San Antonio, Texas – A Bexar County jury has sentenced a 34-year-old San Antonio man to decades in prison after he fatally stabbed his longtime friend with a sword inside his home and then called 911 to report the killing, making disturbing statements to authorities after the attack.
Deadly Attack Inside San Antonio Home
The case centers on Joseph Aleman, who was convicted of murder for the death of Victor Ochoa, a 62-year-old friend. Prosecutors said the killing occurred on August 26, 2022, inside Aleman’s residence on Englewood Drive on San Antonio’s West Side.
According to court records, Aleman and Ochoa were together inside the home when a violent confrontation occurred. At some point, Aleman attacked Ochoa, stabbing him multiple times with a sword, inflicting fatal injuries.
Disturbing 911 Call After the Killing
After the attack, Aleman placed a call to 911, telling dispatchers that he had killed someone. Authorities later said the call included a series of bizarre and alarming statements.
Investigators reported that Aleman told police he had discovered what he referred to as the “stairway to heaven,” a remark that immediately raised concerns about his mental state at the time of the crime.
Officers Led to Victim’s Body
When officers arrived at the residence, Aleman reportedly led them into the house and directed them to Ochoa’s body. Prosecutors said the victim was found lying in a pool of blood, having suffered fatal stab wounds caused by a sword.
Aleman was taken into custody at the scene without incident.
Outstanding Kidnapping Warrant Discovered
While detaining Aleman, officers learned he already had an outstanding arrest warrant related to a separate kidnapping case from earlier in 2022.
According to arrest documents, Aleman allegedly attacked his ex-girlfriend in April 2022, dragging her into his home and holding her against her will. Investigators said Aleman was experiencing intense paranoia at the time and believed the woman had killed his mother and buried her beneath his house, claims authorities found to be untrue.
Mental Competency Delayed Trial
Following his arrest, Aleman was initially ruled incompetent to stand trial in both the murder and kidnapping cases. Court records show he was sent to a state hospital for psychiatric treatment.
After receiving treatment, a judge later determined that Aleman’s mental condition had improved enough for him to understand the charges and assist in his defense, allowing the murder case to proceed to trial.
Jury Conviction and Sentencing
A Bexar County jury ultimately found Aleman guilty of murder. During sentencing, prosecutors highlighted the brutality of the attack and the lasting impact on the victim’s family.
The court sentenced Aleman to 56 years in prison, a term that prosecutors say will likely keep him incarcerated for most, if not all, of his remaining life.
Prosecutors React to Verdict
Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales praised the legal team involved in the case following the sentencing.
“I am incredibly proud of the prosecution team’s unwavering commitment to this case,” Gonzales said in a statement. “Their dedication ensured that every fact was brought to light and ultimately, the truth prevailed in court.”
Kidnapping Case Still Pending
Despite the murder conviction, Aleman’s legal troubles are not over. He is still scheduled to face trial in January 2026 for the alleged kidnapping of his former girlfriend, a case prosecutors say remains active.
If convicted in that case, Aleman could face additional prison time on top of his current sentence.
A Case That Shook the Community
The violent nature of the killing and the unusual details surrounding the 911 call have left a lasting impression on the San Antonio community. Authorities say the case highlights the dangers posed when untreated mental illness intersects with violent behavior.
Conclusion
With the sentencing now complete, Victor Ochoa’s family has seen a measure of justice, while Joseph Aleman begins a lengthy prison term for a crime prosecutors described as senseless and brutal. The upcoming kidnapping trial will determine whether additional accountability follows.
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