Charles Chad Giese (43) found guilty for murdering roommate
Author: District Attorney's Office
Date: 6/6/2018 4:51 PM
Late this afternoon, a San Luis Obispo County jury found defendant, Charles Chad Giese, guilty of the November 15, 2015 murder of his roommate Walter Ernesto Vallivero, at their residence in rural San Luis Obispo.
On Wednesday, June 6th, 2018, a San Luis Obispo County jury found defendant Charles Chad Giese (DOB 12/11/1974) guilty of first degree premeditated murder of his roommate, in violation of California Penal Code section 187. The verdict came after a three-week jury trial and two days of deliberation.
On November 15, 2015, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s deputies responded to an address in rural San Luis Obispo based on a 911 call from Mr. Giese’s mother. Upon arrival deputies located the body of the victim, Walter Ernest Vallivero (DOB 01/21/1961), within the residence. Mr. Giese and Mr. Vallivero had been roommates for approximately three months, during which time neighbors described a history of loud verbal arguments between the two men. During the investigation Mr. Giese admitted to deputies that he had beaten Mr. Vallivero resulting in his death, but claimed it was in self-defense.
At the trial Mr. Giese’s attorney argued the killing was justified, claiming that Mr. Vallivero initiated the confrontation by first assaulting Mr. Giese. Mr. Giese did not testify at the trial. The physical evidence presented to the jury did not substantiate Mr. Giese’s account of being assaulted.
“While we can only imagine the impact this horrific crime has had on the family and friends of Mr. Vallivero, we are hopeful that this conviction will provide some solace. We thank the jurors who patiently and conscientiously evaluated this very difficult case,” said District Attorney Dan Dow.
Sentencing for Mr. Giese is scheduled for July 12, 2018 in Department 1 of the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, the Honorable Judge Jacqueline Duffy presiding. Mr. Giese faces a sentence of 27 years to life in state prison.
The case was investigated by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office and the San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Bureau of Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Christopher Peuvrelle.
