Palm Springs Service Officer Charged with Murder in Thanksgiving Day Crash

Juliana Granados, the Palm Springs police service officer accused of causing a Thanksgiving Day crash that resulted in the death of Nicholas Griego, made her first court appearance today at the Larson Justice Center in Indio.
Granados, who faces charges of murder, pleaded not guilty to the allegations during her arraignment. The charges stem from a collision in which Granados allegedly struck Griego while he was riding his motorcycle. Prosecutors claim Granados was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

Griego, a member of the Palm Springs Police Department, tragically lost his life in the incident. Family members were seen leaving the courthouse after the proceedings, visibly shaken by the outcome. In an interview after the arraignment, Granados' attorney, John Patrick Dolan, acknowledged the tragic nature of the case but expressed confidence in his client’s character. "It's a tragic situation. You can't put a pretty face on it," Dolan said. "But she is a very responsible person." He also suggested that Granados should be considered for probation, given the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Originally held on $1 million bail, Granados' bail was revoked following new information provided to the court. She is now being held without bail as the case continues to develop. The next court hearing is scheduled for January 22nd, at which time more details are expected to emerge.