An 18-year-old woman cut a deal with prosecutors yesterday rather than face up to three years in prison for allegedly hiding drugs at the request of an Ecstasy dealer whose wares contributed to the death of a young girl.
Angelique Malabey pleaded no contest yesterday to one felony count of acting as an accessory to a felony. In return, Malabey was promised no state prison time and no more than one year in county jail. Judge Craig Parsons could also consider probation when he sentences Malabey Aug. 12.
"The probation report will be crucial to the sentencing," said Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe.
Malabey could be called to testify in the trials of the other four people arrested following the death of Irma Perez, 14. However, acting as a witness was not a stipulation of the plea bargain, Wagstaffe said.
Malabey is not responsible for the death of Irma Perez, of Belmont, but was arrested for reportedly helping Antonio Rivera, 20, cover up his involvement. Rivera allegedly gave Ecstasy to 17-year-old Calin Fintzi who in turn sold it to Perez and three friends. After Perez slipped into unconsciousness April 23, Rivera asked her to remove Ecstasy and other drugs from his apartment, according to prosecutors.
Malabey, Rivera, Fintzi and Perez's friends were all arrested on varied charges after Perez was declared brain dead. Fintzi and Rivera were charged with providing drugs to a minor, drug possession and child endangerment. Malabey was arrested with Rivera. The two 14-year-old girls were taken into custody two days after Perez was declared dead.
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The two girls reportedly delayed getting Perez medical help until it was too late. They may face involuntary manslaughter charges; Fintzi has already had his charges upgraded to involuntary manslaughter and is facing trial as an adult.
Malabey has been out of custody on a $10,000 bail bond. She has no prior criminal record.
Rivera is in custody at San Mateo County Jail and the others are being held at Hillcrest Juvenile Facility.
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