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Sentencing Delayed: New Claims Surface in Fresno Murder Case
11 Jul
Summary
- Sentencing for Michael Bulaich was postponed due to new witness claims.
- Two witnesses reportedly recanted previous testimony, alleging pressure.
- The judge delayed the decision until August 7 to investigate claims.
A judge has delayed the sentencing of Michael Bulaich, who had previously pleaded no contest to voluntary manslaughter in the killing of Garth Dustin Moore. This postponement stems from new claims presented by Bulaich's defense attorney, Richard Esquivel, just hours before the scheduled sentencing on July 11, 2026.
Esquivel revealed that two witnesses who testified during a preliminary hearing months ago have reportedly contacted his office. These witnesses allegedly stated they testified under pressure and provided false statements. The judge, Alvin Harrell III, described the development as a last-minute change of heart and has requested more information from all parties.
Fresno County Superior Court Judge Alvin Harrell III stressed the importance of resolving these new allegations promptly. He noted that once a sentence is imposed, the case is concluded, making appeals difficult. A new court date has been set for August 7, 2026, to further investigate the witness claims and determine their potential impact on the case, which could even lead to dismissal if probable cause is found to be lacking.
The victim's mother attended the hearing virtually and had submitted a letter to the court. The defense has not yet detailed how the witnesses would testify again, only confirming the alleged pressure. Bulaich also has prior court records for dissuading and threatening a witness or victim.
