By Billie Jo Jannen
For East County Magazine

March 18, 2011 (Jamul) -- Jamul resident Miguel Medina Sanchez, age 32, was arraigned yesterday afternoon in the murder of Maria Irma Palos De Rubio, who is also believed by officials to be a resident of Jamul.  Deputy District Attorney Claudia Grosso, the prosecutor assigned to the case, said  charges include a special circumstances charge of using a knife, which would add a year to Sanchez’ sentence if he is convicted.

Sanchez pleaded not guilty and is being held without bail pending appointment of a public defender, Sanchez said. The charges carry a possible sentence of 25 years to life in prison.