New trial begins for two-time convict

Opening statements began today for a man twice convicted of murdering a 12-year-old Huntington Beach girl.

Rodney James Alcala’s first two convictions were overturned by the appeals courts. He is on trial for the murder of Robin Samsoe and four Los Angeles women.

He is charged with a series of murder and kidnapping charges and enhancements for rape, intent to inflict torture, intent to kill during burglary and kidnapping from the late 1970s, according to court documents. Alcala pleaded not guilty or denied all charges.

Alcala is now being prosecuted by the Orange County and Los Angeles district attorney’s offices at the Central Justice Center in Santa Ana.

— Britney Barnes