tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88585074760808198002024-02-21T00:35:16.310-08:00Law Office of Ronald G. Brower Blog-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.comBlogger234125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-38092154124630880262020-10-29T09:05:00.002-07:002021-10-15T14:55:37.047-07:002019 Hate Crimes Report<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">It’s been nearly two years since we wrote to you about hate crimes. Some of our readers are acutely aware that prejudice and racism are still a severe issue in the United States. Several movements are underway to raise awareness and make America safe for us all.</span></div><p>In recent years, we have heard of scores of <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2018/11/hate-crimes-in-america.html" target="_blank">hate crimes</a> that have happened. We saw disturbing marches on television. Some of us have been victims of racial and prejudicial slurs or violence. Even in sunny and serene Southern California, hate crimes abound. </p><p>Hate crimes in Orange County rose in 2019 by 24 percent from the previous year, according to the Orange County Human Relations Commission's <a href="http://occs.oc.prod.acquia.prometdev.com/sites/occs/files/2020-10/2019%20HC%20Report-finalcopy.pdf" target="_blank">2019 Hate Crimes Report</a>. It’s the fifth year in a row that the number of hate crimes increased, <i>The Los Angeles Times</i> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-10-23/hate-crimes-orange-county" target="_blank">reports</a>. While hate crimes were up from 67 to 83, so-called hate incidents decreased slightly from 165 to 156 in 2019. </p><p> </p><h4>2019 Hate Crimes Report</h4><p> </p><p>The legal definition of a <i>hate crime</i>, under <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=PEN&division=&title=11.6.&part=1.&chapter=2.&article=" target="_blank">California Penal Code 422.6</a>, is defined as a criminal act committed, in whole or in part, because of one or more of the following actual or perceived characteristics of another’s disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with a person or group of persons with one or more of the preceding actual or perceived characteristics. </p><p>On the other hand, it should be noted that a <i>hate</i> <i>incident</i> is a behavior that is motivated by hate or bias towards a person’s actual or perceived disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion or sexual orientation but is not criminal in nature. </p><p>Orange County, California, is a diverse county. Roughly 30 percent of residents are foreign-born, more than 40 percent speak a language other than English at home, and over 80 faiths are practiced. </p><p>While Black people make up less than 2 percent of Orange County’s residents, they were targeted the most. Jews were the most targeted religious community. Hate crimes and incidents may seem rare in a population of 3.2 million people, but the number is probably much higher because most cases are not reported. </p><p></p><blockquote>“We cannot allow fear, hatred and bigotry to divide us. We must listen to one another, communicate respectfully, build bridges of understanding, and support each other through these traumatic events,” said Michael Reynolds, chair of the Orange County Human Relations Commission. </blockquote><p></p><p> </p><h4>Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4><p> </p><p>Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you have need of criminal defense in Orange County. Attorney Brower has decades of expertise to bring to the table. He can advocate for your family and help you achieve a favorable outcome.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.8676535.4352386638211527 -153.02390300000002 62.055706336178844 -82.711403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-38001270250847883572020-10-20T13:58:00.001-07:002021-10-15T14:56:07.806-07:00Peterson Murder Convictions Reexamined<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>In 2000, Richelle Nice filed a lawsuit to get a restraining order against her boyfriend's ex-girlfriend, according to <i>The Los Angeles Times</i>. The ex-girlfriend had harassed Nice while she was 4½ months pregnant, allegedly. Why is a 20-year lawsuit important? Nice was one of the jurors in the infamous Scott Peterson case. </p><p>Peterson, you may remember, was charged and convicted of first-degree murder in 2004. He received the <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2019/08/death-penalty-trials-california.html" target="_blank">death penalty</a> for killing his pregnant wife Lacie Peterson and unborn child; Lacie was due to give birth in 4 weeks at the time of her death. The Peterson murder case dominated headlines in California and was practically all that was talked about on Court TV. </p><p>Now, sixteen years later, Scott Peterson is back in the headlines; the California Supreme Court overturned his death sentence in August, <i>NPR</i> <a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/10/15/923995078/california-supreme-court-scott-peterson-murder-conviction" target="_blank">reports</a>. Last week, the court called for a re-examination of the murder convictions. </p><p>The court's decision to overturn the death sentence and order a <a href="https://appellatecases.courtinfo.ca.gov/search/case/dockets.cfm?dist=0&doc_id=2126450&doc_no=S230782&request_token=NiIwLSEmXkg%2FWyBdSyM9WEhIQFQ0UDxTICJeWzJTUCAgCg%3D%3D" target="_blank">re-examination</a> is directly linked to some questions Nice answered dishonestly during jury selection. </p><p> </p><h4>Prejudicial Misconduct</h4><p> </p><p>When prosecutors and defense attorneys consider prospective jurors, they are asked a series of questions. The State and the defense try to determine if an individual can be impartial and unbiased when sitting on a jury. </p><p>During jury selection in the Peterson case, Nice said "no" when asked if she had ever been a victim of a crime or involved in a lawsuit, the article reports. Interestingly, according to his lawyers, Nice was one of the jury's two holdouts for convicting Peterson of murder. Her failure to disclose that she had been involved in prior legal proceedings could be the impetus for a new trial. </p><p></p><blockquote>"I think this is going to be ironic ... if it turns out that the juror who was most prominent in the post-trial proceedings and who is most adamant about Peterson's guilt, is going to turn out to be ... the very juror whose actions caused the reversal of the conviction and a new trial," said Johnson, a legal analyst. "And I think there's a very, very good chance that we may see a second Scott Peterson trial." </blockquote><p></p><p>We will continue to follow this story as it develops. </p><p> </p><h4>Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4><p> </p><p>If you are facing legal challenges in California, please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower. Attorney Brower is a criminal defense attorney specializing in many areas, from aggravated assault to white-collar crimes. You can reach us today at 714-997-4400 for a consultation.
</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.8676535.4352386638211527 -153.02390300000002 62.055706336178844 -82.711403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-74336701147233314592020-10-15T11:51:00.006-07:002021-10-15T14:56:37.903-07:00Prison Inmates Kept Working Amid Pandemic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Life in America has changed significantly. Social distancing meant not congregating and adhering to stay at home orders. Tens of millions of people were laid off as the economy halted to a standstill. Naturally, the COVID-19 pandemic affected the incarcerated; millions of Americans are behind bars—housed in tight quarters. </span></div><p></p><p>Fortunately, prisons suspended rehab programs, religious services, and educational classes, <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-10-11/california-prison-factories-inmates-covid-19" target="_blank">according</a> to <i>The Los Angeles Times</i>. On the surface, the above action would signal that correctional facilities were prioritizing inmates' well-being. However, prison factories kept running, even after the coronavirus had jumped the prison fence, infecting inmates and guards alike. </p><p>While businesses shut down across America, men and women working in prison factories were ordered to keep working. The health and safety of inmates were jeopardized, the article reports. Ironically, female inmates sewing personal protective equipment like face masks were not allowed to wear masks themselves. </p><p>Not surprisingly, some of those same women became sick, such as Robbie Hall, an inmate seamstress at the California Institution for Women in Chino. Hall and her fellow workers knew that they were at risk but had to keep working. </p><p> </p><h4>Incarcerated Workers Contracted COVID-19</h4><p> </p><p>For 8 cents to $1 an hour, thousands of inmates kept working as the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/coronavirus/?tid=a_inl_manual" target="_blank">coronavirus spread</a> across the prison system. Millions of dollars were made off of prison labor at the height of the pandemic. Prisoners were making masks, hand sanitizers, and furniture. </p><p>Some inmates were forced to COVID-19 units in prison hospitals. Hall and at least three other mask makers got sick after using fabric from the nearby men's prison, where 23 inmates died from the coronavirus. What's more, the women's boss visited both institutions on several occasions. </p><p>Not only were women sewing masks for next to no compensation, but supervisors also kept raising the daily quotas, from 2,000 to 3,000 to 3,500 face covers, seven days a week, at the California Institution for Women. <br /></p><blockquote><p>"It is a bureaucratic decision to keep people working for pennies an hour during a pandemic," said Kate Chatfield, director of policy at the Justice Collaborative, a national organization that advocates for criminal justice reform. "This should appall everyone who wants to live in a civilized society." </p></blockquote><p></p><p>Hall was laid up for weeks, struggling to breathe, in the hospital unit. Her sickness was not an isolated event. She was among 352 inmates and 85 staffers who have been infected at the Chino women's prison.</p><p> </p>
<h4>Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4><p> </p><p>Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact </a>the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing legal challenges. Attorney Brower has decades of criminal defense experience, and he can help you achieve a favorable outcome.
