Case Summary (G.R. No. L-3472)
Factual Background
A complaint for frustrated homicide was filed by the Chief of Police against Paterno Biseocho after the May 16 incident, which was subsequently forwarded to a higher court for prosecution as Case No. 11611. Following this, on July 28, 1949, another investigation was initiated against Ernesto Villanueva and his companions for less serious physical injuries, allegedly at the suggestion of Biseocho. The trial for the second case prompted the Petitioners' attorney to seek its dismissal or suspension pending the outcome of the first case, arguing the prosecution’s duality was inconsistent.
Legal Proceedings and Jurisdiction
The trial court, presided by Judge E. Soriano, ruled against the Petitioners’ motion to dismiss or suspend the second case. The court held that the justice of the peace had jurisdiction over the matter and that an adequate legal remedy was available to the Petitioners through an appeal if convicted in that court. This order of denial led to the Petitioners seeking a review and reversal in higher court.
Inconsistency of Charges
Although the Petitioners contended that maintaining both charges was inconsistent, the court determined that such inconsistency alone did not negate the jurisdiction of the justice of the peace court to hear the case regarding physical injuries. It noted that the apparent contradictions in the prosecution's stance could be clarified during trial, and the justice of the peace had the discretion to allow the case to proceed.
Remedy and Conclusion
The court emphasized that Petitioner
...continue readingCase Syllabus (G.R. No. L-3472)
Case Background
- The incident occurred on the night of May 16, 1949, in Barrio Bolbok, Batangas, involving a street fight between Paterno Biseocho and Ernesto Villanueva along with his companions.
- Paterno Biseocho sustained injuries during the altercation, while Ernesto Villanueva suffered a stab wound in the stomach.
- Following the fight, the Chief of Police filed a complaint against Paterno Biseocho for frustrated homicide, which was subsequently forwarded to the superior court, resulting in case number 11611.
Subsequent Investigations and Complaints
- On July 28, 1949, prompted allegedly by Biseocho, the police initiated another investigation into the fight and filed a complaint for less serious physical injuries against Villanueva and his companions.
- At the trial of this second case, the defense attorney moved to dismiss or suspend the proceedings until the resolution of the earlier case (No. 11611), arguing the inconsistency in the prosecution's positions.