Bilbray Testifies at Martinez Hearing

San Diego County Supervisor Brian Bilbray was one of 13 witnesses who testified on the second day of San Diego City Councilman Uvaldo Martinez’s preliminary hearing in Municipal Court. Martinez is charged with 28 counts of misusing his city-issued credit card.

Bilbray testified he could not possibly have eaten lunch with Martinez on Dec. 28, 1984. “I’ve never been in Dobson’s” bar and restaurant in downtown San Diego, Bilbray said.

Martinez had indicated to the city auditor in a hand-written message on the charge card receipt that he bought lunch at Dobson’s that day for Bilbray and Chula Vista Mayor Greg Cox at a cost of $65.25. Cox also denied having lunch at Dobson’s on that date.

Former KFMB-TV reporter Jesus (Jesse) Macias testified regarding a $50.25 credit card charge made on May 19, 1985, at the Old Town Mexican Cafe. Macias said Martinez’s executive assistant, Rudy Murillo, asked Macias and his female companion to have a drink with the councilman after a Padres game. The four were soon joined by then KFMB radio personality Kathy Aunan and a female friend, Macias said. The group then went to a cocktail lounge in Mission Valley before ending up at the Old Town Mexican Cafe for dinner. Macias said everyone in the group was prepared to pay their own way when Martinez stood up at the end of the meal and said, “It’s on me.” Macias said no one in the group was aware that Martinez was using a city credit card.

Macias said that, throughout the evening, members of the group discussed the then newly proposed Proposition A managed growth initiative, and the possible outcome of criminal charges against then-Mayor Roger Hedgecock.

Martinez’s defense is expected to hinge on the legal definition of the term “official” and “city business” in determining the legitimacy of the credit card billings. San Diego City Auditor and Comptoller Ed Ryan said Tuesday under oath that those terms are not defined by any city policy.

The 28-count grand jury indictment alleges Martinez used his city credit card to illegally spend a total of $1,879.70 at 14 restaurants between Nov. 4, 1984, and July 24, 1985.

Martinez has contended from the start that his only crime has been sloppy bookkeeping.