George Gascón, the liberal District Attorney of Los Angeles, has stirred significant controversy within his office. His decision to assist in potentially freeing the Menendez brothers has been met with accusations of self-interest, as he faces a critical election in November. According to sources within the DA’s office, there is little support for Gascón, with many seeing his actions as politically motivated. His implementation of progressive policies has reportedly led to dissatisfaction among his colleagues.
During his previous tenure as San Francisco’s DA from 2011 to 2019, Gascón survived two recall attempts. However, he currently trails opponent Nathan Hochman by approximately 30 points in his re-election bid. John Lewin, a deputy district attorney, harshly criticised Gascón, questioning his legal knowledge and commitment to his role. Gascón, now 70, attracted attention after he announced a review of the Menendez brothers’ case, who were sentenced to life for murdering their parents in 1989. Critics noted the timing of his announcement closely followed a popular Netflix series about the brothers.
John McKinney, another deputy DA, pointed out the unusual timing of Gascón’s announcement, suggesting it could be seen as opportunistic. Despite a petition being filed in February, Gascón delayed action until after the show’s release. The DA’s office claims their work remains independent of election cycles, focusing on efficiently managing numerous cases annually.
Did District Attorney George Gascon make his Menendez decision to get more votes? His opponent @NathanHochmanDA came on TMZ Live to talk about why he thinks the timing is suspicious. pic.twitter.com/aMsVAEd1Sr
— TMZ Live (@TMZLive) October 25, 2024
The Menendez case has divided the DA’s office. Some believe the brothers deserve a reduced sentence, while others think their life sentences are justified. Last week, Gascón proposed a resentencing that would maintain the murder charges but remove the no-parole condition, potentially allowing the brothers to seek parole. Sources suggest Gascón’s motivation is to elevate his national profile, which he has achieved through extensive media coverage.
McKinney, who previously ran against Gascón, believes the case is a strategic move to garner free media attention due to his campaign’s lack of funds for advertising. However, this strategy might alienate some of his progressive supporters, who question prioritising the Menendez case over others more deserving of resentencing.
Lewin suggests Gascón’s actions are more about his future career, potentially positioning himself as a prominent figure in progressive prosecution. Within the LA DA’s office, Gascón’s leadership has led to a divided environment, with trusted appointees and a sceptical wider team. Insiders expressed surprise that experienced staff involved in the Menendez trials were not more engaged in the decision-making process.
McKinney noted that many perceive Gascón’s actions as politically driven, reflecting a common view of his approach.
What Other Media Are Saying
- RadarOnline suggests Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón is using the Menendez brothers’ case as a political ploy to attract young voters ahead of the election, exploiting the tragic family’s history.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is George Gascón’s decision about the Menendez brothers controversial?
Critics see it as politically motivated, aligning with his re-election campaign and following a Netflix series.
What is the reaction within the DA’s office to Gascón’s policies?
There is significant dissatisfaction, with many viewing his actions as politically driven.
How has George Gascón fared in previous elections and recalls?
He survived two recall attempts as San Francisco’s DA but currently trails in his re-election bid.
What changes has Gascón proposed for the Menendez brothers’ sentences?
Gascón proposed maintaining murder charges but removing the no-parole condition, allowing parole eligibility.
What are John Lewin’s views on Gascón’s actions?
Lewin criticizes Gascón, questioning his legal knowledge and suggesting his actions are career-motivated.
