Detective Denies Slapping Witness in Dallies Investigation

A Garden Grove detective accused of slapping a key witness during an investigation into the killing of a local police officer six years ago testified at a preliminary hearing in Santa Ana on Wednesday that he never hit the woman.

Investigator Ronnie Echavarria said in Orange County Superior Court that the incident “never happened.” His testimony contradicts that of Delores “Lola” Duvall, a former girlfriend of defendant John J.C. Stephens. She testified earlier that Echavarria backhanded her during questioning.

Duvall’s testimony provides some of the most powerful evidence implicating Stephens in the murder of Garden Grove patrolman Howard E. Dallies Jr., and her credibility is crucial to the prosecution’s case.

Duvall testified nearly two months ago that the Buena Park man returned home agitated just hours after Dallies was gunned down March 9, 1993. Stephens, she said, told her he was involved in the shooting and dyed his hair to alter his appearance.

Stephens has spent two years in jail awaiting trial. He also has been charged with the attempted murder of a Santa Ana security guard. He maintains his innocence in both cases.