Obstruction and the “motorcycle” alibi
Prosecutors also allege that on Dec. 5, 2023, Corona was alone with Victim 2 in chambers for about two hours; she was later found passed out. The indictment says Corona falsely told the FBI he left her alone to pick up a motorcycle and then tried to persuade a dealership employee to alter business records to back that alibi. Justice Department
If convicted, Corona faces a statutory maximum of 40 years on the sexual-assault count and up to 20 years on each obstruction count. Sentencing would be governed by the Federal Sentencing Guidelines and judicial discretion.
The federal prosecution team includes Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar (EDCA) and Michael J. Songer of DOJ’s Civil Rights Division.
The overlapping state case
Separate from the federal indictment, Fresno County prosecutors obtained a state grand jury indictment unsealed Sept. 23, 2024, alleging sexual penetration by force, fear, or duress and misdemeanor sexual battery connected to the March 14, 2024 incident. fresnoda.org
Court calendars reflect the state case under number F24905107 and show appearances through early 2025, including trial delays while defense counsel litigated pretrial issues. Reports identify Corona as represented in state court by Michael J. Aed and Margarita Martinez-Baly. Fresno Superior Court+1 GV Wire
Local coverage and DOJ confirm Corona stepped down from the bench in April 2024 after first taking leave; media reported Friday’s federal indictment and its overlap with the state allegations. Los Angeles Times CBS News ABC30 Fresno
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