On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Long Beach Post reported that Judge Dwight W. Moore of Riverside County is facing scrutiny following the controversial decision to grant probation to Jake Haro, a man now accused of killing his 7-month-old son, Emmanuel Haro. The District Attorney’s office has publicly criticized Judge Moore for suspending Haro’s six-year prison sentence in 2023 after he pleaded guilty to child abuse involving his 10-week-old daughter.

During a press conference, District Attorney Mike Hestrin condemned the judge’s ruling as a critical error, asserting that if Haro had remained incarcerated, Emmanuel would still be alive. Hestrin pointed to the judge’s rationale—that probation would act as a deterrent for Haro—as misguided and ineffective.

Despite previous allegations of probation violations, including incidents in July 2024 and charges related to firearms possession as a convicted felon, the DA’s office did not oppose Haro’s release on a $60,000 bail. This lack of opposition occurred multiple times prior to the alleged murder of Emmanuel, raising questions about the DA’s approach to Haro’s legal proceedings.

In a recent hearing on July 2, 2025, Deputy DA Connor Rathbun informed the court that he had no objection to a request from Haro’s attorney to continue the case, allowing Haro to remain out of custody. Just weeks later, authorities allege that Haro committed the fatal act against his son.

Judge Moore has refrained from discussing the specifics of his decision due to ethical constraints. He acknowledged that this situation is unprecedented in his 18 years on the bench, expressing surprise at the backlash regarding his judicial decision-making.

The case has garnered significant media attention, particularly following the shocking allegations surrounding Emmanuel’s death. The mother, Rebecca Haro, reported that her baby was kidnapped from a store parking lot, but authorities believe the child was murdered, with his remains still unrecovered. Rebecca herself has also faced charges in connection with the case.

 

 

Source: Long Beach Post