</p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.8676535.4352386638211527 -153.02390300000002 62.055706336178844 -82.711403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-28470353380707166982020-10-02T05:34:00.006-07:002021-10-15T14:57:10.071-07:00California Grocers Back Prop 20<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Last week, we shared about efforts to roll back criminal justice this November. If you didn't have a chance to read the <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/09/criminal-justice-reforms-under-fire.html" target="_blank">post,</a> we encourage you to do so. It always helps to be informed before you enter the voting booth in November. </p><p>Let's quickly recap. Next month you will be asked if you would like to erode Proposition 47, which reduced the California prison populations. Prop.47 meant early parole and downgraded sentences for thousands of inmates. It allowed the state to invest more in rehabilitation to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars. It also changed the severity of certain crimes, such as shoplifting. </p><p>You will also be asked to weigh in on how you feel about money or cash bail in the Golden State. Voting "no" on <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/California_Proposition_25,_Replace_Cash_Bail_with_Risk_Assessments_Referendum_(2020)" target="_blank">Proposition 25</a> could lead to a repeal of <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180SB10" target="_blank">Senate Bill 10</a>. If SB-10 stands, then the question of who gets bail will land on the judges' desks—cash bail would go away for detained suspects. </p><p>As we have pointed out in previous posts, law enforcement organizations are not fans of both <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/09/criminal-justice-reforms-under-fire.html" target="_blank">Prop. 47 and SB-10</a>. However, other groups would like to see criminal justice reforms rolled back, such as grocery stores. </p><p> </p><h4>Grocery Stores Want to Erode Prop. 47</h4><p> </p><p>Grocery outlets joined law enforcement organizations in standing behind <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/California_Proposition_20,_Criminal_Sentencing,_Parole,_and_DNA_Collection_Initiative_(2020)" target="_blank">Prop. 20</a>, <i>The Los Angeles Times</i> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2020-09-16/california-grocery-industry-supports-tougher-crime-laws" target="_blank">reports</a>. The legislation would mean that people who commit certain theft-related crimes (such as repeat <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/practice-areas/theft-crimes.html" target="_blank">shoplifting</a>) could receive increased penalties (such as longer jail terms).</p><p>Albertsons, Kroger, and the California Grocers Association are the largest commercial entities backing Prop 20. According to the article, they argue that the legislation is needed because shoplifting and organized retail crime are on the rise. They say that grocers have suffered significant financial losses and that employees and customers are not safe. </p><p>The National Retail Federation conducted a study which found that theft or "shrinkage" was at an all-time high. In the 2019 fiscal year, theft cost the industry $61.7 billion. That only amounts to 1.62 percent of retailers' profits. </p><p> </p><p></p><blockquote>"People are stealing, and there are no consequences," said Richard Temple, a spokesman for the Yes on Prop. 20 campaign. </blockquote><p></p><p> </p><h4>Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4><p> </p><p>Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">reach out</a> to The Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you or a family member face criminal charges in California. Attorney Brower has decades of experience in helping to bring about favorable outcomes for his clients. Please call (714) 997-4400 for a consultation.</p><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.8676535.4352386638211527 -153.02390300000002 62.055706336178844 -82.711403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-61459817902147695172020-09-25T04:52:00.012-07:002021-10-15T14:57:25.970-07:00Criminal Justice Reforms Under Fire<p></p>In 2018, former California Governor Jerry Brown signed a controversial piece of legislation into law that ended cash bail in the Golden State. Senate Bill 10 put the decision for when a criminal defendant was eligible for release in the hands of judges. <br /><br />Another relatively recent criminal justice reform is <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">Proposition 47</a>. The ballot measure reduced the California prison population. The financial savings from housing fewer prisoners led to a more significant investment in victims' services, schools, and treatment programs. By keeping 4,569 inmates out of prison, Prop. 47 is projected to save $122.5 million next fiscal year, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">according</a> to KQED. The savings is up from $44 million in the previous fiscal year. <br /><br />Both <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">SB 10</a> and Prop. 47 have been hailed by criminal justice advocates and decried by law enforcement organizations. 2020 will put both criminal justice reforms to the test. <br /><p><br /> </p><h4>Rolling Back Criminal Justice Reforms</h4><br />KQED <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">reports</a> that voters will have the option to roll back Prop. 47 and SB 10 this November. Some readers may remember that the latter never took effect because the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">money bail industry</a> gathered enough signatures to qualify for a referendum for the November 2020 ballot. <div><br /></div><div><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/California_Proposition_20,_Criminal_Sentencing,_Parole,_and_DNA_Collection_Initiative_(2020)">Proposition 20</a>: A "yes" means: People who commit certain theft-related crimes (such as repeat shoplifting) could receive increased penalties (such as longer jail terms). Additional factors would be considered for the state's process for releasing certain inmates from prison early. Law enforcement would be required to collect DNA samples from adults convicted of certain misdemeanors. <div><br /></div><div><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/California_Proposition_25,_Replace_Cash_Bail_with_Risk_Assessments_Referendum_(2020)">Proposition 25</a>: A "no" vote is to repeal the contested legislation, Senate Bill 10 (SB 10), thus keeping in place the use of cash bail for detained suspects awaiting trials. <br /><br />Political consultant, Dan Newman, helped push many of the earlier reforms, according to the article. He says that he is not worried about the two propositions given the current climate regarding policing and racism in America. <p></p><blockquote>"I think people are looking for ways to channel what they know and believe into real action and real reform and make a difference," said Newman. "So it's just sort of a matter of ensuring that they know: If you care about mass incarceration, if you care about racial injustice, here are some ways that you can really weigh in with power and make a difference." </blockquote><p> </p><h4>Southern California Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>Please <a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/1/#">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing criminal charges. Attorney Brower has more than 30 years of experience; he has the expertise to advocate for you. Please call (714) 997-4400 for a consultation.</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.8676535.4352386638211527 -153.02390300000002 62.055706336178844 -82.711403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-73408709429283152752020-09-18T05:51:00.007-07:002021-10-15T14:57:45.662-07:00AB-2147: Inmates Can Be Firefighters<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><p>Each fire season in California has been longer and more severe than the previous year. You are probably aware of how dire the situation is right now, even if you live nowhere near the hot zones; coastal cities have been inundated with smoke and haze for more than a week. The skyline of late is reminiscent of pictures taken on Mars. </p>
<p>Our readers may remember a <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2019/11/inmates-fighting-fires-second-chance.html" target="_blank">post</a> from last year about the nearly 3,000 inmates serving on fire crews. We covered a <a href="https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2019-11-01/california-inmate-firefighters" target="_blank">report</a> from the <i>The Los Angeles Times </i> shining a light on how incarcerated individuals were volunteering to smother the flames. It was revealed that most brave individuals would never be able to secure a position in a fire crew upon their release. </p>
<p>A significant facet of criminal justice is rehabilitating inmates; job training is offered to the incarcerated, with the hope of reducing recidivism rates. However, the courageous ex-cons being paid $2-5 a day to put their lives at risk have been hindered from seeking the same type of work upon release. </p>
<p>California law instructs emergency services agencies to deny EMT certification to any applicant who has committed any felony within the past 10 years, convicted of two or more felonies, or is on parole or probation. </p>
<h4>Former Inmates Right to Fight Fires</h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><p>Last week, we observed September 11th memorials. It was time to remember the thousands of lives lost and pay respect to the brave men and women who met the day responding to the tragedy. Tens of thousands of first-responders voluntarily put themselves in harm's way to save lives. </p>
<p>It seems fitting that California Governor Gavin Newsom would sign a bill that paves the way for former inmates to be productive members of society. Assembly Bill 2147 allows inmates who have worked as firefighters to ask the court to dismiss their charges, which makes it easier for them to find a job after completing their sentences, <i>NPR</i> <a href="https://www.npr.org/2020/09/11/912193742/california-bill-clears-path-for-ex-inmates-to-become-firefighters" target="_blank">reports</a>. The legislation signed into law <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB2147" target="_blank">states</a>: </p>
<blockquote><i>"Due to the their service to the state of California in protecting lives and property, those incarcerated individual crew members that successfully complete their service in the conservation camps or successfully complete services as members of a county incarcerated individual hand crew, as determined by the appropriate county authority, and have been released from custody, should be granted special consideration relating to their underlying criminal conviction."</i></blockquote>
<p>AB 2147 gives inmates the ability to secure stable employment upon release, adding to the arsenal of men and women who selflessly rush toward a fire when all others head the other way. The bill excludes people convicted of certain violent or sex crimes. </p>
<blockquote>"Inmates who have stood on the frontlines, battling historic fires should not be denied the right to later become a professional firefighter," Gov. Newsom said upon signing the bill into law at the North Complex Fire zone. "AB 2147 will fix that."</blockquote>
<h4>Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
<p>The Law Office of Ronald G. Brower can help you or someone you love with a criminal legal matter. Attorney Brower's decades of experience makes him the ideal advocate for your family. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> us today at (714) 997-4400 for a consultation. </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.8676535.4352386638211527 -153.02390300000002 62.055706336178844 -82.711403tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-4794751302004041052020-09-11T06:12:00.001-07:002021-10-15T14:57:59.295-07:00Golden State Killer Gets Life Sentence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
The "Golden State Killer" and his heinous spree of rape and murder had been a significant focus of our attention for more than two years. Some of our readers may remember the remarkable story about the capture of Joseph James DeAngelo. You may also not forget that investigators discovered his identity using a relatively new and controversial method—genealogical triangulation.<br />
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Police investigators utilized the public <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2018/05/prop-69-dna-golden-state-killer.html" target="_blank">DNA</a> database GEDmatch to match crime-scene DNA; however, DeAngelo's DNA was not in the database, but a relative genetic sequence was in the system. Here's how GEDmatch <a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2018/04/chat-geneticist-who-predicted-how-police-may-have-tracked-down-golden-state-killer#:~:text=Yaniv%20Erlich%2C%20a%20geneticist%20at,June%202014%20article%20about%20genetic" target="_blank">works</a>:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"People voluntarily supply their own DNA sequences that they obtain through consumer sequencing companies—such as MyHeritage and provide email addresses, which allows presumed relatives to contact each other."</blockquote>
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Using a 37-year-old rape kit from a murder case attributed to the Golden State Killer, detectives were able to find a relative of DeAngelo, and the rest is history. Some forty years later, the Golden State Killer, aka the "Original Night Stalker," found himself behind bars. DeAngelo is thought to be responsible for at least 12 murders and 50 rapes in California.<br />
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<h4>
Genetic Privacy</h4>
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We have been following the DeAngelo's trial and other instances of <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2019/02/dna-newport-beach-cold-case.html" target="_blank">cold cases</a> solved through genealogical triangulation. The technique for solving crime has led to several arrests, and it's led to many concerns about genetic privacy.<br />
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Yaniv Erlich, a geneticist at Columbia University and GEDmatch chief science officer, wrote a piece on genetic privacy <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4151119/" target="_blank">appearing</a> in <i>Nature Reviews Genetics</i>. He cautioned that police could use public genetic databases for fishing for perpetrators. That was in 2014. Following DeAngelo's arrest four years later, when asked about people voluntarily putting their DNA data into GEDmatch, Erlich said:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"It's not like people fully understand the consequences of putting their DNA into a public database. They think, "So many people use the website, so it's OK." Or: "Oh, it's a website for genealogy." What if it was called Police Genealogy? People wouldn't do it. We don't think about everything. We think about the most likely thing."
