North Richmond Woman with a Violent History Arrested on Suspicion of Murder
by Jim Emerson
NORTH RICHMOND, CA — An elderly woman with a violent criminal history was recently arrested on suspicion of murder. Terri L. James, 61, of North Richmond, is being held in custody at the Martinez Detention Facility in lieu of $1million bond. James is next scheduled to appear for a court hearing on July 1.
James is allegedly responsible for a murder that happened, near Market Avenue and Sixth Street in North Richmond. The victim was found bloodied lying on the sidewalk on the morning of June 11. Deputies and paramedics provided first aid before the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office deputies quickly identified James as the suspect. Later the same day, Sheriff’s Office detectives placed James under arrest at 5:45 p.m. The identity of the victim has not been released.
James has prior arrests and convictions on her record. She has three prior convictions for assaults by force likely to cause great bodily injury—May 2025, April 2022, and February 2019. In addition, James was convicted for assault with a deadly weapon in 1997.
James also has drug-related prior convictions. She was convicted in 2000 for possession, transportation and sales of a controlled substance. She was also convicted for possession of cocaine base for sale, and possession of components to manufacture methamphetamine. Plus, she was convicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The new homicide investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information can call the investigations division at the sheriff’s office, 925-313-2600.
