Redding man pleads not guilty in killings of mother, brother; seeks speedy trial

Jesse Penta, 32, accused of shooting and killing his mother and brother in their Redding home last September

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:19am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single bullet casing on a dark surface, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A single bullet casing, a stark reminder of the tragic violence that tore apart this family.Redding Today

Jesse Penta, 32, of Redding, has pleaded not guilty to murder charges with special allegations in the deaths of his mother, 47-year-old Chastity Milenewicz, and his brother, 29-year-old Anthony Penta. Penta is accused of shooting and killing them at their Redding home on September 2 of last year. Penta is representing himself and has asked the judge for a speedy trial within 60 days.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing violent crimes within families and the complex legal and mental health issues that can arise. Penta's request for a speedy trial also raises questions about the efficiency of the criminal justice system in handling such sensitive and high-profile cases.

The details

In court, Penta pleaded not guilty to the murder charges and requested a speedy trial within 60 days. The judge, Adam Ryan, set a jury trial date for May 27, with a trial readiness hearing on May 20 and a settlement conference on April 27. Penta also began making verbal requests in the courtroom, but the judge told him that all requests must be made in writing.

  • On September 2, 2025, Penta allegedly shot and killed his mother and brother at their Redding home.
  • On April 3, 2026, Penta appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.
  • On April 27, 2026, a settlement conference is scheduled in the case.
  • On May 20, 2026, a trial readiness hearing is scheduled.
  • On May 27, 2026, a jury trial is scheduled to begin.

The players

Jesse Penta

A 32-year-old Redding resident accused of shooting and killing his mother and brother.

Chastity Milenewicz

The 47-year-old mother of Jesse Penta, who was allegedly killed by her son.

Anthony Penta

The 29-year-old brother of Jesse Penta, who was allegedly killed by his brother.

Judge Adam Ryan

The judge presiding over the case, who set the trial dates and told Penta that all requests must be made in writing.

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What they’re saying

“The requests must be made in writing.”

— Judge Adam Ryan, Presiding Judge

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on April 27 whether to grant Penta's request for a speedy trial, and the jury trial is currently scheduled to begin on May 27.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the complex and sensitive nature of violent crimes within families, and the challenges the criminal justice system faces in balancing the rights of the accused with the need for justice and public safety. The judge's insistence that all requests be made in writing suggests a desire to maintain order and due process in the proceedings.