Couple Charged in Beating Death

A Palmdale couple were charged Tuesday with capital murder in connection with the beating death of an Antelope Valley man affectionately known as “Santa Claus,” according to the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office.

James Patrick Wood, 22, and Sarah Jordan Ellis, 20, were arrested Friday after the body of 64-year-old John Gailer was discovered in their apartment in the 38000 block of E. 11th Street, authorities said.

If convicted, Wood and Ellis could face the death penalty because charges against the couple include a so-called special circumstance-- the death took place during the commission of a robbery--said Deputy Dist. Atty. Phil Rabichow.

Wood also faces a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Prosecutors said Wood used a metal pipe to beat Gailer to death Sept. 7.

Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies recovered his body three days later after receiving complaints about a foul smell coming from the couple’s apartment.

Authorities said Gailer was well-known in the Antelope Valley as Santa Claus because of his distinctive beard and long hair.

Wood and Ellis, who were arrested at their apartment, are being held without bail at the Twin Towers Jail. They are scheduled to be arraigned Sept. 22 in Antelope Municipal Court.