Police say they’ve arrested a homeless Ventura man in connection with the murder of disabled Santa Maria resident Steve Tannenbaum. Mark Morton, 48, was arrested in a homeless camp in Ventura when he was arrested last week. Morton is accused of murder in the death of Tannenbaum last month.

Morton appeared in court on Tuesday and was charged with murder, first degree residential burglary, and second-degree robbery charges in connection with Tannenbaum’s death. Tannenbaum, 55, sold and repaired sewing machines. Police did not say how they developed information on the murder or whether Tannenbaum and Morton knew each other, but named Morton as a suspect four days after the murder occurred.

If you’ve been arrested on murder, robbery or home-invasion charges, you need the help of an experienced Ventura criminal defense attorney. Robert Michael Helfend has more than 25 years experience exclusively in criminal defense and will develop an aggressive defense strategy for you.

Certain serious felonies may qualify you for lifetime imprisonment under California’s three strikes law. This law can send you to prison for the remainder of your life as an habitual criminal. Mr. Helfend will fight aggressively to get three-strikes charges against you reduced or dropped to reduce your risk of being penalized by this exceptionally harsh law.

Mr. Helfend has developed a network of experts who can provide testimony on your behalf in court. Don’t risk the permanent loss of your freedom. Contact Ventura defense attorney Robert Michael Helfend today for a free consultation on your murder or three-strikes case.

Photo Credit: NoHoDamon, via Flickr