State of Texas v. Christian Moreno and Abilene Schnieder

San Antonio, Texas, criminal defense lawyer represented the Defendant charged with manslaughter.



On February 24, 2023, Ramon Najera and his wife, Juanita Najera, were viciously attacked by two pit bulls owned by the Christian Moreno and Abilene Schnieder. This occurred while Mr. and Mrs. Najera were running an errand near the defendants' residence. The unprovoked attack was the direct result of the defendants' gross negligence, as they failed to secure their dogs with adequate fencing, leaving the canines free to roam without leashes or restraints. Ramon Najera sustained fatal injuries, while Juanita Najera suffered bodily injury.



Assistant District Attorneys Raul Jordan, Willem VanZeben, and Russ Gifford led the prosecution, with support from Investigator George Felan and Crime Victim Advocate Brandy Jimenez of the Felony Criminal Trial Division.



Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales stated, "This unfortunate tragedy was preventable. The defendants' failure to act responsibly and secure their pit bulls resulted in injuries and the loss of a life. I believe the defendants received adequate punishment and justice has been served for the Najera family.”

Christian Moreno was sentenced to 18 years and Abilene Schnieder was sentenced to 15 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for the death of Ramon Najera and the injuries sustained to Juanita Najera. Additionally, if paroled, both defendants are prohibited from owning or possessing dogs.