately 2:42 AM, California Highway Patrol dispatch received multiple calls regarding a Black Dodge Challenger pulled over on the side of the highway on US 101 Northbound, south of the Battery Tunnel near the Golden Gate Bridge, with several occupants all passed out in the vehicle, including the driver, Ms. Aguillon-Merino. CHP and fire and medical responded to the scene. Vomit was located on the side of the car and a half full 750mL bottle of Hennessy Cognac was located near the front passenger side floorboard.

The case against Ms. Aguillon-Merino was successfully prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jenya Frid with assistance from paralegals Joshua Nickchen and Raquel Paez and IT support from Noaeh Pinaire. Prosecutors were able to develop a strong case against Ms. Aguillon-Merino based on the California Highway Patrol’s diligent investigation and assistance in keeping impaired drivers off the road.

“I want to thank the jury for their thoughtfulness and careful review of the evidence in arriving at their verdict,” said Assistant District Attorney Jenya Frid. “This conviction highlights our dedication to enforcing driving under the influence (DUI) laws in San Francisco. Driving under the influence will not be tolerated. Together, we will ensure that our roads are safe for the public.”

Ms. Aguillon-Merino is currently out of custody. Sentencing is scheduled for January 17, 2025.

Court Number: 24003606