</blockquote>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Golden State Killer Sentenced to Life</h4>
<br />
In July, we <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/07/golden-state-killer-pleads-guilty.html" target="_blank">shared</a> that DeAngelo, a former police officer, pleaded guilty to 13 counts of first-degree murder and 13 counts of kidnapping. The surprise admission of guilt came one day after HBO aired a six-part docuseries about the decades-long crime spree.<br />
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In August's final days, Judge Michael Bowman sentenced 74-year-old Joseph James DeAngelo Jr. to life without parole for killing 13 people and raping 50, <i>The Los Angeles Times </i><a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-08-21/golden-state-killer-sentencing-justice-victims-serial-murders-rapes" target="_blank">reports</a>. Victims, family members, prosecutors, and some of the news reporters who covered the first of DeAngelo's crimes dating back to the 1970s were at the sentencing.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"These rapes and these murders, in the words of our victims, have cut across families, friends, generations, and entire communities," said Sacramento County Dist. Atty. Anne Marie Schubert.</blockquote>
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<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer</h4>
<br />
At the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower, we can help you or a loved one with a criminal matter. Attorney Brower has decades of legal experience, and his expertise can help you find a favorable outcome. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact us today</a> for a consultation. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-88730719548245145742020-09-03T06:04:00.001-07:002021-10-15T14:58:18.079-07:00Ending Discrimination in the Criminal Justice System<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
The right to a trial by a jury of one's peers is sacred to Americans. Our Founding Fathers guaranteed the right in the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution.<br />
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"In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law."<br />
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The <a href="https://constitution.congress.gov/constitution/amendment-6/" target="_blank">Sixth Amendment</a> is meant to ensure that each of us receives a fair and impartial trial by a jury when facing criminal prosecution. The ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment extended the right to each State.<br />
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In recent years, the topic of a "jury of one's peers" has been put into question and thrust into the national spotlight. E<span class="ILfuVd NA6bn"><span class="hgKElc">xposés </span></span>and podcasts have brought heinous violations of the law into question. Time and time again, prosecutors will use the jury selection process to their advantage, removing prospective jurors of color without cause. Both the prosecution and defense are afforded a specific number of such peremptory challenges.<br />
<br />
Season two of the podcast <a href="https://features.apmreports.org/in-the-dark/season-two/" target="_blank"><i>In the Dark</i></a> focused on the story of Curtis Flowers, who has been tried for the same murder six times in the State of Mississippi. In practically every instance, all white juries were charged with deciding Flowers' fate. He was convicted four times, and each time the convictions were overturned on appeal.<br />
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In all six trials, State District Attorney Doug Evans made efforts to exclude Black jurors. Flowers' appeals argued that Evans was discriminating against jurors of color during the selection process. Last year, the United States Supreme Court agreed with the lower courts. However, the State of Mississippi could still go after Mr. Flowers for the seventh time.<br />
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<h4>
Discrimination in the Criminal Justice System</h4>
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While the average American may not be surprised about instances of jury discrimination below the Mason Dixon line, they may find it interesting to learn that such is the case across the country. The same is true in California. In July, we <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/07/jury-selection-work-group.html" target="_blank">shared</a> some statistics with our readers that are concerning.<br />
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The UC Berkeley Law's Death Penalty Clinic found that California prosecutors excuse African-American jurors in about 75 percent and Latinx jurors in about 28 percent of cases. On the other hand, white jurors were excused in 0.4 percent of cases. Around the time the findings were published, lawmakers took action and introduced Assembly Bill 3070 (AB 3070).<br />
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Introduced by Assemblywoman Shirley Weber (D-San Diego), AB 3070 <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB3070" target="_blank">would</a> limit the removal of prospective jurors without cause, <i>The Los Angeles Times</i> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-08-31/california-lawmakers-approve-bills-to-limit-racism-in-criminal-charges-and-jury-selection" target="_blank">reports</a>. The bill is meant to prevent discrimination based on:
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<ul>
<li>Race</li>
<li>Ethnicity</li>
<li>Gender and Gender Identity</li>
<li>Sexual Orientation</li>
<li>National Origin</li>
<li>Religious Affiliation</li>
</ul>
If Governor Gavin Newsom signs AB 3070 into law, the attorney who excuses a juror would have to provide a reason for the exclusion, if the opposing side calls the peremptory challenge into question. Then the presiding judge would decide if the action is discriminatory.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"This bill is about ending what has been going on for many, many years in this country, specifically the exclusion of Black and brown communities from juries, a problem that has been with us and that undermines confidence in the entire system," said Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco). </blockquote>
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<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
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Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you or a loved one requires legal assistance. Attorney Brower has extensive experience and can help bring about a favorable outcome for your family. You can reach our office at 714-997-4400.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-86327752122557762102020-08-28T08:51:00.004-07:002021-10-15T14:58:37.798-07:00California Lawmaker Seeks to Criminalize Race-Based 911 Calls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div>In an effort to alleviate some of the issues that arise from racism and its associated fear, a California lawmaker has introduced a bill that would include racially motivated 911 calls in the hate crime statute. Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) seeks to criminalize race-based 911 calls and give the victims of such calls a recourse for a civil remedy for their pain and suffering.<div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Recent Incidents</h4><div><br /></div><div>An article published in the <a href="https://ir.lawnet.fordham.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2784&context=ulj">Fordham Urban Law Journal</a> points out that in the past few years, viral videos and commentaries have shed light on a long-existing but previously under-recorded problem — frivolous race-based police calls. For example, in Philadelphia, police arrested two Black men, Donte Robinson and Rashon Nelson, in a Starbucks after a white manager called 911 because the men did not order anything immediately upon entering the establishment.</div><div><br /></div><div>In Oakland, a white woman called the police on a Black family barbecuing. In a different incident in San Francisco, a white woman called the police on a Black mother and her eight-year-old child because the two were selling water outside, apparently without a permit. Another white woman physically assaulted a fifteen-year old Black boy and threatened to call the police on him at a local pool in South Carolina.</div><div><br /></div><div>Most recently, a white woman <a href="https://www.ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/news/2020/05/26/woman-placed-on-leave-from-work-after-viral-central-park-video-">called police</a> on a Black man in Central Park when the man asked the woman to leash her dog. Christian Cooper, a Harvard graduate and avid birdwatcher, asked Amy Cooper (no relation) to follow the park rules and put a leash on her dog. When she refused, Christian Cooper began videotaping her reaction.</div><div><br /></div><div>Amy Cooper stated, “I am going to tell them there is an African American man threatening my life.” When police arrived on the scene, the woman told officers she felt threatened and that Mr. Cooper had left. Police did not file a report. Police Commissioner Dermot Shea said, "All the 911 operator hears is a screaming woman that basically you would think is getting attacked physically. In hindsight when we look at that video, we don't know what happened before but that was not what was portrayed."</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Assembly Bill 1550</h4><div><br /></div><div>In June, Assemblymember Rob <a href="https://a18.asmdc.org/press-releases/20200617-bonta-introduce-bill-add-racially-motivated-911-calls-hate-crime-statute">Bonta</a> (D-Oakland) announced he is introducing legislation that will help end discriminatory 911 calls motivated by an individual's race, religion, sex, or any other protected class by designating such reports as a hate crime. The legislation also provides a civil remedy for those harmed by discriminatory 911 calls. Oregon and New York have also recently enacted laws that will allow a target of an allegedly prejudiced “911” call to file a lawsuit against the caller.</div><div><br /></div><div>Currently, it is a criminal misdemeanor under California law to make false police reports. However, that law does not include accountability measures to address discrimination if a person calls law enforcement because they perceive another individual to be a threat due to their race, religion, outward appearance, or inclusion in a protected class. Amendments to Assembly Bill (AB) 1550 address this gap by making clear that discriminatory 911 calls qualify as a hate crime, and further establish civil liability for the person who discriminatorily called 911.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Intent of the Measure</h4><div><br /></div><div>The verbiage of <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201920200AB1550">AB 1550</a> states that its intent is to essentially criminalize race-based 911 calls and to provide a civil remedy option for victims of such calls. In part, the bill states that:</div><div><br /></div><div>This measure is intended to create a path for an individual who has been subject to a racially motivated “911” call to be able to file a lawsuit for damages.</div><div><br /></div><div>It is the intent of the Legislature to help end instances of “911” calls aimed at violating the rights of individuals based upon race, religion, sex, or any other protected class. The current punishment for making a false police report does not address the growing number of cases of peace officers being summoned to violate the rights of, for example, Black and Brown individuals for doing day-to-day activities—essentially living their lives.</div><div><br /></div><div>This measure is not intended to discourage individuals who are facing real danger, or who want to report a crime, from making a “911” call to police. However, it will allow those who have been subject to unfair and unnecessary “911” calls to regain their agency by seeking justice and restitution through the criminal and civil court system. Moreover, this legislation would force people to check their prejudices before making an unnecessary, biased “911” call.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer</h4><div><br /></div><div>When you need legal help, attorney Ronald Brower can help you or a loved one achieve a favorable legal outcome in California. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">contact our office</a> today to learn how we can advocate for you and your family during these challenging times.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-16110313932522553512020-08-21T11:29:00.004-07:002021-10-15T14:58:55.985-07:00Los Angeles Seeks to Abolish California Court Fees<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Currently, a person who has served time in the legal system can face mounting fees imposed by the criminal justice system. Even after the individual has completed a jail term, those fees can keep them from being able to move on with a productive life. The fees have become crippling to many ex-offenders, one of the main reasons Los Angeles seeks to abolish California court fees.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">A Vicious Cycle of Debt</h4><div><br /></div><div>In Los Angeles County, a person with a 3-year probation term accumulates more than $5,500 in supervision <a href="https://ebclc.org/cadebtjustice/policy-platform/">fees</a> alone. These fees can put the individual into a vicious cycle of debt that can seriously impede their ability to move on with their lives.</div><div><br /></div><div>The money they owe can hurt their credit score, make it harder for them to find a home and a job, and make it more difficult to even open a bank account. If they do find a job, their wages may be garnished, their bank accounts levied, or their tax refunds intercepted to pay their court debt.</div><div><br /></div><div>Every day, hundreds of thousands of <a href="https://www.aclunc.org/blog/california-s-justice-system-debt-trap#:~:text=This%20year%2C%20State%20Senator%20Holly,a%20wide%20range%20of%20fees.">Californians</a> face bills for thousands of dollars in fees. The money is for a multitude of fees attached to every stage of the criminal system, including public defender fees, probation supervision fees, fees for mandatory drug tests, and electronic ankle monitors.</div><div><br /></div><div>When people can’t afford to pay off all their fees immediately, they are billed for even more, including installment account fees, collection fees, interest, and assessments for “failure to pay.” The fees are imposed in addition to the fines, labor, and/or incarceration that the court assigns to a convicted person as punishment. And the cycle continues.