UPDATE: A pivotal trial began today in Solano County as investigators detailed the shocking events leading to the arrest of Gregory Grant Hobson, 64, charged with the brutal killing of his wife, Anu Anand Hobson, on February 14, 2023. The prosecution revealed critical evidence during testimonies that could sway the jury in this high-stakes case.
In a dramatic start, Deputy District Attorney Bruce Flynn called Detective Keli Callison to the stand, who recounted his encounter with Hobson on February 16. He received an alert from a Flock license plate reader regarding a missing person—Anu Hobson. Callison spotted Hobson’s silver Toyota Tacoma near Highway 12 and Walters Road, leading to his immediate detention.
During cross-examination, Chief Deputy Public Defender Oscar Bobrow established that Hobson complied fully with police orders during this encounter. The case escalated when Detective Dennis Chapman confirmed that a search warrant was obtained for Hobson’s vehicle and residence after receiving alarming updates from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
On February 22, a grisly discovery was made: a black plastic tote containing what appeared to be blood was found near Interstate 5 and Kamm Avenue, approximately 190 miles south of Fairfield. Chapman’s follow-up search ultimately led to the discovery of a charred body identified as Anu Hobson’s.
The trial took a critical turn when Flynn presented video evidence showing Gregory Hobson purchasing a hydraulic lift at Harbor Freight on February 14, the same day his wife was reported missing. This hydraulic lift is now a central piece of evidence, believed to have been used to transport Anu’s body.
The courtroom was tense as Flynn revealed further details. Evidence collected included a staggering $4,800 in cash and DNA swabs from Gregory Hobson. Investigators believe that Hobson’s actions on the days surrounding Anu’s disappearance suggest premeditated intent, as demonstrated by surveillance footage capturing his movements.
In a heart-wrenching moment, Sean Hobson, one of Gregory and Anu’s children, testified about a disturbing plaque found at their home that altered the phrase “Love you to the moon and back” to “Betray you to the moon and back,” allegedly in their father’s handwriting. This revelation has left jurors visibly shaken.
As the prosecution builds its case primarily on circumstantial evidence, Flynn emphasized the importance of DNA analysis and cell phone data tracking Hobson’s whereabouts on the day of the murder. Experts have traced his movements from Fairfield to Stockton, but there are gaps in data, raising questions about his actions leading up to the crime.
Additionally, a CAL FIRE investigator reported that the charred area around the body suggested the use of accelerants, such as gasoline or kerosene, further linking Hobson to the crime. An autopsy found no signs of strangulation or blunt force trauma, complicating the case and leaving many questions unanswered.
The trial, expected to last at least three more weeks, resumes tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. in Department 25 of the Justice Center in Fairfield. If convicted, Gregory Hobson faces a potential sentence of 25 years to life in state prison, as he remains in custody without bail.
Stay tuned for live updates as this gripping trial unfolds. The emotional weight of this case and its implications for the Hobson family are palpable, drawing significant attention from the community and beyond.
