GA Man Accused In 1988 CA Killing Of Woman At Hotel

GAINESVILLE, GA — A 57-year-old Gainesville man is in jail after being accused in the September 1988 killing of a woman at a hotel in the 200 block of North Broadway in Santa Maria, California, police said Friday.

Santa Maria Police identified the man as Aloysius Winthrop James, who they said was living in the town at the time. The woman he was accused of killing was identified by police as Santa Maria resident Ofelia Sandoval, 30.

Police said officers responded on Sept. 18, 1988 to investigate the killing of Sandoval. Police did not say how she was killed. Though the case became cold, it remained open, police said.

"Over the last several years, detectives have continued to diligently work on this case that subsequently led to an arrest warrant for murder being issued for 57-year-old Gainesville, GA resident Aloysius Winthrop James," police said in a news release.

Various authorities served the warrant Tuesday at James' home in Gainesville, police said. The Hall County Sheriff's Office said the arrest occurred without incident or injury.

Along with the HCSO's SWAT team, the following agencies assisted with carrying out the warrant:

• Santa Barbara County (California) District Attorney’s Office
• San Luis Obispo County (California) District Attorney’s Office
• Gainesville Police Department
• FBI Task Force - Gainesville

James was charged on suspicion of murder and was booked into the Hall County Jail, where he is being held without bail, authorities said. James will eventually be extradited to Santa Barbara County, authorities said.

"Detectives believe there may be other unreported crimes and additional victims related to James involving threats, sexual assault, domestic abuse and other crimes. The Santa Maria Police Department understands there may be victims who are hesitant to come forward about reporting as the subject matter could be sensitive. Consequently, advocates will be available to assist throughout the process for those that may come forward," police said in the release.

Police ask anyone with information to call Santa Maria Police Department Det. Nate Craven, (805) 928-3781, ext. 1610.