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">An Unreliable Source of Income</h4><div><br /></div><div>These <a href="https://www.aclunc.org/blog/california-s-justice-system-debt-trap#:~:text=This%20year%2C%20State%20Senator%20Holly,a%20wide%20range%20of%20fees.">administrative</a> fees are intended to generate revenue for government programs. However, the court fees are an unreliable source of revenue. People who have been incarcerated or are on probation cannot afford to pay the fees, given their challenges and struggles in finding a steady, decent paying job.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fee collection rates are low, and counties sometimes end up spending more to collect fees than they bring in. For example, in 2017, Alameda County had a collection rate of only 4% for probation supervision fees. The county lost $1.3 million dollars trying to collect court-ordered debt.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">The Movement Toward Abolishing Fees</h4><div><br /></div><div>The <a href="https://ebclc.org/cadebtjustice/policy-platform/">momentum</a> for criminal fees reform has been building for some time. In 2016, California enacted legislation ending juvenile administrative fees statewide. In 2018, San Francisco repealed all county-authorized fees and waived over $30 million in outstanding criminal justice debt owed by 21,000, mostly low-income, San Franciscans. In September 2018, the Alameda County Public Protection Committee recommended that the Board similarly eliminate all county-authorized criminal fees, and Los Angeles County eliminated its public defender registration fee in 2017.</div><div><br /></div><div>Most recently, State Senator Holly Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) has introduced Senate Bill 144, the Families Over Fees Act, which would eliminate a wide range of fees. The proposed bill is sponsored by the Debt Free Justice California coalition. The <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-07-29/los-angeles-leads-latest-push-to-end-court-fees">coalition</a> is working to convince state legislators to pass SB 144 with the goal of permanently blocking all California counties from imposing court fines and fees.</div><div><br /></div><div>In February, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted to eliminate most court-related fines and fees, including probation, but have not followed through. Three other counties in the Bay area—San Francisco, Alameda, and Contra Costa—have passed similar measures in the past two years. However, the Los Angeles courts have continued to collect probation fees and other court-related debts.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Debt Free Justice California coalition has sent a letter to the county’s Superior Court, demanding that it “immediately implement the Board of Supervisors’ Feb. 18 motion requiring that Los Angeles County end the imposition of new, and collection of past, county-imposed court, probation and sheriff’s fees, and discharge past related debt.” </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Repealing Fees – Improved Prospects</h4><div><br /></div><div>The Debt Free Justice California <a href="https://ebclc.org/cadebtjustice/policy-platform/">coalition</a> states that eliminating administrative fees will allow formerly incarcerated people to devote their limited resources to critical needs like food, education, housing, and health insurance. Repealing criminal fees will also result in improved employment prospects for formerly incarcerated people and put more money in the pockets of economically insecure families, aiding successful reentry and reducing California’s recidivism rate.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4><div><br /></div><div>Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">reach out</a> to the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing criminal charges. Attorney Brower has the expertise to help you achieve a successful outcome with your case.</div></div>-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-89937363261425371282020-08-14T13:15:00.012-07:002021-10-15T14:59:54.922-07:00California Considers "George Floyd" Law<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">On May 25, in south Minneapolis, four policemen attempted to arrest George Floyd for allegedly passing a counterfeit $20 bill. One of the officers, Derek Chauvin, pressed his knee against the back of Floyd’s neck for several minutes as Floyd lay on the ground, handcuffed. Chauvin is now charged with causing Floyd’s death. The three other police officers are charged with aiding and abetting what is being considered second degree murder, as they watched Chauvin’s actions but did nothing to stop him or to help Floyd when he was in obvious distress. Today, legislators are considering new legislation based on this incident.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">California Criminal Sanctions</h4><div><br /></div><div>California <a href="https://www.lamag.com/citythinkblog/george-floyd-law-california/">lawmakers</a> are now considering a bill that would carry strict penalties for police officers who witness such an act by a fellow officer who is engaging in excessive use of force and who do not intervene to stop it. The author of Assembly Bill 1022, Assemblyman Chris Holden of Pasadena, says the bill is a reaction to George Floyd’s murder and to the inaction of those policemen accompanying Chauvin in the arrest.</div><div><br /></div><div>The proposed bill is meeting some resistance by those in law enforcement. They contend that there are already sufficient regulations and training in place that address the excessive use of force. Opponents of the bill say that it does not take into account the split-second decision making that is often necessary by police officers involved in such events. They contend that the George Floyd situation was an anomaly to the typical situation faced by policemen.</div><div><br /></div><div>The Los Angeles Police Protective League board of directors issued a statement that, “This misguided proposal criminalizes officers who may not have a complete understanding of the incident and have different viewpoints. Strong policies, robust training, and fair discipline is far more appropriate than criminal sanctions.”</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Assembly Bill 1022 and Others</h4><div><br /></div><div>As California considers the “George Floyd” law, lawmakers have until August 31 to approve it and to send legislation to Governor Gavin Newsom. Assembly Bill 1022 and other, similar proposed bills <a href="https://www.kpbs.org/news/2020/aug/10/california-eyes-11-police-reforms-after-george-flo/">address</a>:</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Chokeholds</b> - AB1196 by Assemblyman Mike Gipson, D-Carson, would bar law enforcement agencies from using carotid restraints, chokeholds, or similar techniques.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Duty to Intercede</b> - AB1022 by Assemblyman Chris Holden, D-Pasadena, would require law enforcement officers to immediately intercede and report what they believe to be the use of excessive force.</div><div><br /></div><div>Officers' careers would end if they are found to have used excessive force resulting in serious injury or death or failed to stop the overuse of force by another officer. Officers who don’t intercede could be criminally charged as accessories to any crimes committed by those who use excessive force.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Victims' Compensation</b> - AB767 by Assemblyman Tim Grayson, D-Concord, would allow even criminal suspects and their survivors to apply for victims’ compensation if they were injured or killed by police use of excessive force.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Rubber Bullets</b> - AB66 by Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, D-San Diego, would respond to perceived police overreactions during recent protests by limiting the use of tear gas, pepper spray, rubber bullets ,and other projectiles against demonstrators.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Journalists </b>- SB629 by Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg, would protect the right of journalists to cover protests without interference from police.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Military Uniforms</b> - SB480 would bar law enforcement officials from wearing military-style uniforms. Sen. Bob Archuleta, D-Pico Rivera, said that can make it difficult for civilians to distinguish officers from members of the National Guard.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Independent Investigations</b> - AB1506 by Assemblyman Kevin McCarty, D-Sacramento, would create a new division within the state Department of Justice that, if requested by a local law enforcement agency, would investigate an officer-involved shooting or other use of force that kills a civilian. The department could also prosecute any officer it found had violated state law.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sheriffs Oversight </b>- AB1185, also by McCarty, would let county supervisors name inspectors general to help oversee independently elected county sheriffs.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Police Records</b> - SB776 by Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, would expand on a 2019 law that lifted some of the nation’s most secretive police records by requiring public access to disciplinary records involving investigations into officer shootings, use-of-force incidents and incidents involving officer misconduct.</div><div><br /></div><div>It would add records of discipline against officers accused of racist or discriminatory actions, or those who have a history of wrongful arrests or searches, among others. Investigations would be completed even if officers resign. Records fees would be limited, and fines imposed on agencies that don’t comply.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Decertifying Officers</b> - SB731 by Sen. Steven Bradford, D-Gardena, would allow the state Department of Justice to revoke the certification of officers if they are fired for misconduct or convicted of certain crimes, to prevent them from getting new law enforcement jobs elsewhere.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Juvenile Interrogations</b> - SB203, also by Bradford, would bar those who are 17 years old or younger from being questioned by police or waiving their rights until they have a chance to consult with an attorney. California currently applies those restrictions to youths 15 years or younger. </div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><span>Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer</span></h4><div><br /></div><div>If you or a loved one are dealing with criminal charges during these difficult times, we invite you to <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower at your earliest convenience. Attorney Brower has the expertise to help clients achieve the best possible outcome in unfortunate situations.</div>-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-5753240686485503662020-08-07T13:05:00.004-07:002021-10-15T15:00:05.709-07:00Biased Jury Selection Results in New Trial<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div><br /></div>Criminal trials typically require 12 people to serve on the jury who are not biased in regard to the defendant or the alleged crime. The attorneys representing both sides are able to ask questions to determine whether the jurors should be allowed to serve. A recent decision by the US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit determined that the jury selection for a murder case was not conducted appropriately. The biased jury selection has resulted in a new trial for the defendant, twenty years later.<div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Selecting a Jury</h4><div><br /></div><div>The <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/resources/law_related_education_network/how_courts_work/juryselect/">process</a> of establishing a jury starts with a pool of eligible people who are brought into the jury box and questioned. The judge usually makes a brief statement explaining the case to be tried and inquiring whether there is any reason the potential jurors cannot serve. Then the judge or the lawyers ask the potential jurors questions as to whether they have any knowledge of the case or have had specific experiences that might cause them to be biased or unfair.</div><div><br /></div><div>A potential juror can be dismissed for cause if either lawyer believes there is information that suggests a juror is prejudiced about the case. Each lawyer may request the dismissal of an unlimited number of jurors for cause. Each request will be considered by the judge and may or may not be allowed.</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition, each lawyer has a specific number of peremptory challenges available. These challenges permit a lawyer to excuse a potential juror without stating a cause. In effect, they allow a lawyer to dismiss a juror because of a belief that the juror will not serve the best interests of the client. Peremptory challenges cannot be used to discriminate on the basis of race or sex.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">The Walker Case</h4><div><br /></div><div>Marvin Pete Walker was <a href="https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca9/19-15087/19-15087-2020-07-31.html">convicted</a> of murder, assault, robbery, and other charges and sentenced to death in 1980 in a California court. He filed a number of appeals. The death sentence was dropped but Walker continued to appeal his conviction based on issues surrounding the trial itself.</div><div><br /></div><div>His most recent appeal included the following claims: (1) that the prosecutor impermissibly struck all three black potential jurors from the pool using peremptory challenges, in violation of Batson v. Kentucky, 476 U.S. 79 (1986); and (2) that Walker was convicted of special-circumstance murder based on a deficient jury instruction that denied him due process. The district court granted a certificate of appealability only on the Batson claim.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Batson</h4><div><br /></div><div>The <a href="https://.apa.org/monitor/2009/01/jn">Batson</a> claim stems from the case of Batson v. Kentucky (1986). The US Supreme Court has held that peremptory challenges cannot be used to systematically strike prospective jurors from the panel on the basis of race.