California Penal Code 187: Murder Charges Explained in Missing Baby Emmanuel Case

The search for seven-month-old Emmanuel Haro has taken a devastating turn, shifting from a desperate rescue mission to a potential homicide investigation. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the arrest of the infant’s parents, Jake and Rebecca Haro, on suspicion of murder under California Penal Code 187, sending shockwaves through the community and the nation.

The arrest on August 22nd marks a grim development in a case that began when Emmanuel was reported missing from a parking lot in Yucaipa, California, on August 14th. While the official search for the child continues, investigators have clearly pivoted their focus based on evidence gathered over the past week, leading them directly to the child’s home in Cabazon.

What is California Penal Code 187?

The specific charge levied against Jake and Rebecca Haro is at the core of this case’s serious turn. California Penal Code 187 defines the crime of murder in the state. The statute outlines murder as the unlawful killing of a human being, or a fetus, with malice aforethought. This legal term, “malice aforethought,” is crucial; it refers to the perpetrator’s intent to kill, a conscious disregard for human life, or the intent to commit a dangerous felony that results in death. The application of this charge, even before a body has been found, indicates that authorities believe they have compelling evidence to prove that Emmanuel is deceased and that his parents are responsible.

The Sheriff’s Department had previously signaled growing suspicion towards the parents. Officials noted they had discovered significant inconsistencies in Rebecca Haro’s account of the alleged kidnapping, which occurred as she prepared to change her son’s diaper. When confronted with these discrepancies, she reportedly ceased cooperating with detectives. Furthermore, the department announced that Jake Haro, who has a documented history of violence toward the child, had retained legal counsel, further complicating the investigation’s dialogue with the parents.

The Ongoing Search for Answers

Despite the severe murder charges, law enforcement emphasizes that the physical search for baby Emmanuel is not over. Investigators continue to pursue all leads to locate the infant, who was last seen wearing a black Nike onesie. He is described as having brown hair, brown eyes, being 24 inches tall, weighing approximately 21 pounds, and being cross-eyed. The community’s hope for a safe recovery now exists alongside the somber reality of the criminal charges announced by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office.

The arrest of Jake and Rebecca Haro under California Penal Code 187 transforms a heartbreaking missing child case into a profound legal tragedy, underscoring the critical role of forensic evidence and investigative diligence in uncovering the truth behind a family’s nightmare.

Must Know

What does PC 187 stand for?
PC 187 is the section number within California’s Penal Code that defines the crime of murder. It legally outlines the elements required to charge someone with the unlawful killing of another human being with malice aforethought.

Why were Jake and Rebecca Haro arrested for murder if the baby is missing?
Law enforcement can make an arrest for murder without a body if they have sufficient circumstantial and forensic evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that a homicide occurred and who is responsible. The inconsistencies in the parents’ stories and other uncovered evidence likely formed this basis.

What is malice aforethought under California law?
Malice aforethought is the mental state required for a murder conviction. It doesn’t always mean premeditation; it can also include an intentional act with a conscious disregard for human life or an intent to commit a dangerous felony that results in death.

Where did baby Emmanuel Haro go missing?
Emmanuel was reported missing from the 34500 Block of Yucaipa Boulevard in Yucaipa, California. His mother stated the incident occurred in a parking lot outside a Big 5 sporting goods store.

Are the parents cooperating with the investigation?
According to the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, the mother stopped cooperating after being confronted with inconsistencies in her story. The father, Jake Haro, has retained an attorney.