DATE:March 5, 2018

CASE: Benjamin Tremper (Case #16FE021740)

PROSECUTOR: Deputy District Attorney Frederick Gotha, Domestic Violence Unit

Benjamin Tremper was convicted by a jury of first-degree robbery with an elderly victim enhancement, and first-degree burglary with the allegation the victim was home at the time.  Tremper’s five prior strikes and a 5-year prison prior were also found true.

The 88-year-old victim, who is a Marine veteran, lived in a 24-hour staffed elder housing complex in Citrus Heights.  On November 15, 2016, he got up to use the bathroom.  When he returned to his room, he noticed his blinds had been tampered with and the sliding glass door was open.  When the victim went down the hallway to investigate, he was attacked by the stronger, larger Benjamin Tremper.  The victim and Tremper struggled, but Tremper was able to force the victim to the ground.  Tremper told the victim to stay on the ground as he went looking around the victim’s room, stealing his personal items.  The victim was able to sneak into a bathroom and pull an “emergency lanyard” to summon staff for help.  When staff responded, Tremper fled but was later apprehended.

Tremper has five 2005 strike convictions for four robberies and a carjacking.  His criminal history also includes convictions for solicitation of murder, assault with a deadly weapon, burglary and vehicle thefts.

He faces a maximum sentence of 50 years to life in prison.  Sentencing is set for April 27, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. in Department 22 before the Honorable Russell Hom.