LADA March 2024 Newsletter

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Newsletter  |  March 28, 2024

District Attorney George Gascón Announces Exoneration of Man Wrongfully Convicted
of a South L.A. Murder in 2005

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District Attorney George Gascón announced the exoneration and release of Stephen Patterson, who spent nearly two decades in prison for a South L.A. murder in 2005 he did not commit.

“In this era of progress, it’s crucial to acknowledge the imperfections of our past and actively work to correct those wrongs,” District Attorney Gascón said. “It’s our responsibility that no family is torn apart by a miscarriage of justice, and no community is left with the actual perpetrator roaming their streets.

Michael Semanchik, executive director of The Innocence Center, said he was thrilled that Patterson has been exonerated.

“We are lucky to have a great working relationship with LADA’s Conviction Integrity Unit,” Semanchik said. “Not only did it allow us to free an innocent person, but together, we identified the true perpetrators.” 

Watch it on TikTok.

Watch the full press conference here.

Read our press release here.


District Attorney George Gascón Announces
Charges Against Man Who Killed Three Women
in a DUI Crash in Pomona

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District Attorney George Gascón announced charges against Victor Siharath after he allegedly ran a red light while driving intoxicated and hit a vehicle, killing three women and injuring two others, including a child, on March 2 in Pomona.

“There are no words to express the heartbreak that Mr. Siharath’s actions have caused these victims’ families and community,” District Attorney Gascón said. “Those who choose to jeopardize themselves and others by driving under the influence will face swift legal consequences.”

Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval was pleased that the District Attorney’s Office is aggressively pursuing charges.

“Individuals who ignore the law need to understand that there are repercussions for their senseless actions,” he said.

Watch it on TikTok.

Watch full news conference here.

Read our press release here.


George Gascón Launches First Interfaith
Advisory Board in Office History

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D.A. George Gascón led a swearing-in ceremony for members of the office’s inaugural Interfaith Advisory Board. Members will meet regularly to address faith-based hate crimes, conduct outreach to diverse spiritual communities, and advise the District Attorney on matters pertaining to interfaith perspectives in the pursuit of equitable justice. They will also work to improve diversity and inclusion within the office itself.

Watch it on TikTok.

Read our news release here.

Learn more about the advisory board members here.


We Honor International Women's Day

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Celebrating Women's History Month

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In honor of Women’s History Month, we recognize and celebrate a few of our amazing past female leaders at the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office and in the country!

Watch this video to learn about Clara Shortridge Foltz, Florence E. Linn, Terrys Olender, Andrea Sheridan Ordin and Mildred (Toni) Friedenberg!


Honoring Cesar Chavez

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We pay tribute to Cesar E. Chavez by continuing the mission he devoted his life to advancing “La Causa,” advocating for the dignity and rights of all workers. We embrace nonviolent means to pursue justice and partner with organized labor to create an economy that values labor over mere accumulation of wealth.


Celebrating Persian New Year

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May this new year bring all who celebrate Nowruz peace, joy and renewal. Let’s welcome this spring season with open hearts and embrace all the new beginnings this holiday brings.


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Helping Victims Become Survivors

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Thank you to everyone who joined us and participated in our recent Community Provider Forum, “BVS Presentation: How are Victims of Crime Assisted?”

Speakers from the BVS were on hand to discuss the services available for victims and survivors of crime, the steps to obtain resources and answered questions from attendees.

Watch the forum here.

LADA is committed to helping all victims of crime. To request victim services, please call (800) 380-3811.


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D.A. George Gascón Speaks to Law School Students
in Southern California

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District Attorney George Gascón met with students from law schools across Southern California. He discussed his commitment to reshaping the criminal justice system and his experiences at the L.A. County and San Francisco District Attorney’s Offices. He also described the rewards of pursuing a legal career in the public sector.

D.A. Gascón encouraged students who are passionate about criminal justice reform to consider joining the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. Applications for post-bar paid clerkships are now open.

D.A. George Gascón and Interfaith Leaders
Meet in Baldwin Park

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D.A. George Gascón met with San Gabriel Valley religious leaders at Baldwin Park United Methodist Church to address issues in a wide-ranging conversations that included public safety and access to housing and higher education.

The District Attorney often partners with our faith communities, including our new Interfaith Advisory Board, which are at the forefront of efforts to help the most vulnerable members of society.

Thank you to everyone who participated!

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LADA Joins Forces With Other Law Enforcement
To Combat Hate in Lambert Park

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The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office joined the El Monte Police Department, the Department of Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office at a Hate Crimes Forum at Lambert Park.

The event provided a crucial platform for raising awareness, fostering community support and advocating against hate-motivated offenses. It aimed to empower victims, educate the public and promote a society that rejects discrimination and embraces inclusivity.

Special thanks to Assistant Head Deputy Paul Kim and LADA Asian American and Pacific Islander Advisory Board Chair Esther Young Lim!


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We're Hiring!

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Applications for post-bar paid clerkships with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office are now open!

Click here to apply online today.


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