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DSA In the News

Trial set for man accused of slashing roommate's neck

Published on 6/25/2011


A Moss Beach man who allegedly sawed at the neck of his female roommate with a serrated knife because she reported him for driving while intoxicated pleaded not guilty and will stand trial early next year.

David Jon Vanalstine, 57, is charged with attempted murder, assault, domestic violence and using a knife. After entering his Superior Court plea, Vanalstine was scheduled for a Jan. 23, 2012 jury trial.

Sheriff’s deputies arrested Vanalstine at his Pillar Ridge Estates residence Dec. 2 after responding to a call by the 56-year-old victim. She told dispatchers she had been stabbed by Vanalstine, who was still inside the home. Vanalstine allegedly held the woman down on the couch by her hair and began sawing at her neck with a serrated knife from her carotid artery to her ear, according to the District Attorney’s Office.

The attack came days after Vanalstine was sentenced to 45 days in jail for a 2010 misdemeanor drunk driving conviction with priors. Police believe the victim turned Vanalstine in on the charge. A judge stayed the sentence until the end of January, leaving Vanalstine free from custody.

He is currently held without bail.