Fairfield man sentenced to life in prison after sexual assault in West Sacramento – Daily Democrat

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig announced that Fairfield resident Azel Maynard was sentenced on May 30, 2024, for a sexual assault that occurred in West Sacramento in 2021.

Judge Samuel T. McAdam sentenced Maynard to 25 years to life in state prison, plus an additional 12 years of aggravated sentence. After an eight-day jury trial, Maynard was found guilty of assault with intent to commit rape, first-degree burglary, attempted rape, sexual assault, and witness tampering. In handing down the sentence, Judge McAdam emphasized the tremendous bravery and courage of the victim on the night of the attack.

Maynard has a long criminal history with multiple felonies and prior misdemeanors. In October 2021, Maynard was found guilty of robbery in Solano County and sentenced to six years in prison.

However, in December 2021, while awaiting sentencing for the robbery, Maynard visited a family member in West Sacramento. The family member was not home, but the victim (a roommate) and her minor son were. The victim had never met Maynard before and did not know him.

After entering the home and seeing that she was alone, Maynard attacked the victim and attempted to sexually assault her. The victim bravely fought back against Maynard. Ultimately, the victim was saved when Maynard was distracted by her young child running toward her.

As the victim attempted to flee with her child, Maynard slammed the door on her leg, but the victim was able to break the door open and scream for help. Neighbors came to her aid and Maynard fled the scene.

During the subsequent investigation and prosecution, it was revealed that Maynard had previously been charged with lewd conduct toward a previous attorney from another county. That charge was ultimately dismissed as part of a global plea deal in another case, but the Yolo County jury was allowed to hear and consider that evidence in making its decision.

“Stranger sexual assaults are incredibly dangerous situations that can and often do escalate,” Reisig said. “The victim in this case suffered significant bruising throughout her body, which demonstrates how violent this attack truly was. Mr. Maynard’s crimes over the past two decades have claimed many victims. Our office remains firmly committed to holding people like Mr. Maynard accountable when they commit sexual assaults.”