Attorney General Bonta Announces Arrest of Suspect for Mariposa Homicide

MARIPOSA COUNTY — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the arrest of a suspect for the murder of Wendy Pullins in Mariposa, California. The suspect, Justin Bolton, was located by investigators on November 9, 2023, in Willits, California.
  
“My deepest sympathies go out to the loved ones of Wendy Pullins, but we are grateful that justice has been served today,” said Attorney General Bonta. “This arrest serves as a powerful reminder to our community that individuals who commit heinous crimes will face consequences. We express our immense gratitude for the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement allies in resolving this case.”
 
“While this case has been a long one, our focus never wavered to find Wendy and arrest those involved in her disappearance and eventual murder,” said Mariposa County Sheriff Jeremy Briese. “I want to thank the multiple agencies, including the California Department of Justice, for their assistance and support.”
 
Pullins was first reported missing in 2022, which was later determined to be a suspicious death, in 2023. The arrest is the result of a joint investigation by the California Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Special Operation Unit in collaboration with Mariposa Sheriff's Office, Mendocino County Sheriff's Office, California Highway Patrol (CHP) and Vallejo Police Department.
 
Through collaboration, the DOJ Special Operations Unit provides statewide enforcement for combating violent career criminals, gangs, and organized crime groups, along with intrastate drug traffickers. These unique and essential teams use the latest technology and advanced investigative techniques and work alongside local law enforcement to enhance investigations into violent criminals and organized crime throughout the state. The California Department of Justice is hiring. Visit oag.ca.gov/careers to view available positions and learn how you can help DOJ protect the health, well-being, and public safety of Californians.