No bail for man accused of beating 'Miss Flo,' 88, in her San Jose home
SAN JOSE (KTVU) -- The man accused of beating an elderly woman last week during a home invasion and robbery attempt was ordered held without bond Monday.
Zachary Cuen, 19, of San Jose, was ordered to return to court on Sep. 23 to enter a plea after he was charged with attempted premeditated murder in the attack on Flo Douglas, known in her neighborhood as "Miss Flo." She remained in critical condition Monday at a local hospital, relatives said.
The attack occurred at her unincorporated East San Jose home on September 12 , according to the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office. Authorities said neighbors called police after they noticed that the woman's car was parked down the street and not in front of her house as it usually is.
The victim's granddaughter has said the woman had lived in the home since 1964 and she pleaded with anyone with information to come forward during a news conference Thursday.
A nephew of Miss Flo said Monday that the 88-year-old woman remains in intensive care and has only said the word "Hi" to family and friends. Pastor Michael Wallace said he wants officials to charge the suspect to the fullest extent of the law. If convicted, Cuen could face life in prison.
In addition to the attempted murder charge, prosecutors have also filed first-degree burglary, robbery and elder abuse charges against Cuen. The suspect spoke to his attorney in court during the hearing. His family said the case is "disheartening."
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