On Friday, January 10, 2025, ABC30 reported that the trial of retired Fresno County Judge Adolfo Corona, facing charges of sexual misconduct, has been delayed. Corona’s defense attorney, Michael Aed, indicated they plan to file a motion requesting the disqualification of the District Attorney’s office.
A grand jury indicted Corona on charges of sexual penetration by force and sexual battery. He has pleaded not guilty to both counts. The alleged incident, a sexual assault on a court employee, reportedly occurred on March 14th within the courthouse. Retired Judge LaDoris Cordell, a former independent police auditor, commented on the seriousness of the allegations, particularly given Corona’s position as a judge.
Corona resigned from his judgeship weeks after the alleged incident, with nearly five years remaining in his term. Judge Cordell stated that this was the appropriate action, suggesting that continuing to serve would have been extremely difficult given the pending charges.
At a court hearing on January 10th, Corona did not appear. His attorneys, however, were present and filed a motion allowing parts of the hearing to proceed without public attendance. The media, including Action News, was subsequently excluded from the proceedings.
The case’s next hearing is scheduled for February 4th. Future proceedings could involve a jury trial, a bench trial, or a plea bargain, according to Judge Cordell. If the case proceeds to trial, it will likely feature a confrontation between Judge Corona and his accuser. Currently, Corona remains free on bail.
Source: ABC30
