Jury Deliberations to Start in Case of Family that Allegedly Assaulted San Bruno Police

After discussing jury instructions yesterday afternoon, prosecutors and defense attorneys will present closing arguments today, May 7, 2013 in the case of four members of the Rapada family who are accused of battery on police officers and resisting arrest during a melee in July 2011.

The incident began when a M-1000 firecracker exploded under a police car.  The officers in the car were on patrol for fireworks violators.

Officers saw Wendell Rapada run into an apartment building from the area where the firecracker was thrown.  Officers tried to arrest Rapada who resisted their efforts by punching and fighting with officers.  Wendell Rapada was joined by five other family members who allegedly joined in the fight.

During the fight, Ephraim Rapada, Wendell’s father allegedly tried to throw one of the officers off a balcony.

When the dust had settled, one San Bruno police officer was left with a concussion while two others suffered black eyes.

Wendell and Ephraim Rapada and Wendell’s cousins Crystal and Ervin Rapada were all charged with felony battery on a police officer and resisting arrest.  Two other members of the family, Virgil and Kenneth Rapada were cited for misdemeanors at the scene and released.

The trial has lasted 17 days so far.

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