News Releases

INGLEWOOD, CA - Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced today that Charles Wright, a former Inglewood middle school teacher, was convicted by a jury on July 10 of murdering 21-year-old Pertina Epps on April 26, 2005, and kidnapping and sexually assaulting an 18-year-old woman on September 17, 2006.

“I am pleased that this day has finally come for the victims of this horrendous crime. I’d like to thank the jury for listening to the evidence and ensuring that Mr. Wright is brought to justice for the brutal murder of Ms. Epps, and the sexual violence he committed against the second victim,” District Attorney Gascón said. “It is particularly egregious that these crimes were committed by someone who was in a position of trust and authority. This conviction sends a clear message that we will not tolerate violence in our community. Thanks to everyone involved in the prosecution and the law enforcement investigators who worked tirelessly to bring this case to a successful completion. Thankfully justice delayed was not justice denied.”

Charles A. Wright (dob 07/24/65) was convicted by a jury in case YA106013 on one count of first-degree murder; one count of kidnapping for oral copulation; and one count of forced oral copulation.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Altis Hudson presided over the case.

Sentencing is scheduled for September 10 in Dept. O of the Inglewood Courthouse. He is expected to be sentenced to 50 years to life in state prison.

On approximately April 26, 2005, Wright strangled and killed Pertina Epps. On or about September 17, 2006, Wright kidnapped and sexually assaulted a second female victim.

This case was investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department.