Christian Moreno and Abilene Schnieder pled guilty on August 30, 2024, to the charge of attack by dog resulting in death. In the 226th Judicial District Court, Judge Meza assessed punishment for both defendants today, sentencing Moreno to 18 years and Schnieder to 15 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
The charges stemmed from a tragic incident on February 24, 2023, when Ramon Najera and his wife, Juanita Najera, were attacked by two pit bulls owned by the defendants while running an errand near their residence. The unprovoked attack was attributed to the defendants' gross negligence, as they failed to secure their dogs with adequate fencing, allowing the animals to roam freely without leashes or restraints.
Ramon Najera sustained fatal injuries in the attack, while Juanita Najera suffered bodily harm. In addition to their prison sentences, both defendants are prohibited from owning or possessing dogs if paroled.
Assistant District Attorneys Raul Jordan, Willem VanZeben, and Russ Gifford led the prosecution, supported by Investigator George Felan and Crime Victim Advocate Brandy Jimenez of the Felony Criminal Trial Division.
Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales commented on the case, stating, “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.”
