James Handy’s girlfriend’s son charged with his murder, DA says killer 'must be held accountable'

TARZANA, CALIFORNIA: Actor James Handy was fatally stabbed at his Tarzana home on June 3, leading to murder charges against Michael Gledhill, the son of Handy's girlfriend. 

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J Hochman formally announced the charges on Friday, June 5, asserting that the individual responsible for the violent act must face the full weight of justice.

Murder charges filed against Michael Gledhill

District Attorney Nathan J Hochman announced that 44-year-old Michael Gledhill had been formally charged with one count of murder.

The felony complaint includes a special allegation that the defendant personally used a deadly weapon, specifically a knife, to commit the crime.

Prosecutors allege that Gledhill committed the murder “unlawfully, and with malice aforethought.”

If convicted, the defendant faces a potential sentence of 26 years to life in state prison. 

Emphasizing the gravity of the case, Hochman stated, “This is not how anyone's life should end, stabbed in the chest and left dying in the front yard of a home.”

He further added, “The victim, James Handy, deserved to live out his later years enjoying what he had worked so hard for and enjoying it with those he loved and cared about. Like all murder victims, his life mattered, and the person who inexplicably and violently took it must be held accountable for his actions.”

Investigation unfolds after 911 call from the scene

The events unfolded on the morning of June 3 at a residence in the 19200 block of Erwin Street.

After 81-year-old James Handy was discovered in his front yard with a fatal chest wound, he was transported to a local hospital, where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.

Gledhill, who lived at the home alongside his mother, Wendy Gledhill, and the victim, contacted 911 to report the incident.

According to the LAPD, he allegedly told dispatchers, “I am the son of man, I just killed the man of sin.”

Upon the arrival of law enforcement, Gledhill flagged down the officers and identified himself as the person they were looking for.

It is to be noted that Deputy District Attorney George Morris is currently overseeing the prosecution and has recommended that bail be set at $2.02 million.

As the Robbery-Homicide Division of the LAPD continues its investigation, details regarding the internal dynamics of the home have begun to emerge. 

Local reports indicate that neighbors overheard heated arguments between Handy and Gledhill during the night preceding the fatal attack.

Furthermore, some neighbors have suggested that Gledhill appeared to suffer from delusions.

Despite these circumstances, authorities have sought to reassure the community by characterizing the tragedy as an "isolated incident," confirming that there is no ongoing danger to the public at this time.