</div><div><br /></div><div>In Batson, the court outlined a three-step approach for analyzing challenges to peremptory strikes. First, the party objecting to the strike must present facts that "raise an inference" that the strike was racially based. Second, the party who made the strike must present a "neutral explanation." Finally, the trial court must determine whether the party objecting to the strike has established "purposeful discrimination."</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Prosecutor’s Peremptory Challenges</h4><div><br /></div><div>In Walker’s case, the <a href="https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca9/19-15087/19-15087-2020-07-31.html">prosecutor</a> struck all 3 black potential jurors from a pool of approximately 155 individuals by using peremptory challenges. The reasons for doing so do not hold up under further scrutiny. If even a single prospective juror was struck for a discriminatory purpose, that suffices for a Batson violation.</div><div><br /></div><div>The court <a href="https://news.bloomberglaw.com/white-collar-and-criminal-law/biased-jury-selection-gets-california-death-row-inmate-new-trial">determined</a> that the prosecutor’s reasons for the juror strikes were unreasonable, irrelevant, demonstrably false, or not equally applied to non-black members allowed to serve on the jury. Two of the black jurors were struck for having anti-death penalty views, even though they did not. In fact, there were non-black individuals selected to serve on the jury who had stronger reservations about the death penalty.</div><div><br /></div><div>In addition, the prosecutor asked one black potential juror leading questions designed specifically to strike that individual and asked a non-black potential juror leading questions designed specifically to keep that individual on the jury. Another potential juror was struck for being anti-police after that individual explained that he had several family members in law enforcement, including one who was killed in the line of duty, a fact that should have made him a more attractive jury candidate for the prosecution.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">New Trial</h4><div><br /></div><div>The biased jury selection resulted in Walker being granted a new trial. The US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit determined on July 31, 2020, that Walker had been deprived of his constitutional rights and that the previous California courts’ acceptance of the prosecutor’s reasons for dismissing the black jurors lacked justification.</div><div><br /></div><h4 style="text-align: left;">Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer</h4><div><br /></div><div>Attorney Ronald Brower can help you or a loved one achieve a favorable legal outcome in California. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">contact our office</a> today to learn how we can advocate for you and your family during these challenging times.</div>-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-31410804485290872312020-07-28T10:19:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:00:18.546-07:00O.C. Prosecutors Committed Malpractice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
In 2011, a man walked into a Seal Beach hair salon and took eight people's lives. The massacre made headline news, and the criminal case that followed put the Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCDS) into the national spotlight for its practices.<br />
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Some of our readers may remember we <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2014/04/dekraai-plead-guilty-seal-beach-massacre.html" target="_blank">covered</a> the trial of Scott Evan Dekraai in previous posts. The horrific murder deserved our attention on its own, but what it revealed about a longstanding practice of collecting evidence was a cause for pause as well.<br />
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Scott Dekraai was sentenced to eight life sentences for the mass murder at Salon Meritage in Seal Beach. The jury that found him guilty heard evidence from a jailhouse informant named Fernando Perez, who claimed Dekraai professed his guilt. What the panel of jurors didn't know at the time was the informant's history. Perez, it turns out, was a veteran government informant.<br />
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The Dekraai trial and conviction were the impetus for the so-called "snitch scandal." The defendant's attorney alleged that OCDS was improperly using jailhouse informants, but he was found guilty regardless. The allegation led to a massive <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2016/12/oc-jailhouse-informant-special.html" target="_blank">investigation</a>, which revealed a long history of misusing informants, withholding evidence, and <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2019/10/former-ocda-misappropriated-funds.html" target="_blank">misappropriation</a> of funds among the Orange County District Attorney's Office and OCDS.<br />
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<h4>
New Report Reveals Prosecutors Committed Malpractice</h4>
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The snitch scandal resulted in many retrials and reduced sentences in homicide cases. Now, a new report shows that prosecutors in the Dekraai case "made a deliberate choice not to find out the criminal and informant history of Fernando Perez," <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-07-20/o-c-prosecutors-committed-malpractice-in-handling-of-snitch-in-mass-killer-case-review-finds" target="_blank">according</a> to <i>The Los Angeles Times</i>. The report showed that prosecutors ignored evidence that Perez was a longtime jailhouse informant for various law enforcement agencies going back to 1999.<br />
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"These apparent acts of deliberate negligence have had devastating consequences to the victim's families, the Orange County criminal justice system and its law enforcement agencies," the report states. "During the first six months of the Dekraai case ... the prosecution team repeatedly ignored clear and compelling evidence that Perez was a veteran federal confidential informant."<br />
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The report called for "severe disciplinary" action against the prosecutors in the Dekraai case. However, the resignation of former Assistant Dist. Atty. Dan Wagner and Senior Deputy Dist. Atty. Scott Simmons last year protects them from facing repercussions for their actions.<br />
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<h4>
Orange County Defense Attorney</h4>
<br />
Ronald G. Brower, attorney at law, can help you or a loved one with criminal legal matters. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact our office</a> today to learn how attorney Brower can advocate for your family and bring about a favorable outcome. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-82223079689195278932020-07-22T11:49:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:00:33.250-07:00OC Court User Portal for Lower-Level Criminal Cases<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced everyone to rely on technology even more than before in the 21st Century. Many of us were already spending too much time on our smartphones and tablets prior to the start of this cataclysmic event. Now, relegated to the safety of our homes, such devices are ever-more our windows to the world.<br />
<br />
We accomplish everyday tasks online that we used to handle in person. Business meetings occur over video conferencing platforms, as do doctor appointments. The legal system relies on the virtual tools, as well; most courthouses across the country will only permit essential persons to enter.<br />
<br />
Packing courtrooms with people is an easy way to transmit the coronavirus, even if social distancing guidelines are observed. While <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/07/jury-selection-work-group.html" target="_blank">jury trials</a> are currently underway, reducing the number of people in the building is beneficial.<br />
<br />
Uncertain of how long the dangers will persist, Orange County Superior Court introduced an online portal – funded by the Judicial Council of California – for traffic infractions and lower-level criminal cases, <i>The Orange County Register</i> reports. The tool is called the <a href="https://cup.occourts.org/terms" target="_blank">Court User Portal</a>.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Resolving Criminal Offenses from Afar</h4>
<br />
The CUP dashboard makes the handling of low-level offenses easier for users. Some of the functions were previously spread over the entire OCSC website but now are consolidated. If you are facing minor infractions, all you need to do is create an account that allows you to deal with one or several pending cases. Once logged in to the portal, one can:
<br />
<ul>
<li>Search for cases or citations.</li>
<li>Reserve a court date.</li>
<li>Make payments or establish payment plans.</li>
<li>Submit electronic correspondence to the court.</li>
</ul>
CUP will also send users email or text reminders regarding future hearing dates or payment due dates, the article reports. Orange County Superior Court Presiding Judge Kirk Nakamura said:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“The portal will provide an essential channel for access to justice, especially during the challenging times of COVID-19 when we must maintain social distancing.” </blockquote>
<br />
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
<br />
Attorney Ronald Brower has decades of legal experience and can successfully advocate for you or a loved one. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contac</a>t the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower to learn more.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-41824065158869424752020-07-16T14:46:00.002-07:002021-10-15T15:00:45.273-07:00Jury Selection Work Group<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Discrimination and racial bias have no place in the United States of America; the Constitution affirms this idea. However, the majority of Americans understand that achieving equal rights has been a hard-fought battle.<br />
<br />
Many Americans tend to attach discrimination to the southern states, which were once home to slaveholders. The truth is that people in any state can harbor biases towards a demographic. Even today, in the 21st Century, ethnic minorities continue to fight for the rights afforded to any citizen of this nation, from the workplace to the courtroom.<br />
<br />
In the year 2020, we are still addressing disparity concerns across the country. Last month, we wrote about a <a href="https://phys.org/news/2020-06-racial-discrimination-ingrained-jury-law.html" target="_blank">study</a> on jury selection conducted by UC Berkeley Law’s Death Penalty Clinic. Their research found that racial discrimination is happening in California courtrooms when prosecutors and defense attorneys select jury pools—those citizens who are charged with deciding the innocence or guilt of a defendant.<br />
<br />
As we pointed out in our previous <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/06/racial-bias-california.html" target="_blank">post</a>, both prosecutors and attorneys are afforded the right to excuse a potential juror without reason during jury selection. The process wouldn’t come to anyone’s attention in a racially homogenous community. However, the majority of cities in California are diverse; they consist of a multitude of ethnicities.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Jury Selection Discrimination</h4>
<br />
Researchers found that California prosecutors excuse African-American jurors in nearly 75 percent and Latinx jurors in about 28 percent of cases. However, white jurors were struck in only 0.4 percent of cases. The findings pushed lawmakers to act and put forward Assembly Bill 3070. The legislation states:
<i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>This bill would prohibit a party from using a peremptory challenge to remove a prospective juror on the basis of the prospective juror’s race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or religious affiliation. The bill would allow a party to object to the use of a peremptory challenge to raise the issue of improper bias based on these criteria.</i><br />
<br />
This month, the Supreme Court of California <a href="http://www.oc-breeze.com/2020/07/07/184430_california-supreme-court-names-jury-selection-work-group/" target="_blank">named</a> the members of a newly created Jury Selection Work Group. Over the next year or so, the group will research:
<br />
<ul>
<li>Jury Selection</li>
<li>Diversity in California Jury Pools</li>
<li>Unconscious Bias</li>
</ul>
“The right to trial by a jury of our peers is central to our justice system, and we must continue to safeguard that right,” said Justice Kathleen O’Leary, the work group chair. “We join a broad statewide and national dialogue that is focused on ensuring juries fairly represent the communities they serve.”<br />
<br />
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Lawyer</h4>
<br />
Attorney Ronald Brower can help you or a loved one achieve a favorable legal outcome in California. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">reach out</a> to our office today to learn how we can advocate for your family during these challenging times.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-1565631104651031712020-07-14T13:28:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:01:00.231-07:00"Golden State Killer" Pleads Guilty<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Last month, <i>HBO</i> began airing a six-part documentary miniseries about the survivors and investigation of the infamous "Golden State Killer." The network is well known for diving deep into "true crime" stories, which have helped bring victims and their families the justice they deserve.<br />
<br />
In 2015, Robert Durst, a wealthy New York real estate heir, was arrested just before the final episode of "The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst" aired. Despite being a suspect in multiple murders going back to the 1980s, Durst was able to maintain his freedom.<br />
<br />
The director of the docuseries, Andrew Jarecki, was friends with one of <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2015/04/durst-facing-multiple-charges.html" target="_blank">Durst's victims</a>, writer Susan Berman.
After directing a feature film based on Durst's biography, the real estate heir reached out to Jarecki and agreed to be interviewed. It was a decision that would prove to be his downfall.<br />
<br />
Captured audio and video, combined with new evidence, gave the Los Angeles police department the power to obtain a first-degree murder warrant in connection to Berman's death.
