MARTINEZ—On August 12, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed a felony complaint against a Venezuelan National, Marcos Eduardo Iriarte-Valdez, for the murder of Todd Stewart, 68.
Contra Costa Public Information Officer, Ted Asregadoo, indicated on August 12, Iriarte-Valdez was committing the act of residential burglary in Martinez, California, when he stabbed Stewart to death.
Iriarte-Valdez was on electronic home detention, awaiting a jury trial related to burglary incidents that occurred on April 29 in Orinda, California. The August 6 hearing addressed an alleged violation of the terms of that home detention — not a release from federal custody. Mr. Iriarte-Valdez was never an inmate in federal prison.
Iriarte-Valdez was released to electronic home detention on May 14, 2026, by Judge Wade Rhyne — the presiding judge in the burglary case. According to reports, it was one day later that Iriarte-Valdez stabbed and killed Stewart as he burglarized his home.
During his August 12 arraignment, Iriarte-Valdez pleaded not guilty to murder, and according to reports, denied all enhancements.
Judge David Goldstein presided over the arraignment and ordered Iriarte-Valdez to be held without bond, contending that the defendant is a “Risk to public safety.” The next court date is scheduled for September 9, at 8:30 a.m. Judge Michael Nieto is presiding.
“Our office will pursue this case with diligence and integrity to hold Iriarte-Valdez fully accountable under the law for this devastating act of violence. Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones and the larger community as they navigate this unimaginable loss. Our Victim-Witness Assistance Program is available to guide the family members through the criminal justice process and connect them with the services and support they need,” Contra Costa County DA Diana Becton stated.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement placed a detainer against Iriarte-Valdez, who is not a U.S. citizen.
