FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 2, 2012
Contact: [email protected]
ANDERSON, SC. Charges against Irving “Ernie” Ramirez in relation to the homicides of Homer and JoAnn Staton in October of 2009 have been dismissed. Ramirez, along with Matthew Fullbright, was charged by the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office with two counts of murder, two counts of armed robbery and conspiracy to commit the crimes. Matthew Fullbright was convicted of these heinous crimes on January 27, 2012 and is presently serving consecutive life sentences.
Ramirez’ arrest was based solely on the written confession of Matthew Fullbright. At Fullbright’s trial, investigators with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office testified that Fullbright’s confession as it relates to Ramirez’ involvement in the robbery and murders could not be proven. In fact, the evidence obtained from phone records proved that Ramirez was not involved in the murders. Also, no physical evidence exists to tie Ramirez in any way to these crimes. Ramirez has provided written statements denying any knowledge and/or involvement in these crimes and all evidence supports his claim. The evidence points to Matthew Fullbright acting alone when he robbed and murdered Homer and JoAnn Staton. Therefore, the charges against Irving “Ernie” Ramirez have been dismissed.