Costa Mesa Man Charged with Girlfriend's Murder

Daniel Allen Aldrich, 49, has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend, Julie Anne Sanetra, 38, after allegedly strangling her and slitting her wrist following an argument on October 20. Aldrich reportedly left her body on the couch and watched television before dragging it outside and stuffing it in a trash can, where it was discovered by landscapers two days later. The Orange County District Attorney's office has charged him with one felony count of murder and a felony enhancement for weapon use, with a potential sentence of 26 years to life if convicted. Aldrich was arrested at his mother's home in Glendale after the gruesome discovery prompted a police investigation. He is currently held on a $1 million bail and is scheduled for arraignment on November 19, 2024. District Attorney Todd Spitzer expressed outrage over the nature of the crime, emphasizing the need for justice for Sanetra.