Durst was arrested in New Orleans by the FBI the day before the miniseries finale. His trial began on March 2, 2020, <i>The Los Angeles Times</i> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-03-15/robert-durst-murder-trial-postponed-due-to-coronavirus" target="_blank">reports</a>. Six days of hearings later, the judge postponed the trial to a later date owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Golden State Killer Pleads Guilty</h4>
<br />
Joseph James DeAngelo Jr., 74, a former police officer, was arrested in 2018. Using innovative <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2018/05/prop-69-dna-golden-state-killer.html" target="_blank">DNA tracing</a> techniques, authorities concluded that DeAngelo was the Golden State Killer. In previous posts, we have discussed how law enforcement was able to land on a suspect involved in heinous crimes more than 40 years old.<br />
<br />
One day after <i>HBO</i> aired, "I'll Be Gone in the Dark," DeAngelo pled guilty to 13 counts of first-degree murder and 13 counts of kidnapping, <i>USA Today</i> <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/tv/2020/06/26/golden-state-killer-michelle-mcnamara-probe-traced-in-hbo-doc/3250890001/" target="_blank">reports</a>. Authorities could not
charge the Golden State Killer with rape because of the statute of limitations.<br />
<br />
It's unclear whether the docuseries motivated the former police officer's decision or if he was only trying to be spared of capital punishment. Whatever the case may be, DeAngelo avoided death row with his confession in a makeshift courtroom allowing for social distancing in a ballroom at Sacramento State University.<br />
<br />
Part of the plea agreement included the requirement of admitting guilt.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
<br />
Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> The Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you or a loved one requires legal assistance. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have lost someone they care about to the coronavirus. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-11285652960300034082020-06-25T14:39:00.002-07:002021-10-15T15:01:39.273-07:00AB 2138: CA Licensing Boards Denial of Application<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
In recent months it's been challenging to find a news topic to lift one's spirits. With nearly 2.5 million Americans testing positive for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) and the CDC reports the loss of 121,117 people as of June 24, 2020, it's clear that life will continue being a struggle.<br />
<br />
At the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower, we would like to express our sincerest condolences to everyone affected by the deadly coronavirus. It's likely that COVID-19 has impacted some of our former clients, or they know someone who has been touched by the virus.<br />
<br />
Earlier this month <i>The New York Times</i> <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/25/business/economy/coronavirus-unemployment-claims.html" target="_blank">reported</a> that around 30 million Americans were receiving unemployment benefits. Firings, lay-offs, and furloughs can all be attributed to the <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/05/zero-dollar-bail-reduce-jail-populations.html" target="_blank">pandemic</a>. While the federal government has provided some assistance to aid those facing financial woes, many still find it challenging to manage.<br />
<br />
One demographic that has not received much attention of late are those individuals with criminal records. It's a fact that historically – pandemic or not – men and women with criminal records are prohibited from acquiring professional licenses, which means that finding employment is extremely difficult. Even for members of society who were found guilty of committing non-violent offenses.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, on July 1, 2020, some 8 million Californians with criminal records will be able to obtain professional licenses from any of 37 licensing agencies within the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), <i>PR Newswire</i> <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/30-percent-of-ca-jobs-impacted-by-new-professional-license-criminal-record-law-says-chudnovsky-law-301074951.html" target="_blank">reports</a>. The <a href="https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180AB2138" target="_blank">passing</a> of Assembly Bill 2138 (AB-2138) could help millions of people find employment at a time when an unprecedented number of Americans are out of work.<br />
<br />
<h4>
AB-2138</h4>
<br />
A criminal conviction can irrevocably change the course of one's life. Such occurrences can bar people from voting, housing, and finding employment. Many jobs require individuals to be licensed. Such lines of work include the field of medicine, construction, and engineering. Even auto mechanics and hair stylists need to acquire a license.<br />
<br />
Long has a criminal record preventing men and women with criminal pasts to acquire the proper licensing to secure employment in a myriad of fields. AB-2138 seeks to remove significant hurdles for millions of Californians.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Assembly Bill 2138 was passed to reduce barriers to obtaining occupational licenses, reduce recidivism to support criminal justice reform and to provide more economic opportunity for the almost 1 in 3 adults in California with a criminal record," says the founder of a California criminal defense and professional license law firm. </blockquote>
<br />
The legislation:
<br />
<ul>
<li>Restricts the discretion of DCA boards in using prior criminal history as grounds for denying a license.</li>
<li>Most criminal convictions older than seven years may not be the basis for licensure denial.</li>
<li>A criminal conviction must be "substantially related" to the qualifications or duties required by the license or profession in order to be a basis to deny, revoke, or suspend a license.</li>
<li>Licensing boards may no longer deny licensure due to a conviction if it was expunged, dismissed, pardoned or if the applicant made a showing of rehabilitation for a felony conviction.</li>
<li>Licensing boards may no longer require that applicants self-disclose prior convictions unless the license type does not require fingerprint background checks.</li>
<li>Licensing boards must now track and publicly report licensure denial and appeal data. </li>
</ul>
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
<br />
If you or a loved one are dealing with criminal charges during these difficult times, we invite you to <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower at your earliest convenience. Attorney Brower has the expertise to help clients achieve the best possible outcome in unfortunate situations.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-9465978312292371762020-06-19T07:49:00.002-07:002021-10-15T15:02:46.009-07:00Addressing Racial Bias in California Courts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div>
Jury selection and the method in which the courts review alleged police abuse are rife with racial bias, recent reports claim. Addressing racial bias in California courts is the focus of new legislation and the formation of a new commission structured to investigate and address racial bias in law enforcement and the judicial system.</div>
<br />
<h4>
Jury Selection </h4>
<br />
A <a href="https://phys.org/news/2020-06-racial-discrimination-ingrained-jury-law.html">report</a> from Berkeley Law’s Death Penalty Clinics has reviewed racial discrimination as “a consistent aspect of jury selection in California.” The investigation covers the history, legacy, and ongoing practice of jury selection processes in the state that exclude people of color, especially African Americans, through what are known as peremptory challenges on the part of the prosecutor. Peremptory challenges are used by attorneys to excuse potential jurors during jury selection without having to provide a reason. <br />
<br />
The study involved an evaluation of 683 California Courts of Appeal cases that involved objections to the peremptory challenges from 2006 to 2018. They found that “prosecutors used their strikes to remove African-American jurors in nearly 75 percent of these cases, Latinx jurors in about 28 percent, and white jurors in only three cases (0.4 percent).” <br />
<br />
The author of the report, along with five of her students, was Death Penalty Clinic Director Professor Elisabeth Semel. She was driven to launch the study by the Washington Supreme Court’s adoption of General Rule 37 in 2018 that “upends a 40-year-old procedure that has altogether failed to reduce, much less eliminate, the disproportionate exclusion of African-American and Latinx prospective jurors.” <br />
<br />
Semel adds, "I was encouraged by the court's leadership to believe that a careful and thorough investigation of the issue in California could produce meaningful reform." Assembly Bill 3070, which the State Assembly approved by a 50-11 vote on June 11, is modeled on the Washington rule. One of Semel’s students, Dagen Downard, commented that "AB 3070 is one necessary step in eliminating <a href="https://phys.org/tags/racial+discrimination/">racial discrimination</a> in one part of the machine." <br />
<br />
<h4>
California Attorneys for Criminal Justice </h4>
<br />
The pre-eminent statewide association of criminal defense attorneys in California, the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice (<a href="https://cdn.ymaws.com/cacj.org/resource/resmgr/documents/publicinformation/CACJ_Press_Release_Justice_A.pdf">CACJ</a>), announced a package of legislative proposals designed for addressing racial bias in California courts and in law enforcement. CACJ, founded more than 45 years ago, has as its goal to increase oversight of law enforcement practices and to establish stronger accountability when there are allegations of police abuse. <br />
<br />
CACJ’s proposed California Law Enforcement Accountability and Community Justice Act of 2020 is designed for addressing racial bias in California courts, specifically many of the racially biased flaws in the state’s criminal justice system that result in the overincarceration of people of color. <br />
<br />
<h4>
California Justice Commission </h4>
<br />
The signature proposal in CACJ’s package is the creation of an independent California Justice Commission that will be empowered to make criminal charging decisions in response to allegations of police abuse. The <a href="https://www.thenonprofittimes.com/legal/california-lawyers-seek-criminal-justice-changes/">Justice Commission</a> will have the authority to investigate, bring charges, and prosecute cases involving police abuse in any jurisdiction in California. <br />
<br />
<h4>
California Law Enforcement Accountability and Community Justice Act </h4>
<br />
The Act includes the following: <br />
<br />
1. Establish the California Justice Commission. This independent entity has the authority to investigate, bring charges, and prosecute cases involving police abuse in any jurisdiction in California. The Commission is led by a board comprised of diverse individuals who will oversee charging decisions. Local entities will also have the option to create their own independent office that conforms with specified requirements. <br />
<br />
2. Expand Civilian Review Board authority. All civilian review boards in California will have the authority to conduct investigations, subpoena witnesses and information, and bring administrative actions against individual law enforcement officers. <br />
<br />
3. Create the Law Enforcement Responsibility Act. New criminal statute for police who fail to intervene when another officer is committing a serious or violent felony in their presence. The punishment would be similar to "aiding and abetting." In addition, strengthen California Civil Rights statutes to permit victims of police abuse to sue individual police officers and departments, even if the individual was charged with a crime. Police officers often assert charges such as "resisting arrest" to negate the ability to sue. <br />
<br />
4. Body Camera Expansion. Increase use of body cameras in California and strengthen transparency and public access to the recordings. <br />
<br />
5. Bias in Jury Selection. Strengthen current law prohibiting prosecutors from unjustly eliminating people of color from juries. This language is in the Assembly Bill 3070. <br />
<br />
6. Restore Voting Rights. Restore voting rights to individuals serving parole. <br />
<br />
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney </h4>
<br />
Attorney Ronald G. Brower has a long history of achieving successful outcomes for his clients. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">contact</a> our office today to learn more about how he can advocate for a you or a loved one in court. -http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-26823634368033563612020-06-09T10:04:00.002-07:002021-10-15T15:02:59.848-07:00State Attorney General Submits California Consumer Privacy Act<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<div>
Privacy is always a concern among consumers. When a business takes your information to process a transaction, you may naturally wonder what happens to that information. Many regulations have been enacted that protect consumers when businesses attempt to use their personal information for purposes they did not intend or authorize. In California, the State Attorney General has submitted the California Consumer Privacy Act, which will be enforceable as of July 2020.</div>
<br /><h4>
Final Proposed Regulations Package</h4>
<br />On June 1, 2020, the Office of the <a href="https://oag.ca.gov/privacy/ccpa">California Attorney General</a> submitted the final proposed regulations package under the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) to the California Office of Administrative Law (OAL). OAL has 30 working days, plus an additional 60 calendar days under Executive Order N-40-20 related to the COVID-19 pandemic, to review the package for procedural compliance with the Administrative Procedure Act. Once approved by the OAL, the final regulation text will be filed with the Secretary of State and become enforceable by law. <br /><br />CCPA was signed into law on June 28, 2018, and went into effect on January 1, 2020. CCPA grants California consumers robust data privacy rights and control over their personal information, including the right to know, the right to delete, and the right to opt out of the sale of personal information that businesses collect, as well as additional protections for minors.<br /><br /><h4>
Data Privacy More Important Now</h4>
<br />Attorney General Xavier <a href="https://www.oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/attorney-general-becerra-submits-proposed-regulations-approval-under-california">Becerra</a> said, when submitting the package: <div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“As our lives increasingly move online, our data privacy becomes more important than ever. The California Consumer Privacy Act, which gives consumers choice and control over personal information in the marketplace, is game-changing and historic. Our regulations provide businesses and individuals with guidance on how to protect that choice and boost transparency, while continuing to unleash innovation. Businesses have had since January 1 to comply with the law, and we are committed to enforcing it starting July 1.”</blockquote>
