Rehab Employee Accused Of Murdering Patient

LOS ANGELES, CA — A Los Angeles alcohol-rehabilitation center operator who allegedly blocked a client's airway with a spoon and tape and then stood on the man's chest, causing him to die of asphyxia, is expected to be arraigned next month on a murder charge.

Jason Aviles, 26, of Long Beach, is charged with a single count of murder stemming from the Aug. 15, 2016, death of Jose Sandoval, 60. He was scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday, but the hearing was reset for Aug. 15.

According to the District Attorney's Office, Sandoval checked into the live-in Grupo Renacer rehab facility on Aug. 11 of last year. Four days later, Aviles -- whom prosecutors said has no medical training -- used a spoon and tape to block the agitated Sandoval's airway then stood on his chest.

According to jail records, Aviles weighs about 220 pounds.

The purpose of the procedure was not immediately clear.

Aviles was arrested June 27 and remains jailed in lieu of $2 million bail, according to jail records. He faces 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

City News Service; Photo: Shutterstock