Man Facing Life Term For Burrito Theft
A man convicted of shoplifting burritos could face 25 years to life in prison under California’s three strikes law. Prosecutors said Wednesday they hadn’t decided whether to seek the maximum.
Glenn Lewis Merrifield, 22, was convicted Monday of felony theft for taking the burritos from a store in Healdsburg.
He was on parole after serving a sentence for four armed robberies committed at age 17.
The jury deadlocked on two more serious charges of resisting arrest by force and battery on a peace officer, with majorities favoring acquittal.
District Attorney J. Michael Mullins said his office had forcefully prosecuted the case because of the altercation with the officer.
But in view of the lopsided acquittal votes, Mullins said he is reviewing what sentence prosecutors will recommend at a hearing Monday. The judge also has the option of excluding previous convictions.
Merrifield admitted leaving the store without paying for some burritos, but claimed he thought a cousin was going to pay for them.