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Elected prosecutors like L.A. County Dist. Atty. George Gascón must be able to set their own prosecution and sentencing policies, within the limits of the law, because there will never be enough court time or prison space for them to chase every possible criminal charge or seek the maximum allowable sentence in every case.
But there’s another reason the American system, built on the separation of powers and on the ultimate authority of the people, vests executive branch officials like district attorneys with broad discretion: They carry out the will of voters again, within the limits of the law. And in Los Angeles County, voters chose Gascón and his plans for a criminal justice system that prosecutes in a manner that keeps communities safe without indulging in excessive punishments that lock people away for many decades more than necessary.
AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes
Despite his protestations and speeches, Gascón has little interest in criminal justice reform. His disdain for victims and love of criminals is evident in his actions. Gascón just wants to stick his thumb in the already blind eye of justice.
The newly elected pro-criminal District Attorney filed a brief in Appellate Court in support of … wait for it…
The DEFENDANT.
That is not a typo.
Gascon, clearly confused as to what his true role is as District Attorney of Los Angeles, who swore to protect the rights of the citizens, particularly those who are victims of violent crimes, filed a response,