Local News in Brief : National City
A transient pleaded not guilty Tuesday to a second murder complaint filed against him.
Thomas Jon Kemp, 25, is accused of killing Chester Earl Grandison, 38, on Nov. 17 in his Hillcrest apartment.
On Friday, Kemp pleaded not guilty to another murder charge, involving the Nov. 28 stabbing of Geralie (Jane) Bertrand, 34, of National City.
Deputy Dist. Atty. Robert Madruga said keys fitting Grandison’s apartment locks were found in Kemp’s pockets.
“It was a brutal stabbing,” Madruga said. Grandison’s throat was slashed and his hand was almost severed, the prosecutor said.
San Diego Municipal Judge Charles Patrick allowed bail to remain as previously set at $800,000.
A preliminary hearing for Jan. 13 was set for both cases.
Kemp had been living with Bertrand and her children before her fatal stabbing, which the children witnessed.
Sign up for Essential California
The most important California stories and recommendations in your inbox every morning.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
