SAN ANTONIO — The owners of two pit bulls that were put down after attacking and killing an 81-year-old man in February 2023 have accepted a plea deal ahead of their trial.
Christian Moreno and Abilene Schnieder were arrested after the mauling in a west-side neighborhood last year. San Antonio authorities said Ramon Najera and his wife, Juanita, were arriving to visit relatives when the dogs got loose from a nearby property and attacked.
Fire crews who responded to the scene observed Ramon Najera "being dragged by a dog (and) completely bloody" upon arriving.
On Tuesday, both Moreno and Schnieder pleaded guilty to the charges after reportedly reaching a plea deal with the prosecution. Arguments will be heard from both individuals on Sept. 9 at 9:30 a.m. before the punishment phase begins on Sept. 20.
The two could face between two to 20 years in prison when convicted and a $10,000 fine.
The proceedings will be overseen by Judge Velia J. Meza of the 226th Criminal District Court.
Judge Meza said the two will have the chance to speak to her directly and can even write letters of remorse they will get the chance to read in court. Prosecution is seeking the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
Ramon's family declined to speak today and will not do so until after sentencing.
---
Learn more about KENS 5:
Since going on the air in 1950, KENS 5 has strived to be the best, most trusted news and entertainment source for generations of San Antonians.
KENS 5 has brought numerous firsts to South Texas television, including being the first local station with a helicopter, the first with its own Doppler radar and the first to air a local morning news program.
Over the years, KENS 5 has worked to transform local news. Our cameras have been the lens bringing history into local viewers' homes. We're proud of our legacy as we serve San Antonians today.
Today, KENS 5 continues to set the standard in local broadcasting and is recognized by its peers for excellence and innovation. The KENS 5 News team focuses on stories that really matter to our community.
You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more!
Want to get in touch with someone at KENS 5? You can send a message using our Contacts page or email one of our team members.