<br />The CCPA has been amended several times, on September 23, 2018 by SB 1121 and on October 11, 2019 by AB 25, AB 874, AB 1146, AB 1355, and AB 1564, since being signed into law. The regulations establish procedures for compliance and exercise of rights, as well as clarifying important transparency and accountability mechanisms for businesses subject to the law. <br /><br /><h4>
Regulations for Businesses Collecting Information</h4>
<br />Notices within the CCPA for <a href="https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/privacy/oal-sub-final-text-of-regs.pdf">businesses</a> that collect personal information from consumers include:<br /><br />When a business collects personal information from a consumer’s mobile device for a purpose that the consumer would not reasonably expect, it shall provide a just-in-time notice containing a summary of the categories of personal information being collected and a link to the full notice at collection. For example, if the business offers a flashlight application and the application collects geolocation information, the business shall provide a just-in-time notice, such as through a pop-up window when the consumer opens the application, which contains the information required by this subsection. <br /><br />A business shall not use a consumer’s personal information for a purpose materially different than those disclosed in the notice at collection. If the business seeks to use a consumer’s previously collected personal information for a purpose materially different than what was previously disclosed to the consumer in the notice at collection, the business shall directly notify the consumer of this new use and obtain explicit consent from the consumer to use it for this new purpose. <br /><br />A business shall not collect categories of personal information other than those disclosed in the notice at collection. If the business intends to collect additional categories of personal information, the business shall provide a new notice at collection.<br /><br />If a business does not give the notice at collection to the consumer at or before the point of collection of their personal information, the business shall not collect personal information from the consumer.<br /><br />The business must provide notice about collecting information to the consumer. When a business collects consumers’ personal information online, it may post a conspicuous link to the notice on the introductory page of the business’s website and on all webpages where personal information is collected.<br /><br />When a business collects personal information through a mobile application, it may provide a link to the notice on the mobile application’s download page and within the application, such as through the application’s settings menu. <br /><br />When a business collects consumers’ personal information offline, it may include the notice on printed forms that collect personal information, provide the consumer with a paper version of the notice, or post prominent signage directing consumers to where the notice can be found online. <br /><br />When a business collects personal information over the telephone or in person, it may provide the notice orally.<br /><br /><h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
At the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower, we specialize in many areas of the law, from aggravated-assault to white-collar crimes. If you are facing criminal charges, then <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">please reach out</a> to Attorney Brower for a consultation. With more than three decades of experience, he has the expertise to advocate for you effectively.<br />
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-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-27145174326388050872020-06-05T07:45:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:03:13.652-07:00Curfews and Protests Continue in California<br />
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<br />
Responding to the death of a black man, George Floyd, who died after being pinned down by police officers, protests have been going on for over a week in many parts of the country. The police officers, at least one of which is accused of having pressed his knee on the back of Floyd’s neck for almost nine minutes, have been fired and charged with crimes in his death. However, the curfews and protests continue in California and across the country.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<br />
<h4>
Protests Throughout the State</h4>
<br />In several <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jun/01/george-floyd-protests-california-cities">cities</a> throughout California, protesters were focused not only on Floyd but also on others who were killed or mistreated by police. Protesters in Oakland marched from a plaza named for Oscar Grant, a 22-year old black man who was fatally shot in the back as he was lying on the ground, handcuffed by a transit police officer in 2009. In Sacramento, protesters were led by Stevante Clark, brother of Stephon Clark who, unarmed, was killed by police in his grandparents’ backyard when police officers mistakenly thought his cellphone was a gun. <br />
<br />
In Los Angeles, protesters marched in memory of Kenneth Ross Jr, a black man with mental illness who was shot and killed by police officers in 2018. Protests continue in other California cities, including San Francisco, San Jose, Bakersfield, San Diego, Fresno, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, Eureka, Visalia, and Stockton.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Curfews Continue</h4>
<br />While some curfews have been eased or even lifted, others continue and have even become more restrictive. Curfews have been established because of the violence and looting that have been associated with some of the protests throughout the state and across the country. <br />
<br />
A curfew typically means that no one is allowed on the streets, sidewalks, or out in any public space between certain hours. The only exceptions are for those who have to go to work or who have other valid reasons for being out when the curfew is in effect. <br />
<br />
Hemet and Riverside <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2020/06/03/curfews-scaled-back-in-southern-california-as-protests-remain-peaceful/">counties</a> have ended their curfews entirely. Stricter curfews have been implemented in parts of Beverly Hills, including a 1pm cutoff that is still in place. <br />
<br />
You can be arrested for violating the curfew. In fact, the Los Angeles police and sheriff’s department arrested more than 2,100 people over the weekend. The number of arrests per protest has decreased significantly, with dozens arrested by the police and about a hundred people arrested by the sheriff’s department Tuesday night.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Additional Area Curfews</h4>
<br />Curfews and protests continue in California, of course, and many areas are continuing to <a href="https://abc7.com/full-list-of-socal-curfews-amid-continued-george-floyd-protests/6231164/">enforce</a> their curfews. Santa Clarita has issued a curfew between 6pm Thursday to 6am Friday. The Santa Clarita City Council adopted a resolution Wednesday declaring a local emergency given the civil unrest in the area.<br />
<br />
In Beverly Hills, the curfew that is in effect for most of the afternoon will be extended after looting and vandalism hit the city over the weekend. The citywide curfew will remain in effect through 6am Friday. The city’s police force plans to actively patrol the area as no one is allowed to be on the streets, sidewalks, parks, or any other public space while the curfew is in effect.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Shift to Peaceful Protests</h4>
<br />Much of the looting and vandalism, however, has given way to peaceful protests. So much so, in fact, that <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-06-04/as-protests-calm-l-a-officials-come-under-fire-for-continued-curfews-use-of-force-and-l-arrests">Los Angeles</a> County has decided not to issue a countywide curfew for Thursday night. Cities within the county still have the authority to set their own restrictions. Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villaneuva explained in a written statement that “based upon current situational awareness and the recent pattern of peaceful actions by protesters, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will no longer enforce a curfew.” <br />
<br />
Villanueva also attributed any ongoing violence and looting to a small group of people. He thanked protestors for not allowing these incidents to overshadow their message – that of protesting the death of George Floyd and a growing unrest with racial issues in this country – throughout the week.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
<br />As curfews and protests continue in California, we urge you to stay safe and healthy. Curfews are set in place for everyone’s protection. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php">reach out</a> to the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing criminal charges. Attorney Brower has the expertise to help you achieve a successful outcome with your case.-http://www.blogger.com/profile/05702598714766377446noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-26860731473846783892020-05-29T13:23:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:03:25.439-07:00New Executive Director Office of Independent Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Orange County, California, has had no shortage of changes since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a pandemic some months ago. Orange County has taken some drastic measures from <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/05/zero-dollar-bail-reduce-jail-populations.html" target="_blank">zero dollar bail</a> to the release of inmates who both <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/05/sex-offenders-released-rearrested.html" target="_blank">posed</a> and didn't pose a threat to society. Not to mention that all the courthouses were closed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.<br />
<br />
It seems like each week brings a new story worth discussing, and the one we are about to cover is one to pay attention to moving forward. If you read our blog on a regular basis, you know Orange County has been embroiled in scandal.<br />
<br />
Misusing jailhouse and confidential informants and blatant disregard for protocols regarding the handling of evidence. The Orange County Sheriff's Department has even been accused of listening in on confidential conversations between attorneys and their clients. Simply put, the track record in the O.C. of late is less than impressive.<br />
<br />
<h4>
The Office of Independent Review</h4>
<br />
Quis custodiet ipsos custodes? 'Who will guard the guardians' is a question that many Southern Californians have been asking. Well, one Sergio Perez has been tapped to hold Orange County's law enforcement agencies accountable for their actions, <a href="https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/entertainment/story/2020-05-20/office-of-independent-review-orange-county-watchdog-complicated" target="_blank">according</a> to the <i>Daily Pilot</i>. Mr. Perez has his work cut out for him, heading up the Office of Independent Review (OIR).<br />
<br />
It's too soon to tell how effective Sergio Perez will be in his new position. However, Assistant Public Defender Scott Sanders believes that if Perez is willing to call out the issues and put it down on paper, it could be a step toward the right direction.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"It's just up to this point, it's been kind of a fancy acronym," said Assistant Public Defender Scott Sanders, "It didn't mean anything to criminal defendants. Criminal defense wouldn't think 'Oh, thank God we have the OIR.' It didn't seem like it had much teeth." </blockquote>
<br />
Attorney Sanders was the one who uncovered that the district attorney's office and sheriff's department used jailhouse informants to illegally obtain confessions, according to the article. Sanders adds:<br />
<br />
"If you can go in there and are working with courage and commitment to make this a more fair and just criminal justice system, you can play a role even if all of your objectives aren't met. It's an office with some potential but it's very unclear what becomes of it and what value it has for my clients."<br />
<br />
<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
<br />
Attorney Ronald G. Brower has a long history of achieving successful outcomes for his clients. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> our office today to learn more about how he can advocate for a you or a loved one in court. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-58766115081640888022020-05-28T05:57:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:03:40.226-07:00Zero Dollar Bail to Reduce Jail Populations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Each day, news outlets remind us repeatedly of the importance of maintaining safe distances from other human beings. The novel coronavirus is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from one individual to the next. So, how is one supposed to social distance while residing in a penal institution?<br />
<br />
In recent weeks we have written about a surge of new coronavirus cases in <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/04/covid-19-orange-county-jails.html" target="_blank">Orange County jails</a> and state prisons. The problem of overpopulation in county jails became so severe that the Orange County commissioner approved the release of about seven "high risk" sex offenders.<br />
<br />
While the majority of the seven were quickly rearrested for violating the terms of their release, it does not solve the problem of protecting both inmates and correctional officers from the virus.<br />
<br />
In a desperate effort to reduce the number of inmates in California county jails, <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/04/Zero-Dollar-Bail-Low-Level-Offenders.html" target="_blank">zero dollar bail</a> was approved for nonviolent offenders. The move hasn't gone particularly <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/05/zero-dollar-bail-career-criminals.html" target="_blank">smoothly</a>, but it makes sense in a number of ways.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The inability of the system to guarantee their safety from this virus right now is really troubling and scary," offered a Los Angeles county criminal defense attorney. </blockquote>
<br />
<h4>
Zero Dollar Bail for Most Misdemeanors and Lower-Level Felonies</h4>
<br />
In November, Californians will vote on doing away with cash bail for low-level offenders. However, the pandemic has led the California Judicial Council to take the drastic measure of setting zero dollar bail for most misdemeanors, and lower-level felonies, <i>KCRW</i> <a href="https://www.kcrw.com/news/shows/greater-la/zero-bail-inmate-release-orange-county-coronavirus-relief/zero-bail-sb10" target="_blank">reports</a>. Those who are arrested for crimes that meet the above classification will be released to await trial.
