A judge denied bail Dec. 15 for a Chula Vista man suspected of killing a 28-year-old music producer and stuffing his body into a 55-gallon drum which was found submerged in San Diego Bay.
As Deputy District Attorney Cherie Somerville talked about the violent criminal history of Timothy John Cook, 52, Chula Vista Superior Court Judge Theodore Weathers suggested he not set any bail for him in the slaying of Omar Medina. She had been arguing for $3 million bail, but she was in agreement for no bail.
Not many details were released about the crime, but Somerville said Medina had been stabbed 66 times. His body was found Oct. 12 inside a barrel after a diver noticed a cinderblock attached to the barrel. Chula Vista Police weeks later announced the remains were Medina’s.
During the hearing no motive was discussed or if Medina knew Cook. Also charged as an accessory after the fact was Derrick Jefferson Spurgeon, 38, of El Cajon. Both he and Cook pleaded not guilty. Weathers set bail for Spurgeon at $500,000
“Mr. Spurgeon helped as an accessory after the fact,” said Somerville.
The prosecutor said Cook faces a prison sentence of 87 years to life if he receive consecutive terms and was found guilty of all counts. She said Cook once received a 13-year sentence for attempted murder, and he was also previously convicted of robbery, theft, and two counts of auto theft.
“We believe he is a serious danger to the community,” said Somerville. Chula Vista Police announced the arrests of both Cook and Spurgeon Dec. 13. Cook wore a green jail uniform in court. A Dec. 29 preliminary hearing was set, although Somerville said it might be delayed.
Spurgeon has a separate felony case in Chula Vista of transportation and possession of controlled substances for sale. He has also denied these charges.
Medina’s family quietly attended Cook’s arraignment. “They would like their privacy respected,” said Somerville.
Medina’s celebration of life service was held Oct. 26 at the National City Apostolic Church. A number of people posted online condolences to his family.
