Judge allows murder charge against former Silvercrest CEO Billy Rodriguez to move forward

INDIO, CALIF. (KESQ)- A major development in the murder case against former Silvercrest Advertising CEO William “Billy” Rodriguez: A judge has ruled that there is sufficient evidence for the murder charge against him to move forward.

Judge Sterling denied the defense’s motion to dismiss the murder charge, allowing prosecutors to continue pursuing the case.

The decision comes after a previous ruling by Judge Ryan, who dismissed the murder count in August at the conclusion of a preliminary hearing, finding insufficient evidence to hold Rodriguez to answer on the charge.

Prosecutors subsequently refiled the murder charge last month, maintaining that the evidence supports moving forward with the allegation. Judge Sterling’s latest ruling now allows that charge to proceed.

Rodriguez is accused of striking 60-year-old Christina Barrington from behind as she rode her scooter along East Palm Canyon Drive in Cathedral City in October 2024.

According to the allegations, Rodriguez left the scene following the collision. Barrington died the following day.

In addition to the murder charge, Rodriguez faces charges of felony hit-and-run causing death and driving on a suspended license.

Rodriguez has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The latest ruling marks a significant development in the case, reversing the earlier procedural outcome that had resulted in the murder count being dismissed.

With Judge Sterling denying the defense's request to throw out the refiled murder charge, prosecutors can continue pursuing the allegation as the case moves forward.

Stay with News Channel 3 on air and online for the latest on this case.