**New Special Prosecutor Hired by District Attorney Nathan Hochman for Police Misconduct**
The L.A. County Board of Supervisors recently approved the hiring of a new special prosecutor to investigate police misconduct cases. This decision comes less than a month after District Attorney Nathan Hochman moved to remove the person his predecessor had appointed for the role.
**Background and Context**
Michael Gennaco, a former federal prosecutor with experience overseeing troubled agencies like the Department of Children and Family Services and the county Sheriff’s Department, made his debut appearance on behalf of the district attorney’s office in a downtown courtroom. His contract was officially sanctioned by the board, and Hochman announced the shift on Thursday.
Gennaco will be taking over from Lawrence Middleton, who was hired by former District Attorney George Gascón in 2021 to revisit several controversial police shootings that were previously not prosecuted by the district attorney’s office. Middleton only brought one case to court during his tenure, despite obtaining a warrant for the arrest of a former LAPD officer in another instance.
**Key Player Transition: Middleton to Gennaco**
In an interview, Gennaco revealed that Hochman had approached him after defeating Gascón, asking him to assume Middleton’s caseload. While it remains uncertain whether Gennaco will review additional cases or focus on new instances of alleged police misconduct, he is prepared to navigate the complexities of each situation.
Middleton was reportedly informed of the termination of his contract on Jan. 7, declining to provide any comments. This change signifies a shift in Hochman’s perspective, as he previously criticized Gascón’s decision to appoint a special prosecutor.
**Expert Opinion: Krinsky’s Endorsement**
Miriam Krinsky, a former federal prosecutor and founder of Fair and Just Prosecution, commended Gennaco as a crucial addition to Hochman’s team. Highlighting Gennaco’s extensive experience in civil rights cases and his unwavering commitment to police oversight, Krinsky emphasized the value he brings to the table.
Gennaco and Hochman’s prior collaboration in the U.S. attorney’s office in Los Angeles underscores their shared dedication to addressing civil rights violations and police misconduct. Gennaco’s track record of prosecuting high-profile cases and conducting audits in various jurisdictions positions him as a formidable force in the realm of police accountability.
**Challenges and Opportunities Ahead**
While Gennaco’s appointment signals a renewed focus on justice, accountability, and public trust within the justice system, his tenure will undoubtedly be met with scrutiny and challenges. As he steps into this pivotal role, Gennaco’s commitment to upholding transparency and integrity will be put to the test.
In the realm of police oversight and accountability, Gennaco’s appointment marks a significant milestone in reshaping the landscape of law enforcement practices. By leveraging his expertise and experience, Gennaco has the opportunity to redefine the narrative surrounding police misconduct cases and pave the way for a more just and equitable future.
