A man accused of firing at California Highway Patrol officers pleaded not guilty to a series of crimes—including attempted murder—authorities say he committed in Scotts Valley last month, starting as a passenger in a vehicle that led police on a pursuit.
Kristopher Rosario Payopay appeared in Santa Cruz County Superior Court in an orange jumpsuit with slightly-frazzled hair, his teal N95 mask attached to his face by the upper strap, as the lower one dangled below his chin. He leaned forward, his head cocked slightly to one side.
“Good morning, Mr. Payopay,” Judge Paul Burdick said, as he tried to figure out who was now representing the 40-year-old from Lathrop, Calif.
The woman investigators say was driving the vehicle in question Jan. 25—Berkeley resident Alexandria Luevanos—pleaded not-guilty Jan. 31 to the four counts she faces.
Luevanos was charged with evading a peace officer, possessing a controlled substance while armed, illegal possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition. She is currently out on bail.
Public defender Joseph Ziebron, appearing remotely on Payopay’s behalf, entered pleas of not guilty to all 25 charges (including enhancements) on which his client is being held.
Payopay stands accused of assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, shooting at an inhabited dwelling, felony attempted murder and evading police, just to name a few.
Payopay also waived his statutory right to a speedy preliminary examination.
Luevanos had her preliminary hearing set for Feb. 14.
Another public defender, Diana August, who represented Payopay during his initial arraignment appearance, told Burdick it was important their office is given enough time to prepare to represent the man, since the charges carry the possibility of life in prison.
Conor McCormick appeared for the District Attorney’s office.
After commenting on the “serious nature of the case,” Judge Burdick scheduled Payopay’s preliminary examination for May 2, with a check-in conference set for April 28 at 9am.
He will remain “as a no-bail hold,” the judge said.
