Saul Nava Convicted of Murdering Girlfriend

Saul Nava, a 24-year-old from Thousand Oaks, was convicted of first-degree murder and multiple felonies, including torture and aggravated mayhem, for the brutal killing of his girlfriend Alisen Takacs-Escobar on Christmas Eve 2021. The jury did not find sufficient grounds to support a special circumstance allegation of intentional murder involving torture, which could have resulted in a life sentence without parole. Evidence presented during the trial revealed a history of severe violence, including previous assaults on another partner, and the horrific details of Takacs-Escobar's death, which included extensive bruising and degrading tattoos. Nava admitted to his involvement but claimed he did not intend to kill her. Sentencing is set for December 4th, and the judge will also consider additional special allegations related to the case. The Ventura County District Attorney's office has emphasized the aim of the trial was to hold Nava accountable for his horrific crimes and provide some closure to the victims' families.