Opening Arguments Begin in High-Profile Murder Case
The trial of Nima Momeni, the tech consultant accused of killing Cash App founder Bob Lee, began Monday in San Francisco Superior Court. Prosecutors allege that Momeni stabbed Lee to death after a confrontation on April 4, 2023. Lee, 43, was found on a deserted downtown street and later died from his injuries at a hospital. The incident shocked the tech community, where Lee was well-known as a cryptocurrency platform executive and a father of two.
Dispute Over Motive and Self-Defense Claim
Prosecutors argue that Momeni, 40, attacked Lee following a disagreement involving Momeni’s younger sister, Khazar, with whom Lee was friends. Assistant District Attorney Omid Talai described the fatal stabbing, stating, “Our victim was stabbed repeatedly, once in his chest, once in his hip, and literally one puncturing his heart.”
The defense, however, claims that Momeni acted in self-defense. Momeni’s attorney, Saam Zangeneh, told the jury that Lee had been on a multi-day drug bender, and that Momeni was forced to defend himself after Lee allegedly pulled a knife. Zangeneh said the trial would show that Momeni had no ill will toward Lee, suggesting instead that the fatal confrontation was unplanned and occurred in a moment of self-defense.
Timeline of Events
Prosecutors presented a detailed timeline, using surveillance footage to show that Lee visited Momeni’s sister’s luxury condo at the Millennium Tower on the night of the stabbing. Footage captured Momeni and Lee leaving the building together after 2 a.m., with both men later seen exiting a car near the Bay Bridge, where Momeni allegedly stabbed Lee three times before fleeing the scene.
The prosecution also shared text messages from Momeni to his sister, in which he expressed confusion about what had happened to Lee and mentioned plans to file a rape case against him. Prosecutors believe the messages indicate premeditation, while the defense argues they are unrelated to the murder.
Testimonies and Evidence
The jury will hear from several key witnesses, including a friend of Lee’s, who was present with Lee and Khazar the night before the stabbing. According to the prosecution, Momeni had angrily confronted Lee over issues involving drugs and “girls getting naked.” Zangeneh countered that the witness is unreliable and that Lee and Momeni exchanged friendly texts before the fatal incident.
Surveillance footage, along with DNA evidence found on the murder weapon, will play a significant role in the trial. Prosecutors said Momeni’s DNA was found on the handle of the knife, and Lee’s DNA was discovered on the blade. The defense questioned the thoroughness of the investigation, stating that police failed to test for Lee’s fingerprints on the knife handle.
What Lies Ahead
The trial is expected to last two months, with both sides presenting extensive evidence. Momeni, who has been in custody since his arrest, could face 26 years to life in prison if convicted. His defense team has not yet decided whether he will testify.
As the trial progresses, Lee’s family members, including his ex-wife, father, and brother, have attended court proceedings. Momeni’s mother, who has been a steadfast supporter, also remains present in the courtroom.
