In a heartbreaking turn of events, a California man was found guilty of murdering his ex-girlfriend, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the systemic failures that often leave victims vulnerable. The case has sparked outrage and calls for justice, raising questions about law enforcement’s response and the urgent need for stricter measures to protect those at risk.
On the morning of March 17, 2023, 36-year-old Aaron Steven Romo, found himself embroiled in a bar fight after his advances towards a woman were rebuffed. Injured and intoxicated, Romo desperately contacted his ex-girlfriend, 24-year-old Melli Matas, pleading for a ride home. This was a direct violation of the restraining order Melli had against him, a protective measure put in place after a brutal attack in December 2022 where Romo beat her and threw her over a fence.
Tragically, Melli eventually agreed to pick him up.
A young woman smiles brightly in a selfie. Her dark hair is pulled back and she is wearing a black shirt.
Their journey back to Romo’s apartment, a place they once shared, was fraught with tension. A security guard at the complex witnessed Romo violently pulling a terrified Melli inside as she screamed, “I’m not crazy, I’m not going in there!” The guard’s call to the police, however, proved futile. Despite the commotion and Melli’s obvious distress, officers responding to the scene left when no one answered the door.
Less than an hour later, Melli was dead.
Her mother, growing increasingly concerned after being unable to reach her daughter, went to Romo’s apartment to find the door ajar. Inside, she made a horrifying discovery: Melli lay lifeless in the bathtub, bearing the gruesome marks of a brutal beating and strangulation. Romo was apprehended shortly after at his current girlfriend’s residence, where he had allegedly attempted suicide.
During the trial, Romo’s defense presented a shockingly inadequate argument, claiming that he was incapable of killing Melli because he “loved her too much.” This desperate plea, devoid of any real legal standing, did little to sway the jury. They found Romo guilty of first-degree murder, along with felony domestic battery and imprisonment by menace, violence, fraud, or deceit for the 2020 assault. He now faces life imprisonment, with sentencing scheduled for June 24th.
A young woman with long dark hair poses in front of a brick wall, smiling softly. She is wearing a black shirt.
The case has left Melli’s family devastated and outraged. They had tried to guide her through the treacherous waters of an abusive relationship, placing their faith in the legal system to protect her. But the system, it seems, failed them. Melli’s sister, Sandy Ceroz, shared her family’s agonizing experience in a poignant interview, expressing her profound disappointment in law enforcement’s handling of the situation.
The lack of intervention, despite multiple warning signs and the restraining order, ultimately cost Melli her life. Sandy, herself a domestic violence survivor, reveals a chilling detail: Romo had a history of violence against women, a fact hidden behind sealed records that made it impossible for Melli and her family to fully grasp the extent of his dangerous past.
Driven by the searing pain of their loss and determined to prevent similar tragedies, Melli’s family has established Melli’s Legacy Foundation. This organization, comprised of survivors, advocates, and victims of domestic abuse, aims to provide vital resources, support, and a beacon of hope to those trapped in the clutches of abusive relationships. Their mission is to ensure that no one else has to endure the pain and suffering that Melli endured.
In a tireless pursuit of justice and systemic change, Sandy is advocating for the enactment of “Melli’s Law,” a groundbreaking initiative inspired by her sister’s tragic fate. This law proposes the creation of a publicly accessible online registry for convicted domestic abusers, much like the sex offender registry. This vital tool would empower individuals to make informed decisions about their safety and potentially prevent countless tragedies by shedding light on the hidden histories of abusers.
The fight for Melli’s Law is just beginning.
A petition on change.org is rapidly gaining traction, serving as a powerful testament to the public’s growing demand for accountability, transparency, and stronger measures to combat domestic violence.
Melli’s case stands as a stark reminder of the pervasive nature of domestic violence and the urgent need for a multi-pronged approach to address it. From stricter law enforcement responses and readily accessible resources for victims to comprehensive legislation like Melli’s Law, creating a safer society requires a collective effort. Melli’s legacy, fueled by her family’s unwavering commitment to justice and their profound love for a life tragically cut short, lives on in their fight to protect others.
