Case Summary (G.R. No. L-1060)
Summary of Charges
The accused were charged with robbery in band in a dwelling, committed with violence, intimidation, and with the additional crime of rape. The trial court sentenced each of the accused to a penalty of reclusion perpetua, required them to indemnify the victim Amparo Santiago in the amount of P500, and ordered them to return the stolen items or, if unable, to pay their total value of P289.50, without imprisonment in case of insolvency, plus the costs of the trial.
Factual Background
The robbery occurred early in the morning when Porfirio Lapena was outside his home. The accused, armed with firearms and knives, forced their way in, threatened the occupants, and demanded money. After threatening Amparo Santiago, Sergio Revilla forcibly took her to another room where he committed rape, followed by his co-accused. The police later arrested the accused and recovered stolen items including jewelry and firearms.
Arrest and Evidence Collection
Police officers responded to reports of theft activities in the area and arrested the accused at a nearby location. Items connected to the robbery were recovered from them, including a .38 caliber revolver, a .45 caliber pistol, and several pieces of stolen property. The accused admitted their involvement in the crime during police questioning.
Victim Testimonies
Amparo Santiago underwent medical examination shortly after the incident, with findings documented by Dr. Angelo Singian. Both Porfirio Lapena and Amparo Santiago identified the accused as the perpetrators, and the connection was further supported by the recovered stolen items.
Defense Claims
The accused presented various defenses, including claims of alibi and allegations of coercive interrogation by police. Sergio Revilla contended that he was at home during the incident, while Diosdado Guinto argued he was elsewhere. However, their testimonies were inconsistent, and claims of torture or coercion were dismissed due to lack of evidence.
Court's Analysis
The trial court found the testimonies and evidence overwhelmingly demonstrated the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution's case was bolstered by witness identification and the confessions made by t
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-1060)
Case Background
- This case revolves around an appeal filed by accused individuals Sergio Revilla, Diosdado Guinto, and Luis Bautista against a conviction for robbery in a dwelling committed with violence and intimidation, as well as rape.
- The trial court sentenced each accused to reclusion perpetua, ordered them to indemnify the victim Amparo Santiago with P500, and to return the stolen items or pay their equivalent value of P289.50 without subsidiary prison in case of insolvency.
Incident Details
- The crime occurred between 2:00 AM and 3:00 AM on June 11, 1946, at the residence of Porfirio Lapena on Antipolo Extension No. 1329, Manila.
- While Porfirio Lapena was outside his house, the accused approached, armed with firearms and knives, and threatened him and his wife, Amparo Santiago.
- Revilla entered the house with his co-accused, ordered the inhabitants to lie face down, and demanded money, which led to Amparo handing over the funds.
- Revilla then forcibly took Amparo to the upper floor of the house, where he raped her, followed by Luis Bautista and Diosdado Guinto.
Evidence and Arrest
- After the crime, the accused left the scene with various stolen items, including jewelry and cash.
- Between 4:00 AM and 5:00