Strathmore Man Convicted of Domestic Violence, Torture
Yesterday in Department 17 of the Tulare County Superior Court, South County Justice Center, TCDA prosecutors secured guilty verdicts against Felimon Salas, age 37, for domestic violence and torture.
From January 18, 2021, to January 20, 2021, Salas repeatedly and violently beat the mother of his child with his fists, cooking utensils, and beer bottles causing significant lacerations and bruising to her head and neck, as well as cracked teeth. Salas’ abuse also included biting, shoving, and depriving her of sleep and medical care. In one instance, Salas drove the injured victim to the base of a hill and made her walk up it to “earn her spot back in their family.”
It is believed that the pattern of abuse existed well before these incidents.
On January 20, 2021, Salas drove the victim to the home of family members. He then fled to Mexico to avoid contact from law enforcement for over a year. Using a tip that Salas was back in the area, law enforcement contacted him in February 2022. He was arrested and held on $500,000 bail. At a later court date, despite his flight risk and propensity for violence, the court lowered his bail to $50,000 and released him over the fervent objection of prosecutors. Salas began his criminal trial out of custody.
At trial, Salas failed to appear for the final day of arguments. Nevertheless, he was convicted of torture, two counts of assault with a deadly weapon, and five counts of domestic violence. Numerous counts are enhanced with special allegations that the crime used a deadly weapon, and that great bodily injury was inflicted.
“Prosecutors worked diligently to bring justice in this case. If you are a victim of this type of crime, do not hesitate to reach out to those who can help,” said District Attorney Tim Ward. “After being a fugitive from justice for a year, it is mind boggling that this defendant was afforded such a significant bail reduction. In 2021, he fled accountability, and it is tragic that this victim and other victims of violent crime have their justice eroded by progressive policies. This is one of the more glaring examples of our legislative and societal push toward severely degrading the cash bail system.”
Salas faces life in prison at sentencing. A warrant for his arrest was issued. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact law enforcement immediately.
The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Victoria Frazer.
Media inquiries can be directed to the Office of the District Attorney, County of Tulare Chief Deputy District Attorney Dave Alavezos (559) 636-5494