Long Beach Man Arrested in Connection with July 4 Murder of Roommate

On Friday July 10, Long Beach Police Dept. detectives arrested a man in connection with the July 4th murder of 38-year-old Allen Estes who was found stabbed to death at Anaheim Street and Dawson Avenue. According to news sources, 24-year-old Norman Matthew Perdon, Estes’ former roommate, is accused of the killing. He is now facing murder and weapons charges.

Authorities say Perdon fatally stabbed Estes during an argument, and that a dispute had been ongoing that stemmed from the time they spent as roommates. Estes was reportedly stabbed in the early morning hours and was found by police near the intersection at approximately 5:30 a.m., where he succumbed to his injuries. News reports did not reveal details of the ongoing dispute between the two men.

At last report, Perdon was being held in the Long Beach jail on more than $1 million bail.

Murder is the most serious homicide offense a person can be charged with, and leaves the alleged offender facing a minimum of 25 years to a maximum of life in prison if found guilty. Felony or first-degree murder is the deliberate, unlawful, and premeditated killing of another person. In some cases, it is difficult for prosecutors to prove the act was premeditated. This can result in reduced charges, which leaves the defendant facing criminal penalties that are less harsh than those for felony murder. California Penal code section 187 describes murder as “the unlawful killing of a human being or a fetus with malice aforethought.” Malice is one element in any first-degree murder case that prosecutors must prove.

Regardless of the circumstances, anyone who is charged with murder or who is under investigation but has not been charged should consult with an experienced and aggressive Long Beach criminal defense attorney. Every individual has legal rights that must be protected, regardless of the seriousness of the crime. Police and investigators may make mistakes that can work to the defendant’s benefit. The burden of proof is on prosecutors, who must prove every separate element of a particular offense. A defense lawyer’s job is to protect the client’s rights, determine all possible legal options, challenge the prosecutor’s case, and protect the freedom and future of the client to the greatest extent possible.

If you have been charged with any criminal offense or are under investigation, do not hesitate before contacting a highly qualified attorney who will give your case the personal attention you deserve.