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<blockquote>
"We're hearing about all these horror stories of thousands of inmates that are catching it, and obviously they're in very close confines, even if they weren't subject to overcrowding. The jails aren't designed for social distancing, whether it's inside cells or in common areas or even just walking through the hallways. It's a very real concern." </blockquote>
This observation is not exaggerated; eight coronavirus-related deaths have occurred at Terminal Island in San Pedro. California state prisons have over 600 inmates and staff infected with the coronavirus. In total, the United States has <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/mapping-spread-new-coronavirus/" target="_blank">1,687,687 reported cases</a> of COVID-19 and 100,000 have died from health complications due to the virus.
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<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
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During these challenging times our thoughts and prayers are with all the families impacted by COVID-19. Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">reach out</a> to the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing criminal charges. Attorney Brower has the expertise to help you achieve a successful outcome with your case. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-53391103376958031232020-05-22T09:16:00.002-07:002021-10-15T15:03:57.548-07:00Sex Offenders Released Then Rearrested<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Over the last couple months, we have been writing about the COVID-19 pandemic and how it has affected the criminal justice system in California. From the closing of <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/03/COVID-19-Orange-County-Superior-Courts-Close.html" target="_blank">courthouses</a> to doing away with <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/05/zero-dollar-bail-career-criminals.html" target="_blank">money bail</a> for low-level, non-violent offenses, we have done our best to keep you apprised of the latest developments.<br />
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With more than 1.5 million Americans infected and nearly 100,000 dead, the coronavirus has changed life in America in innumerable ways. Concerns about the virus spreading through California jails and prisons has led to the early release of a significant number of inmates, and not without controversy.<br />
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Earlier this month, Orange County jails witnessed and uptick in coronavirus cases. As of May 8th, 251 inmates and five correctional officers had tested positive for the potentially deadly virus. Letting some inmates go early might make sense, but when the Orange County commissioner approved the release of about seven "high risk" <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/practice-areas/sexual-offenses.html" target="_blank">sex offenders</a> it caused a severe uproar.<br />
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<h4>
Sex Offenders Rearrested</h4>
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One man upset with the decision to release sex offenders was Todd Spitzer, Orange County District Attorney, <i>CNN</i> <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/08/us/sex-offenders-released-early-california/index.html" target="_blank">reports</a>. He issued a warning to the community about the "high risk" sex offenders released from jail before serving their full sentences.<br />
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Each of the offenders released early were behind bars for violating the terms of their parole by evading electronic law enforcement monitoring. All were supposed to serve at least six months in jail.<br />
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"These kinds of high-risk sex offenders are the most dangerous kind of criminal and the most likely to re-offend," wrote Spitzer in his public warning. "They are doing everything they can to avoid detection by the parole officers assigned to monitor them so they can potentially commit additional sex offenses." </blockquote>
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By May 11th, all but one of the sex offenders were back in jail for allegedly braking the terms of their release <i>The Orange County Register</i> <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2020/05/11/six-sex-offenders-whose-early-release-was-criticized-by-orange-county-da-are-arrested-again/" target="_blank">reports</a>. Spitzer said in a statement:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“It comes as no surprise that these high-risk sex offenders continue to violate the law and do everything they can to avoid being tracked by law enforcement. There is a concerted effort here in California and across the nation to open up the jailhouse doors and let dangerous criminals back into our streets without regard for the safety of the public which we are sworn to protect.”
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<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
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Please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower if you are facing criminal charges in the State of California. Attorney Brower has a long history of achieving successful outcomes for his clients.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-68472396265918668912020-05-04T13:48:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:04:50.876-07:00Zero-Dollar Bail Exploited by Career Criminals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Bail in California is a topic that we cover on a regular basis, owing to the fact that money/cash bail is a controversial topic in the Golden State. Last month, we discussed "zero-dollar bail" after the California Judicial Council – the state's Superior Court system policymaker – voted to do away with bail for all misdemeanors and low-level felonies. The action was directly tied to the <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/04/Zero-Dollar-Bail-Low-Level-Offenders.html" target="_blank">COVID-19 pandemic</a>.<br />
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The fewer inmates we have housed in state jails, ostensibly those who would not be able to make bail, was believed to reduce the spread of the <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/04/covid-19-orange-county-jails.html" target="_blank">coronavirus</a>. You will remember from previous posts that California voted in favor of Senate Bill 10 last year; the bill did away with cash bail and gave judges the authority to decide who would be released during pretrial instead.<br />
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Many people took issue with the measure that was scheduled to take effect in October 2019. Enough petitions were signed to qualify for a referendum, which means that voters will decide the fate of SB 10 in November.<br />
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The COVID-19 pandemic and the decision to temporarily suspend cash bail to reduce jail populations may or may not have been the best course of action. Law enforcement in Los Angeles has found that "career criminals" are taking advantage of the new rule.<br />
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Repeat Offenders are Taking Advantage of "Zero Bail" Rule</h4>
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The pandemic has changed the lives of everyone in the United States. One of the unforeseen byproducts of the "stay at home" order in California is a reduction in crimes across the board. However, authorities in Los Angeles report that career criminals or repeat offenders are exploiting the zero-dollar bail mandate, <a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-04-30/los-angeles-police-blame-zero-bail-rise-repeat-offenders" target="_blank">according</a> to <i>The Los Angeles Times</i>. Case in point: in the last three weeks, one individual, Eric Medina, has been arrested four times on suspicion of grand theft auto.<br />
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On April 9, Medina was arrested for stealing a Ford van. No bail meant he was released a day later. Five days after being released, authorities caught him with a stolen Toyota truck, the article reports. Naturally, he went to jail only to be let go without bail a short time later. Police officials say he went on to steal another Toyota truck on April 20. Before the month of April came to an end, Medina was arrested in possession of a stolen 2009 Ford Focus.<br />
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The zero-dollar bail mandate went into effect on March 27 in Los Angeles County for most misdemeanors and low-level felonies. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Chief Michel Moore is calling for a reevaluation of the new practice for repeat offenders because the LAPD has arrested 213 individuals multiple times. A whopping 23 people being arrested three or more times.<br />
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"I think repeat offenders need to be off the streets," said Chief Moore.
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<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
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If you or someone you care about is in trouble with the law, then please <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">contact</a> the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower to learn how we can help. Attorney Brower has decades of experience in a myriad of types of crime. He has the expertise to advocate for your family and potentially bring about a successful outcome.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0Santa Ana, CA, USA33.7454725 -117.86765333.6398365 -118.0290145 33.851108499999995 -117.7062915tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8858507476080819800.post-13161850397758206292020-04-30T12:03:00.001-07:002021-10-15T15:05:08.109-07:00COVID-19 in Orange County Jails<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
Over the last couple of months, COVID-19 has been a main topic of conversation. The coronavirus dominates the 24-hour news cycle, which makes sense considering few people alive today have lived through a public health crisis of this magnitude.<br />
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The situation worsens each day; more and more people test positive for COVID-19 in the United States and abroad; <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/mapping-spread-new-coronavirus/" target="_blank">3,245,105 people</a> have contracted the virus globally. The U.S. has significantly more cases than any other country, even though we only represent about 5 percent of the global population.<br />
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As of today, April 30, 2020, 1,050,493 of our citizens are infected with the potentially fatal virus, but experts warn that a lack of testing could mean the number is exponentially higher. Sadly, in fewer than three months, 61,408 Americans have passed away owing to complications related to COVID-19. You might be aware that <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/04/28/846701304/pandemic-death-toll-in-u-s-now-exceeds-vietnam-wars-u-s-fatalities" target="_blank">58,220 Americans died</a> in the Vietnam war over nearly two decades, from November 1, 1955, to April 30, 1975.<br />
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Nearly every aspect of our lives has changed in a short time, and such alterations in how we conduct our lives – social distancing and <a href="https://blog.ronaldbrower.com/2020/04/southern-california-face-mask-orders.html" target="_blank">wearing face masks</a> – are not expected to end anytime soon. We are instructed by public health officials not to gather in large numbers, especially in confined spaces where the virus can easily be transmitted and contracted.<br />
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It should go without saying that jails and prisons, housing millions of Americans, across the country meet the definition of confined spaces. So, it should hardly come as a surprise to learn that COVID-19 cases are surging in penal institutions across the country, including those in the Golden State.<br />
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Coronavirus Spike in Orange County Jails</h4>
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Last Wednesday, Orange County Sheriff's officials ramped up testing when it was discovered that 26 inmates tested positive for the virus, <i>Patch</i> <a href="https://patch.com/california/orange-county/coronavirus-cases-spike-among-orange-county-jail-inmates" target="_blank">reports</a>. As to be expected, more inmates were found to have the virus; 82 tested positive for COVID-19.<br />
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The original 26 positive cases were individuals who exhibited symptoms. However, public health experts have warned that many carriers of COVID-19 are asymptomatic, which means that they do not show the telltale signs of potentially having the virus. Such people can have and spread the coronavirus unknowingly.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"We're not seeing a drastic increase of symptomatic individuals," said Carrie Braun of the Orange County Sheriff's Department. "But because of more tests available, we're seeing a high amount of those people (who had been asymptomatic in quarantine) coming back positive." </blockquote>
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Braun reported that of the 147 tests administered since the first inmate tested positive in the jails last month, 56 came back negative, according to the article. Of course, correctional officers at Orange County jails are at risk too; three deputies tested positive for coronavirus. None of the inmates nor deputies have required hospitalization.<br />
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<h4>
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney</h4>
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At the Law Office of Ronald G. Brower, we specialize in many areas of the law, from aggravated-assault to white-collar crimes. If you are facing criminal charges, then <a href="https://www.ronaldbrower.com/contact.php" target="_blank">please reach out</a> to Attorney Brower for a consultation. With more than three decades of experience, he has the expertise to advocate for you effectively.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0